Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Smartphones Under $1000 in 2025 April (Unlocked Mobile & Carrier Phones)
Shopping for a premium smartphone under $1000 doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or features. In fact, with advancements in technology, this price range now includes some of the most powerful and feature-packed devices on the market. From vibrant displays and lightning-fast processors to cutting-edge cameras and robust battery life, these smartphones are designed to meet the needs of modern users. Whether you’re looking for a device that excels in gaming, photography, or all-around performance, you’ll find excellent options here.
On contract, these smartphones are available for as little as $13 to $40 per month, making them an even more appealing choice. Expect features like AI-enhanced photography, super-fast charging, and even foldable designs making their way into this price range. With so many great options out there, picking the right smartphone can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 best smartphones under $1000 in the USA. Each selection is based on features, performance, popularity, and value for money to help you make an informed decision.
Get ready to discover affordable excellence in the world of flagship smartphones!
10 Best Smartphone under 1000 Dollars to Buy 2025 April
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Price: 999 (Approx)
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a new standard in premium smartphones with its robust design featuring Corning Gorilla Armor and IP68 water resistance. The device showcases a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with 2600 nits peak brightness and 1440 x 3120 resolution at 505 ppi, delivering exceptional clarity and brightness for all viewing conditions.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, this powerhouse offers configurations up to 1TB storage with 12GB RAM, running Android 14 with Samsung’s commitment to seven major Android upgrades. The device includes the signature S Pen with Bluetooth integration, perfect for precise input and creative work.
The camera system is truly remarkable, featuring a versatile quad setup: a 200MP main sensor with OIS, a 10MP telephoto (3x zoom), a 50MP periscope telephoto (5x zoom), and a 12MP ultrawide lens. This combination enables exceptional photography from macro to extreme zoom, with 8K video recording capabilities. The 12MP front camera handles selfies with HDR10+ support.
Like its competitor, the S24 Ultra features Circle to Search for intuitive visual searches, while Samsung DeX adds desktop-like functionality. The device sports a 5000mAh battery supporting 45W fast charging (65% in 30 minutes), 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as a premium device, that excels in productivity, photography, and performance, making it an ideal choice for power users and creative professionals.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Price: 999 (Approx)
The iPhone 16 Pro represents Apple’s latest innovation in premium smartphones, featuring enhanced durability with best-in-class IP68 water resistance up to 6 meters and the latest Ceramic Shield protection. The device maintains Apple’s signature design language while pushing technical boundaries.
The 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display offers exceptional visual quality with 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10, and Dolby Vision support, reaching 2000 nits peak brightness. At 1206 x 2622 resolution, it delivers crisp visuals at 460 ppi with an Always-On display feature.
Powered by the 3nm A18 Pro chip with a hexa-core CPU and 6-core GPU, paired with 8GB RAM and up to 1TB NVMe storage, it runs iOS 18. The triple camera system impresses with a 48MP main sensor, 12MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom, and 48MP ultrawide, complemented by LiDAR scanning. Video capabilities include 4K at 120fps recording with Dolby Vision HDR and spatial video/audio support.
The 3582mAh battery supports 25W wired charging, MagSafe wireless charging, and Qi2 compatibility. Standout features include Face ID, satellite connectivity for emergency services, UWB gen2 chip, and comprehensive connectivity including Wi-Fi 7.
This flagship device combines cutting-edge technology with Apple’s ecosystem integration, making it a compelling choice for users seeking the ultimate iPhone experience with professional-grade camera capabilities and performance.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Price: 999 (Approx)
The Google Pixel 9 Pro combines powerful performance with cutting-edge software in a premium design featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an aluminum frame. Its IP68 rating ensures protection against dust and water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
The 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display offers a 120Hz refresh rate and impressive 3000 nits peak brightness, with 1280 x 2856 resolution and 495 ppi density. Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, it comes with up to 1TB storage and 16GB RAM, running Android 14 with promised support for seven major Android upgrades.
The camera system shines with a 50 MP main camera (OIS), 48 MP periscope telephoto (5x optical zoom), and 48 MP ultrawide lens. Advanced features include Pixel Shift, Ultra-HDR, Zoom Enhance, and Best Take mode. The 42 MP front camera excels at selfies and supports 4K video recording.
The device introduces innovative features like Circle to Search, allowing visual searches by simply pointing the phone at objects, and Satellite SOS for emergency connectivity without cell service. The 4700 mAh battery supports 27W wired charging (55% in 30 minutes), 21W wireless charging with Pixel Stand, and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
With its blend of performance, advanced camera capabilities, and unique features, the Pixel 9 Pro stands as a versatile smartphone suitable for both everyday use and challenging situations.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
Price: 999 (Approx)
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 refines the modern flip phone concept with enhanced durability, featuring an armor aluminum frame and IP48 water resistance. The device continues Samsung’s commitment to making foldables more practical for everyday use.
At its heart is a 6.7-inch Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering 120Hz refresh rate and impressive 2600 nits peak brightness. The 3.4-inch cover display, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, boasts 1600 nits peak brightness and 60Hz refresh rate, making it more functional for quick interactions.
Powered by the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 12GB RAM with up to 512GB UFS 4.0 storage, it runs Android 14 with One UI 6.1.1. The camera system pairs a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a 12MP ultrawide lens, capable of 4K60fps video with HDR10+. The 10MP selfie camera handles 4K video recording.
