Small Hands, Big Power: Best Compact Phones in 2025

The era of 'mini' smartphones is gradually fading, with 6.1 to 6.3 inches becoming the new standard for compact devices. This shift is driven by the need to balance screen real estate with one-handed usability. The Samsung Galaxy S23 and Apple iPhone 16 both feature 6.1-inch displays, making them ideal for users who want a compact phone without sacrificing screen size. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S24 push slightly larger at 6.3 and 6.2 inches respectively, offering a bit more viewing area while maintaining a manageable form factor. Advances in display technology, such as Dynamic AMOLED 2X and Actua OLED, ensure that even these smaller screens provide vibrant colors and high brightness levels. The focus is on delivering a rich visual experience without the bulk of larger devices.

One-handed usability remains a critical factor for many smartphone users. The Samsung Galaxy S23, weighing in at just 5.93 oz, combines a lightweight design with a compact 6.1-inch frame, making it easy to navigate with one hand. Similarly, the iPhone 16's dimensions (5.81" x 2.82" x 0.31") and weight of 6.00 oz cater to users seeking a more ergonomic feel. The Pixel 9, while slightly larger and heavier at 7.0 oz, offers a premium design with a satin metal frame that balances well in hand. The Galaxy S24 matches the S23 in weight but offers a slightly larger screen, thanks to its efficient use of space. These devices excel in providing a comfortable grip and ease of use, crucial for users who frequently multitask on the go.

Compact phones often face challenges in battery capacity due to their smaller chassis. The Samsung Galaxy S23 houses a 3900 mAh battery, providing solid performance with up to 22 hours of video playback. In contrast, the Google Pixel 9 offers a more substantial 4700 mAh battery, reflecting its larger size and focus on extended usage. The iPhone 16's 3561 mAh battery is optimized by Apple's efficient A18 chip, delivering comparable endurance despite its smaller capacity. The Galaxy S24 strikes a balance with a 4000 mAh battery, leveraging its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip for improved power management. These battery configurations highlight the trade-offs between size and endurance, with each model offering distinct benefits based on user needs.

When comparing the Pixel 9, Galaxy S24, and iPhone 16, distinct differences emerge in their specifications. The Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a peak brightness of 2700 nits, making it exceptionally vibrant. It also boasts a robust 4700 mAh battery and Google's Tensor G4 chip, which excels in AI-driven tasks. The Galaxy S24 offers a slightly smaller 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with an adaptive 1–120 Hz refresh rate and an impressive 2600-nit peak brightness, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip for top-tier performance. The iPhone 16, with its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, is driven by the A18 chip, known for its efficiency and speed. Each device caters to different priorities, whether it be display quality, processing power, or software ecosystem.