Best Smartphones and Gadgets of 2025 According to Engadget

Explore the top-rated smartphones and gadgets of 2025, handpicked by experts for their innovation and performance.

A Year of Tech Triumphs: The Ultimate Gadgets of 2025

After over two decades of reviewing the latest tech, Engadget’s experts have tested more than 100 devices this year alone. From Google Pixel to Apple iPad, Nintendo Switch 2 to Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones, 2025 has delivered some truly outstanding gadgets. We've spent countless hours hands-on, and now it's time for you to rediscover the best of the best this year—and find out why these devices earned top marks.

Best Overall Smartphone: Google Pixel 10 Pro

The Google Pixel 10 Pro stands out with its high-quality cameras, smart software features, premium build, and robust battery life. For loyal iPhone users, the Pixel brand might be unfamiliar territory, but this tenth-generation model should make any Android fan sit up and take notice.

Supporting Qi2 wireless charging including MagSafe compatibility, Google’s Pixelsnap magnetic accessories are thoughtfully designed and can rival Apple’s ecosystem—something Samsung hasn't quite matched yet with magnetic mounts on their flagship Galaxy phones.

Google’s AI Gemini could feel overbearing in other products, but on the Pixel 10 Pro, it truly shines. Features like "Add Me" and "Camera Coach" make photography easier, while "Magic Cue" offers actionable suggestions during calls or messages based on context. It’s clear Google focused on real-world usage rather than textbook AI gimmicks.

Pros:

• Extended battery life
• Brighter displays
• 100x Pro Res zoom delivers impressive magnification
• Pixelsnap magnetic charging (Qi2 support)
• Extremely handy Magic Cue feature

Cons:

• No reverse wireless charging anymore
• Full-resolution image processing can be sluggish
• eSIM-only availability in select regions

Availability and Pricing:
While not officially sold domestically, the Pixel 10 Pro can be found via parallel imports at major electronics online stores. Expect prices ranging from approximately $900 to $1,200 depending on storage and vendor.

Usage Notes:
Users might face 5G limitations (often software-locked) and may need manual tweaks for VoLTE/VoWiFi. Google Pay doesn’t work with local cards, and some AI Gemini features may require switching system language to English or changing device region.

Best iPhone: Apple iPhone 17 Pro

The Apple iPhone 17 Pro is Apple’s latest leap, switching from a premium titanium to a durable aluminum body, earning mixed reviews on looks vs. toughness. Powered by the A19 Pro chip, it handles AI image processing and heavy tasks while staying cool thanks to a new vapor chamber.

Its triple 48MP rear cameras are the best Apple has offered, and the new "Center Stage" selfie camera feature is genuinely useful for video calls. Alongside solid battery life and a fresh color option, the 17 Pro claims its spot as the best iPhone yet, narrowly missing the overall smartphone of the year.

Pros:

• Innovative Center Stage selfie camera
• Versatile triple rear camera setup
• Sturdy all-metal aluminum body
• Improved AI and thermal management

Cons:

• Premium price tag

Availability and Pricing:
Widely available through parallel import channels, prices range between $1,200 and $2,000, exceeding US retail prices.

Usage Notes:
Apple Pay is non-functional locally, and official banking apps are mostly unavailable in the App Store. Warranty is handled by sellers, and regional AI features may have limitations. eSIM support is fully compatible.

Best Foldable Smartphone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 sets the bar with an 8-inch flexible OLED display squeezed into a sleek body only 4.2 mm thick (8.9 mm folded) weighing about 212 grams—lighter than many flagship phones. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chip powers it with strong performance and long battery life.

The design finally solves the weight problem of foldables, but the $2,000 price tag puts it out of reach for many. Still, if you want the best foldable now, this is it.

Pros:

• Sleek, thin design
• Improved hinge mechanism
• 200MP main camera
• Large, vibrant displays
• Top-tier performance

Cons:

• Very expensive
• No built-in slot for S Pen
• Charging speed is mediocre

Availability and Pricing:
Available through parallel imports, prices range roughly from $1,800 to $2,200.

Usage Notes:
Samsung Pay works erratically with certain local cards, and official manufacturer warranty is absent. The system comes fully localized out of the box.

Best Laptop: Apple MacBook Air M4

A perennial favorite, the MacBook Air now starts at $999 (about $780 approx), featuring the blazing-fast M4 chip and a crisp 12MP camera with Center Stage. Its fanless design ensures whisper-quiet operation, though heavy workloads demand monitoring for heat.

