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The best phones deliver value and performance that stand out in every area. They are also some of the most expensive out there. But, based on our research, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on a smartphone to get the best experience.
With all the different smartphones on the market, picking the best phone that meets your needs and budget can be a complicated and time-consuming decision—whether it’s Apple or Google-based Android phones such as Samsung and OnePlus.
This smartphone guide focuses on the best handsets you can buy right now, including our budget pick for the best cheap phone under $400, $500, and the best budget phones under $600.
- Amazon: Biggest discounts on most phone brands, including Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, TCL, and more
- Samsung: Black Friday record-low prices across high-end Galaxy phones with savings of up to $800 off
- OnePlus: Save up to $300 off on select OnePlus smartphones models
The best phones to buy in 2026
This guide is a work in progress involving more best phones, so you can always check back for the full list – but for now, we’ve put together the 15 best options that offer exceptionally good value.
Finding a new smartphone can be difficult. There are many models available. This guide reviews the 15 best phones you can buy right now. We list options for every budget and need. This includes top premium phones, great budget phones, the best Android phone, and new folding phones. We look at features like cameras, battery life, and screen quality. This guide helps you find the best phone for your needs.
1. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Best For: Overall Performance and Camera
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-quali…
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfec…
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
The Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is the top phone from Apple. It has a very large 6.9-inch ProMotion display. The screen is bright and has a high refresh rate. This makes all content look smooth.
Inside, it uses the new A19 Pro chip. This chip is extremely fast. It handles all apps and games easily. The phone’s main feature is its camera system. It has three 48MP cameras. This includes a main, ultrawide, and telephoto lens. The telephoto lens offers 4x optical zoom. Photos are very detailed and clear, even in low light.
The battery life is the best in any iPhone. It can last up to two days with normal use. The phone also has a strong aluminum unibody design. This phone is expensive. It is for people who want the absolute best features, camera, and battery life in an Apple device.
2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Best For: Android Users and Camera Versatility
- MULTIPLE TASKS WITH ONE ASK: Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-frie…
- START THE DAY SMARTER: Stay one step ahead with a phone that gives you the info you need before you even know you need i…
- REDUCE THE NOISE. REVEAL THE MAGIC: AI Camera with Audio Eraser lets you capture vibrant videos in low light and minimiz…
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best phone for Android fans. It has a large 6.9-inch AMOLED display. The screen is bright and has anti-reflective Gorilla Armor. This makes it easy to see in bright sunlight.
This phone includes the S Pen stylus. You can write notes or draw on the screen. The processor is the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy. It provides top-tier performance for multitasking and gaming. The phone’s camera system is its main strength. It has a 200MP main camera. It also has two telephoto lenses, one with 3x zoom and one with 5x zoom. The zoom quality is excellent.
Battery life is strong with its 5,000mAh battery. It lasts a full, heavy day. The phone also has many Galaxy AI features. These features help with photo editing and tasks. This phone is for users who want the most powerful and flexible Android phone.
3. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
Best For: AI Features and Smart Photography
- Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI – Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, im…
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works – Google …
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene – advanced Google …
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s biggest and best phone. It features a large 6.8-inch OLED display. The screen is bright and shows accurate colors. This phone is all about smart software.
It runs on the new Tensor G5 chip. This chip powers many exclusive AI features. Google’s AI can screen calls, edit photos, and summarize recordings. The camera system is fantastic. It has a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 48MP telephoto camera. Google’s software processing makes every photo look great. It is almost impossible to take a bad picture.
The battery is large at 5,200mAh. It provides solid all-day battery life. The phone runs a clean version of Android 16. It gets software updates first. This phone is for people who want the smartest software and a simple, powerful camera experience.
4. Apple iPhone 17
Best For: Most Apple Users
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-quali…
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfec…
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
The Apple iPhone 17 is the best iPhone for most people. It offers many pro features at a lower price than the Pro Max. It has a 6.3-inch ProMotion display. This is a big upgrade. The screen is now as smooth as the Pro models.
