In 2025, ultra-thin smartphone designs became one of the biggest trends in the mobile industry, turning into an unspoken competition among manufacturers. Apple currently leads with the iPhone Air, which is just 5.5 mm thick — making it not only the thinnest but also one of the most popular smartphones on the market. However, many users consider the iPhone Air to be overrated: Apple has sacrificed some features in pursuit of record thinness, while the model’s price is noticeably higher than other devices from the brand. This raises the question — is it really worth the money?

On the Android market, there are worthy alternatives that are not only thin but also offer impressive specifications for their price. Palach has selected three smartphones from different price categories that could serve as excellent replacements for the iPhone Air.

Tecno Spark 40 Pro+: Budget-Friendly and Stylish

At first glance, the Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ looks more expensive than it is — the price is under 20,000 rubles. This smartphone, with a thickness of just 6.5 mm, features a bright AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 144 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals. The Helio G200 processor handles medium-level gaming well, while 256 GB of storage, stereo speakers, and a 5200 mAh battery with fast charging (less than an hour for a full charge) make it a solid choice for everyday use.

Drawbacks: Despite its design suggesting three cameras, the phone only has a single 50 MP lens. If mobile photography matters to you, this model might disappoint.

ZTE Nubia Redmagic 10 Air: A Gaming Phone with Style

Gaming phones are often associated with bulky designs, but the ZTE Nubia Redmagic 10 Air breaks that stereotype. At just 7.85 mm thick and with a minimalist look, it appears sleek and refined. The device features a large nearly 7-inch OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, dedicated gaming triggers, a dual 50+50 MP camera setup, an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, and a 6000 mAh battery with 80 W fast charging. Support for Wi-Fi 7 and an upgraded antenna ensure a stable connection.

Drawbacks: The lack of water resistance and a telephoto lens may be a downside, but for gamers, these factors rarely matter. The global 512 GB version costs under 50,000 rubles, making it a highly attractive option.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: A Flagship for Fans

Initially, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge seemed overpriced, but over time its cost has become more reasonable. We recommend it primarily for Samsung enthusiasts or those who prefer to avoid Chinese brands. With a thickness of 5.8 mm, this smartphone nearly matches the iPhone Air. It features a large LTPO OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a dual camera setup (200 + 12 MP), an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, and full water resistance. However, the 3900 mAh battery might seem modest for a flagship.

Drawbacks: The specs aren’t groundbreaking, and the price may still deter users looking for the best value for money.

In Short...

If you’re after a slim smartphone but don’t want to overpay for the iPhone Air, the Android market offers excellent alternatives. The Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ is a great budget-friendly option with solid specs. The ZTE Nubia Redmagic 10 Air is ideal for gamers who value both style and performance. And the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge will appeal to brand loyalists and those ready to invest in a premium, ultra-thin flagship.