We test dozens of phones each year, but only a few come out on top. From Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro to Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series, as well as foldable phones like the iPhone Duo, there’s a range of options for different needs and budgets. The best phones on this list have outstanding battery life, cameras that take stunning photos and vibrant displays. Here are our top phone picks for iOS and Android.
Our Picks
Bottom Line
With the iPhone 17, Apple has significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $899 iPhone 17 — …
Pros & Cons
Upgraded 1-120Hz display
New camera features
Longer battery life
Faster charging
Minimal design updates to last year
Apple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wired Charging, May 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t a radical upgrade from the S25 Ultra, but there are i…
Pros & Cons
Innovative Privacy Display
Long-lasting battery
Intuitive AI features
Consistently great cameras
Some inconsistent AI features
No magnetic wireless charging
Many of the same specs as the S25 Ultra
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are photography powerhouses. Their variable aperture, manual camera controls and focus tracking are a cam…
Pros & Cons
Outstanding cameras that excel in taking photos in a variety of conditions, especially in low-light environments and at night
Fast charging that added 77% to the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery in just 30 minutes
Durable build that feels incredibly well-built and sturdy to use
Focus Tracking is outstanding to make sure a fast-moving, unpredictable subject (think a kid or pet) is in focus for photos and videos
Reference Image is a welcome addition at a time when we are bombarded with AI-generated and altered imagery
Expensive: The starting price got a $100 price bump, pushing base models of the Pro to $1,199 and Pro Max to $1,299
Heavy: The iPhone 18 Pro Max weighs 249 grams, which will cause wrist fatigue more quickly for some people
Camera Control can’t adjust the aperture or shutter speed, which seems like a giant miss
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
The Samsung Galaxy S26 is a leading flagship with a price hike over last year, but there are some notable software and AI upgrades, including …
Pros & Cons
Good cameras
Clean, modern phone design
Fun, even useful AI perks
$100 price hike not worth extra storage
25W wired charging is comparatively slow
Nearly all upgrades are to software, not hardware
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is a refreshing spin on Samsung’s existing book-style foldable design, with a squat, passport-sized build and a 4:3 aspect…
Pros & Cons
Unique, versatile design
Minimized crease on main display
Longer battery life than Z Fold 7
Solid camera quality
No telephoto lens
No built-in magnets for Qi2 charging
High $1,900 starting price
AI capabilities can be spotty
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
The iPhone Duo is by no means the first of its kind, but that doesn’t stop Apple’s passport-size foldable from standing out amongst its peers….
Pros & Cons
iOS 27 integration offers a seamless experience across both displays
Versatile passport-size design works well across apps
48-megapixel wide and ultrawide cameras take crisp photos
Matte inner display reduces glare and crease appearance, offers a satisfying feel
IP68 rating proves sleekness can coexist with top-of-the-line water and dust resistance
Under-display FaceTime camera makes inner screen more immersive
Lack of FaceID detracts from the premium experience
Without a telephoto camera, ProRAW or ProRes, photo capabilities are more limited than on the iPhone 18 Pro
FaceTime camera isn’t ideal for photos or video; footage isn’t as sharp as what’s captured on the cover selfie camera
Multitasking is limited to landscape mode on the inner screen without resizing, while portrait mode only supports multitasking through picture-in-picture video playback
Right-side controls could be a struggle for left-handed people using the Duo one-handed
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is Google’s sleekest foldable phone yet. Measuring 5mm thick when open and 10.1mm thick when closed, it feels remarkably…
Pros & Cons
Durable build
Thinner design over last year
Slimmer bezels and slightly larger cover screen
Plenty of handy AI and software updates
Cameras and battery are a step down from other Pixel 11 Pro models
$100 pricier than last year’s foldable
No anti-reflective display makes crease more prominent
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 8 packs a lot into its thin and foldable frame, making it a joy to use in hand. Plus, Samsung’s One UI 9 combined with…
Pros & Cons
Thin and light design
Improved cover screen software
Most powerful flip phone so far
Higher price
Weaker battery life
Galaxy AI feels pushy
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
Google’s $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…
Bottom Line
The Motorola Razr 2026 remains the cheapest mainstream foldable, even with a $100 price bump owing to the RAM shortage. But it’s no slouch in …
Pros & Cons
Solid, reliable design with fun colors
Good cover screen for selfies
Fast-charging battery
Price hike of $100
Specs struggle with multitasking
Limited three-year Android support
Expand Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
Google’s Pixel 10A remains one of the best value options at $599, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While …
Pros & Cons
iPhone-convert friendly
Simple, clean phone design
Good at photography
Missing several Pixel 10 features
Similar to the Pixel 9A
Expand Pros & Cons
Show 6 More
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What is the best phone for most people?
