We all love a shiny new phone, especially when it comes to finding the best Android device on the market. But what about the phones that you should steer clear of? As someone who’s been reviewing Android phones for a decade, I’ve got the inside scoop for you. In August 2025, there are definitely some Android phones that are better left on the shelf. So, let’s dive into the seven Android devices you should avoid, and I’ll share why.
First up is the Google Pixel 9. You might be thinking, “But it’s a Pixel! They’re supposed to be great!” Well, hold that thought. The Pixel 10 is just around the corner, set to be announced on August 20, and it promises to be a game changer. Imagine a new 5x telephoto camera, Qi2 wireless charging with built-in magnets, and a larger battery. Not to mention, it’s rumored to come equipped with the Tensor G5 chip, which is expected to offer impressive performance and efficiency upgrades. Why buy the Pixel 9 now when you can wait a couple of weeks and potentially snag the Pixel 10 with all its exciting features?
Now, don’t get me wrong—the Pixel 9 is a solid phone. But with the Pixel 10 on the horizon, it just doesn’t make sense to purchase it right now. Plus, once the new model drops, you might find the Pixel 9 at a significantly reduced price. Save your cash for the upgrade!
Next on my list are the Google Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Much like their base counterpart, these models are also worth skipping at this moment. With the anticipated announcement of the Pixel 10 Pro series coming soon, including the Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold, it’s better to wait and see what upgrades they bring. Sure, they won’t have new camera hardware, but they’ll come with Qi2 magnetic charging, larger batteries, and the powerful Tensor G5 chip. If you’re considering a Pro model, just hold your horses a little longer. The Pixel 10 Pro could have features that are too good to pass up!
Moving on, we have the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. You might be tempted to buy this phone, especially since it’s from Samsung, but I can’t recommend it. My colleague Ryan Haines rated it a mere 3 out of 5, citing issues like poor thermal performance, the absence of a telephoto camera, and lackluster battery life. For a price tag of $1,100, that’s just not cutting it. With rumors swirling about the upcoming Galaxy S26 Edge, which could be slimmer and come with a larger battery, it’s clear that the S25 Edge is already starting to feel outdated. Why invest in a phone that might be replaced in a few months?
Then there’s the Galaxy A36 5G. On paper, it looks decent with a big AMOLED display and solid hardware, all for around $400. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that the performance is disappointing. In our review, we found the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset struggles with even basic tasks, making it frustrating to use. Combine that with a sluggish fingerprint sensor, and you’ve got a recipe for annoyance. There are definitely better options out there, like the Google Pixel 9a, which has received glowing reviews for its camera quality and overall performance.
If you think $400 is a bargain, let’s talk about the Moto G (2025). Priced at just $200, it might seem like a steal, but don’t be fooled. Ryan noted in his review that it suffers from slow performance, subpar cameras, and a lackluster software update policy. With Motorola only promising two years of Android OS updates, you’re better off looking elsewhere. The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G offers a similar price point but is a superior option overall. Or if you’re outside the US, check out the CMF Phone 2 Pro for an even better deal at $279.
So, what’s the takeaway here? In the ever-changing world of Android phones, it’s crucial to stay updated and make informed decisions. While some of these phones might have seemed like a good idea in the past, the upcoming releases and the performance issues highlighted make them less appealing today. Instead of rushing into a purchase, take your time and wait for the better options that are just around the corner.
Thanks for hanging out with me as we navigated the Android landscape! If you’re in the market for a new phone, remember: patience can lead to better choices. Happy phone hunting!
