The era of compact smartphones made waves when cellular phones first entered the market. Yet, with the advent of Internet-capable devices, the trend shifted towards larger models boasting extensive displays and tactile QWERTY keyboards. For those in pursuit of efficiency and convenience, we’ve curated a selection of the best small smartphones for 2025, enabling you to do everything from mobile gaming to movie watching effortlessly.
Selection Criteria for Small Smartphones
Choosing a smaller smartphone brings forth numerous benefits. Notably, they’re easier to fit in pockets or bags, and they present less of a challenge for one-handed operation. This makes them particularly appealing to individuals with smaller hands. In our evaluation of the finest small smartphones on the market, the device’s width was a major consideration, ensuring that users can comfortably operate it with one hand.
Device Width Considerations
The sweet spot for a smartphone’s maximum width that allows for easy one-handed usage typically ranges from 2.76 to 2.83 inches (70 to 72 mm).Beyond this width, users may struggle to navigate the screen easily, particularly those with petite hands.
While many brands flood the smartphone landscape, we focused on reliable names that consistently provide timely OS updates and security patches to ensure user safety. Given the personal and sensitive information stored on our smartphones, prioritizing devices backed by their manufacturers is paramount.
Necessary Features and Capabilities
Smartphones are integral to our daily tasks. Thus, a compact smartphone must be equipped to handle various functions typically expected of larger models. These include running Android or iOS, accessing popular applications, taking quality photos, and enjoying multimedia content effortlessly.
What to Consider When Choosing a Small Smartphone
Choosing a smartphone is a deeply personal decision influenced by usage habits. Nonetheless, there are key features to evaluate when selecting your next compact smartphone:
- Battery Life: Look for models that offer long-lasting battery support to minimize frequent charging.
- Display Quality: The screen should have clarity and color accuracy for an enjoyable viewing experience.
- Build Quality: A sturdy design ensures durability and can withstand everyday wear and tear.
- Software Update Support: Prioritize devices that promise regular updates for improved functionality and security.
- Price: Assess your budget to find a device that marries features and affordability effectively.
Top Small Smartphones to Consider in 2025
Best Overall: SAMSUNG Galaxy S24
Price: $649.99
The SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 stands out with its 6.2-inch LPTO AMOLED display, cleverly designed to fit comfortably in one hand. Despite its capabilities, it retains a pocket-friendly size at 5.78 inches (147mm) tall and 2.79 inches (71mm) wide.
With enhanced AI features, the Galaxy S24 empowers users with intuitive tools, enabling actions like drawing a circle to search or real-time text translation.
Best Performance: Asus ZenPhone 10
Price: $699
As smaller models often compromise on speed and quality, the Asus ZenPhone 10 defies the norm. Equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and up to 16 GB of RAM, it delivers stellar performance packed into a compact design. Measuring just 5.76 inches (146.5mm) tall and 2.68 inches (68.1mm) wide, it’s crafted for ease of use.
Best Camera: Google Pixel 9 Pro
Price: $849
The Google Pixel 9 Pro raises the bar for smartphone photography. While it approaches a larger size—6.01 inches (152.8mm) tall and 2.83 inches (72mm) wide—it still remains compact compared to many competitors.
With its acclaimed camera capabilities, especially in low-light situations using its Night Sight mode, along with the performance of the Tensor G4 processor, the Pixel 9 Pro is an outstanding choice for photography enthusiasts.
Best Foldable: SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 6
Price: $949.99
The SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 6 redefines portability with its clever foldable design. It features a secondary outer display measuring 3.4 inches that allows users to check notifications and engage with apps without fully unfolding the device.
Unfolded, the Galaxy boasts a generous 6.7-inch AMOLED screen—small enough when folded to easily carry around yet functionally expansive when open.
Best Value: iPhone SE (Gen 3)
Price: $225
Finding a budget-friendly iPhone is a rarity, but the iPhone SE (Gen 3) excels in delivering value. Measuring just 5.45 inches (138mm) tall and 2.65 inches (67mm) wide, it fits comfortably in one hand while still powered by the capable A15 Bionic chip, the same as the iPhone 13.
While it comes with only 4GB of RAM, which may limit some users, this device remains a strong option for those looking for efficient performance without breaking the bank. Additionally, with whispers of a new generation on the horizon, waiting might be prudent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Image credit: Unsplash
FAQs About Small Smartphones
1. Why is 2.83 inches (72mm) the ideal width for smartphones?
This width allows users to comfortably hold and use their smartphones one-handed, facilitating easy navigation and typing without losing grip.
2. Are smaller smartphones as secure as larger models?
Absolutely! As long as they have the latest OS and security updates, compact phones provide the same level of security as their larger counterparts, protecting your personal information from vulnerabilities.
3. What has led to the decline in smaller smartphone production?
Consumer preference has shifted towards larger smartphones due to enhanced multimedia experiences, productivity tasks, and the requirement for sophisticated features like multiple cameras, which necessitate more space in design.
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