Buying a New Phone in 2025? Read This First.

August 26, 2025
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Thinking about getting a new phone in 2025?
Before you click “buy now,” let’s talk. This guide is here to help you shop smart—without needing a tech degree. You’ll learn how to pick the right phone based on your life, your needs, and your budget. Let’s dive in.
First Things First: What’s Your Real Reason?
Before you start shopping, ask yourself: Why do I want a new phone?
- Is your battery dying constantly?
- Is your screen cracked?
- Is your phone just feeling… slow?
Or are you just craving the newest thing on the shelf?
If there's a problem with your current phone, the fix could be easier (and cheaper) than a whole new device. A battery replacement or new charging cable might do the trick. But if you’ve already tried a few fixes and your phone still can’t keep up, it’s probably time.
What Do You Actually Use Your Phone For?
This is a big one. Think about your everyday phone habits:
- Love snapping photos? You’ll want a phone with a solid camera—look for features like night mode, portrait blur, and wide-angle lenses.
- Spend hours on TikTok, YouTube, or Netflix? Look for a high-quality screen that’s bright and smooth.
- Play mobile games? You’ll need more memory and a powerful chip so things don’t lag.
- Work from your phone? Look for features like split-screen multitasking or stylus support.
- Want something super simple? If you mostly call, text, and scroll social media, a basic phone will save you money and still do everything you need.
Take a few minutes to make a mental checklist. Your perfect phone depends more on how you use it than on what’s “cool” right now.
Set a Budget You Can Actually Stick To
Phones come in all price ranges. Here’s a general idea:
- Low-cost phones (under $300): Great for everyday users who don’t need fancy features.
- Mid-range phones ($300–$700): A sweet spot for many people—nice cameras, good screens, and decent speed.
- Top-tier phones (above $700): These are the “premium” models packed with the latest features. (You might hear people call them flagships, but really they’re just the company’s fanciest phones.)
Budget Tips:
- Certified refurbished phones – These are gently used phones that have been professionally cleaned, repaired, and tested. They often come with a warranty and can save you hundreds of dollars.
- Trade-in deals – Many brands and carriers will give you money off a new phone if you hand over your old one, even if it’s a little banged up.
- Payment plans – Instead of paying all at once, you can split the cost into monthly payments. Just keep an eye on interest rates or added fees!
Set a flexible budget range so you’re not stuck between “too cheap” and “too much.”
Android vs. iPhone: Which One’s for You?
Let’s settle it once and for all...just kidding. You gotta pick what works for you. Both are great—so it really depends on what you already use and what you like.
iPhone (iOS)
- Great if you already use a MacBook, Apple Watch, or AirPods.
- Super smooth and simple interface.
- Long-lasting software updates.
- Fewer customization options.
Android
- Tons of brands to choose from (Samsung, Google, Motorola, etc.).
- More customizable features and settings.
- Usually more budget-friendly options.
- You can expand storage on some models with a memory card.
Still unsure? If you already own Apple or Google gear, that’s a big clue for what to stick with.
What to Look for Under the Hood
We know this stuff can sound complicated, but let’s break it down.
Performance & Speed
If you mostly scroll social media, watch videos, and text, you don’t need the fastest phone ever made.
If you love mobile games or video editing, go for something with more memory (called RAM) and a faster chip (the part that keeps everything running smoothly).
Battery Life & Charging
Battery life isn’t just about size—it’s about how long it actually lasts in real life.
- Look for phones that last at least a full day.
- Fast charging is awesome when you’re in a rush.
- Wireless charging is cool, but not a must-have for everyone.
Camera Quality
- For content creators and photo lovers: Look for multiple lenses, night mode, and high megapixels.
- For casual users: A decent single or dual-lens camera will do just fine.
Display
If you’re into watching videos or editing photos, you’ll want a vibrant display.
- OLED screens are crisp and colorful.
- LCD screens are fine for general use.