It uses the A19 chip, which is very fast. It runs all apps and games without any problems. The phone has a new dual-camera system. Both the main and ultrawide cameras are 48MP. This allows for more detailed photos. It can also take 2x optical zoom photos using the main sensor.
The battery life is excellent. It lasts all day for most users. It has a durable aluminum design and comes in many new colors. This phone gives you the best parts of the Pro experience. It is a great choice for Apple users who do not need the most advanced telephoto camera or the biggest screen.
5. Google Pixel 10
Best For: Most Android Users
- Google Pixel 10 is the everyday phone unlike anything else; it has Google Tensor G5, Pixel’s most powerful chip, an incr…
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works – Google …
- The upgraded triple rear camera system has a new 5x telephoto lens – up to 20x Super Res Zoom for stunning detail from f…
The Google Pixel 10 is the best Android phone for most people. It gives you the core Pixel experience for a good price. It has a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display. The screen is sharp and very bright.
This phone uses the same Tensor G5 chip as the Pixel 10 Pro XL. This means you get all the same helpful AI features. The camera system is a highlight. It has a main camera and an ultrawide camera. It takes amazing photos thanks to Google’s computer software. Photos are balanced and look true to life.
The battery life is good and will get you through a full day. The phone has a refined, premium design. It also gets seven years of software and security updates. This is the best value for anyone who wants a clean, smart, and reliable Android phone.
6. Samsung Galaxy S25
Best For: A Small, Powerful Android Phone
- MULTIPLE TASKS WITH ONE ASK: Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-frie…
- START THE DAY SMARTER: Stay one step ahead with a phone that gives you the info you need before you even know you need i…
- REDUCE THE NOISE. REVEAL THE MAGIC: AI Camera with Audio Eraser lets you capture vibrant videos in low light and minimiz…
The Samsung Galaxy S25 is the perfect choice for people who want a small phone. It has a 6.2-inch AMOLED display. The screen is bright and has a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is easy to hold and use with one hand.
Unlike most small phones, the S25 is very powerful. It uses the same high-end Snapdragon 8 Elite processor as the S25 Ultra. It is very fast and responsive. The camera system is also strong. It has three cameras on the back. This includes a main, ultrawide, and a 3x optical zoom telephoto lens. It is rare to find a real telephoto lens on a small phone.
The battery life is good for its size. It should last a full day with moderate use. This is a great choice for the best phone that is small and powerful. It makes no compromises on performance or camera quality.
7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Best For: Productivity and Multitasking
- BIGGER, YET SLIMMER THAN EVER: Who would’ve guessed that wider could also be lighter? The design of Galaxy Z Fold7 is re…
- BEST CAMERA ON A FOLD YET: You asked for more – now you can have the most. Galaxy Z Fold7 now boasts an ultra-premium 20…
- SCREENSHARE FOR STREAMLINED ASSISTANCE: Intrigued by something you see? Go Live with Google Gemini, then screenshare or …
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the best folding phone for productivity. It is a phone that opens like a book. It reveals a massive 8.0-inch tablet screen inside. The outer screen is a 6.5-inch phone display.
This year, the Z Fold 7 is much thinner and lighter. This makes it easier to carry. The large inner screen is perfect for multitasking. You can run three apps at once. It is also great for watching videos or reading. The phone is very powerful, using a top-tier Snapdragon processor.
The camera system is excellent. It uses the same 200MP main camera as the S25 Ultra. This is a big upgrade for a foldable. The battery life is good, easily lasting a full day. This phone is a productive machine. It is for people who want a phone and a tablet in one device.
8. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Best For: Style and Portability
- A PHONE THAT FLEXES TO YOU: Galaxy Z Flip7 keeps everything you love about a traditional phone and flips it into somethi…
- A SHORTCUT TO ALL YOUR FAVORITES: Now you can quickly customize your cover screen to do even more while your phone stays…
- ALL SCREEN WHEN SHUT: Galaxy Z Flip7 puts what matters on the front screen, right where you need it. With a redesigned, …
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 is the best flip-style foldable phone. It is a normal-sized smartphone that folds in half. This makes it very small and easy to put in a pocket.
