If you're searching for the fastest 5G smartphones in 2025, the latest data shows that Android phones with Qualcomm modems clearly lead the pack—especially when compared to Apple's new iPhone 16e. According to a third-party study by Cellular Insights, Android devices powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 and X80 modems significantly outperformed the iPhone 16e, which uses Apple’s first custom-designed C1 modem, across a wide range of real-world 5G scenarios.
The study was conducted on T-Mobile's sub-6GHz 5G network in New York City, testing devices in diverse environments including indoor spaces where 5G performance typically dips. The findings revealed a consistent advantage for Qualcomm-equipped Android phones, with up to 35% faster download speeds and an impressive 91% boost in upload speeds over the iPhone 16e.
These results have major implications for anyone looking to purchase a new smartphone with top-tier wireless performance. Whether you're a mobile gamer, remote worker, or just someone who values blazing-fast connectivity, these performance differences could be a deciding factor. And with one of the Android models priced at $619 and the other at $799—compared to the iPhone 16e’s $599 starting price—the value proposition becomes even more compelling.
Beyond speed, thermal performance was also noted in the report. The iPhone 16e became noticeably warm during testing, although researchers couldn't confirm if heat impacted overall speed. This raises concerns for power users who demand both efficiency and stability from their devices.
While Apple touts its C1 modem as the most power-efficient modem ever in an iPhone—delivering the best battery life in a 6.1-inch iPhone—the performance gap remains evident. The company is expected to close this gap with the upcoming C2 and C3 modems, but for now, Qualcomm's hardware leads in terms of reliable 5G throughput and user experience.
Qualcomm’s PR team has quickly highlighted these results, stating this is the "only comprehensive, scientific" head-to-head test conducted on a U.S. network to date. While earlier benchmarks have shown the C1 modem performing competitively in select conditions, this new report suggests that in everyday usage, Qualcomm's modems deliver a more consistent 5G experience.
For those seeking high-performance smartphones, particularly for streaming, mobile productivity, or VR/AR applications, Qualcomm-equipped Android devices appear to offer the best connectivity package available today.
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