Best 5G Phones in 2025 (Top 8: Motorola, iPhone and More)
Discover the best 5G phones for every budget this year. We review top-rated 5G smartphones, covering performance, battery life, and future-proof connectivity.
5G in your hand means less waiting and more doing. You want snappy apps, smooth video, and battery that lasts through a busy day — not excuses.
You don’t need a $1,200 flagship to enjoy that. These picks balance speed, battery, and real-world features so you get more value and fewer regrets. Pick what matters to you and move on with your life (and your streaming).
Contents
- The Best 5G Phones
- Motorola Edge 2024 — pOLED Power
- Google Pixel 7 (Renewed) — Clean Android
- Motorola Moto G 5G (2024) Smooth Display
- Samsung Galaxy A36 5G — Affordable Power
- OnePlus Nord N30 5G — Fast Charging
- TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER — Eye-Friendly Display
- Samsung Galaxy A16 5G — Large AMOLED
- UMIDIGI G9 5G — Big Specs, Low Price
- Final Thoughts on the Best 5G Phones
- What Is a 5G Phone and Why Does It Matter?
- How to Choose the Best 5G Phones
- Check Out the Best 5G Phones
- Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
- Video About the Best 5G Phones
The Best 5G Phones
Motorola Edge 2024 — pOLED Power
You get a phone that feels and performs closer to higher-end devices thanks to a vivid pOLED display, fast wired charging and wireless charging support. It’s a great pick if you want flagship-style features without flagship pricing, though camera and durability trade-offs exist.
Pros
- High-quality curved pOLED display (up to 144Hz)
- Very fast wired charging (68W) and wireless charging
- Solid battery life with 5000 mAh capacity
- IP rating and premium materials (vegan leather option)
Cons
- Curved screen can be more fragile if dropped
- Camera/video limited to 4K30 in some modes
- Some reports of long-term battery degradation
Who should pick this phone
Choose this Edge if you want an experience that leans toward flagship comfort — a rich OLED panel, rapid charging, and a premium feel — without paying flagship pricing. You’ll appreciate the screen quality and battery tech the most.
Screen, design and build
The curved pOLED display is bright, color-rich and supports a high refresh rate that boosts perceived smoothness across the UI and games.
- 6.6" pOLED with up to 144Hz refresh for silky animations
- Curved edges and vegan leather back option for improved grip
Be mindful that curved glass is slightly more vulnerable to impact than flat displays, so a case is recommended if you drop phones frequently.
Charging, battery and daily performance
The 68W TurboPower charging gets you to roughly half a day’s worth of power in 15 minutes according to vendor claims, and the 5000 mAh battery delivers all-day endurance even with 5G usage.
- 68W fast wired charging and wireless charging support
- 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage option for comfortable multitasking
You should be able to run multiple apps, stream video and still finish the day with battery to spare. The chipset performs well for mid- to high-demand tasks, though extreme gaming will show differences compared to top-tier silicon.
Camera and practical considerations
The 50MP main camera captures good daylight shots and improved low-light performance via software. Video capabilities are solid but capped in some modes compared to flagship rivals.
- Advanced low-light processing and 50MP main sensor
- Limited 4K frame rate options in some modes
In practice, you’ll enjoy the display and charging more than you will the camera’s absolute top-end performance. For many users that’s the right trade-off: exceptional daily usability with near-flagship amenities.
Google Pixel 7 (Renewed) — Clean Android
You’ll get one of the cleanest Android experiences and excellent computational photography thanks to Google’s Tensor chip and software. A renewed device can save money, but you should expect varying cosmetic condition and check seller warranties.
Pros
- Excellent computational photography and tasteful image processing
- Clean Android with timely security updates and Google features
- Titan M2 security chip and reliable software ecosystem
- Solid mainstream performance and wireless charging
Cons
- Renewed condition means cosmetic and battery variability
- Battery life lags behind some newer, larger-battery devices
Why you might pick a renewed Pixel 7
If you value software experience and camera quality above all else, a renewed Pixel 7 is a compelling buy. You’ll get Google’s photo processing, features like Cinematic Blur, and a very clean Android build at a lower price than new flagships.
