Best Android phones
The number of options when choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, and understanding how they stack up to each other is even more so. If that time has rolled around when you’re ready to update to a new device, you’ll want to check out this guide first.
From premium, flagship devices to budget-friendly models with impressive cameras, we’ve rounded up all the best options here. We’ll also give you a quick rundown of what features to keep in mind when buying your next Android phone.
What to consider when buying an Android phone
Screen
Screen size and quality are undoubtedly two of the most important factors that define the user experience in a smartphone. Some may prefer a smaller display so the device fits more easily in their pocket, while others may enjoy larger screens for media viewing and productivity. Whichever way your preferences lean, the screen properties should play a significant role in your purchase decision.
Processor
The processor is directly responsible for how responsive your phone is and how well it multitasks. If you are a demanding user, it is essential to choose a model that features a high-powered processor. Snapdragon and Exynos are some of the best, and the higher the model number, the more powerful it is.
Battery life
These days, we spend more and more time on our phones, and they must be equipped with sufficient battery capacity to support that. While you can always pick yourself up a power bank, it is still annoying to have a phone that consistently dies in the middle of the day.
Camera
Some of the newest smartphones feature cameras that can rival many DSLRs. If you like to snap photos all day long or hope to forgo the need to carry a separate digital camera on your next vacation, you’ll want to choose a phone with at least a 12-megapixel camera.
Additional features
You should also consider your lifestyle when choosing a device. If you are prone to dropping your phone, it’s wise to select a durable model. Those who spend a lot of time around the water should consider a water-resistant device or buy a waterproof drybag. For example, if you store lots of files and photos on your phone, you should look for one with a lot of memory.
Best Android phones
Top 5G Android phone
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The cutting-edge S24 Ultra features a vibrant 6.8-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling. It runs extremely well with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, has a pro-grade five-lens camera system and offers S pen support. It also has brand-new Galaxy AI features.
Top budget-friendly Android phone
Google Pixel 8a
The Pixel 8a is incredibly affordable and offers the best camera for the price. It comes with 128GB of storage space, a bright Google Actua display and includes regular security updates for at least seven years to keep your data safe. It even includes Google AI features.
Top Android phone for battery life
Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro
This cutting-edge premium phone is perfect for gamers. Its 5,500 mAh battery, which Asus claims can last for at least 3.4 hours with heavy gaming, 23 hours of video streaming, and 17 hours just scrolling, is backed by incredible performance from its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
Top foldable Android phone
Samsung Electronics Galaxy Z Fold6
If you need a big display for media viewing and multitasking, the Galaxy Z Fold6 leads the pack. It comes standard with a 7.6-inch AMOLED screen, 5G, and an impressive 12 GB of RAM. It’s designed to be thinner and lighter than its previous generations and includes all-newGalaxy AI and Circle to Search capabilities.
Top Android flip phone
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
Those caught up in the flip phone renaissance will like the sleek Z Flip6. Its upgraded hinge is more durable than its predecessors, and this iteration of the phone includes new AI features. The phone runs smoothly on its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
Android phones worth checking out
OnePlus 12
A large and powerful phone with a premium screen and 4th generation 64-megapixel Hasselblad, the OnePlus 12 is a stand-out choice for photographers. It has an attractive metal and glass build, and it runs on the OxygenOS software, which offers a sleek user experience.
Google Pixel 9
If the specs and build materials of the 8a are a little too lackluster for your needs, you may want to consider the Pixel 9. Though notably more expensive, it has more RAM, a better battery life and is more powerful. It also has an all-new built-in Gemini AI assistant and Circle to Search features.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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