Memorial Day 2025: Expert Picks for the Best Smartphone Deals You Shouldn't Miss

The annual Memorial Day weekend is more than just a time for reflection and remembrance; it has also become a significant period for retailers to offer substantial discounts across various product categories, including consumer electronics. For anyone in the market for a new smartphone, this holiday weekend often presents some of the year's most compelling opportunities to save money on top-tier devices. Navigating the vast landscape of smartphone options – with their myriad models, configurations, designs, and price points – can be a daunting task, even for seasoned tech enthusiasts.

As someone who spends considerable time evaluating the latest mobile technology, constantly switching between devices from major players like Apple, Samsung, Google, and others, I understand the complexity involved in choosing the right phone. When friends and family seek recommendations, I often find myself mentally constructing a decision tree, weighing features, performance, ecosystem compatibility, and, of course, price. This is especially true when vetting smartphone deals; the goal is always to identify offers that provide genuine, significant savings on handsets that have proven their worth through rigorous testing and real-world use.

Right now, as Memorial Day approaches, the market is flooded with tempting phone offers. I've sifted through the noise to bring you five of my favorite deals that are simply too good to pass up. These selections cater to a range of preferences and budgets, ensuring that whether you're firmly entrenched in the iPhone ecosystem or prefer the flexibility of Android, there's a deal here that could make upgrading your device a smart financial move. From innovative designs and cutting-edge processors to exceptional camera systems and long-lasting batteries, these phones are packed with top features, now available at an even lower price.

One particularly noteworthy offer I've encountered is a preorder bundle for the new Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. This deal sweetens the pot considerably by including a free storage upgrade (doubling the capacity from 256GB to 512GB) and a $50 gift card, effectively reducing the overall cost and enhancing the value proposition significantly. As the holiday weekend unfolds, I'll be keeping a close eye on the market and updating this list with any new standout offers that emerge, ensuring you have access to the best possible deals as they become available.

Why Memorial Day is a Prime Time for Smartphone Savings

Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the unofficial start of summer and a key retail event. For the tech industry, it's an opportunity to clear inventory, boost sales before the mid-year lull, and entice consumers with attractive pricing. Unlike major product launch cycles (typically fall for iPhones, early year for Samsung flagships, fall for Pixels), Memorial Day sales often feature discounts on recently released or still-current generation devices that might not see significant price drops otherwise. This makes it an ideal time to snag a premium phone that was perhaps just out of reach financially a few months prior.

The competitive landscape among manufacturers and carriers also contributes to the robust deals scene. Carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile frequently use these periods to offer aggressive trade-in promotions or 'free' phone deals tied to service plans, aiming to attract new subscribers or retain existing ones. Unlocked phone retailers like Amazon also participate heavily, offering straightforward price cuts that appeal to buyers who prefer flexibility or are on different network types (GSM vs. CDMA, though this distinction is becoming less relevant with newer phones).

Understanding the nuances of these deals is crucial. Carrier offers often require multi-year commitments and specific, sometimes expensive, data plans. While they can result in a 'free' phone, the total cost over the contract duration might exceed the upfront cost of an unlocked device purchased at a discount. Unlocked deals, on the other hand, offer immediate savings on the device itself, allowing users to choose their carrier and plan independently. Both approaches have their merits, and the best choice depends heavily on individual circumstances, current carrier, and willingness to commit.

Featured Memorial Day Phone Deals: Expert Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: A Thin Marvel with Flagship Power

Current price: $1,099 (save $170 at Amazon)
Original price: $1,319 (includes $50 gift card value)

Samsung's latest iteration in its premium lineup, the Galaxy S25 Edge, makes a compelling pitch with its striking design and powerful internals. Featuring a large 6.7-inch screen, this phone manages to be remarkably thin and lightweight, tipping the scales at just 163 grams. To put that into perspective, a phone with a similar screen size, like the iPhone 16 Plus, weighs considerably more at 199 grams. This focus on a sleek, ultra-thin profile sets the Galaxy S25 Edge apart in a market often dominated by bulkier devices. It's a design choice that feels forward-thinking, and one I anticipate other manufacturers will likely emulate in the near future.

