A Guide to the Best Smartphones for Audio Lovers
In the world of smartphones, we often talk about cameras, processors, and screen quality. But what about the sound? For many people, a smartphone is their primary device for listening to music, podcasts, and watching movies. The quality of the audio, both through the built-in speakers and through headphones, can make a huge difference in the overall user experience. This comprehensive guide will explore the smartphones that are leading the pack in audio performance, helping you find the perfect device to satisfy your ears.
The evolution of smartphone audio has been a fascinating journey. Early phones had simple, often tinny, single speakers that were barely good enough for a ringtone. The introduction of stereo speakers was a major leap forward, providing a wider soundstage and a more immersive experience. Then came the era of the headphone jack’s slow disappearance, pushing the industry towards Bluetooth and other wireless solutions. While some lamented this change, it also spurred innovation in mobile audio processing and the development of high-quality wireless codecs. Today, the best smartphones combine powerful internal speakers with sophisticated software to deliver a truly impressive sound.
When evaluating a smartphone’s audio quality, there are two main areas to consider: the built-in speakers and the headphone/external audio output. The speakers are crucial for casual listening, like watching a quick YouTube video or sharing music with friends. The headphone output, whether wired or wireless, is essential for a more personal and high-fidelity listening experience. We’ll delve into both aspects for each of the top contenders.
The Criteria for Great Smartphone Audio
Before we dive into the specific models, let’s establish what makes for truly great audio on a smartphone. It’s not just about how loud it can get. A high-quality audio experience is characterized by:
Clarity and Detail: Can you hear the subtle nuances in a song? A good speaker system or audio output should reproduce music with accuracy, allowing you to distinguish between different instruments and vocal tracks without distortion.
The Top Contenders for 2025
The smartphone market is always competitive, and the battle for the best audio experience is no exception. Here are some of the devices that are currently setting the standard for mobile sound.
Year after year, Apple’s flagship Pro Max models consistently deliver a top-tier audio experience, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max is no different. The speakers are renowned for their silky smooth sound, with a clean and balanced profile. It’s not just about raw power; it’s about control. Even at maximum volume, distortion is minimal, and the bass is remarkably well-controlled for a device of its size. This makes it an excellent choice for a wide variety of content, from bass-heavy music to dialogue-driven podcasts.
The physical size of the Pro Max model gives it a slight advantage, allowing for larger speaker components that can produce a more powerful and punchy sound than its smaller siblings. When paired with high-quality Bluetooth headphones, the iPhone’s audio processing ensures a rich and detailed listening experience. While Apple has long abandoned the headphone jack, their commitment to audio quality through wireless means remains strong, with robust support for various audio formats and codecs.
Samsung’s Galaxy S series has been steadily improving its audio game, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra marks a significant leap forward. In the past, some users felt that Samsung’s speakers lacked punch and bass, but the S25 Ultra directly addresses these concerns. The speakers are powerful and well-balanced, with a satisfying low-end output that adds a new dimension to listening. The sound is crisp, clear, and can fill a room with ease.
The S25 Ultra’s audio performance is a testament to Samsung’s focus on creating a true multimedia powerhouse. It’s not just about the speakers, either. The device is optimized for a superior headphone experience, with support for advanced audio codecs and tuning that brings out the best in both wired and wireless headsets. The Galaxy S25 Ultra finally puts Samsung in direct competition with the best in the business for audio quality.
While the name “ROG” (Republic of Gamers) might suggest a focus solely on gaming, the Asus ROG Phone series has long been a dark horse in the audio world. The ROG Phone 9 Pro is a testament to this legacy. This phone is built for enthusiasts, and that includes those who are passionate about sound. It gets loud and boomy, with a spacious soundstage that is perfect for immersive gaming sessions or enjoying movies on the go.
The dual front-facing stereo speakers are a key feature, a design choice that many other manufacturers have moved away from. This placement directs sound directly at the user, creating a more powerful and impactful audio experience. While some might find the sound profile a bit “dark” due to a pronounced lower-mid response, it is undeniably energetic and engaging. For anyone who prioritizes powerful, cinematic sound from their smartphone’s built-in speakers, the ROG Phone 9 Pro is a compelling choice.
When it comes to audio, Sony’s heritage in the music and consumer electronics industry gives it a unique advantage. The Sony Xperia 1 VI is a prime example of this. While the speakers may not be the most powerful on the market, they are tuned for exceptional clarity and detail. The sound is clean and balanced, making it a great device for critical listening.
However, the real star of the show for the Xperia 1 VI is its headphone experience. The device retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that has become a rarity among flagship phones. This allows users to connect their favorite wired headphones directly, and the phone’s internal audio processing and high-quality DAC ensure a rich, dynamic, and engaging sound. For those who refuse to give up their wired headphones and crave a true audiophile-grade mobile experience, the Sony Xperia 1 VI is in a class of its own.
Google’s Pixel series has seen steady improvements in audio quality over the years, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL represents the best audio experience yet from the company. The loudspeakers deliver clear lows and well-defined mids, providing a significant upgrade over previous generations. While the bass output may not be as deep as some of its competitors, the overall sound is balanced and pleasing.
What makes the Pixel 9 Pro XL a noteworthy contender is the seamless integration of hardware and software. Google’s software optimization ensures that the audio experience is consistent and reliable across all applications. The larger Pro XL model benefits from a slight size advantage, offering a bit more punch than the standard Pixel 9. It’s a great all-around performer that will satisfy the needs of most users.
Beyond the Hardware: Software and Services
Of course, the hardware is only half the story. The software and services on a smartphone also play a huge role in the audio experience.
Audio Codecs: For wireless listening, the quality of the Bluetooth codec is paramount. The best phones support high-fidelity codecs like aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and Apple’s own AAC, which can transmit more data and result in a better-sounding signal.
The Importance of User Experience
Ultimately, the best smartphone for audio is the one that fits your lifestyle and listening habits. If you primarily use your phone for casual YouTube videos, a device with powerful built-in speakers might be your top priority. If you’re a music connoisseur who spends hours listening to lossless tracks through premium headphones, a phone with a dedicated headphone jack and a high-quality DAC, like the Sony Xperia 1 VI, might be the perfect fit.
The smartphone industry has come a long way from the days of simple monaural speakers. Today, audio is a serious consideration for manufacturers and consumers alike. The devices listed here are not only great for making calls and taking photos, but they are also capable of providing a truly excellent audio experience. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovation in this space, with new codecs, better speakers, and more personalized audio experiences on the horizon. The future of mobile audio is loud and clear.