Despite few design changes, it remains one of the thinnest and best-thought-out laptops. Windows competitors may be lighter but often sacrifice power or battery life—this Air balances both perfectly.

Pros:

• High performance
• Slim, lightweight chassis
• Excellent keyboard and top touchpad
• Impressive battery life

Cons:

• Limited port selection
• 60Hz screen refresh rate feels dated

Availability and Pricing:
Imported widely, retail prices start around $1,100–$1,200.

Usage Notes:
US and EU models may lack Russian keyboard lettering, requiring engraving. App Store payments limited to mobile carrier billing. Warranty through retailers.

Best Windows Laptop: Dell 14 Premium

Though the XPS name is gone, Dell 14 Premium carries on its legacy with an ultra-portable design, plenty of ports, and options including a bright OLED touchscreen. Discrete graphics options make it suitable for video work or casual gaming.

Some may find the touch function keys and large trackpad divisive, but it’s a solid choice ahead of its next-gen update.

Pros:

• Elegant design
• Vibrant OLED display option
• Strong performance
• Massive trackpad

Cons:

• Touch buttons not universally loved
• GPU is one generation behind

Availability and Pricing:
Available via parallel import or resellers, prices hover around $1,300–$1,500.

Usage Notes:
Keyboard Cyrillic engraving may be needed. Driver downloads may require VPN. No official warranty; repairs could be tricky due to parts scarcity.

Best Gaming Laptop: Acer Predator Triton 14 AI

For gamers craving portability, the Acer Predator Triton 14 AI is a gem. It weighs just 1.6 kg and is only 1.8 cm thick but packs an RTX 5070 GPU under the hood. Its discreet design fits in an office setting without raising eyebrows.

Features include a bright OLED screen, mini-LED keyboard backlighting, and a stylus-supporting trackpad that doubles as a graphics tablet. At around $2,500, it’s pricey but versatile.

Pros:

• Sleek design
• Innovative cooling
• Vivid OLED display
• Stylus-support on trackpad
• Lots of ports

Cons:

• Speaker placement could be better
• Premium price

Availability and Pricing:
Widely available with prices reaching $2,200–$2,500.

Usage Notes:
Full driver support and localization, but buying games may require regional workarounds.

Best Smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 11

Apple keeps the design familiar but extends battery life significantly in the Series 11. With watchOS 26, new hypertension alerts, and a wrist flick gesture, it remains the top pick—especially for iPhone users.

Though Pixel Watch 4 offers different looks, Apple’s watchfaces and iOS integration are unmatched. For those on a budget, the Apple Watch SE 3 now also boasts an always-on display.

Pros:

• Longer battery life
• Sleek, lightweight
• Comprehensive health monitoring
• New wrist flick gesture
• Best for iPhone users

Cons:

• Expensive
• SE 3 might suffice for many users

Availability and Pricing:
Available widely, starting at roughly $450 (converted).

Usage Notes:
Health features work mostly but may require tweaking. Apple Pay not supported locally.

Best Tablet: Apple iPad Air (M3, 13-inch)

The iPad Air with M3 chip delivers 90% of the iPad Pro’s power at a friendlier price. Its M3 chip handles gaming, video editing, and AI tools easily. It’s highly versatile, pairing well with the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard.

The only downside? The 60Hz screen refresh rate feels a bit behind the times, and it lacks Face ID.

Pros:

• Most affordable large iPad
• Powerful M3 chip
• Better performance than base iPad
• More affordable keyboard than Pro model

Cons:

• Screen refresh rate outdated
• No Face ID
• Accessories add up in cost

Availability and Pricing:
Available locally, starting near $1,000.

Usage Notes:
App and subscription payments tricky; many local services are web-only.

Best Desktop Computer: Apple Mac Studio M4 Max

For creatives, the Mac Studio M4 Max offers powerful performance at a reasonable price. Its M4 Max CPU excels in video editing and photo software benchmarks and includes a generous port selection: six USB-C (four Thunderbolt), HDMI, and Ethernet.

Starting around $2,500, it’s compact but pricey, and hardware upgrades are costly after purchase.

Pros:

• Powerful CPU
• Plentiful high-speed ports
• Large base memory
• Compact design

Cons:

• Expensive upgrades
• Front USB-C ports slower than Thunderbolt

Availability and Pricing:
Mostly sold in specialty shops, prices range high.