The outer screen is a large 4.1-inch display. You can use many apps and widgets on this screen without opening the phone. You can check messages, take photos, and see notifications. The main inner screen is a 6.9-inch folding display. It is bright and smooth.
The phone is powerful enough for daily tasks and some gaming. The camera system is good. The dual-camera setup takes nice photos. You can also use the main cameras to take high-quality selfies when the phone is closed. The Z Flip 7 is for people who want a phone that is fun, stylish, and very portable.
9. Motorola Razr Ultra (2025)
Best For: A Great Flip Phone Alternative
- Universal unlocked: Compatible with all major U.S. carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and other prepaid carrier…
- Ultimate style meets iconic design: Ultra-compact and beautifully durable, featuring new, exquisitely crafted finishes i…
- Access almost everything even when closed: Easily use your favorite apps on the most intelligent and interactive externa…
The Motorola Razr Ultra is a strong competitor to the Galaxy Z Flip 7. It is also a flip-style phone. Its main feature is a huge 4.0-inch outer display. This cover screen can run almost any Android app.
This means you can do most of your tasks without opening the phone. The phone feels great in the hand. The inner display is a 7.0-inch pOLED screen. It is large and has a high refresh rate. The hinge folds completely flat, leaving no gap.
The phone uses a powerful Snapdragon processor. It is fast and responsive. The battery life is surprisingly good. It has a larger battery than many other flip phones. This phone is a great choice for people who want the best cover screen experience on a flip phone.
10. OnePlus 13
Best For: Battery Life and Fast Charging
- Lightning-Fast Snapdragon 8 Elite Processor: Powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, enjoy exceptiona…
- Massive 6000mAh Battery: Keep going all day long with a large 6000mAh battery that supports fast charging 80W SuperVOOC …
- Stunning 120Hz ProXDR Display: Experience vibrant colors and ultra-smooth visuals on a QHD+ ProXDR display with a 120Hz …
The OnePlus 13 is the best phone for battery life. It has a massive battery that can last for two full days. It also features extremely fast 100W wired charging. It can charge from zero to 100% in under 30 minutes.
The phone has a beautiful 6.8-inch AMOLED display. It has a 165Hz refresh rate. This makes it one of the smoothest screens available. The phone runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. It is incredibly fast and great for gaming.
The camera system is co-developed with Hasselblad. It has three cameras. They take photos with natural and pleasing colors. The OnePlus 13 offers flagship performance for a lower price than Apple or Samsung. It is for people who value speed, battery life, and fast charging above all else.
11. Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro
Best For: Mobile Gaming
- SLEEK AND MINIMALISTIC DESIGN – The ROG Phone 8 combines a sleek and minimalistic design with room for personalization. …
- UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE – Experience the power of the latest 3.3 GHz Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. With 16GB of LPDDR5X RA…
- NEXT-GEN PORTABILITY – Introducing an ultraslim 0.35” profile and and lightweight design with thin bezels. Certified wit…
The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro is a phone built for one purpose: gaming. It has the most powerful processor, the Snapdragon 8 Elite. It also has a special vapor cooling system. This means the phone never gets hot during long game sessions.
The display is a 6.78-inch QHD+ OLED screen. It has an 185Hz refresh rate. This is the fastest refresh rate on any phone. It makes games look incredibly smooth. The phone also has 1,300Hz touch sampling. This means your touches register instantly.
The phone has special features for gamers. It has ultrasonic “AirTriggers.” These are shoulder buttons, just like a game controller. It also has a huge 5,800mAh battery for long gaming sessions. This phone is not for everyone. It is for serious mobile gamers who want the best performance.
12. Google Pixel 9a
Best For: Best Phone Under $500
- Google Pixel 9a is engineered by Google with more than you expect, for less than you think; like Gemini, your built-in A…
- Take amazing photos and videos with the Pixel Camera, and make them better than you can imagine with Google AI; get grea…
- Google Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 30 hours[2]; turn on Extreme Battery Saver and it can last up to 100 hours…
The Google Pixel 9a is the best phone you can buy for under $500. It gives you the best parts of the flagship Pixel experience at a budget price. It has a 6.3-inch OLED display that is bright and clear.
