Competitive Review: iPhone 17 Competitors That Make Apple Less Alone at the Top

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As the iPhone 17 launches, many entrepreneurs and smartphone users are starting to weigh alternatives that could offer comparable performance or even certain advantages over the latest iPhone. In this review, I dissect the main competitors to the iPhone 17 across various aspects — performance, camera, AI, durability, price, and ecosystem — so you can compare wisely.

We're not talking about just one phone, but several Android flagships that are very worthy alternatives. Each vendor has its own strengths that could challenge iPhone's dominance, depending on your needs: gaming, creative work, productivity, or simply "wanting to be different." So, read until the end, bro — this is hot reference material before buying a high-end phone.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series

Samsung has always been a strong competitor to Apple, and the Galaxy S25 series is one example. Not all official specifications have been released yet as this series is still in market prediction, but from rumors and expectations, the Galaxy S25 targets the high-performance + AI + premium mobile experience segment.

The big advantage of the Galaxy S25 lies in Samsung's combination of hardware and software. Its performance is predicted to use the latest generation Snapdragon chip or an advanced Exynos version in some markets, with smarter AI in the new generation One UI. Therefore, users can get a fast multitasking experience, heavy gaming, and creative applications with high fluidity. Samsung is also known for providing large screens, high refresh rates, and clear HDR — perfect for those who need maximum display.

In terms of camera, the Galaxy S25 is predicted to offer a very capable lens configuration: optical zoom, ultrawide lens, and high-resolution sensors. This could be a superior point compared to some iPhones, especially in creative scenarios and night photography. Plus, 8K video support or AI video features could be very appealing.

However, the drawback of the Galaxy S25 as an iPhone competitor is that, despite high performance, Android system updates are usually not as long as iOS on some models. In addition, the price of Samsung flagships can also be very high, especially the Pro / Ultra versions, so its resale value can be similar to an iPhone and less attractive if you only need standard performance.

Xiaomi 15 / Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Xiaomi has long been a disruptive brand in the flagship segment, and the 15 series is predicted to bring many innovations. The Ultra version, in particular, is targeted at content creators, with a very powerful camera, high performance, and a slightly more aggressive price than flagship iPhones.

The main advantage of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is its camera. Xiaomi can embed large lenses, high-quality sensors, and collaborate on camera technology with other brands to deliver very competitive results. For creators, this means being able to take cinematic quality photos and videos without needing a mirrorless camera. The telephoto + zoom camera could be one of its weapons.

Performance is also very strong. With the latest chip, large RAM, and MIUI optimization (or HyperOS, depending on the generation), the Xiaomi 15 series can handle heavy tasks: video editing, multitasking, heavy gaming, and AI applications. In addition, large storage and high read/write speeds make storing large files (video projects, raw photos) not a problem.

Xiaomi's battery life is also a plus, especially when combined with fast charging. Many Xiaomi flagships offer fast charging and large capacity, making them suitable for creative users who need high endurance. In some cases, the price of Xiaomi flagships can be more competitive than the iPhone 17, providing great value.

But there are drawbacks: MIUI / HyperOS might feel different for iOS users, and some people feel bloatware or ads can be a nuisance (depending on the model & region). In addition, the large camera body and phone weight can be heavier than thin iPhones.

ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra

ASUS may not always be a "mainstream" brand in the flagship smartphone segment,but the Zenfone Ultra series has great appeal, especially for those who need creative performance + AI + generative camera. The Zenfone 12 Ultra could be a serious competitor to the iPhone 17 for content creators and mobile professionals.

One of the Zenfone 12 Ultra's strengths is AI processing. ASUS has long integrated AI technology to enhance photo, video, and creative application processing. With AI, users can get better photo results, lower noise in dark conditions, and intelligent real-time editing capabilities. This can be very beneficial for content creators who need portable editing performance.

In terms of camera, the Zenfone 12 Ultra can use large lenses, high-quality sensors, and advanced stabilization. This combination makes video and photo capture very flexible. For mobile videographers, this is a powerful weapon: they can shoot in high quality, then immediately edit on the phone with AI support.

Its performance is no joke. The combination of a flagship processor, large RAM, and system optimization allows the Zenfone Ultra to handle heavy tasks such as video rendering, AI computing, and creative multitasking. Its battery life is also quite competitive, especially when used for creative content (which usually involves heavy usage).

But the Zenfone Ultra's drawbacks are: the phone's weight can be quite substantial due to camera components and sensors. In addition, ASUS's smartphone market share is not as large as Apple / Samsung, so resale value and service support may be more limited depending on the region. For less accustomed users, ASUS's UI also has a learning curve if they are used to iOS.

Sony Xperia 1 VII

The Sony Xperia is a niche but very worthwhile option to consider if you are a media lover — photos, videos, and audio. Sony's "1" series stands out for its display quality, manual camera controls, and professional-grade creative features.

The biggest advantage of the Xperia 1 VII lies in its screen. Sony always maintains high standards for its displays: very sharp resolution, high color accuracy, and a screen ratio suitable for media content. For users who like to watch movies, edit videos, or enjoy music, the screen experience on the Xperia can be very satisfying.