Usage Notes:
Requires Apple ID with payment setup. Power plug adapters may be required. Warranty from retailer only.

Best Portable Gaming Console: Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo sticks to the winning formula with the Switch 2, offering more power, a bright 7.9-inch HDR screen, and magnetic Joy-Con mounts. It continues to dominate the hybrid console market despite increasing competition.

Pros:

• Large, vibrant display with HDR
• Refined design
• Magnetic Joy-Con controllers
• Increased built-in storage
• Significant performance boost

Cons:

• Battery life could improve
• Dock could use more USB-C ports
• Price increase
• No VRR support on TV connection

Availability and Pricing:
Available via parallel import, priced around $600.

Usage Notes:
Nintendo eShop is inaccessible locally; digital game purchases require region switching or prepaid cards. Physical cartridges available on marketplaces.

Best Headphones: Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 improve on sound quality, active noise cancellation, and comfort. Features like automatic sound adjustment and DSEE upscaling add polish. While rivals excel in niches, no one matches Sony’s all-around package.

Pros:

• Enhanced sound
• Strong noise cancellation
• Feature-rich
• Extremely comfortable

Cons:

• Price increase
• Speak-to-Chat needs refinement
• Call quality suffers in noisy areas

Availability and Pricing:
Widely available, priced roughly $400–$600.

Usage Notes:
Companion app may require APK sideload on Android; works normally on iOS if installed.

Best True Wireless Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 3

AirPods Pro 3’s active noise cancellation makes them the top in-ear earbuds this year. They offer live translation, improved sound, transparency mode, longer battery life, and new foam tips for better fit.

Pros:

• Impressive noise cancellation
• Improved sound quality
• Real-time translation
• Longer battery life

Cons:

• New size takes getting used to
• Total battery life with case slightly reduced
• Limited language support initially for translation

Availability and Pricing:
Available widely, prices hover near $350.

Usage Notes:
Translation features may lack local language support at launch. Full features work best within Apple’s ecosystem.

Best Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D

A dream chip for gamers and content creators, this 16-core beast clocks up to 5.7 GHz with a massive 144MB 3D V-Cache for lightning-fast data handling, minimizing RAM bottlenecks.

Pros:

• Outstanding performance
• Noticeable gaming boost
• Runs relatively cool

Cons:

• Pricey

Availability and Pricing:
Accessible via import, prices around $1,000.

Usage Notes:
No software restrictions; warranty from sellers.

Best Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti

Despite AMD’s challenge, NVIDIA’s RTX 5070 Ti leads in 4K gaming with DLSS 4 frame generation. However, retail prices often exceed the $750 MSRP.

Pros:

• Excellent 4K performance
• DLSS 4 boosts framerate
• Stays cool under load

Cons:

• Price fluctuations
• Stock shortages
• $750 still steep for mid-range

Availability and Pricing:
Available locally via import, costing about $1,400.

Usage Notes:
Drivers install smoothly; occasional VPN needed for site access.

Best Drone: DJI Neo 2

The DJI Neo 2 is sturdier and smarter than before, equipped with new sensors and LiDAR for obstacle avoidance. It supports gesture control and shoots 4K video quietly, ideal for sports or vlogging.

Pros:

• Quieter than predecessor
• LiDAR obstacle detection
• Fast for size
• Improved battery
• Impressive gesture controls

Cons:

• No 10-bit LogM video
• Noise still noticeable
• Low-light video quality weak

Availability and Pricing:
Available locally around $300.

Usage Notes:
App not in local stores; Android users can sideload APK. Strict flight regulations apply, requiring registration.

Best Camera: Sony A1 II

At nearly $7,000, Sony’s A1 II is the world’s best hybrid camera, boasting a 50MP sensor, ultra-fast 30fps RAW burst, and superb AI autofocus tracking eyes, faces, animals, and vehicles.

Pros:

• Impressive speed
• Best autofocus from Sony
• Sharp photos with vibrant colors
• Excellent stabilization

Cons:

• No RAW video support unlike some rivals
• Very expensive
• Few differences from original A1

Availability and Pricing:
Available in pro photo shops from about $6,000.

Usage Notes:
Multilingual menus including local language. Warranty through seller only.

Best Smart Glasses: Ray-Ban Meta (2nd Gen)

The second-gen Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses blend classic style with a quality camera, open-ear audio, and Meta’s evolving AI assistant. Battery life and video quality have improved.