It runs on the Tensor G4 chip. This is the same chip from last year’s Pixel 9 flagship. It is fast for daily tasks. It also supports many of Google’s smart AI features. The main reason to buy this phone is the camera. It has a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera. It takes photos that are better than phones costing twice as much. Google’s software makes every shot look amazing.
The battery life is solid, lasting a full day. It also has a great design. The Pixel 9a is the best phone you can get for under $500. It provides unmatched camera quality and software support for the price.
13. Apple iPhone 16e
Best For: The Best Entry-Level iPhone
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-quali…
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfec…
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
The Apple iPhone 16e is Apple’s new entry-level phone. It replaces the old iPhone SE. It has a modern design with a 6.1-inch display. It looks like a more modern iPhone.
It uses the A18 processor. This chip is still very fast and will be supported for many years. It also supports Apple Intelligence features. The phone has a single, high-quality 48MP main camera. It takes great photos for a phone at this price.
The battery life is much better than the old iPhone SE. It can last a full day. This phone is the cheapest way to get a new, modern iPhone. It is perfect for students, kids, or anyone who wants the Apple experience without a high price.
14. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
Best For: Best Phone Under $250
- 25W Fast Charger Included, 6.7″ Super AMOLED FHD+, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery, Android 15, up to 6…
- 256GB, 8GB RAM, microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot), Exynos 1280 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 8MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 1…
The Samsung Galaxy A25 5G is a top choice for a tight budget. It is often available for under $300. It has a 6.5-inch AMOLED display. The screen has a 120Hz refresh rate. This is a great feature for this price.
The phone has a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization. This helps make photos and videos less blurry. The camera takes good pictures in daylight. The 5,000mAh battery provides excellent battery life. It can often last two days.
The performance is good for basic tasks. You can browse, text, and use social media. Samsung also promises four major OS updates. This means the phone will stay current for a long time. It is a reliable and feature-packed phone for a very low price.
15. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G
Best For: Best Phone Under $200
- CRISP DETAIL. VIVID POSSIBILITIES: The ultra-clear 6.7″ display¹ of Galaxy A16 5G helps bring your content to life wheth…
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from big group shots to close-ups, with the trip…
- MORE DURABLE THAN EVER BEFORE: Take on your day with confidence, thanks to the awesome durability of Galaxy A16 5G with …
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is the best phone you can buy for under $200. It covers all the basics. It has a very large 6.7-inch screen. It is good for watching videos and browsing.
The phone’s biggest strength is its battery. It has a 5,000mAh battery that provides fantastic, multi-day battery life. It has a 50MP main camera. It can take decent photos in good lighting. It also has a microSD card slot. You can add more storage cheaply.
Samsung promises five years of security updates. This is amazing for a phone this cheap. It ensures the phone stays safe to use. This phone is for people who need a simple, reliable phone with a big screen and a long-lasting battery.
Special Note
Choosing the best phone depends on your budget and needs. A premium phone like the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers the best camera. A phone like the OnePlus 13 offers the best battery. A budget phone like the Pixel 9a offers a great camera for less money. This list has many good options. We hope this list helps you choose your next best phone. Compare the features that matter most to you before you buy.
16. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
One of the best smartphone 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is without a doubt the best smartphone on the market right now. It’s a high-end smartphone that offers a number of features that are sure to appeal to users who are looking for a phone that can do it all. The phone has a large 6.8-inch display, a powerful 108MP rear camera, and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery.
The S22 Ultra 8K also boasts plenty of features that are perfect for anyone who wants to take their photography or videography to the next level. With an impressive 108MP camera, 8K video recording, and a bright display, this phone has everything you need to capture amazing photos and videos.
