{"id":612932,"date":"2026-09-03T05:40:27","date_gmt":"2026-09-03T05:40:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/612932\/"},"modified":"2026-09-03T05:40:27","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T05:40:27","slug":"best-phones-in-2026-top-rated-smartphones-and-cellphones-compared","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/612932\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Phones in 2026 | Top-Rated Smartphones and Cellphones Compared"},"content":{"rendered":"

We test dozens of phones each year, but only a few come out on top. From Apple\u2019s iPhone 17 family<\/a> to Samsung\u2019s Galaxy S26 series<\/a> to the latest foldable phones<\/a>, there\u2019s a range of options for different needs and budgets. The best phones on this list have outstanding battery life, cameras that take stunning photos<\/a> and vibrant displays. Here are our top phone picks for iOS and Android.<\/p>\n

Our Picks<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"iPhone
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

With the iPhone 17, Apple has significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $829 iPhone 17 (or…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUpgraded 1-120Hz display<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNew camera features<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLonger battery life<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFaster charging<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimal design updates to last year<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tApple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Samsung
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wired Charging, May 2026<\/p>\n

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t a radical upgrade from the S25 Ultra, but there are i…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tInnovative Privacy Display<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLong-lasting battery<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tIntuitive AI features<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tConsistently great cameras<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSome inconsistent AI features<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo magnetic wireless charging<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMany of the same specs as the S25 Ultra<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"A
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The $900 Samsung Galaxy S26 is a leading flagship with a price hike, and while it\u2019s extremely likely that Samsung is just the first phonemaker…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGood cameras<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tClean, modern phone design<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFun, even useful AI perks<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$100 price hike not worth extra storage<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t25W wired charging is comparatively slow<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNearly all upgrades are to software, not hardware<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Abrar
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Galaxy Z Fold 8\u00a0is a refreshing spin on Samsung\u2019s existing book-style foldable design, with a squat, passport-sized build and a 4:3 aspect…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUnique, versatile design<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimized crease on main display<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLonger battery life than Z Fold 7<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSolid camera quality<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo telephoto lens<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo built-in magnets for Qi2 charging<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tHigh $1,900 starting price<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAI capabilities can be spotty<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"An
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wireless Charging (iPhone 17 Pro), May 2026<\/p>\n

From the first moment I picked up the new $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max an…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 17 Pro Max’s incredible battery life<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe brighter screen looks fantastic<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCenter Stage camera with the ability to take landscape selfies vertically is sweet<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tWished Dual Capture had a 50\/50 split<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLive Translation’s Siri voice can overlap with speakers<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tiPhone 17 Pro battery life is on par with the iPhone 16 Pro<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tExpensive<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"The
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is Google\u2019s sleekest foldable phone yet. Measuring 5mm thick when open and 10.1mm thick when closed, it feels remarkably…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tDurable build<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThinner design over last year<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSlimmer bezels and slightly larger cover screen<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tPlenty of handy AI and software updates<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras and battery are a step down from other Pixel 11 Pro models<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$100 pricier than last year\u2019s foldable<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo anti-reflective display makes crease more prominent<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"The
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

Google\u2019s $899 Pixel 11 refines and improves its base phone to include many of the Pro-level features you may be looking for — including a thi…<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Samsung
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s note:\u00a0Samsung released the Galaxy Z Flip 8, a follow-up to last year\u2019s Galaxy Z Flip 7. If you\u2019re looking for a Z Flip 7, make sure y…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 6.9-inch screen is immersive, with lovely colors and contrast<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 4.1-inch screen looks incredible<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tIt’s durable and survived a drop onto concrete<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tOne UI 8 (Android 16) runs wonderfully<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$1,100 is still a lot, but Samsung gives the phone more value than the Flip 6<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGets warm when recording videos and playing games<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBattery life is the same as the Flip 6 despite a bigger battery<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCover screen software has room to grow<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"google-pixel-10a-1\"
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

Google\u2019s Pixel 10A remains one of the best value options at $499, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While …<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tiPhone-convert friendly<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSimple, clean phone design<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGood at photography<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMissing several Pixel 10 features<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSimilar to the Pixel 9A<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\tShow 4 More\t<\/p>\n