In terms of camera, Sony provides manual controls similar to professional cameras: exposure, focus, and shutter speed can be adjusted in detail. This is very appealing for mobile photographers or videographers who don't just use automatic mode. AI and image processing are also very good, especially in difficult lighting conditions, because Sony sensors and lenses are designed for maximum flexibility.

Audio is also a strength. Sony always pays attention to sound quality: speakers, internal DAC (if any), and support for hi-fi audio make this phone suitable for use as a small "portable studio" or a high-quality entertainment companion.

Its drawbacks are: the battery may not be as large as other big phones, especially with a high-resolution screen and heavy creative use. Manual camera takes time to use to its full potential, so it may not be suitable for users who just "take casual photos." The price can also be quite high for the niche professional media segment.

OnePlus 13

OnePlus has always been known as a flagship killer brand, and the 13th generation is predicted to bring a combination of high performance, system stability, and competitive pricing. If you're looking for a fast, responsive, and powerful phone, the OnePlus 13 could be a major competitor to the iPhone 17.

The performance of the OnePlus 13 is predicted to be outstanding with a flagship processor, large RAM, and optimized OxygenOS (or the latest system version). App opening speed, multitasking, and heavy gaming will definitely be strong. In addition, the lightweight OxygenOS system makes the user experience feel fast and smooth.

Battery life is also one of OnePlus's strengths. They are known for providing very fast charging and decent durability. For active users, this is very important so they don't run out of battery while traveling or working.

In terms of camera, the OnePlus 13 may not be as high-end as some ultra-camera models, but for everyday use — photos, selfies, media content — its capabilities are very decent. The main lens, ultrawide, and possibly a telephoto lens can provide quite broad flexibility.

Disadvantages: the phone's camera may not be as good as large camera flagship lenses like those in the Xiaomi Ultra or Zenfone Ultra. In addition, update support might be slightly shorter than Apple's, depending on OnePlus's future policies.

Nothing Phone 3

Nothing Phone 3 offers a different approach that is not just about high specifications, but also unique design and style. For people who are bored with mainstream phones, this phone can be a very attractive alternative.

Design is the main appeal of the Nothing Phone 3. The back of the phone is usually transparent or semi-transparent and equipped with "glyph" LEDs that can provide notifications with unique light patterns. This adds aesthetics and functionality in a very creative way.

Its performance is also decent: although it may not be as high as "professional camera flagships," this phone is powerful enough for gaming, productivity, and daily use. Large RAM and a capable processor allow for responsive performance.

Battery life and efficiency are also key points. Phones like this usually don't sacrifice large batteries, and the compact design makes them ideal for young and creative users who want something different.

But the disadvantages: camera specifications and sensors may not be as good as ultra-camera flagship phones. Update support may be limited, depending on the company's version and market. Also, the LED glyph, while cool, may be less useful for some users who prioritize pure performance.

Comparative Analysis with iPhone 17

Now, let's compare all the competitors above with the iPhone 17 from various aspects:

• Performance: The iPhone 17 will likely offer outstanding performance like previous generations; however, competitors like the Galaxy S25, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and OnePlus 13 can provide balanced or even more "barfor" performance in some workloads, especially for users who are heavily multitasking or creators.
• Camera: iPhones have always excelled in camera and video, especially in stabilization and color. But the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Zenfone 12 Ultra might rival or surpass them in terms of zoom, large sensor detail, and creative quality. The Xperia 1 VII is interesting for manual control and professional needs.
• AI & Creativity: With the trend of AI in phones, competitors like the Zenfone Ultra and Galaxy S25 gain a big advantage. iPhones may follow, but Android vendors can incorporate more experimental features faster.
• Design & Style: The Nothing Phone 3 is the most unique competitor in terms of design. If you are someone who cares about aesthetics, this could be an option. Meanwhile, the iPhone maintains its classic premium design.
• Battery & Charging: Many Android competitors offer very fast charging, possibly excelling in charging compared to the iPhone. However, iPhones are always efficient in use.
• Ecosystem: This is one of Apple's strengths:iOS + the Apple ecosystem (Mac, iPad, Apple Watch) are highly integrated. Android competitors can compete on hardware, but don't always have an ecosystem as strong as Apple's, unless users already use many Android/Google products.
• Updates & Support: iPhones tend to receive update support for longer. Some Android manufacturers are getting better, but not all models receive long-term updates like Apple.

Conclusion and Competitor Recommendations

• For those of you considering switching from an iPhone (or just looking at other options), here are some recommendations depending on your needs:
• Have a thick wallet and need a high-performance camera & performance → Xiaomi 15 Ultra
• Want a fast-performing phone & gaming → Samsung Galaxy S25 or OnePlus 13
• Need creative tools & AI for content creation → ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra
• Media, video, and professional audio lovers → Sony Xperia 1 VII
• Want a phone with a unique design & different style → Nothing Phone 3
• All these competitors offer great value and can be strong alternatives to the iPhone 17, depending on your perspective: style, performance, camera, or ecosystem.