The current Memorial Day offer on the Galaxy S25 Edge is particularly attractive, especially considering it's a relatively new model. At a regular price effectively valued at $1,319 (when factoring in the $50 Amazon gift card included in the preorder bundle), the $1,099 deal represents a solid $170 discount. This price gets you the 512GB storage variant, double the base capacity, alongside the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a generous 12GB of RAM, and a high-resolution 200MP wide lens camera system – a feature shared with Samsung's even more expensive S25 Ultra model. This combination of top-tier specifications, innovative design, and a significant discount makes the S25 Edge deal a standout for those seeking a premium Android experience.

The S25 Edge continues Samsung's tradition of delivering vibrant AMOLED displays, offering excellent color accuracy and brightness, perfect for media consumption and gaming. The camera system, leveraging the high-megapixel sensor, provides incredible detail and flexibility for cropping and editing. While the 'Edge' moniker might suggest curved sides, the S25 Edge features a more subtle curvature than older models, focusing on ergonomics while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Battery life is robust, and Samsung's software features, including the growing suite of Galaxy AI capabilities, add further value. This deal is ideal for Android users looking for a high-performance, stylish device that feels distinct from the typical slab phone.

Motorola Razr Plus (2024): A Refined Flip Phone Experience

Current price: $799 (save $200 at Amazon)
Original price: $999

While the Motorola Razr Plus (2024) may not be the absolute newest foldable on the market – Motorola has since released a higher-end 'Ultra' model – it remains one of my favorite flip phones from the past year. For a significant portion of 2024, I often ranked the Razr Plus above its primary competitor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series, largely due to its well-rounded feature set. This included a larger, more usable external display, a spacious internal folding screen, a flagship-grade Qualcomm processor, and a range of fashionable back cover options that added a touch of personal style.

The current $200 discount brings the Motorola Razr Plus (2024) down to $799, a price point that makes the innovative foldable form factor much more accessible, bringing it closer to the cost of standard, non-folding flagship phones. At the time of writing, Motorola's four colorways for the Razr Plus are included in this sale. I particularly recommend the Hot Pink variant, which features a textured backing that not only looks unique but also provides much-needed grip, making the phone feel more secure in hand when unfolded.

The Razr Plus (2024)'s external display is a key differentiator, offering enough screen real estate to run full apps, check notifications, and take selfies without needing to open the phone. This adds a layer of convenience that enhances the foldable experience. When unfolded, the internal display is bright and smooth, perfect for browsing, watching videos, and using apps. Motorola's software is clean and close to stock Android, with helpful additions for the folding form factor. The camera system, while not competing with the absolute best flagships, is capable for everyday shots. This deal is perfect for someone intrigued by foldable phones but looking for a mature, well-executed design at a more palatable price than the latest models.

Apple iPhone 16: The Accessible Entry to the Latest iPhone Generation

Current price: Free with Unlimited Ultimate plan
Original price: $799

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, major carriers typically ramp up their promotional offers, particularly focusing on trade-in deals and new line activations. Verizon's current Red Hot Deal Days event is a prime example, encompassing promotions on most smartphones they carry, including the latest iPhone 16 series. Under this specific Memorial Day promotion, when you trade in a qualifying older phone and agree to a 36-month installment plan on Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan, the carrier will effectively cover the full cost of the iPhone 16 through bill credits.

Naturally, taking advantage of this offer requires a commitment to Verizon's network and service for at least three years. However, for users already on Verizon or planning to switch and stay long-term, it's a way to acquire the latest standard iPhone model without the significant upfront cost. The iPhone 16, while not the top-tier Pro model, is a highly capable and reliable device. It features a convenient 6.1-inch display, the latest A18 chipset which powers Apple's new suite of Apple Intelligence features, an improved camera system over previous generations, and the robust build quality and software experience expected from Apple.

The iPhone 16 is an excellent daily driver for the vast majority of users. Its performance is snappy, the camera captures great photos and videos in various conditions, and the battery life is solid. The integration with the Apple ecosystem remains a major draw for many. This Verizon deal is particularly appealing for families or individuals looking to add a new line or upgrade an older iPhone, provided they are comfortable with the carrier commitment. It's a straightforward way to get into the latest iPhone generation without the typical $799 price tag.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro: Flagship Photography and Performance

Current price: Free
Original price: $999

Not to be outdone, T-Mobile is offering an even more aggressive promotion on the higher-end iPhone 16 Pro model. Under their current Memorial Day deal, T-Mobile is offering the iPhone 16 Pro 'On Us' – meaning the full cost is covered – when you agree to a 24-month installment plan under their premium Experience Beyond or Go5G Next data plans. A key difference from many carrier deals is that this promotion often does not require a qualifying trade-in, allowing you to keep your existing device as a backup or sell it independently. Furthermore, the commitment period is shorter than Verizon's offer, at just two years instead of three.