Camera and software strengths
Google’s image processing is the standout: Real Tone rendering, Night Sight and strong HDR produce images that often look better straight from the phone than competitors at similar prices.
- 50MP main camera with advanced computational photography
- Pixel features like Magic Eraser, Cinematic Blur and prompt security patches
Because Google controls both hardware and software, features and updates land reliably — which is especially valuable if you plan to keep the phone for more than a couple of years.
Renewed considerations and day-to-day use
A renewed device can be in excellent condition and deliver near-new performance, but seller grading varies. Always check return policies and any included warranty so you’re covered if a unit arrives with unexpected wear or battery degradation.
- Typical real-world battery life is solid but not class-leading
- Clean software with timely updates and built-in security
In short, you’ll get a highly capable camera phone with a polished software experience for less money than new models, provided you accept the uncertainty that comes with renewed devices.
Motorola Moto G 5G (2024) Smooth Display
You get a phone that prioritizes long battery life, a fast 120Hz display, and loud stereo sound while staying very affordable. It's an excellent pick if you consume lots of video or want a dependable daily device without paying flagship prices.
Pros
- 120Hz 6.6" display and Dolby Atmos stereo sound
- Strong battery life with TurboPower charging
- Good value for the hardware-to-price ratio
- Expandable storage and 3.5mm headphone jack
Cons
- Camera is good for the price but not flagship-level
- Plastic build and mid-range chipset limit heavy gaming
Overview and positioning
This Moto G 5G aims to deliver the most noticeable day-to-day benefits — smooth scrolling, strong battery life and enjoyable media playback — at a price most users will find easy to justify. If you watch videos, use music apps, or need long runtime, this is built around those priorities.
Display, audio and design
The 6.6" display runs at 120Hz, which makes animations and browsing feel fluid. Combined with Dolby Atmos tuned stereo speakers, you’ll notice a clear improvement over many similarly priced phones.
- 6.6" 120Hz LCD for fast, fluid visuals
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and comfortable ergonomics
You can comfortably binge-watch videos or play casual games and the touchscreen responsiveness keeps the experience pleasant.
Battery, performance and storage
Motorola packs a large battery and TurboPower charging; in real use you’ll often get a full day-plus of use and fast top-ups. The Snapdragon-based chipset gives you competent everyday performance and smooth app switching for non-intensive use.
- 5000 mAh battery with TurboPower fast charge
- 4 GB RAM and 128 GB storage with microSD expansion
If you are an app hoarder, the 128 GB base model plus microSD slot gives you flexibility without immediately forcing cloud-only workflows.
Camera and real-world use
The 50MP Quad Pixel main camera produces solid daylight photos and improved low-light sensitivity compared with older budget models. Expect competent snapshots for social sharing but not the dynamic range or detail of premium phones.
- 50MP main sensor with better-than-average low-light processing
- Basic ultrawide and macro lenses for occasional use
Overall, you’ll find this Moto a reliable media-first phone with battery life and value as its strongest points.
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G — Affordable Power
You get a well-rounded mid-range phone with an AMOLED screen, reliable battery life, and Samsung’s extended update commitment that makes it a strong long-term buy. It’s not a gaming powerhouse, but it’s well-suited for everyday users who value stability and warranty support.
Pros
- Premium-feeling AMOLED display and solid build
- Samsung’s extended software and security updates
- 5000 mAh battery with dependable endurance
- Good balance of camera and daily performance
Cons
- Base 6GB RAM may feel tight for heavy multitasking
- Some users report occasional UI glitches
- Not optimized for sustained high-end gaming
Positioning and practical use
The A36 5G is a pragmatic pick if you want Samsung’s software experience and update promise in an affordable pack. You’ll benefit from a clean One UI layer and multi-year support that many rivals in this bracket don’t offer.