What is the best phone for most people?<\/p>\n

Though we expect new iPhones soon<\/a>, the best phone for most people right now is the iPhone 17<\/a>. It shares many features with Apple\u2019s pricier 17 Pro models, but at a lower $829 starting price (or $799 if you activate through a carrier). It supports the newest camera capabilities, such as Dual Capture and Center Stage selfies, and has a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate for smoother scrolling and support for its always-on display.<\/p>\n

While the iPhone 17 shares a striking resemblance to the previous year\u2019s iPhone 16, some key updates help it stand out. Apart from the upgraded refresh rate, the iPhone 17 also delivers a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, along with an anti-reflective display that makes it easier to see the screen outdoors.\u00a0A Ceramic Shield 2 display offers three times better scratch resistance, according to Apple, so if you\u2019re susceptible to etching into your screen, it has a little more protection now. The iPhone 17 starts with a higher 256GB storage option, as opposed to the 128GB starting point on the iPhone 16, meaning you get more bang for your buck.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The ultrawide camera goes from 12 megapixels on the iPhone 16 to 48 megapixels on the iPhone 17, and Apple says the iPhone 17 has up to eight hours more of video playback. Indeed, in CNET\u2019s three-hour streaming test, the iPhone 17\u2019s battery dropped from 100% to 89%, while the iPhone 16 hit 86%.\u00a0\u00a0The iPhone 17 was also one of the top performers in CNET\u2019s battery lab testing<\/a>. \u00a0<\/p>\n

The iPhone 17 also has all the new iOS 26<\/a> capabilities, such as Live Translation, Call Screening and the new Liquid Glass interface. Unlike previous iPhone generations, the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro models share almost all the same hardware features, apart from the telephoto lens and bigger battery on the latter. While Apple tends to introduce features like the Dynamic Island and Action button on Pro models first, the two ends of the iPhone spectrum now pack all those same hardware functions.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Recent updates<\/p>\n

In August 2026, we added the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold 8.<\/p>\n

Best phones of 2026<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tAbrar Al-Heeti\/Zooey Liao\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest iPhone\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple iPhone 17\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUpgraded 1-120Hz display\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNew camera features\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLonger battery life\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFaster charging\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimal design updates to last year\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tApple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

With the iPhone 17, Apple has significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $829 iPhone 17 (or $799 if you activate with a carrier) shares many of the same camera features with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, like Dual Capture and Center Stage. It also finally gets a display with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, so you can enjoy smoother scrolling and enable the always-on display and see your notifications at a glance. And support for iOS 26 across the full iPhone 17 lineup means you can access Apple\u2019s most talked-about new software features like live translation, call screening and the Liquid Glass redesign. All that without spending upward of $1,100 for a Pro model, albeit with slightly scaled-back battery life and cameras.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The iPhone 17 is a baseline phone that shares many hardware and software features with the iPhone 17 Pro models, making it feel like a worthy, money-saving contender to those pricier devices. Generous battery life, faster charging and camera upgrades help it stand apart from last year\u2019s iPhone 16, even if it looks almost identical. \u00a0<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

The iPhone 17 is a great choice for the average phone user who wants good cameras, solid battery life and a quality display. It\u2019s also a good size for anyone who doesn\u2019t like larger phones.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a photography enthusiast and a particularly heavy phone user, the 17 Pros might be the way to go, because you\u2019ll get a telephoto lens on the back, as well as longer battery life. On the other hand, if you\u2019re a lighter phone user, you can save more money by choosing the slightly more budget-friendly $599 iPhone 16E<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.3 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple A19\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 18-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLavender, sage, mist blue, black, white\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra free with a new line\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSamsung Galaxy S26 Ultra\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tInnovative Privacy Display\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLong-lasting battery\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tIntuitive AI features\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tConsistently great cameras\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSome inconsistent AI features\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo magnetic wireless charging\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMany of the same specs as the S25 Ultra\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wired Charging, May 2026<\/p>\n

