The Best Small Phones for 2025: Top Picks + Best Deals
Small phones have always had this sophisticated appeal to me. For the record, I've been on team small phone since the Nokia 3310. Yep, the OG.
After years of tabling with the latest phones, I found myself falling in love with small phones again--particularly, Apple's latest budget offering--the iPhone 16e.
The phone reminded me of that initial feeling of effortless portability and comfortable single-handed use. It's modern and packed with so many features.
Despite larger screens being great for immersive video and detailed tasks, there's a unique practicality to a phone that doesn't dominate in your pocket or hand.
In this article, we look at the best small phones that money can buy this year. If you need a second phone or are looking to scale back a bit, this will be for you.
(Of course, you can go much smaller, but I'm confident you'll love these picks.)
Top Picks for the Best Small Phones
Moving into our top selections for the best small phones, these phones aren't just shrunken-down versions of their bigger siblings.
They're thoughtfully designed devices that prioritize comfortable handling without skimping on the features you actually care about.
First up, a strong contender that proves you don't need to spend a fortune for a fantastic, pocketable iPhone experience:
Apple iPhone 16e
iPhone 16e
This iPhone offers a 6.1-inch screen, smart Apple Intelligence features powered by the A18 chip, and the security of Face ID, all wrapped in a familiar iPhone 14-like design.
The iPhone 16e is a great small phone because it packs a powerful A18 chip and a capable 48MP camera into a comfortably sized and lightweight design. You get a modern iPhone experience with a vibrant 6.1-inch OLED display and long battery life, making it easy to handle without sacrificing essential features.
Key Features:
- Powerful A18 chip: Fast performance for apps and tasks.
- A capable 48MP main camera that takes good-quality photos.
- Good battery life: Lasts a long time on a single charge.
- Modern iPhone design: Looks and feels like newer iPhones with Face ID.
- Latest iOS: Access to the newest Apple software and features.
Things to Consider:
- Lacks ultrawide or telephoto zoom lenses.
- Doesn't have the magnetic attachment for accessories and faster wireless charging.
- Might not get as bright as more expensive iPhones.
- Might not have the fastest 5G speeds in some areas.
Samsung Galaxy S25
Samsung Galaxy S25
This compact powerhouse comes with a comfortable 6.2-inch screen and a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip for smooth performance. Its versatile triple-camera system takes great photos, and Samsung promises years of software updates, making it a solid choice for a smaller Android flagship.
With its 6.2-inch display and lightweight design, the Galaxy S25 is specifically designed for comfortable one-handed use without compromising on performance or its versatile triple-camera system.
Key Features:
- Easy to hold and use with one hand.
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip for smooth multitasking and gaming.
- Versatile triple camera
- Bright and vibrant AMOLED display
- Long software updates
Things to Consider:
- Battery life is generally good, but it might be ideal for heavy users.
- Wired charging might not be as fast as some competitors.
- You're limited to the internal storage you choose.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google Pixel 9 Pro
The Pixel 9 Pro offers powerful AI with its Tensor G4 chip and great cameras in a relatively compact design. Its smooth display and long software support make it a top small phone choice for Android enthusiasts.
Despite packing a pro-level camera system and the powerful Tensor G4 chip, the Pixel 9 Pro maintains a relatively compact form factor with its 6.3-inch display, offering flagship features without being overly large.
Key Features:
- Advanced AI with Tensor G4
- Excellent cameras
- Smooth high refresh display
- Long software support
- Clean Android experience
Things to Consider:
- Likely to be in the premium flagship price range.
- While generally good, battery life is not the absolute best.
- Availability can sometimes be limited depending on your region.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
This phone offers a premium small phone experience. Its powerful A18 Pro chip and advanced Pro camera system, including versatile zoom capabilities. Its high-quality Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion delivers stunning visuals in a manageable size, complemented by a premium design and the latest Apple Intelligence features.
While slightly larger than the 16e, the iPhone 16 Pro, with its 6.3-inch display and premium build, still offers a manageable size for many, especially considering the advanced Pro camera system and powerful A18 Pro chip it houses.
Key Features:
- Powerful A18 Pro chip offers great performance for tasks and gaming.
- Expect excellent photo and video quality with versatile zoom capabilities.
- Super Retina XDR display is bright, sharp, and smooth with ProMotion.
- Premium design.
- Access to the latest AI-powered enhancements from Apple.
Things to Consider:
- Costs significantly more than the standard iPhone 16 models.
- While good, it might not be the absolute best among all iPhones.
- It's larger than the iPhone 16e and might not be ideal for those wanting the smallest phone.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a uniquely compact phone when folded, offering excellent portability while unfolding to reveal a large, immersive screen. Its powerful performance and versatile cameras make it capable for various tasks, and the Flex Mode provides unique hands-free usage possibilities.
The unique foldable design makes the Z Flip 6 incredibly compact when folded, easily fitting into small pockets while still offering a full-sized 6.7-inch display when unfolded for immersive use.
Key Features:
- Very compact when folded for portability.
- Offers a big display when unfolded for immersive use.
- Powerful performance from its processor.
- Versatile cameras for good-quality photos and videos.
- Ability to use the phone while partially folded for hands-free use.
Things to Consider:
- Crease on the inner screen: A visible line where the phone folds.
- Battery life might be a concern for heavy users on a full-sized screen.
- Foldable phones might be perceived as less durable than traditional ones.
- Typically more expensive than standard flagship phones.
More great small phones
Beyond our top picks, there are so many great alternatives for small phones. Each of these devices offers a unique blend of features and design while maintaining that coveted pocket-friendly form factor.
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