The phone is also equipped with an S Pen, which allows users to edit photos and videos with pinpoint accuracy. Additionally, the long-lasting battery and fast charging make it easy to keep this phone powered up, even when you’re using it for extended periods of time. And finally, the premium design and craftsmanship make this phone a joy to use and show off.
The only downside to the Galaxy S22 Ultra is that it does not have a microSD slot for expanding the storage.
Specifications:
Wireless Carrier: Unlocked for all Carriers | Operating System: Android 12 | Cellular Technology: 5G, 4G LTE | Memory Storage RAM: 8GB/12GB | Connectivity Technology: USB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Wireless network technology: GSM, CDMA, LTE | Weight: 228g | Dimensions: 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9mm | Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Battery: 5,000mAh | Front camera: 40MP | Rear camera: 108MP + 10MP + 10MP + 12MP
17. iPhone 13 Pro Max
one of the best iPhone for 2026
The iPhone 13 Pro Max is still the best iPhone from Apple. It has everything you will ever need in a phone, including amazing performance that packs a 120Hz refresh rate display, no mobile device on the market today can match such an incredible performance, plus the superb battery life that can last more than 12 hours at a stretch without needing a charge.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max camera is one of the impressive features that truly puts it as the best iPhone and above any class of smartphone at the moment, thanks to the improved larger sensors and a new photographic feature that allows you to style and tweak your pics. You get an ultra-wide camera for close-ups and the ability to take macro shots, thanks to the new macro mode feature.
If you love photography and looking for a phone to use as your primary camera, getting the iPhone 13 Pro Max is definitely worth it. With the triple-camera LiDAR system, you get more details, stunning colors, and clarity in all shots.
Price for the iPhone 13 Pro Max start at $1,099 for 128GB of storage and up to $1,199 for 256GB. You can get the 512GB for $1,399, while the colossal 1TB option will set you back at $1,599.
At base price, the iPhone 13 Pro Max cost $300 more than the iPhone 13, and $100 more than iPhone 13 Pro, which are more affordable options with almost the same features at a cheaper price – especially the iPhone 13, that is if you don’t need a 120Hz display or telephoto lens.
Specifications:
Storage: 128, 256, 512, 1TB | Screen size: 6.7 inches | Resolution (ppi): 2778 x 1284 (458) | Adaptive refresh: Up to 120Hz | Battery life: 12 hours | Processor: A15 Bionic | Rear cameras: Pro 12MP (Telephoto, Wide, Ultra Wide) | Front camera: 12MP TrueDepth | Zoom: 3x optical / 15x digital | Colors: Gold, Graphite, Sierra Blue, Silver | Weight: 8.5 ounces | Size: 6.3 x 3.1 x 0.3 inches | Water resistance: IP68
18. Google Pixel 6 Pro
The best top-tier pixel phone from Google
The Google Pixel 6 Pro is the newest and most advanced Pixel phone yet. It comes with a variety of new and improved features that make it the smartest and fastest Pixel phone yet. It has a powerful processor, an advanced camera system, fast charging, and a modern and intuitive interface. One of the most notable new features is the Google Tensor processor, which is the first processor designed by Google specifically for the Pixel. This processor takes performance to a whole new level.
The Pixel 6 Pro features an advanced camera system with wide and ultrawide lenses, 4x optical zoom, and the main sensor that captures 150% more light. This makes it perfect for taking high-quality photos and videos. The Pixel 6 Pro also comes with a variety of professional tools, such as the Magic Eraser, Motion Mode, and Portrait Mode, that keep your photos sharp, accurate, and focused.
Additionally, the Pixel 6 Pro features a fast-charging all-day battery that adapts to your usage and saves power for the apps you use the most. Finally, the Pixel 6 Pro comes with the next gen Titan M2 chip, 5 years of security updates, and the most hardware layers of any phone, making it one of the most secure and safe phones on the market.