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/a> isn\u2019t a radical upgrade from the S25 Ultra, but there are improvements where it counts. It\u2019s the thinnest and lightest Ultra, at 7.9mm thick and 214 grams \u2014 an admittedly minor slim-down that\u2019s still noticeable.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The hardware advancement that steals the spotlight is the Privacy Display, which prevents others from seeing what\u2019s on your screen. Unlike a $10 screen protector you can buy from Amazon, you can toggle Privacy Display on for certain apps, like a banking app or your email, as well as your lock screen, so no one sees your password or PIN. You can also enable it just for incoming notifications, so only part of your screen gets blacked out.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The S26 Ultra carries over the same camera specs as last year, but it consistently delivers high-quality images. Plus, a neat new Horizontal Lock feature when recording videos keeps the horizon level even as you rotate your phone 360 degrees, leading to astonishingly stable footage.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The S26 Ultra prioritizes both hardware and software. Along with a thinner design and the Privacy Display, there\u2019s also a handful of new intuitive AI features. For instance, Now Nudge surfaces real-time suggestions based on what\u2019s on your screen, so if someone asks for photos from your trip, it\u2019ll automatically point you toward those images in your Gallery so you don\u2019t have to dig for them. And Document Scan will automatically appear when you\u2019re snapping a photo of a document to remove shadows and creases, then let you export the final product as a PDF. Plus, the S26 Ultra\u2019s battery can last well over a day and a half, and it supports 60-watt wired charging, a major perk.<\/p>\n

Who\u2019s it best for<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a power user who likes having a larger display, a bigger battery and top-notch cameras \u2014 as well as the signature S Pen \u2014 the S26 Ultra is the way to go. It\u2019s a great choice for anyone who doesn\u2019t want to worry about charging their phone at the end of each day, since the battery can last well over a day and a half.<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

The S26 Ultra keeps its $1,300 price, even amid a RAM shortage that threatens to raise phone prices. But that\u2019s still not pocket change. If you don\u2019t need the most high-end cameras and prefer a smaller device, the baseline S26 shares many of the Ultra\u2019s features, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and all those AI features.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.9 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSnapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t200-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 50-megapixel (5x telephoto), 12-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCobalt violet, sky blue, black, white\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Samsung phone for most people\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSamsung Galaxy S26\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGood cameras\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tClean, modern phone design\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFun, even useful AI perks\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$100 price hike not worth extra storage\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t25W wired charging is comparatively slow\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNearly all upgrades are to software, not hardware\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The $900 Samsung Galaxy S26 is a leading flagship with a price hike, and while it\u2019s extremely likely that Samsung is just the first phonemaker in 2026 to give its phone a price hike, it still stings to have to pay $100 above last year\u2019s Galaxy S25. Still, there are some notable software and AI upgrades, including the impressive Horizontal Lock feature that super-stabilizes recorded footage, no matter how you twist the phone around while shooting video.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Galaxy S26 is a leading smartphone, a jack-of-all-trades that is blisteringly fast, takes good photos, shoots great videos, runs games well and has a decent battery. It\u2019s not the absolute best at any of these among today\u2019s top phones, but makes the podium for most of them, so it\u2019s an easy all-around choice. The new AI features are fun if situational, and aside from Horizontal Lock, there aren\u2019t any standouts. If one has to pay more for the phone, at least it starts at 256GB of storage.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

The Galaxy S26 is a reliable pick for anyone who just wants a great phone that can do anything. While it won\u2019t win any battery longevity awards (especially compared to the OnePlus 15), its cameras remain stellar, and its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip with 12GB of RAM result in smooth operations. It still gets seven years of software and security updates, so buyers will be able to keep it around for years and expect some AI features from newer Galaxy phones to trickle down, too.<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

The Galaxy S26 doesn\u2019t quite excel in anything \u2014 not battery life (OnePlus 15), photo AI features (Google Pixel 10 Pro) or display tech (its Galaxy S26 Ultra sibling). And the $100 price hike is more a reflection of the state of the industry than a result of upgrades, so if you\u2019re looking for a cheaper but still powerful option, look for the Galaxy S25 or other Android phones from last year.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.3 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSnapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t50-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 12-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBlack, white, cobalt violet, sky blue\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Abrar<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest phone for consuming content\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 8\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUnique, versatile design\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimized crease on main display\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLonger battery life than Z Fold 7\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSolid camera quality\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo telephoto lens\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo built-in magnets for Qi2 charging\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tHigh $1,900 starting price\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAI capabilities can be spotty\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Galaxy Z Fold 8<\/a>\u00a0is a refreshing spin on Samsung\u2019s existing book-style foldable design, with a squat, passport-sized build and a 4:3 aspect ratio when open, making it feel more like a tablet.\u00a0<\/p>\n