Screen and day-to-day experience
The 6.6" AMOLED delivers pleasing colors and contrast that make streaming, reading and web browsing more enjoyable than most phones at this price. The overall feel is more premium than the cost suggests.
- 6.6" AMOLED screen with crisp colors and adequate brightness
- Water resistance and a sturdy frame for everyday durability
If you spend lots of time on social apps or streaming, the screen quality noticeably improves comfort and enjoyment.
Performance, battery and longevity
With a 5000 mAh battery you’ll meet or exceed a full day of heavy usage; Samsung’s power management is tuned to squeeze the most from the battery. The phone’s chipset and RAM configuration are tuned for balanced multitasking, not for pushing frame rates in demanding titles.
- 5000 mAh battery and typical mid-range chipset performance
- 128 GB storage with room for heavier media libraries
The real selling point here is long-term software support: if you plan to keep a phone for several years, the A36 reduces future upgrade pressure thanks to prolonged updates.
Camera and limitations
Cameras here perform well in daylight and surprisingly well at night for the price, but you won’t get the dynamic control or multi-frame options of flagship devices. If photography is your priority, consider a higher-tier model; otherwise this phone covers the essentials reliably.
OnePlus Nord N30 5G — Fast Charging
You’ll benefit from very fast 50W charging and a large 5000 mAh battery that keeps you going through long days, plus a smooth 120Hz display for responsive navigation. Camera performance is serviceable but not the phone’s strongest suit.
Pros
- Large 5000 mAh battery with 50W SUPERVOOC fast charging
- 120Hz 6.72" display for smooth UI and scrolling
- Decent performance for productivity and everyday apps
- 3.5mm headphone jack and expandable storage options
Cons
- Camera system is inconsistent, especially in low light
- Heavier than some competitors and bulkier in hand
Who should choose the Nord N30
Pick this OnePlus if you want a no-nonsense daily driver that charges extremely quickly and lasts through long usage sessions. It’s aimed at users who prioritize uptime and fast top-ups rather than flagship camera results.
Battery, charging and ergonomics
The phone’s standout feature is its battery and charging combination: a large 5000 mAh cell with 50W charging that replenishes a significant portion of capacity in a short time.
- 5000 mAh battery with 50W SUPERVOOC fast charging (about 47 minutes advertised full charge)
- 6.7" 120Hz LCD for smooth scrolling and navigation
This means you’ll spend less time tethered to chargers and more time using the device during travel or long workdays.
Performance and daily experience
With sufficient RAM and a Snapdragon 695-class chipset, the Nord N30 handles mainstream apps and multitasking well. OnePlus’s OxygenOS offers sensible customizations without being intrusive.
- Good app responsiveness and multitasking for everyday workloads
- Useful hardware like headphone jack and dual-SIM support
Camera and real-world trade-offs
The 108MP main sensor produces high-resolution shots in good light, but the overall imaging system doesn’t consistently match flagship phones for colors, low-light detail or stabilization.
- 108MP main camera with 3x lossless zoom but limited low-light performance
If photography is secondary to battery life, fast charging and a smooth display, this phone is a strong, pragmatic choice for daily use.
TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER — Eye-Friendly Display
You’ll appreciate the NXTPAPER mode for long reading sessions and lower eye strain, plus a large battery and expandable storage. It’s a strong pick if screen comfort and battery life matter more to you than top-tier camera performance.
Pros
- NXTPAPER paper-like display reduces eye strain
- Large 5010 mAh battery delivers long runtime
- 120Hz refresh and expandable storage
- Includes headphone jack and solid core specs for the price
Cons
- No wireless charging and middling video performance
- Camera/video quality isn’t class-leading
- A bit heavier than competing models
Who should consider the TCL 60 XE
Consider this phone if you read a lot on your phone or want a display that’s easier on the eyes during long sessions. The NXTPAPER technology is designed to cut glare and reduce blue light, which makes it attractive for readers and students.