Specifications:
Wireless Carrier: Unlocked for all Carriers | Operating System: Android 12, upgradable to Android 13 | Cellular Technology: 5G, 4G LTE | Memory Storage Capacity: 128 GB | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Screen Size: 6.7 Inches | Wireless network technology: GSM, LTE | Dimensions: 163.9 x 75.9 x 8.9 mm (6.45 x 2.99 x 0.35 in) | Weight: 210 g (7.41 oz) | Resolution: 1440 x 3120 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~512 ppi density) | USB: Type-C 3.1 | Battery: Li-Ion 5003 mAh, non-removable; Fast charging 30W, 50% in 30 min; Fast wireless charging 23W
19. OnePlus 10 Pro 5G
Top of the best OnePlus phone
The OnePlus 10 Pro is a powerful and versatile 5G-compatible phone that is perfect for mobile gaming enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike. It’s a high-end phone with some impressive specs. It has a 6.7-inch screen, a Snapdragon 8 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. It also has 5G support and a 5,000mAh battery.
In terms of cameras, the OnePlus 10 Pro has a 48MP rear camera, a 50MP rear camera, and an 8MP front camera. The camera setup is impressive, and it’s clear that OnePlus is serious about photography with this phone. The phone is also very lightweight and has a sleek design. It’s a great option for anyone who is looking for a high-end phone with great features.
Additionally, the 10 Pro comes with a fast-charging 65W SuperVOOC charger and a 50W wireless charger, making it a great choice for those who need a reliable and powerful phone that can charge quickly.
Specifications:
Weight: 200.5g | Dimensions: 163 x 73.9 x 8.55mm | OS: Android 12 | Screen size: 6.7-inch | Resolution: 3216 X 1440 | CPU: Snapdragon 8 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB | Battery: 5,000mAh | Rear camera: 48MP + 50MP + 8MP | Front Camera: 32MP | Wireless Carrier: Unlocked | Cellular Technology: 5G, 4G LTE | Connectivity Technology: USB | SIM card slot count: Single SIM
20. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
One of the best Android phones 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is the best Android smartphone in the world right now. The Galaxy S21 Ultra vision is to level up the experience as the best Samsung phone. The 5G device comes with a superior larger screen and a truly platinum design with five cameras, including a 108MP sensor, dual telephoto lenses, 100x zoom and 40MP selfies, plus incredible battery life of over 11 hours.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is a performance beast that’s easier to unlock using the larger fingerprint sensor. It comes with a great 6.8-inch display, 120Hz refresh rate, and sharp WQHD resolution. You also get the S Pen support, even though you’ll need to purchase the stylus and a case to hold it separately.
While the Galaxy S21 Ultra is a great smartphone, it’s quite expensive for the average consumer, you also don’t get a microSD card slot for expandable storage or a charger.
The base-level 128GB storage with 12GB of RAM may not be enough for you, especially if you’re keen on taking lots of 8K 24fps or 4K 60fps video, meaning you’ll want to go for the 256GB of storage (12GB RAM), or higher at 256GB of storage (16GB of RAM).
Apart from the notable steep price, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is the best Android phone you can buy right now, unless you prefer smaller phones.
Specifications:
Weight: 227g | RAM: 12GB / 16GB | Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | Battery: 5,000mAh | Dimensions: 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm | Resolution: QHD (3200 x 1440) | Display size: 6.8-inch | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Pixel density: 515ppi | Chipset: Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 | Rear cameras: 108MP + 10MP + 10MP + 12MP | Front camera: 40MP | Video: 8K 30 fps/4K 60 fps | Wireless: 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, UWB | Size: 6.5 x 2.97 x 0.35 inches
21. OnePlus 9 Pro 5G
One of the best OnePlus phones
OnePlus 9 Pro takes the 6th spot in our ranking of the best phones in 2026, deservedly for many reasons. It’s one of the best Android phones on the market right now, with premium quality and features.
The 9 Pro is a top-of-the-range flagship phone from OnePlus, 5G-ready, and designed to compete with other top-tier handsets. It has a 6.7-inch screen that spreads all through the edges in a narrow body – seamlessly elegant with a fluid display that sets the refresh rate to 120Hz QHD. Scrolling through the web on the OnePlus 9 Pro is so smooth and makes browsing enjoyable.