With a spacious 7.6-inch inside display, it\u2019s ideal for watching horizontal videos and multitasking in landscape orientation, and is well-suited for vertical content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok when turned to portrait. The 5.5-inch cover screen is just big enough to handle everyday tasks like sending a text, responding to an email or snapping a photo. Overall, it\u2019s an incredibly versatile yet compact device that\u2019s made for those of us who can\u2019t stop scrolling or binge-watching.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is not only adorable and satisfying to hold, but it\u2019s also quite practical if you spend a lot of time consuming content on social media or streaming platforms. It also doubles as a great platform for reading documents and ebooks when held in a portrait orientation. Because of its adaptability, it\u2019s well-suited for practically any type of media you want to consume.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

This phone is for anyone who spends a lot of time scrolling through social media, watching videos or reading digital documents or ebooks.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

If you want pro-level photography or a better canvas for multitasking, the more traditionally designed Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra might be a better fit for you.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCover: 5.5-inches; Main: 7.6 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSnapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCamera\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t50-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10 megapixel selfie (inner screen) 10-megapixel selfie (outer screen)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLavender, graphite, cream, pistachio (Samsung online exclusive)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tWhile the cosmic orange color gets all the attention, the iPhone 17 Pro looks dapper in dark blue. Curiously, there isn’t a black or space grey version of the Pro. \/ Celso Bulgatti\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest premium iPhone\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tiPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 17 Pro Max’s incredible battery life\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe brighter screen looks fantastic\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCenter Stage camera with the ability to take landscape selfies vertically is sweet\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tWished Dual Capture had a 50\/50 split\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tLive Translation’s Siri voice can overlap with speakers\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tiPhone 17 Pro battery life is on par with the iPhone 16 Pro\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tExpensive\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wireless Charging (iPhone 17 Pro), May 2026<\/p>\n

From the first moment I picked up the new $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max and $1,099 17 Pro, I was beguiled by their bold, bright redesign. It\u2019s a complete turnaround from the years of Apple\u2019s subdued titanium motif. The square camera bump of previous Pro models is now a body-wide bar that Apple calls the \u201ccamera plateau.\u201d The 17 Pro and Pro Max now come in actual colors \u2014 you won\u2019t find one in black or space gray. This phone, especially in cosmic orange, wants you to look at it.<\/p>\n

As I tested the new Pro phones, I was consistently impressed: Even after a full day of heavy use, the Pro Max\u2019s battery still had 22% or more left. The iPhone 17 Pro Max has the best battery life of any phone that CNET has ever tested.<\/p>\n

The 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max have the exact same rear cameras, all with 48-megapixel sensors. You can choose between the trio of lenses (wide-angle, ultrawide and telephoto) to capture photos at 12-, 24- or 48-megapixel resolutions. The telephoto camera has gone from the 16 Pro\u2019s 12-megapixel sensor with a 5x lens to a 48-megapixel sensor that\u2019s 56% larger with a new 4x telephoto lens. You read that right: The new Pro has a shorter optical zoom than its predecessor. But I find the short 4x zoom better for portraits, and the increase in detail and dynamic range in 4x photos is a big improvement over 5x snaps from the 16 Pro.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a new selfie camera on both Pro phones that Apple calls Center Stage. It not only takes 18-megapixel selfies, up from 12 megapixels on the 16 Pro, but you can hold the 17 Pro vertically and take a horizontal selfie thanks to a new square image sensor.<\/p>\n

I can\u2019t help but contrast the iPhone 17 Pro models to Apple\u2019s newest phone. The iPhone Air is thin, light, quiet and graceful \u2014 with a single rear camera, shorter battery life and $100 cheaper starting price. The 17 Pro and Pro Max are bold, loud, aggressive and powerful, and their daring design appeals to me. But features such as its amazing battery life, brighter screen, new selfie camera and iOS 26 are the real reasons to get either.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

I appreciate that Apple gave the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max personality. Gone is the minimal design for the sake of simplicity. We have a phone that is more durable, has a longer battery life and, when running iOS 26, comes with a number of significant \u201cquality of life\u201d improvements, like live translations for calls, texts and FaceTime.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max would be an excellent upgrade for someone coming from an iPhone 14 Pro or older. You get a bigger battery, a better screen, faster charging, newer cameras and a speedier processor that can handle graphics-intensive games and Apple Intelligence.<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

If you have an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, you don\u2019t need these new phones unless battery capacity on your current phone is low \u2014 and even then, it\u2019d be cheaper to simply have your battery swapped out. And unless you have a generous disposable income, iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max owners can sit this one out.<\/p>\n