Display and ergonomics
The paper-like NXTPAPER mode approximates the comfort of e-paper while still being a full-color LCD. You can switch between normal and paper-like modes depending on the task.
- 6.8" 120Hz display with NXTPAPER 3.0 for reduced blue light
- Eye Care Assistant adjusts brightness and color temperature automatically
When you enable paper mode for reading, text feels less harsh on the eyes and prolonged use is noticeably more comfortable compared with conventional LCDs.
Battery, performance and media
A 5010 mAh battery paired with efficient internals gives you excellent endurance. The phone handles everyday apps well and supports common connectivity options like eSIM and microSD expansion.
- 5010 mAh battery with multi-day standby in low-power modes
- 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage with microSD expansion
If you’re a media consumer who also wants long reading sessions, it balances both needs well, but the camera and video features won’t match more expensive competitors.
Camera and real-world trade-offs
The camera system provides usable photos for social sharing, and the handset includes helpful features like an earphone jack and a memory card slot. Expect compromises in low-light video and audio capture quality compared with higher-tier phones.
- Good for photos in daylight and standard video use
- Less capable for advanced video shooting and audio fidelity in clips
Overall, this phone is a practical, affordable option if reading comfort and battery life are your top priorities.
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G — Large AMOLED
You get a large, vibrant AMOLED display and very long battery life at a low price, with Samsung's unusually strong software support for this tier. Performance is modest, so expect smooth everyday use but limited headroom for heavy gaming or intensive multitasking.
Pros
- Large 6.7" AMOLED with 90Hz for vivid visuals
- 5000 mAh battery gives multi-day endurance
- Expandable storage and long software update promise
- Very affordable price for core smartphone needs
Cons
- Modest RAM and mid-range SoC limit heavy multitasking
- Camera secondaries and stabilization are basic
- Charger may not be included in some regions
What it is and who it's for
You should consider this phone if you want a big, bright screen and long battery life without spending much. Samsung positions it as a budget 5G handset that leans into display quality and long-term software support rather than top-tier performance.
Design and display
The A16 5G gives you a 6.7" AMOLED that looks noticeably better than LCDs in the same price band. The 90Hz refresh is a welcome touch for smoother scrolling.
- Large 6.7" AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate
- Slim-bezel design and a durable plastic frame
- No 3.5mm headphone jack; USB-C only
You’ll notice richer colors and deeper blacks compared with budget LCD phones, which makes reading, video, and casual gaming feel nicer than the price suggests.
Battery, performance and daily use
A 5000 mAh battery paired with fairly efficient mid-range silicon means you’ll routinely get a full day and often more. The phone is tuned for everyday tasks — browsing, social media, streaming and messaging — rather than sustained heavy-load gaming.
- 5000 mAh battery with 25W fast charging support (charger may be sold separately)
- 4–8 GB RAM configurations and up to 256 GB storage with microSD support
If you frequently switch dozens of heavy apps or play demanding 3D games, you’ll hit the device’s limits (some users note occasional stuttering and slower camera app launches). For most users who prioritize battery, screen and long-term updates, it hits the sweet spot.
Cameras and practical notes
The main 50MP camera performs well in good light, but the ultra-wide and macro units are basic and can produce soft results in low light. You’ll get usable social-media-ready photos in everyday situations, and video is competent but not flagship-level.
- 50MP primary sensor, 13MP front camera
- Limited stabilization and lower detail from secondary lenses
In short, you’ll get a solid daily driver with excellent battery life and a display that punches above its price. Trade-offs come in the form of raw performance and camera versatility.
UMIDIGI G9 5G — Big Specs, Low Price
You get an attractively spec'd handset for a low price — large display, big battery, and generous memory options — but you may encounter software bloat, spotty carrier compatibility and inconsistent build quality. It’s a budget-first choice with visible trade-offs.