The 4000mAh battery supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. Notable features include Circle to Search functionality, stereo speakers with 32-bit/384kHz audio support, and comprehensive connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6E.
This stylish foldable strikes a balance between innovation and practicality, making it an attractive option for users seeking a premium compact smartphone with the versatility of a foldable design.
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Price: 999 (Approx)
The Sony Xperia 1 VI continues Sony’s tradition of crafting distinctive flagship devices, combining professional camera features with multimedia excellence. Its understated design features IP65/IP68 protection and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, embodying Sony’s minimalist aesthetic.
The 6.5-inch LTPO OLED display offers a cinematic 19.5:9 aspect ratio with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR BT.2020 support, delivering professional-grade color accuracy. At 1080 x 2340 resolution, it provides sharp visuals with 396 ppi density.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the Zeiss-branded triple camera system, featuring a 48MP main sensor, a 12 MP innovative dual telephoto setup with continuous 3.5x-7.1x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor. The system supports 4cm macro at 120mm and incorporates eye tracking. Video capabilities include 4K recording at up to 120fps with 5-axis stabilization. The 12MP front camera handles selfies with HDR10 support and can record 4K videos.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with up to 12GB RAM and expandable storage via microSD, it runs Android 14 with three years of major updates promised. The device excels in audio with a 3.5mm jack, Hi-Resolution certification, and dynamic vibration system.
The 5000mAh battery supports 30W wired charging and wireless charging options. Notable features include native Sony Alpha camera support, Wi-Fi 7, and comprehensive professional-grade camera controls.
This sophisticated flagship offers a unique blend of professional photography features and multimedia capabilities, making it a compelling choice for content creators and Sony enthusiasts seeking a premium experience.
Motorola Razr 50 Ultra
Price: 899 (Approx)
The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra reimagines the iconic flip phone with cutting-edge technology, featuring a premium build combining aluminum frame, eco leather back, and IPX8 water resistance. Its innovative hinge design uses stainless steel for durability and smooth operation.
The device showcases two impressive LTPO AMOLED displays, a 6.9-inch foldable main screen with 165Hz refresh rate and stunning 3000 nits peak brightness, and a versatile 4-inch external display boasting 2400 nits peak brightness. Both screens support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, offering exceptional visual quality with resolutions of 1080 x 2640 and 1272 x 1080 respectively.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset and up to 12GB RAM with 512GB UFS 4.0 storage, it runs Android 14 with promised support for three major upgrades. The dual camera system features a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a 50MP telephoto offering 2x optical zoom, capable of 4K60fps video with HDR10+. The 32MP selfie camera handles 4K video recording.
The 4000mAh battery supports 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 5W reverse charging. Additional features include Wi-Fi 7 support, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and comprehensive navigation support.
This premium foldable combines nostalgic design with modern technology, making it an attractive option for users seeking a compact yet powerful smartphone with versatile display options.
ZTE nubia Red Magic 9S Pro
Price: 799 (Approx)
The Red Magic 9S Pro stands out as a purpose-built gaming powerhouse, featuring an innovative built-in cooling fan and aviation aluminum frame with an eye-catching RGB light strip. Its gaming credentials are further enhanced by 520Hz touch-sensitive shoulder triggers, offering precise control in competitive games.
The device sports a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with 1B colors and 120Hz refresh rate, reaching 1600 nits peak brightness. Protected by Gorilla Glass 5, the screen delivers crisp visuals at 400 ppi with its 1116 x 2480 resolution. The under-display 16MP selfie camera maintains an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Powered by the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset running at 3.4 GHz, paired with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage, it runs Android 14 with RedMagic OS 9.5. The triple camera system includes a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 2MP depth sensor, capable of 8K video recording at 30fps.
The massive 6500mAh battery supports 80W fast charging, reaching full charge in just 35 minutes. Additional features include Hi-Res audio support with a 3.5mm jack, stereo speakers with Snapdragon Sound, Wi-Fi 7 compatibility, and a USB Type-C 3.2 port with DisplayPort output.
This gaming-focused device combines aggressive styling, powerful performance, and innovative cooling solutions, making it an ideal choice for mobile gaming enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
Price: 799 (Approx)
The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra delivers flagship-level performance in a robust package featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP68 water resistance. Its stunning 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display offers a blazing 144Hz refresh rate and impressive 2500 nits peak brightness, with 1080 x 2400 resolution providing crisp visuals at 388 ppi.
Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, it comes with up to 512GB storage and 16GB RAM, running Android 14 with promised support for two major Android upgrades. The device excels in multimedia with Hi-Res audio support, including a 3.5mm headphone jack and stereo speakers.
The triple camera system features a 50MP main sensor with gimbal OIS, a 32MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 13MP ultrawide lens. Video capabilities include 8K recording at 24fps and advanced HDR10+ support. The 32MP front camera handles selfies with HDR and panorama features.
The massive 5500mAh battery supports 65W fast charging (reaching 100% in 39 minutes), 15W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wired charging. Additional features include Wi-Fi 7 support, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and comprehensive navigation support including GPS L1+L5.
This premium device combines powerful performance, versatile photography capabilities, and excellent battery life, making it a compelling choice for power users and multimedia enthusiasts.
Know the Best Smartphone Under $500
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Note:
- The price of the Mobiles may change day by day, so do check the price on the seller’s website using the buy button associated with the product.
- We put immense effort to give accurate specs, but do check for the spec at the seller’s website (Amazon, Bestbuy, etc,.) before purchasing the product.+-
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