Though Apple has released the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, the best phone for most people right now is the iPhone 17. It shares many features with Apple’s pricier 17 Pro models, but at a relatively lower $929 starting price (or $899 if you activate through a carrier). It supports newer camera capabilities such as Dual Capture and Center Stage selfies, and has a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate for smoother scrolling and support for the always-on display.
While the iPhone 17 shares a striking resemblance to the previous year’s 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. A Ceramic Shield 2 display offers three times better scratch resistance, according to Apple, so if you’re 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.
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’s three-hour streaming test, the iPhone 17’s battery dropped from 100% to 89%, while the iPhone 16 hit 86%. The iPhone 17 was also one of the top performers in CNET’s battery lab testing.
The iPhone 17 also has helpful capabilities like Live Translation, Call Screening and a Liquid Glass interface. You can also update to iOS 27 for the latest features like a more capable Siri (with a handy new bill splitting feature), automatically generated subtitles in videos and paste shortcuts on the keyboard. 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 you’ll find 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.
Recent updates
In October 2026, we added the iPhone Duo.
Best phones of 2026
Abrar Al-Heeti/Zooey Liao/CNET
Best iPhone
Apple iPhone 17
Upgraded 1-120Hz display
New camera features
Longer battery life
Faster charging
Minimal design updates to last year
Apple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress
With the iPhone 17, Apple has significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $899 iPhone 17 — which saw a $100 price hike following the release of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September — 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 by updating to iOS 27, you can tap into improved Siri capabilities. All that without spending upwards of $1,100 for a Pro model, albeit with slightly scaled-back battery life and cameras.
Why we like it
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’s iPhone 16, even if it looks almost identical.
Who it’s best for
The iPhone 17 is a great choice for the average phone user who wants good cameras, solid battery life and a quality display. It’s also a good size for anyone who doesn’t like larger phones.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re a photography enthusiast and a particularly heavy phone user, the 17 Pro or 18 Pro might be the way to go, because you’ll get a telephoto lens on the back, as well as longer battery life. On the other hand, if you’re a lighter phone user, you can save more money by choosing the slightly more budget-friendly $599 iPhone 17E.
Screen size
6.3 inches
Processor
Apple A19
Cameras
48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 18-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Lavender, sage, mist blue, black, white
Get a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra free with a new line
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Innovative Privacy Display
Long-lasting battery
Intuitive AI features
Consistently great cameras
Some inconsistent AI features
No magnetic wireless charging
Many of the same specs as the S25 Ultra
CNET Labs Award for Fastest Wired Charging, May 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t a radical upgrade from the S25 Ultra, but there are improvements where it counts. It’s the thinnest and lightest Ultra, at 7.9mm thick and 214 grams — an admittedly minor slim-down that’s still noticeable.
The hardware advancement that steals the spotlight is the Privacy Display, which prevents others from seeing what’s 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.
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.
Why we like it
The S26 Ultra prioritizes both hardware and software. Along with a thinner design and the Privacy Display, there’s also a handful of new intuitive AI features. For instance, Now Nudge surfaces real-time suggestions based on what’s on your screen, so if someone asks for photos from your trip, it’ll automatically point you toward those images in your Gallery so you don’t have to dig for them. And Document Scan will automatically appear when you’re 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’s battery can last well over a day and a half, and it supports 60-watt wired charging, a major perk.