Read our iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max review<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.3 or 6.9 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple A19 Pro\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (4x, 8x telephoto), 18-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSilver, dark blue, cosmic orange\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"The<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tThe Pixel 11 Pro Fold’s spotlight feature is its durability. \/ Abrar Al-Heeti\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMost durable foldable phone\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPixel 11 Pro Fold\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tDurable build\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThinner design over last year\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSlimmer bezels and slightly larger cover screen\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tPlenty of handy AI and software updates\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras and battery are a step down from other Pixel 11 Pro models\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$100 pricier than last year\u2019s foldable\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo anti-reflective display makes crease more prominent\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold<\/a> is Google\u2019s sleekest foldable phone yet. Measuring 5mm thick when open and 10.1mm thick when closed, it feels remarkably like a slab phone when you use the expansive 6.5-inch cover screen. The 8-inch inside screen is ideal for watching videos and multitasking.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Impressively, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold keeps durability at the forefront. A sturdy aluminum frame allows the phone to be relatively lightweight, and an IP68 rating protects it against both dust and water \u2014 a rarity in the world of foldables.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

Foldables are pricey, with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starting at $1,899. Having a durable device offers some peace of mind. That\u2019s the Pixel 11 Pro Fold\u2019s strong suit \u2014 quite literally. Along with an IP68 rating and scratch- and crack-resistant glass, Google\u2019s latest foldable still maintains a sleek profile, allowing it to feel relatively slim and light.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

If you tend to work or watch movies on your phone, a foldable with an expansive inner screen like the Pixel 11 Pro Fold can be a good fit. It also has the advantage of being durable, with a dust-resistant and waterproof design that means you can hopefully take the Pixel 11 Pro Fold to the beach without worrying about sand destroying it.<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold\u2019s expansive 6.5-inch cover screen is something of a double-edged sword. It\u2019s spacious enough to comfortably type, scroll and watch movies, but that also means I tend to forget there\u2019s a larger 8-inch screen inside, and so I typically stick to the cover screen.<\/p>\n

That can defeat the purpose of a foldable phone, but I like cracking open the Pixel Fold for multitasking and a more immersive viewing experience. If you don\u2019t have much use for a larger phone screen, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars by sticking with a premium slab phone like the Pixel 11 Pro or 11 Pro XL.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCover: 6.5 inches; Main: 8 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGoogle Tensor G6\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t48-megapixel (wide), 10.5-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (telephoto), 10 megapixel selfie (inner screen) 10-megapixel selfie (outer screen)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tObsidian, olive\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"The<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tThe back of the Pixel 11. \/ Joseph Maldonado\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest bridge from iPhone to Android\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPixel 11\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

Google\u2019s $899 Pixel 11<\/a> refines and improves its base phone to include many of the Pro-level features you may be looking for \u2014 including a third telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. The phone\u2019s one of the more iPhone-friendly Android phones out there, with an improved method for transferring data over from iOS, PixelSnap magnets that work with Apple\u2019s MagSafe accessories and AirDrop support via Android\u2019s Quick Share.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

While the Pixel 11 isn\u2019t Google\u2019s most powerful phone, it includes nearly all of the company\u2019s latest software and AI features. That includes Live Translate to automatically dub videos into other languages, Rambler voice dictation to remove filler words and omit any errors as you speak, and access to all of Google\u2019s Gemini assistant features. The phone\u2019s base price increase over the Pixel 10 is understandable, since its $899 price for 256GB matches last year\u2019s storage equivalent.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

This phone is an ideal upgrade for anyone coming from a Pixel 8 or older. It can also be a good fit for those looking to switch from an iPhone; if you\u2019re using an iPhone 14 or older, you\u2019ll see the most benefit from the Pixel 11\u2019s upgraded features.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