Opting for this deal means committing to T-Mobile's network and one of their specified premium plans for the duration of the installment agreement. However, if T-Mobile's coverage and plan structure suit your needs, getting the flagship iPhone 16 Pro for 'free' is a significant value proposition, saving you the full $999 original price. I spent time testing the iPhone 16 Pro upon its release last year and have continued to use it as a secondary device. If photography and video capture are high priorities for you, the Pro model is where the iPhone truly shines.

The iPhone 16 Pro boasts a more advanced camera system compared to the standard model, often including features like a telephoto lens for optical zoom, improved low-light performance, and professional video recording capabilities. It also typically features a more premium build, a higher refresh rate display (ProMotion), and potentially a more powerful version of the A-series chip. This T-Mobile deal is ideal for users who want the absolute best camera and performance Apple offers and are willing to switch to or stay with T-Mobile on a qualifying plan for two years. The lack of a required trade-in makes it particularly flexible for those with older or less valuable devices.

Nothing Phone 2a Plus: Exceptional Midrange Value with Unique Style

Current price: $349 (save $80 at Amazon)
Original price: $429

Among the various smartphone brands I've evaluated in recent years, Nothing has consistently stood out for its distinctive design philosophy, applied to both its hardware and software. The Nothing Phone 2a Plus model, which I tested last year, proved to be an exceptional offering in the competitive midrange segment. It managed to hold its own, and in some aspects even surpass, budget-friendly offerings from more established players like Google, Samsung, and Apple in the sub-$500 category. The current Memorial Day price of just $349 makes it an even more compelling option.

For this price, you're getting a feature set that punches well above its weight class. The Nothing Phone 2a Plus includes a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display that is bright and vibrant, a substantial 5,000mAh battery capable of 50W wired fast charging, and Nothing's signature Glyph Lights – a unique LED interface on the back of the phone that provides customizable visual notifications and indicators. It runs on a capable MediaTek Dimensity processor, offering smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming, and features a clean, minimalist software experience (Nothing OS) with unique visual elements.

It's important to note the limitations, particularly regarding network compatibility in the US. Nothing phones generally perform best on GSM networks, meaning users primarily on AT&T and T-Mobile will experience the most reliable service. If you are on a CDMA-based carrier like Verizon or Visible, it is highly advisable to check directly with your carrier regarding network support and compatibility before purchasing the Nothing Phone 2a Plus to avoid potential issues. Despite this caveat, the Phone 2a Plus at $349 represents outstanding value for a stylish, capable Android phone. Given the significant discount and the phone's strong performance in its price bracket, this deal is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want something different and don't rely on a Verizon-based network. Be aware that stock can be limited on popular deals like this, so acting fast might be necessary.

Google Pixel 9 Pro: AI-Enhanced Photography Powerhouse

Current price: $1,149 (save $300 at Amazon)
Original price: $1,449

For those prioritizing mobile photography and a seamless software experience powered by artificial intelligence, Google's Pixel lineup has consistently been a top contender. The Google Pixel 9 Pro continues this tradition, offering a camera system that is not only excellent in hardware but is significantly enhanced by Google's suite of AI-powered features. If you're looking for a new flagship device with a camera that makes capturing and editing photos incredibly intuitive and forgiving, the Pixel 9 Pro is hard to beat.

The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro is designed to produce highly detailed images with beautiful contrast and natural colors. Google's computational photography is renowned for its ability to handle challenging lighting conditions and produce consistently pleasing results. Beyond simple capture, the AI features truly elevate the experience. Tools like 'Add Me' allow for creative photo manipulation, seamlessly splicing elements from different shots, while the 'Magic Editor' provides powerful, yet easy-to-use, capabilities for adding or removing objects and adjusting composition within a photo. These features make the Pixel 9 Pro a favorite among those who love to tinker with their photos directly on their device.

