The best selling phone in the US in 2025 was the leading premium smartphone from the top manufacturer, with an estimated 28% of all smartphone sales. Carrier installment plans and trade-in offers heavily influence which model becomes the best seller each year.
Ready to Compare Plans?
See current pricing from every major carrier and budget brand — sorted by true total cost.
Compare Plans →Free to compare · No credit check to browse · Affiliate-supportedWhat Makes a Phone the Best Seller
The best selling phone in the United States for 2025 was the flagship model from the leading manufacturer, capturing roughly 28% of all smartphone unit sales according to industry analyst reports. This device consistently outsold all others due to a combination of brand loyalty, aggressive carrier financing, and trade-in promotions.
Major national carriers heavily subsidize the upfront cost of premium phones through 24- or 36-month installment plans, making a $1,099 device available for as little as $30 per month. This financing model is the primary driver of which phone becomes the best seller. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey, the average US household spent $1,075 on telephone equipment in 2024, with the majority financed through carrier plans.
- Top model accounted for 28% of all smartphones sold in 2025
- Second-best seller held about 18% share
- Third through fifth combined for roughly 30%
Carrier Plans and Pricing Impact
Carrier pricing strategies directly determine which phone becomes the best seller. When a major carrier offers a “buy one, get one” or a heavy trade-in credit on a specific model, that device’s sales spike dramatically. In 2025, the top-selling phone saw over 72% of its units sold through carrier financing rather than outright purchase.
Prepaid and budget providers typically sell lower-priced models, but their total volume is smaller. The best selling phone overall is almost always a premium device because the major carriers steer customers toward high-end models via zero-interest installment plans. The Federal Communications Commission notes that 90% of postpaid smartphone purchases are financed through the carrier.
| Purchase Method | Share of Sales (2025) |
|---|---|
| Carrier installment plan | 72% |
| Full retail price | 18% |
| Prepaid / unlocked | 10% |
Average Cost of the Top Model
The best selling phone in 2025 had an average selling price of approximately $1,099 before carrier discounts. After trade-in credits and promotional pricing, many consumers paid between $400 and $700 over the life of their installment plan. The Tax Foundation reports that average wireless taxes and fees add 18% to the monthly bill in some states, meaning the true cost of the best seller can exceed $1,300 over two years.
Consumers should calculate the total cost of ownership, including sales tax, activation fees, and monthly service plan charges, before committing to a carrier financing deal. The Consumer Expenditure Survey shows that households in the top income quintile spend 2.5 times more on mobile phone equipment than lower-income households, reflecting the premium nature of the best selling device.
How to Choose Based on Your Budget
If you want the best selling phone but have a limited budget, consider these actionable steps:
- Compare total cost across at least three major carriers, including taxes and fees.
- Look for trade-in offers that maximize your current device’s value.
- Consider buying a certified pre-owned version of last year’s model, which often sells for 40% less.
- Check if your employer or membership club offers corporate discounts on service plans.
The best selling phone is not necessarily the best value for your personal needs. Budget providers offer devices with similar core features for under $400, and many consumers find that a mid-range model meets their needs without the premium price tag.
Future Trends for 2026
For 2026, analysts expect the best selling phone to again be a premium flagship model, with average selling prices potentially rising to $1,199 due to new component costs. Carrier installment plans will continue to dominate, and trade-in values may increase as competition among major national carriers intensifies. The Consumer Expenditure Survey projects that mobile phone spending will grow 4% year-over-year, driven by higher device costs and increased data plan prices.
Prepaid carriers are expected to capture a larger share of the market as price-sensitive consumers seek lower monthly bills. However, the best selling phone overall will likely remain a premium device sold primarily through postpaid carrier financing. Always compare the true cost over 24 months, including plan charges, before making a decision.