Another outstanding feature of the OnePlus 9 Pro is its proprietary charging technology. Unlike Samsung, Apple, and other top-end smartphone manufacturers, the OnePlus 9 Pro comes with a new 65-watt wired charger included in the box, that can speed up charging the phone very quickly.
There’s also support for 50-watt wireless charging. The 4,500mAh battery is large and, on a full charge, can last through a full day with typical use. However, OnePlus phones have never lived up to expectations when it comes to battery life, but the 9 Pro will reliably see you through a full day on a full charge with moderately heavy usage.
While the battery life isn’t the best in class, OnePlus did made one notable improvement in its camera. The camera department has been OnePlus main con with previous releases. But it did impress this time by teaming up with legendary camera brand Hasselblad to improve its camera results and position the 9 Pro camera as a heads-up competitor to the very best Apple and Samsung has to offer.
The 9 Pro is the best and most expensive smartphone OnePlus has ever made. It definitely fits the bill, if you are looking to buy a premium phone with great power.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Screen: 6.7-inch display | Resolution: QHD (3216×1400) | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Pixel density: 525ppi | RAM: 8GB / 12GB | Storage: 128GB / 256GB | Chipset: Snapdragon 888 | Battery: 4,500mAh | Front camera: 16MP | Rear cameras: 48MP + 8MP + 50MP + 2MP | Weight: 197g | Dimensions: 163.2 x 73.6 x 8.7 mm | Operating system: Android 11 / OxygenOS
22. Samsung Galaxy S20 / S20 Plus
One of the best Android phone under $500
The Samsung Galaxy S20, S20 Plus, and S20 FE are some of the best Android phones you can buy right now. It’s got great performance, fantastic design, and impressive features, including 5G and a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Both the S20 and S20 Plus have a great battery life with a 4,000mAh and 4,500mAh capacity respectively, enough to go through a day without recharging. Both phones come with the Infinity-O AMOLED displays with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, excellent for smooth interaction and gaming.
Both devices have 64MP ultrawide telephoto cameras that really shine with 3x optical zoom, providing a lot of flexibility when taking photos. Though, not quite as good as the S21 Ultra or 13 Pro Max cameras, but good enough for creating excellent photos and videos.
The only difference between the S20 and S20 Plus is the screen; the S20 has a 6.2-inch screen while the S20 Plus has a massive 6.7-inch screen, which looks gorgeous.
Specifications:
RAM: 12GB | CPU: Snapdragon 865 | Storage: 128/512GB | Operating system: Android 10 | Screen: 6.7-inch | Weight: 6.56 ounces | Rear camera: 12MP + 64MP + 12MP | Front camera: 10MP
23. Apple iPhone 12 / iPhone 12 mini
Best cheap iPhone
Apple’s iPhone 12 still remains one of the best all-round iPhones that most people should buy. It’s basically the iPhone12 pro repacked at a more affordable price. The iPhone 12 Pro’s over-and-above material design and photo/video capturing capability is the major difference between both phones, which may not be necessary for most buyers.
Furthermore, the iPhone 12 is an excellent improvement on last year’s iPhone 11 – from the new OLED display to the magnetic MagSafe feature that allows for faster and easy connection to other mobile accessories. There is also the iPhone 12 mini, which is the smaller version of the iPhone 12.
The iPhone 12 is budget-friendly and relatively cheaper than the iPhone 12 Pro. You also get the fast A14 Bionic processor, impressive dual rear cameras, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 12 is an incredible all-around device for the price, making it fully deserving of its place on this list.
Specifications:
RAM: 16GB – 4GB | CPU: A14 Bionic | Storage: 4GB/128GB/256GB | Operating system: iOS 14 | Screen: 5.4-inch / 6.1-inch | Weight: 5.78 ounces | Rear camera: 12MP wide (ƒ/1.6), 12MP ultrawide (ƒ/2.4) | Front camera: 12MP (ƒ/2.2) | Battery life: 8hrs:25mins (5G), 10hrs:23mins (LTE)
24. Apple iPhone SE (2020)
Best budget phone under $500
The iPhone SE 2020 is the best phone under $400, striking the balance of design, impressive battery life, and great speed. It’s not the best from the range of iPhones but offers the best value for people who want to stick with the iPhone brand without spending a lot of money.