For a limited time, Amazon is offering a substantial discount on the Google Pixel 9 Pro, particularly on the higher storage configurations. The 1TB model in Obsidian (black) is available for $1,149, representing a significant $300 saving off its original price of $1,449. Other storage options, including the 512GB model, are also seeing a $300 price reduction. This makes the high-capacity versions of the Pixel 9 Pro much more accessible. This deal is ideal for Android users who want a top-tier flagship experience, prioritize having one of the best and most user-friendly camera systems available, and appreciate Google's clean software and AI innovations. The $300 discount on these premium storage tiers adds considerable value.

Navigating Carrier Deals vs. Unlocked Phones

The Memorial Day sales period highlights the two primary ways most consumers purchase smartphones: through carrier subsidies or installment plans, or by buying unlocked devices directly from retailers. Each method has distinct advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering before making a decision.

Carrier Deals: The Promise of 'Free' or Heavily Discounted Phones

Carrier promotions, like those offered by Verizon and T-Mobile on the iPhones mentioned above, are often the most visually appealing due to the promise of a 'free' phone or a massive discount ($800-$1000 off). These deals are designed to lock you into a service contract, typically 24 or 36 months, on a specific, often higher-tier, data plan. The discount is usually applied as monthly bill credits over the contract duration.

• **Pros:** Low or no upfront cost for the device; access to the latest flagship phones; convenient bundling of device and service.
• **Cons:** Requires a long-term commitment (2-3 years) to a single carrier; often necessitates signing up for more expensive data plans; the total cost of service over the contract might outweigh the device savings; difficulty switching carriers or upgrading early without penalty; the phone is usually locked to the carrier until the contract is fulfilled.

These deals are best for individuals or families who are happy with their current carrier, plan to stay with them for the long haul, and can benefit from the features of the required data plan. It's crucial to calculate the total cost of the plan over the contract term versus the cost of buying an unlocked phone and using a potentially cheaper plan.

Unlocked Phones: Flexibility and Upfront Savings

Buying an unlocked phone means purchasing the device outright (or financing it independently) from a retailer like Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from the manufacturer. The phone is not tied to any specific carrier and can be used with any compatible network by simply inserting a SIM card (or activating an eSIM).

• **Pros:** Freedom to choose any compatible carrier and switch anytime; ability to shop for the best data plan deals independently; easier to sell or trade-in the device when you want to upgrade; upfront discount during sales events like Memorial Day.
• **Cons:** Requires a larger upfront payment (unless using retailer financing); discounts might be less dramatic than carrier subsidies (though still significant during sales); responsible for managing your own service plan separately.

Unlocked phone deals, like those on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, Motorola Razr Plus, Nothing Phone 2a Plus, and Google Pixel 9 Pro from Amazon, are ideal for users who value flexibility, prefer not to be tied to a long-term carrier contract, or are on smaller/MVNO carriers. The Memorial Day discounts on these unlocked models make the upfront cost more manageable while preserving the freedom to choose your service.

The Broader Context: Tariffs and Tech Pricing

It's worth noting a factor that could influence tech pricing, including smartphones, in the future: recent US tariffs on imports from various countries, including China, Vietnam, and India. While the immediate impact on current Memorial Day deals might be limited as retailers clear existing stock, these tariffs are designed to encourage domestic manufacturing and could potentially lead to higher prices on consumer electronics down the line.

Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs are often assembled in these countries, even if components come from elsewhere. As companies navigate these new tariffs and potentially rethink their global supply chains, the cost of manufacturing and importing these goods could increase. This could translate into higher retail prices for consumers in the future and potentially fewer aggressive discounts outside of major sales events. Wired has explored how these trade policies can ripple through the tech industry, affecting everything from component costs to final product pricing.

For example, tariffs could significantly impact the cost of components or the final assembly of devices, leading manufacturers to either absorb costs (unlikely long-term) or pass them on to consumers. This makes taking advantage of current sales events like Memorial Day even more strategic, as the prices seen now might not be available in the future. TechCrunch has also reported on how companies are adjusting their supply chain strategies in response to geopolitical factors and trade policies, which could influence product availability and pricing stability.

While the full effects of these tariffs may take time to materialize, they add a layer of uncertainty to the future pricing of consumer electronics. This underscores the value of securing a good deal when you find one on a device you need or want, as the landscape of tech pricing is constantly evolving due to global economic and political factors.