Pros
- Very competitive price with large RAM and storage options
- 50MP camera and expandable storage via microSD
- Android 14 out of the box and big 5000 mAh battery
- Includes headphone jack and bundled accessories
Cons
- Preinstalled bloatware and ads in vendor apps
- Carrier compatibility and 5G bands can be inconsistent
- Fingerprint sensor placement and some build quirks
Value proposition and who it suits
The UMIDIGI G9 5G is aimed at buyers who want the biggest spec list for the least money. If you’re on a tight budget and want a phone that can run multiple apps, store media locally and provide basic 5G connectivity, this looks compelling — with caveats.
Hardware, battery and storage
You’ll find a large 6.75" display, multiple RAM configurations advertised, and a 5000 mAh battery that supports day-long use. The microSD slot offers true expandability — a feature that’s increasingly uncommon.
- 6.75" 90Hz HD+ display and 50MP main camera
- 5000 mAh battery with included adapter and case in the box
The hardware can feel fine for everyday tasks, but measured performance varies and you should temper expectations compared to mainstream brands.
Software and compatibility realities
UMIDIGI’s firmware occasionally comes with non-removable apps and promotional ads, and users report inconsistent carrier band support for some US networks. If you rely on specific carrier 5G bands, verify compatibility before purchase.
- Android 14 base but with OEM apps and limited removability
- Potential band/5G inconsistencies on some US carriers
You’ll save money, but you may need to accept occasional annoyances like locked bloatware, flaky fingerprint placement and mixed support for carrier features. For a spare phone or an entry-level 5G device, it makes sense; for a daily primary phone with seamless carrier integration, mainstream options are safer.
Final Thoughts on the Best 5G Phones

Pick the Motorola Edge 2024 — pOLED Power (8.9/10) if you want a FLAGSHIP-style experience without flagship pricing. It gives you a vivid pOLED display, fast wired charging, and wireless charging support, making it ideal if you watch a lot of video, multitask often, or want premium features and a polished feel.
Pick the Google Pixel 7 (Renewed) — Clean Android (8.7/10) if photography and timely software updates matter most. You’ll get top-tier computational photography and a clean Android experience at a lower price. Buy from a reputable seller and confirm warranty/condition before you commit.
What Is a 5G Phone and Why Does It Matter?
The rollout of 5G technology has transformed the way we connect to the internet. As the fifth generation of wireless broadband, 5G delivers impressive performance upgrades compared to 4G. But what exactly makes it so revolutionary? Here are the key advantages:
- Ultra-fast speed: 5G networks can be 50 to 100 times faster than 4G, reaching up to 10 Gbps.
- Lower latency: The delay between devices can drop from around 30 ms to just 5 ms, providing almost real-time communication.
- Higher connection capacity: 5G supports 50 to 100 times more connected devices per area.
- Energy efficiency: It can reduce energy consumption by up to 90% compared to 4G, lowering long-term environmental impact and costs.
- Support for the Internet of Things (IoT): Faster, more stable connections allow smart devices and systems to communicate seamlessly.
Although 5G coverage continues to expand worldwide, only 5G-compatible smartphones can take advantage of this technology. Below, you’ll learn how to choose the best 5G phones available today.
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How to Choose the Best 5G Phones
Finding the best 5G phone depends on your needs, usage habits, and budget. Here’s a complete guide to help you compare key features before making a purchase.
1. Choose the Right Operating System
The two main operating systems for 5G smartphones are Android and iOS.
Android is used by many brands, while iOS is exclusive to iPhones.
Make sure your phone runs the latest version—Android 13 or higher, or iOS 17 and beyond. Newer versions ensure better performance, stronger security, and access to the latest apps. If the model doesn’t have the latest version, check whether it supports updates in the near future.