It has a 4.7-inch LCD screen that Apple used on the iPhone 7 and iPhone 8, but the SE’s stand-out feature is its processor, Apple’s A13 Bionic (the same on iPhone 11), and an excellent camera. Old-school iPhone users will also value the return of TouchID and the home button.
The iPhone SE 2020 is a great choice for a phone under $500 if you’re on a budget and don’t want to make a switch to Android.
Specifications:
RAM: 3GB | CPU: A13 Bionic | Storage: 4GB/128GB/256GB | Operating system: iOS 13 | Screen: 4.7-inch | Weight: 5.22 ounces | Rear camera: 12MP (f/1.8) | Front camera: 7MP (f/2.2) | Wireless charging: Yes (Qi)
Below are additional 4 best phones you can check out for 2026:
Samsung Galaxy A23 5G
The Galaxy A23 5G is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers fast 5G connectivity and a 120Hz full HD display. It is available in black, blue, and peach colors, with prices starting at $299.99. The handset is powered by a Snapdragon 695 processor and comes with Android 12 running Samsung’s One UI 4.1, and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. You get a choice of either 128GB or 64GB for storage with memory available in 8GB, 6GB, or 4GB. If you need more memory, there’s also an expandable microSD card slot.
The Galaxy A23 5G is a great option for those who want a fast and powerful phone without spending a lot of money. It has a large display, a good processor, and plenty of storage and memory. The camera system is also impressive for a phone in this price range. The only downside is that the US release is only available in black at the moment, but hopefully, Samsung will release more color options in the future.
iPhone 14
The wait is almost over for the new iPhone 14, which is set to be unveiled on September 7. In the meantime, rumors and leaks have given us a pretty good idea of what to expect from Apple’s latest flagship smartphone.
The standard iPhone 14 will reportedly feature a 6.1-inch display, just like the iPhone 13. However, there are some improvements in store, including a faster A14 Bionic chip and an upgraded main camera. The iPhone 14 Max (or iPhone 14 Plus) is said to sport a larger 6.7-inch display, while the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max are said to feature a redesigned display with smaller bezels and a new cutout design.
Other rumored features for the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max include an improved main camera, an always-on display, and a new A16 Bionic chip.
Assuming all goes according to plan, Apple will officially unveil the new iPhone 14 on September 7. So, stay tuned for more information in the coming days.
Sony Xperia 5 IV
It’s official – Sony has announced its latest smartphone, the Xperia 5 IV is scheduled to ship on October 27th. We’re excited to see what Sony has in store with the new Xperia 5 IV. The Xperia 5 IV includes a 24mm-equivalent standard wide, 16mm-equiv ultrawide, and 60mm-equiv telephoto on the rear panel. It also comes with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, a 6.1-inch 1080p OLED with 120Hz refresh rate and a tall 21:9 form factor, and a 5,000mAh battery (wireless charging). Plus, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
The company has been killing it lately with its flagship smartphones, such as the Sony Xperia 1 IV, and we’re hoping that the new compact model will be just as impressive. The Xperia 5 IV will retail for $1,000.
Motorola Razr
The Razr 2022 is a great phone for anyone looking for a sleek and powerful device. The phone has a great design and is packed with features, and specs, such as the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip, and a price point that puts it in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4.
The new generation features a brand new camera system with three rear cameras and a front-facing camera. The Razr 2022 is available in two colors: black and white. The price point for the Razr 2022 translate from Chinese Yuan to $890 for the 8GB RAM/128GB, $965 for the 8GB RAM/256GB, and $1,083 for the 12GB RAM/512GB. However, the phone is only available in China at the moment, but a global release is expected.