Pros:

• Noticeably longer battery life
• 3K video quality good for vloggers
• Helpful Meta AI translator

Cons:

• First-person video framing tricky
• Expensive lens replacements

Availability and Pricing:
Not officially sold; available via resellers for about $500.

Usage Notes:
Requires region workaround for AI and app functions. Some AI features lack local language support.

Best Home Theater: Anker Nebula X1

Anker’s Nebula X1 is a top-tier 4K portable projector with 3-laser tech delivering 3500 lumens and Dolby Vision HDR. It’s bright enough for daytime viewing and packed with Google TV, though Dolby Atmos is missing.

Pros:

• Superb image quality
• Easy auto-calibration
• Loud, clear sound
• Surprisingly portable

Cons:

• Pricey
• Occasional Google TV lag
• No Dolby Atmos

Availability and Pricing:
Available via marketplaces at $3,000+.

Usage Notes:
Paid content hard to access; third-party streaming apps recommended.

Best Kitchen Appliance: Ninja Swirl by Creami

Ninja Swirl crafts soft serve ice cream at home like magic. It’s pricier and bigger than the original Creami but offers handy new settings and quieter operation.

Pros:

• Delicious soft serve
• New settings
• Quieter than predecessor
• Convenient dosing handle

Cons:

• More expensive
• Bulky
• No large size model

Availability and Pricing:
Popular brand but often imported; around $400.

Usage Notes:
US models run on 110V; need voltage transformer for local use.

Best Kitchen Accessory: ThermoWorks RFX

ThermoWorks RFX lets you monitor grill meat temperature remotely via Wi-Fi. It’s accurate, withstands 500°C, dishwasher safe, and supports multiple sensors.

Pros:

• Precise and reliable
• Complete starter kit
• Durable probe

Cons:

• Bluetooth function still in progress
• Many components
• No case included

Availability and Pricing:
Hard to find locally; mainly imported at $170+.

Usage Notes:
App may need region change or APK sideload. Wi-Fi works fine locally.

Best Electric Vehicle: Nissan Leaf 2026

The third-gen Nissan Leaf offers up to 480 km range starting around $30,000, with a new design, comfortable seats, large infotainment screens, and optional Bose Personal Plus sound system.

Pros:

• Attractive styling
• Huge displays
• Long range
• Pleasant driving experience
• Affordable

Cons:

• No one-pedal driving mode
• Limited cargo space with seats up

Availability and Pricing:
Available by special order, prices near $45,000 including fees.

Usage Notes:
Charging standards vary by market; no official warranty. NissanConnect app unavailable.

Best Wireless Mouse: Logitech MX Master 4

The MX Master 4 refines a beloved formula with tactile feedback under the thumb, improved scroll wheel, and grippy finish. It’s a perfect productivity tool priced at $120.

Pros:

• Comfortable for medium/large hands
• Quiet buttons
• Great scroll wheels
• Durable finish

Cons:

• Not left-hand friendly
• Basic polling rate (125Hz)
• No USB receiver storage slot

Availability and Pricing:
Easily found via import, about $140.

Usage Notes:
Logi Options+ software installs smoothly; warranty through seller.

Best Charging Accessory: Anker Portable Laptop Battery

Anker’s 25,000mAh, 165W power bank with built-in USB-C cables features a display showing charge, power, and battery health. At $88, it’s a travel essential.

Pros:

• Built-in cables
• Excellent speed and capacity

Cons:

• Screen prone to scratches

Availability and Pricing:
Available locally, usually $150.

Usage Notes:
Allowed in carry-on luggage; no restrictions.

"Pixel 10 Pro shows how AI should be integrated into our lives." — Engadget Editors

Conclusion

2025 has been a stellar year for tech enthusiasts, with each device pushing boundaries in its own way. Whether you crave the smartest smartphone, the sleekest laptop, or the coolest gaming console, these picks are sure to inspire. Which gadget caught your eye? Ready to upgrade your tech arsenal?

FAQ

• Which is the best smartphone of 2025?
  The Google Pixel 10 Pro tops the list due to its balanced features and AI integration.
• Are these devices available worldwide?
  Many are available via parallel import where official sales are limited.
• Do AI features work fully in all regions?
  Some AI functions may require language or region tweaks to work optimally.
• What is the best gaming device this year?
  The Nintendo Switch 2 leads in portable gaming, while the Acer Predator Triton 14 AI excels for laptop gaming.
• Are Apple devices fully functional outside the US?
  Some features like Apple Pay or banking apps may have regional restrictions.

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