- Look at refresh rates too—higher numbers (like 90Hz or 120Hz) = smoother scrolling.
Storage
This is your phone’s closet.
- 64GB or less? Fine if you only keep a few apps and photos.
- 128GB+? Better for heavy app users, photo hoarders, or people who like to download music and videos.
Some Android phones let you add a memory card, but many new phones don’t—so get more space than you think you’ll need.
Think Long-Term: Will It Last?
You’re not just buying a phone for today. Think about how it’ll hold up:
- Software updates: Make sure the phone will keep getting updates for the next few years. This keeps it secure and fresh.
- Durability: Is it made to last, or is it going to crack the second you drop it?
- Repairability: Some phones are designed to be easier to fix—like having replaceable batteries or swappable parts. That’s not only good for your wallet, it’s better for the planet too.
Sustainability is becoming a big deal; check if the brand offers recycled materials, longer support, or repair programs.
Your Phone Plan Matters (Like, A Lot)
Don’t get distracted by the phone and forget the monthly cost that comes with it.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Compatibility: Make sure your new phone works with your current carrier.
- Promos & bundles: Some carriers offer sweet trade-in deals, plan discounts, or freebies when you buy a phone through them.
- Timing: Sales usually pop up around big launch events, holidays, or back-to-school season.
- Total cost: Don't just look at the phone’s sticker price—look at the cost of your plan too. Sometimes the phone is “free”… but the plan is way more expensive.
👉 Want help finding a phone plan that doesn’t break the bank? Read our article on how to choose the best phone plan.
Watch Out for These Common Mistakes
- Buying from sketchy sellers – Stick to official stores or trusted retailers.
- Buying too old – If the phone doesn’t get updates anymore, skip it.
- Skipping return policies – Make sure there’s a good return window, just in case you change your mind.
Your Pre-Purchase Checklist
☑️ Know why you need a new phone
☑️ Understand your daily usage
☑️ Set a flexible budget
☑️ Pick Android or iPhone
☑️ Make sure it’s fast enough
☑️ Check battery, camera, and screen
☑️ Choose the right storage
☑️ Be smart if buying used
☑️ Look into phone plans and promos
Find the Perfect Phone (and Plan!) with Goji
We know—there are a lot of phones out there. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Goji makes it easy to compare phone plans, check network coverage in your area, and make sure you’re getting the best deal for how you actually use your phone.
Because we believe saving money should be simple—and honestly, kind of fun.
👉 Download the Goji app and get started today.
FAQ
How often should I upgrade my phone?
Most people upgrade every 2–3 years, but you really only need a new phone when your current one can’t keep up—like if it’s super slow, won’t charge, or stops getting updates. If your phone still works fine, hang on to it and save the cash!
Is it okay to buy a used or refurbished phone?
Totally! Just make sure it’s certified refurbished from a trusted source. That means it’s been inspected, cleaned, and tested—plus it often comes with a warranty. Buying used from a stranger? Be extra cautious and check for return options.
How do I know if a phone will work with my carrier?
Look for the phrase “unlocked” in the product listing. Then, double-check the phone’s compatibility with your carrier’s website.
What’s more important—camera quality or battery life?
It depends on you! If you take tons of photos or videos, prioritize the camera. If you’re always on the go and hate charging your phone, battery life might be more important. For most people, a balance of both works best.
Do I need the most expensive phone to get the best features?
Nope. The priciest phones usually have extras that most people don’t actually use. Mid-range phones have gotten really good, and many offer fast performance, solid cameras, and big batteries—without the scary price tag.
When’s the best time to buy a phone?
Great question! You’ll usually find the best deals during new phone launches (typically in spring or fall), major holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, or back-to-school season.
How much storage do I really need?
If you’re a light user, 64GB is probably enough. Most people do well with 128GB, while 256GB or more is ideal if you love taking photos, using tons of apps, or downloading shows and music.
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