2. Look for an Octa-Core Processor With 2 GHz or More
Performance is heavily influenced by the processor. Most of the best 5G phones feature octa-core processors with at least 2 GHz speed.
Higher speeds, such as 3 GHz or more, are ideal for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps. Popular chipsets include Snapdragon, Exynos, and Dimensity. For Apple devices, the A-series chips (like A17 Pro) deliver top-tier performance.
3. Consider Display Size and Resolution
Display size is largely a matter of preference. Most 5G phones feature screens between 5.9 and 6.7 inches.
If you stream movies or play games often, a larger display can improve your experience. However, image quality depends more on resolution than size.
- HD (720 x 1600 px): Basic option.
- Full HD (1080 x 2400 px): Delivers sharper, more detailed images.
AMOLED and Super Retina XDR technologies provide better contrast, color depth, and viewing angles.
4. Check the Refresh Rate – 120 Hz or Higher Is Ideal
The refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), determines how smoothly images move on the screen.
Phones with 120 Hz or higher offer a more fluid experience, especially when watching action scenes or playing fast-paced games. Some flagship models reach up to 165 Hz, while more affordable ones offer 90 Hz—still a good option for casual users.
5. Aim for at Least 6 GB of RAM
RAM is crucial for multitasking and overall responsiveness.
- 4 GB: Suitable for basic use.
- 6 GB or more: Recommended for users who frequently switch between apps or play games.
High-end models can have up to 12 GB or more, ensuring smooth performance even under heavy workloads.
6. Check the Internal Storage Capacity
Internal storage holds your apps, photos, videos, and documents.
For most users, 128 GB is a good starting point. However, if you record high-resolution videos or download many apps, go for 256 GB or higher.
Some models also offer expandable storage through a microSD card—an excellent option if you need extra space.
7. Confirm microSD Card Compatibility
Not all 5G phones include a slot for microSD cards.
If expandable storage is important to you, choose a model with a hybrid SIM tray, which can accommodate both a SIM card and a memory card.
Keep in mind that many premium devices—especially those with large internal storage—may not include this feature.
8. Evaluate Camera Quality
Camera performance remains one of the top priorities for smartphone buyers.
- Main rear camera: A resolution of 48 MP or more ensures excellent detail. Some phones now exceed 100 MP.
- Front camera: Usually between 12 MP and 40 MP, ideal for selfies and video calls.
Multiple rear lenses are common, providing wide-angle, macro, and portrait capabilities for more versatile photography.
9. Check Video Recording Resolution and Frame Rate
Most 5G smartphones record videos in 4K at 30 frames per second (fps), which is great for everyday use.
Advanced models can shoot at 4K 60 fps for smoother motion or even 8K at 24 fps for ultra-high definition.
If video quality matters to you, prioritize models that support higher frame rates.
10. Battery Capacity – Go for 4,000 mAh or Higher
Battery life is essential for users who stay connected all day.
Modern 5G phones with 4,000–5,000 mAh batteries typically last through a full day of moderate to heavy use.
For added convenience, check if the phone includes fast charging or turbo charging capabilities, which can restore several hours of battery life in just a few minutes.
11. Don’t Forget the Headphone Jack
Some newer 5G phones no longer include the traditional 3.5 mm headphone jack, requiring Bluetooth or USB-C audio devices instead.
If you prefer wired headphones, ensure the phone supports them or includes a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) adapter. Otherwise, wireless earbuds are a convenient alternative for most users.
Check Out the Best 5G Phones
Still not sure which one to choose? Click the link below to see the best-selling products.
Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
Take a look at more useful articles that can help you make more informed decisions.
- Best 128GB Xiaomi Phones in 2025 (Top 8: Redmi Note, Poco and More)
- Best 128GB Motorola Phones in 2025 (Top 6: Moto G, Edge and More)
- Best 256GB Samsung Phones in 2025 (Top 10: S25, A56, and More)
Video About the Best 5G Phones
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