Android or iPhone? How to decide which is right for you

So, you want a new phone. Where do you start?

For most people, it should software. And on modern smartphones, there are really only two options: Android or iOS, which runs on the iPhone.

The debate on which is better has raged ever since both platforms became popular. Ultimately, which will better suit you depends on a range of different factors, which we’ll run through in this article.

By the end of it, you’ll have a clear idea of what are the strengths and weaknesses of both platforms, which will make your decision easier. Of course, if you’re already set on one or the other, or already own an iPad, Android tablet or other ecosystem product, there’s probably no need to switch.

But if you’re at all unsure, here’s what each brings to the table.

What is Android?

Android is an open-source operating system developed by Google. It powers a vast array of Android phones and tablets from various manufacturers, offering users a high level of customisation and flexibility.

Android boasts a thriving ecosystem of apps, games, and services available through the Google Play Store.

The latest version of this system is Android 15.

What is the iPhone?

The iPhone, on the other hand, is not just software but a line of phones designed and developed by Apple.

Running on Apple’s iOS operating system, iPhones are known for their sleek design, seamless integration with other Apple devices and services, and exclusive App Store.

The latest version of this system is iOS 17.

How are Android and iPhone different?

The primary difference lies in their nature: Android is an operating system used by multiple manufacturers, while the iPhone is a specific line of phones produced solely by Apple.

This distinction affects various aspects, including hardware choices, software updates, and ecosystem integration.

Which phones run Android?

Numerous manufacturers produce devices running on the Android operating system, including Samsung, Google, Apple, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Honor, Motorola, Nothing, HMD, Realme, Asus, Huawei, Vivo and Sony. If you include those that don’t release devices in Europe or North America, there are many more.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

For example, some of the best Android phones at the time of writing are:

Hundreds of Android phones are released every single year, including multiple handsets from almost every manufacturer. It couldn’t be more different to the iPhone.

Which iPhone models are there?

Apple is the only company that makes iPhones, and it only tend to release new models once a year.

These range from the flagship iPhone series, such as the newest iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, to more budget-friendly options like the iPhone SE.

However, Apple doesn’t immediately withdraw older models from sale when the new one arrives. Here are all the iPhone models that are currently available to buy:

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

In addition, many older models are still supported with updates, even if they are no longer available from official distribution. Here’s a list of iPhone models that have received an update to the latest version of iOS 17:

Although both the latest and older models can run the same software,

What is Android better than iPhone for?

Each platform offers unique features and experiences, catering to different preferences and needs.

Here are some of the key Android advantages that stand out against iPhones:

Customisation: Android offers greater flexibility and customisation options, allowing users to personalise their devices extensively
Diversity: There’s a wide range of Android devices available from various manufacturers, offering different features and price points. It’s also the only software available on a folding phone
Open ecosystem: Android has an open ecosystem, allowing users to install apps from third-party sources and customise their device far beyond what’s possible on iOS
Google integration: Android seamlessly integrates with Google services like Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos, providing a cohesive experience for users heavily invested in the Google ecosystem
Price range: Android devices cater to various budget ranges, offering options for both budget-conscious consumers and those looking for premium features

Simon Chandler / Foundry

What is iPhone better than Android for?

Here are some of the key features of iPhones that are hard for Android phones to match

User experience: iOS offers a polished and intuitive user experience with a consistent interface across all devices, making it easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike
Timely updates: iPhones receive timely software updates directly from Apple, ensuring users have access to the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches. The gradual rollout of a new Android version often takes several months
App quality: iOS tends to have higher-quality apps, as developers often prioritise iOS due to its profitability and standardised development environment
Security: iPhones are known for their strong security features, including regular security updates and encryption, making them less susceptible to malware and other security threats
Integration with Apple’s ecosystem: iPhones seamlessly integrate with other Apple devices and services like iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime, providing a cohesive ecosystem for users with multiple Apple products

Apple

Which features are exclusive to Android?

Android devices offer a plethora of features not found on iPhones, making them appealing to users who value customization and versatility. Some exclusive features of Android include:

Extensive widget support: Android’s home screen widgets allow users to access information and perform actions without opening apps, enhancing productivity and convenience
Deeper system customisation: Android users have the freedom to customise their device’s interface extensively through third-party launchers, icon packs and themes, providing a unique and personalised user experience
Multi-user support: Many Android devices offer multi-user support, allowing multiple users to have separate profiles and personalised experiences on a single device, which is ideal for families or shared devices
Expandable storage: A significant advantage of many Android phones is the presence of a Micro-SD card slot, enabling users to expand storage capacity inexpensively, providing more room for media, apps, and files
Google Pay: Google’s mobile payment service allows any Android phone with Google services (all sold in Europe and North America) and NFC to make payments online, in stores and within apps. On Samsung devices, Samsung Pay is also available as an alternative

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Which features are exclusive to iPhone?

While Android excels in customisation and versatility, iPhones offer a different set of exclusive features that cater to users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem and those who prioritise simplicity and ease of use.

Some exclusive features on iPhones include:

iMessage: iMessage is Apple’s messaging platform that offers end-to-end encryption, seamless integration with other Apple devices, and features such as read receipts, typing indicators, and high-quality media sharing, enhancing the messaging experience for iPhone users
Apple Pay: Apple’s mobile payment service allows iPhone users to make secure payments in stores, apps, and online using their device’s built-in NFC chip and Touch ID or Face ID authentication, offering a convenient and secure payment solution
Face ID: A secure 3D authentication system which allows you to unlock devices, confirm payments and log in to some apps. It also works in the dark, unlike most face unlock features on Android
Tightly integrated ecosystem: iPhones seamlessly integrate with other Apple products and services such as iCloud, Apple Music, AirDrop, and Handoff, providing a cohesive ecosystem experience and effortless synchronisation across devices
Exclusive optimisation: iPhones benefit from Apple’s tight control over both hardware and software, resulting in optimised performance, efficient battery life, and timely software updates for a smooth and reliable user experience

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Will an Android phone or iPhone last longer?

When it comes to software support, iPhones usually receive updates for a longer period of time compared to most Android devices, but not always.

Apple doesn’t state an official length of software support but is well-known for providing many years of OS updates to iPhones. Typically, each iPhone will see six versions of iOS in its lifetime so the newest iPhone 15 series should make it to a potential iOS 23 in 2029.

On the other hand, the support of a particular Android phone depends on its manufacturer, as well as its price point and purpose.

For example, both Samsung’s and Google’s latest flagships series, the Galaxy S24 range and the Pixel 8 lineup, promise up to seven years of update support. In contrast, their mid-range phones, such as the Galaxy A55 or the Pixel 7a, offer only 5 years and 3 years of system updates, respectively.

And some budget phones only offer 1-2 years. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking on a device-by-device basis. The information is always included in our reviews.

Of course, whether a phone lasts a long time is also dependent on how well the hardware holds up. Apple and many Android phone makers offer repair services, but only a handful of Android devices, including the Nokia G22, and Fairphone 5, can be easily repaired at home.

Henry Burrell / Foundry

How easy is it to switch between Android and iPhone?

Switching between Android and iPhone has become increasingly straightforward thanks to tools like Apple’s Move to iOS app and Google’s suite of services for iOS users.

However, some differences in ecosystems, app availability and user interfaces may require a period of adjustment for users transitioning between the two platforms.

If you want to know how to move from iPhone to Android or how to move from Android to iPhone, we’ve got you covered.

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