If you want a phone that\u2019s better for gaming, Samsung\u2019s Galaxy S26 and Apple\u2019s iPhone 17 series have processors that are better suited for graphically intensive multiplayer games. If you want the absolute best cameras and don\u2019t mind paying $200 more, the Pixel 11 Pro supports faster low-light photography and a 120x Pro Zoom that uses generative AI to sharpen details.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.3 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGoogle Tensor G6\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto), 10.5-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFrost, hibiscus, pistachio, obsidian\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Samsung flip phone\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSamsung Galaxy Z Flip 7\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 6.9-inch screen is immersive, with lovely colors and contrast\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tThe 4.1-inch screen looks incredible\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tIt’s durable and survived a drop onto concrete\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tOne UI 8 (Android 16) runs wonderfully\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$1,100 is still a lot, but Samsung gives the phone more value than the Flip 6\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGets warm when recording videos and playing games\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBattery life is the same as the Flip 6 despite a bigger battery\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tCover screen software has room to grow\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s note:\u00a0Samsung released the Galaxy Z Flip 8, a follow-up to last year\u2019s Galaxy Z Flip 7. If you\u2019re looking for a Z Flip 7, make sure you\u2019re getting a good discount, especially since the newer\u00a0Z Flip 8 has several launch deals<\/a>.<\/p>\n

When I first got my hands on Samsung\u2019s new Galaxy Z Flip 7<\/a>, I was delighted to discover that it has a smaller crease, larger cover screen, thinner design and bigger battery compared to last year\u2019s Galaxy Z Flip 6<\/a>. But as I tested the new clamshell phone, I became enthralled by its inner screen. At 6.9 inches, this is the biggest screen on any Samsung phone<\/a> aside from the Galaxy Z Fold 7<\/a>, which has an 8-inch foldable display.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Z Flip 7\u2019s large screen size makes content feel more immersive and colors look lovely and vivid. This led to epic TikTok and Instagram sessions, watching widescreen films such as A Working Man and Back to the Future, as well as jumping between two apps stacked vertically on the screen thanks to One UI 8\u2019s 90:10 split tool.<\/p>\n

Every time I open the Flip 7, I\u2019m consistently dumbfounded by how such a large display can unfurl from something about the size of a makeup compact. And when it\u2019s closed, there\u2019s a 4.1-inch cover screen that\u2019s fantastic in its own ways, with new clever animations for when you\u2019re recording a video, charging the phone or taking a selfie, all efficiently using the extra display real estate. In terms of functionality, though, the cover screen\u2019s software is about the same as the 3.4-inch one on the Flip 6.<\/p>\n

The Flip 7 impressed me in nearly every way but one: its battery life. It has a larger battery than the Flip 6, but it doesn\u2019t last any longer in daily use. It did consistently get me through a day on a single charge, often having 15% to 20% left, but there were also a few days where it needed an early evening top-off.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is the most fully realized version of Samsung\u2019s ideal of a flip phone since the launch of the original Galaxy Z Flip in 2020<\/a>. The Flip 7\u2019s appeal is simple: It\u2019s a thin phone with a big, bold screen that folds in half into a coaster-sized square. The larger cover screen and inner screen make content more immersive. It\u2019s design is thin (for a clamshell foldable) and comfortable to hold. Plus you get twice the storage this year compared to last.<\/p>\n

Who is it best for<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve been tempted by a clamshell-style foldable, you should definitely consider the Flip 7. If you have a Galaxy Z Flip 4<\/a> or older, the Flip 7 will be an upgrade in every way. It\u2019s harder to make that same recommendation for Flip 5<\/a> owners unless your phone is showing its age. And if you have a Galaxy Z Flip 6, you can sit this one out unless you really want those larger screens.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

If you spend a ton of time around dirt or sand, this phone isn\u2019t for you.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.9 inches and 4.1 inches (cover)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSamsung Exynos 2500\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCameras\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (selfie)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBlue shadow, jetblack, coralred, mint\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest cheap phone\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGoogle Pixel 10A\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tiPhone-convert friendly\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSimple, clean phone design\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGood at photography\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMissing several Pixel 10 features\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSimilar to the Pixel 9A\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

Google\u2019s Pixel 10A <\/a>remains one of the best value options at $499, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While it won\u2019t steal away anyone enamored by the more expensive Pixel 10<\/a>, it\u2019s still an easy recommendation when you just need a phone.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Pixel 10A\u2019s ability to send photos and files over AirDrop via Android\u2019s QuickShare makes this phone a lower-cost way to switch from an iPhone SE<\/a> to Android without losing that helpful feature. Even those that don\u2019t care about AirDrop can appreciate the Pixel 10A\u2019s camera, which remains one of the best available among phones under $500.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

Someone who wants a nice phone, but isn\u2019t interested in poring through technical details. It\u2019s also a nice gateway phone for people switching from an iPhone to Android<\/a>, thanks to its AirDrop support.<\/p>\n

