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 be with the software. And on modernsmartphones, there are really only two options:Androidor iOS, which runs on theiPhone.
The debate on which is better has raged 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 the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, which will make your decision easier. Of course, if you’re already set on one or the other, or already own aniPad, 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 ofAndroid phonesandtabletsfrom 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 isAndroid 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,iPhonesare known for their sleek design, seamless integration with other Apple devices and services, and exclusive App Store.
The latest version of this system isiOS 18.
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 thebest Android phonesat 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 makesiPhones, and it only tend to release new models once a year.
These range from the flagship iPhone series, such as the newestiPhone 16 series, plus theiPhone 15,iPhone 15 Plus,iPhone 15 ProandiPhone 15 Pro Maxfrom last year, to more budget-friendly options like theiPhone 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 officially available. Here’s a list of iPhone models that have received an update to the latest version of iOS 18:
In what ways is Android better than iPhone?
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:
Simon Chandler / Foundry
In what ways is iPhone better than Android?
Here are some of the key features of iPhones that are hard for Android phones to match:
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 customisation and versatility. Some exclusive features of Android include:
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:
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 than 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 newestiPhone 16 seriesshould make it to a potential iOS 24 in 2030.
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, theGalaxy S24 rangeand thePixel 9 lineup, promise up to seven years of update support.
In contrast, theirmid-range phones, such as theGalaxy A55or thePixel 7a, offer only 5 years and 3 years of system updates, respectively. And somebudget phonesonly offer 1-2 years. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking on a device-by-device basis. The information is always included inour reviews.
However, Google recently extended support even for the newest mid-rangePixel 8a, which will also receive up to seven years of support.
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 theNokia G22, andFairphone 5, can easily be 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 knowhow to move from iPhone to Androidorhow to move from Android to iPhone, we’ve got you covered.
Author: Artur Tomala, Mobile Writer, Tech Advisor
Artur is a Mobile Writer at Tech Advisor, where he covers a range of smartphone, tablet and smartwatch-related topics. He has been working in the tech industry since 2021, including time spent leading a team focused on mobile news, reviews and product rankings. As an ambassador for the productivity app Notion, he runs training workshops and creates advanced templates to help people stay organised and productive.