Choosing the Right Deal for You

With several compelling offers available, deciding which Memorial Day phone deal is right for you depends on several factors:

• **Your Budget:** Are you looking for the absolute lowest upfront cost (carrier deal with trade-in) or the best value for an unlocked phone (Amazon discounts)? The Nothing Phone 2a Plus deal is excellent for strict budgets, while the Pixel 9 Pro and S25 Edge offer flagship features at a discount.
• **Your Preferred Ecosystem:** Are you committed to iOS or open to Android? The iPhone deals cater to Apple users, while the Samsung, Motorola, Nothing, and Google deals are for Android fans.
• **Your Carrier Situation:** Are you happy with your current carrier and willing to commit for 2-3 years for a potentially 'free' phone? Or do you prefer the flexibility of an unlocked device?
• **Key Features You Need:** Do you prioritize camera performance (Pixel 9 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro), innovative design (Motorola Razr Plus), a large, thin screen (Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge), or value for money (Nothing Phone 2a Plus)?

Consider your current phone and its trade-in value (if pursuing a carrier deal), your typical data usage, and how long you plan to keep your next phone. Reading detailed reviews (like those linked in the original source, though not used for external links here) can provide deeper insights into the day-to-day performance and features of each device.

Beyond the Deals: What to Look for in a New Phone

While a great price is a major draw, the longevity and satisfaction with your new phone will depend on its core features and how well they meet your needs. Here's a quick checklist of things to consider:

• **Display:** Size, resolution, refresh rate (smoother scrolling), panel type (AMOLED for vibrant colors and deep blacks).
• **Processor & RAM:** Determines speed and multitasking capabilities. Flagship chips (Snapdragon 8 Elite, Apple A18, Google Tensor) offer top performance.
• **Camera System:** Number of lenses (wide, ultrawide, telephoto), megapixel count, aperture, low-light performance, video capabilities, software features (AI enhancements).
• **Battery Life & Charging:** Battery capacity (mAh), wired charging speed, wireless charging support.
• **Storage:** How much space you need for apps, photos, and videos. Deals often target specific storage tiers.
• **Software:** Operating system (iOS or Android), manufacturer's customizations, update frequency and longevity.
• **Build Quality & Design:** Materials used, water resistance rating, form factor (slab, foldable).
• **Connectivity:** 5G support, Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth version.

Each phone highlighted in the deals above excels in different areas. The S25 Edge is notable for its thinness and high-res camera, the Razr Plus for its foldable design and external screen, the iPhones for their ecosystem and performance, the Nothing Phone 2a Plus for its value and unique style, and the Pixel 9 Pro for its AI-driven camera. Your personal priorities should guide your choice.

Conclusion: Seizing the Memorial Day Opportunity

Memorial Day 2025 presents a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your smartphone at a reduced cost. The deals highlighted – on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, Motorola Razr Plus (2024), Apple iPhone 16, Apple iPhone 16 Pro, Nothing Phone 2a Plus, and Google Pixel 9 Pro – represent some of the best value propositions available right now, covering a wide spectrum of devices from budget-friendly options to premium flagships and innovative foldables.

Whether you're drawn to the cutting-edge design of the S25 Edge, the nostalgic yet modern flip of the Razr Plus, the reliable performance of the latest iPhones (potentially for 'free' via carrier deals), the unique value of the Nothing Phone 2a Plus, or the photographic prowess of the Pixel 9 Pro, there's likely a deal that aligns with your needs and desires. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of unlocked purchases versus carrier contracts and consider how factors like potential future tariffs might make current discounts even more appealing in retrospect.

Don't let the complexity of the smartphone market deter you. By focusing on reputable deals on well-regarded devices, like the ones discussed here, you can make an informed decision and walk away with a powerful new phone without paying full price. Keep an eye on retailer sites as the weekend progresses, as deals can sometimes change or new ones may appear. Happy deal hunting, and enjoy your new smartphone!

External Resources for Further Reading

For more insights into the tech market and specific devices, consider these resources:

• TechCrunch Guide: The best smartphones you can buy - Provides a broader look at top phone recommendations.
• Wired's Picks: The best Android phones - Offers alternative perspectives on top Android devices.
• VentureBeat Analysis: Key trends shaping the smartphone market in 2025 - Discusses broader industry shifts relevant to future purchases.
• TechCrunch Review: A deep dive into the Google Pixel 9 Pro - Offers an independent review of the Pixel's capabilities.
• Wired Review: Initial thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S25 series - Provides a review perspective on the S25 line.
• VentureBeat Review: Hands-on with the Motorola Razr Plus (2024) - An independent review of the foldable phone.