Who shouldn\u2019t get it<\/p>\n

Google\u2019s prior A-series phones had been almost better versions of their pricier siblings with a lot of the same hardware, but the Pixel 10A doesn\u2019t follow this tradition thanks to its slower processor and lack of a telephoto camera, which the $799 Pixel 10 has. It\u2019s also not ideal if you absolutely need iMessage or FaceTime access.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6.3 inches\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProcessor\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGoogle Tensor G4\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCamera\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t48-megapixel wide, 13-megapixel ultrawide, 12-megapixel selfie\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tColors\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLavender, berry, obsidian, fog\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

Factors to consider when buying a new phone<\/p>\n

Pick the most important feature: Is it screen size? Camera quality? Battery life? This will help narrow down your choices. Phones like the iPhone 17 Pro Max or Galaxy S26 Ultra cost well over $1,000, for example, but pack large batteries that will last most people a day and a half to two days on a single charge.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t dismiss $500 to $800 phones:\u00a0You can get a great phone that does almost everything that a more expensive flagship model can do for a fraction of the price. Google\u2019s Pixel 10 (which starts at $799) packs a great camera, a bright screen and unique AI features, but the $499 Pixel 10A has most of the same key specs and comes at a lower price.<\/p>\n

Shop Cyber Monday: Look for sales and deals close to holidays, especially Amazon\u2019s Prime Day and Cyber Monday.
Consider last year\u2019s models: When a new phone launches, stores and carriers discount their older phones to clear existing stock.<\/p>\n

See the phone in person:\u00a0It\u2019s worth going to a store and trying out a potential phone. You may love or hate the way it looks and feels.<\/p>\n

Decide on Android or iPhone: Do you have a lot of iPhone apps and Apple subscriptions? Stick with an iPhone. If you\u2019ve invested in loads of Android apps, you may want to stay on that side of the fence. Otherwise, it\u2019s simple enough to switch platforms<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Budget for a case and screen protector:\u00a0Phones sold today are more durable than phones from even a few years ago, but it still might be a good idea to protect your phone with a case to keep it in tip-top shape.<\/p>\n

How we test phones<\/p>\n

We test every phone in real-world scenarios, focusing on its features, design, performance, cameras, battery life and overall value. We document our findings in an initial review that is periodically updated when there are software updates, or to compare it against new phones from competitors such as Apple, Samsung, Google and OnePlus.<\/p>\n

Throughout our testing, we\u2019re able to evaluate factors such as how long a phone lasts on a single charge, how the camera handles various lighting conditions, how durable the phone is in day-to-day use and whether performance and design align with the price. We share those insights to give prospective buyers a sense of what to expect when making such a huge purchase.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

Samsung\u2019s foldable options can be a good choice if you\u2019re looking for a fresh phone design. <\/p>\n

Zooey Liao\/Numi Prasarn\/CNET<\/p>\n

Photography<\/p>\n

Photography is a major focus for most phones these days, so we take pictures and videos of various subjects in a variety of settings and lighting scenarios. We try out any new camera modes, such as Center Stage that debuted with the iPhone 17 series, or the new Camera Coach photo tool<\/a> that launched with the Google Pixel 10 series.<\/p>\n

Battery life<\/p>\n

Battery testing is conducted in a variety of ways. We assess how long a phone lasts during a typical day of use and note how it performs during more focused sessions of video calls, media streaming and gaming. We also conduct a video playback test, as a simple, replicable measure of pure battery life, which isn\u2019t always included in the initial review but sometimes added later in an update.<\/p>\n

We use benchmarking apps to measure each phone\u2019s performance, alongside our own anecdotal experiences using the phone for our review. Most noteworthy is how graphics and animations look. Are they smooth? Do they lag or stutter? We also look at how quickly the phone switches between horizontal and vertical orientations, and how fast the camera app opens and is ready to take a photo.<\/p>\n

We perform processor-heavy tasks like editing photos, exporting videos and playing games. We evaluate whether a newer version of a particular phone includes enough features to make it worth upgrading from older models.<\/p>\n

\"alpine-green-iphone-13-pro\"<\/p>\n

We also test every phone we review for the basics like making a phone call.<\/p>\n

Kevin Heinz\/CNET<\/p>\n

Read\u00a0more:\u00a0How We Test Phones<\/a><\/p>\n

Other phones we tested<\/p>\n

\"iphone-15-pro-max-is-the-upgrade-worth-it-mp4-00-04-23-21-still001.png\"<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The iPhone 16 Pro is still a solid pick.<\/p>\n

Celso Bulgatti\/CNET<\/p>\n

While Apple doesn\u2019t sell the iPhone 16 Pro<\/a> anymore, you can still find it at carriers and third-party retailers. The 16 Pro has a 6.3-inch adaptive-refresh rate screen that adjusts between 1-120Hz depending on what\u2019s on the screen. It has excellent cameras, a fast processor, an always-on display, supports iOS 26 and safety features like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via Satellite. Driving all these upgrades is Apple\u2019s A18 Pro chip, which feels peppy. Check out our iPhone 16 Pro review<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Phone FAQs<\/p>\n

What is the best time to buy a phone?<\/p>\n

Typically, the best time to buy a phone is just after it\u2019s been announced. Some companies offer really great deals for pre-orders and bundle the phone with accessories at no extra cost. Phone makers usually offer high trade-in values for the first month on old phones that can bring a new phone\u2019s price down by hundreds of dollars \u2014 if not cover the cost entirely.<\/p>\n

How long should a phone battery last?<\/p>\n

Most smartphones \u2014 even those at the top end \u2014 should be able to deliver a full day of mixed use out of a single charge. That means you should have a bit of juice left at the end of your day, but you should expect to give it a full charge when you plug it in next to your bed at night.<\/p>\n

How much storage should I get on a phone?<\/p>\n

Most phones tend to come with a minimum of 128GB of storage, which is a decent amount for apps, games and locally stored music. But look for a phone with at least 256GB. As phones can take higher-resolution photos and videos, it\u2019s important to think about what your phone\u2019s storage might look like in two or three years. It\u2019s also important to think about what you\u2019ll be doing with your phone: If you want to download and play a lot of games, then consider opting for a higher-capacity version. So if you can afford to get a phone with 256GB of storage, your future self will thank you.<\/p>\n

What are the best phone brands currently?<\/p>\n

In 2026, some of the best phone makers include Apple, Samsung, Google and Motorola.<\/p>\n

What to look forward to<\/p>\n

Apple is expected to unveil its long-awaited foldable iPhone<\/a>, which could help to bolster the entire foldables category. While companies like Samsung, Google and Motorola have released innovative clamshell and book-style devices in recent years, foldables firmly remain a niche category. But Apple\u2019s entry could bring more attention to the space \u2014 and more enticing options for people who want a device that feels radically different<\/a> to a slab phone.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Patrick\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPatrick Holland\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDirector of Content\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs Director of Content, Hardware, I lead CNET’s team of journalists and editors, covering news and testing on smartphones, laptops, wireless carriers, AI, and pretty much anything with a battery.
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Abrar\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAbrar Al-Heeti\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSenior Technology Reporter\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAbrar’s interests include phones, streaming, autonomous vehicles, internet trends, entertainment, pop culture and digital accessibility. In addition to her current role, she’s worked for CNET’s video, culture and news teams. She graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Though Illinois is home, she now loves San Francisco — steep inclines and all.
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"David\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDavid Lumb\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tManaging Editor, Mobile\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDavid Lumb is a managing editor for the mobile team, covering mobile and gaming spaces. Before CNET, he covered tech, gaming, and culture for TechRadar, Engadget, Popular Mechanics, NBC Asian America, Increment, Fast Company and others. As a true Californian, he lives for coffee, beaches and burritos.
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Andrew\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndrew Lanxon\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEditor at Large; Lead Photographer, Europe\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhen he’s not testing the latest phones or phone cameras, Andrew can normally be found with his own camera in hand or behind his drums or eating his stash of home-cooked food — sometimes all at once.
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Mike\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMike Sorrentino\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSenior Editor\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMike Sorrentino is a Senior Editor for Mobile, covering phones, texting apps and smartwatches — obsessing about how we can make the most of them. Mike also keeps an eye out on the movie and toy industry, and outside of work enjoys biking and pizza making.
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"We test dozens of phones each year, but only a few come out on top. From Apple\u2019s iPhone…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":612933,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[61,60,202,80],"class_list":["post-612932","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-mobile","tag-ie","tag-ireland","tag-mobile","tag-technology"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/612932","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=612932"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/612932\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/612933"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=612932"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=612932"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=612932"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}