Who’s it best for
If you’re a power user who likes having a larger display, a bigger battery and top-notch cameras — as well as the signature S Pen — the S26 Ultra is the way to go. It’s a great choice for anyone who doesn’t 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.
Who shouldn’t get it
The S26 Ultra isn’t cheap. If you don’t need the most high-end cameras and prefer a smaller device, the baseline S26 shares many of the Ultra’s features, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and all those AI features.
Read CNET’s Galaxy S26 Ultra review.
Screen size
6.9 inches
Processor
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Cameras
200-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 50-megapixel (5x telephoto), 12-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Cobalt violet, sky blue, black, white
Owners of the new iPhone 18 Pro Max who are also on AT&T may need a new phone already. / Patrick Holland/CNET
Best premium iPhone
iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max
Outstanding cameras that excel in taking photos in a variety of conditions, especially in low-light environments and at night
Fast charging that added 77% to the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery in just 30 minutes
Durable build that feels incredibly well-built and sturdy to use
Focus Tracking is outstanding to make sure a fast-moving, unpredictable subject (think a kid or pet) is in focus for photos and videos
Reference Image is a welcome addition at a time when we are bombarded with AI-generated and altered imagery
Expensive: The starting price got a $100 price bump, pushing base models of the Pro to $1,199 and Pro Max to $1,299
Heavy: The iPhone 18 Pro Max weighs 249 grams, which will cause wrist fatigue more quickly for some people
Camera Control can’t adjust the aperture or shutter speed, which seems like a giant miss
Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are photography powerhouses. Their variable aperture, manual camera controls and focus tracking are a camera nerd’s dream. But when you combine that niche appeal with an $1,199 starting price ($1,299 for the 18 Pro Max), reality starts to come into focus. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max’s features and price expand the gap between Apple’s flagship Pro versions and the standard model, which was not updated to round out the 18 family, and is now expected early next year. I genuinely think most people would be better served by grabbing an iPhone 17, even at its higher $929 starting price, than one of the new Pros. Heck, I’d even say look at the iPhone 16. I mean, do you really need that telephoto camera?
Why we like it
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are aimed more at creative types than at regular folks, but that doesn’t change the fact that they’re outstanding, powerful phones. The battery life in my testing so far matches that of the 17 Pro and Pro Max, and charging is fast. iOS 27’s improvements make interacting with the iPhone feel lively and less tedious. I’ve enjoyed Siri AI and think that when more folks try out the beta voice assistant, it will win over a lot of new fans.
Who it’s best for
This is a solid upgrade for those coming from an iPhone 14 Pro and older. And iPhone 15 Pro owners, check your battery’s capacity and health. I’d recommend replacing the battery instead of upgrading right now, especially in this economy.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re just automatically upgrading from one pro iPhone to another, slow down. Owners of the iPhone 16 Pro or 17 Pro can comfortably sit this year out. Download iOS 27 and treat yourself to a nice meal with your loved ones instead. And while the iPhone 18 Pro and the upcoming foldable iPhone Duo are both positioned as creative tools, it’s like comparing a luxury SUV against a convertible.
Read CNET’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max review.
Screen size
6.3 and 6.7 inches
Processor
Apple A20 Pro
Cameras
48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (4x, 8x telephoto), 18-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Burgundy, black, silver, glacier
The Samsung phone for most people
Samsung Galaxy S26
Good cameras
Clean, modern phone design
Fun, even useful AI perks
$100 price hike not worth extra storage
25W wired charging is comparatively slow
Nearly all upgrades are to software, not hardware
The Samsung Galaxy S26 is a leading flagship with a price hike over last year, but 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.
Why we like it
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’s not the absolute best at any of these among today’s top phones, but makes the podium for most of them, so it’s an easy all-around choice. The new AI features are fun if situational, and aside from Horizontal Lock, there aren’t any standouts. If one has to pay more for the phone, at least it starts at 256GB of storage.
Who it’s best for
The Galaxy S26 is a reliable pick for anyone who just wants a great phone that can do anything. While it won’t 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.
Who shouldn’t get it
The Galaxy S26 doesn’t quite excel in anything — not battery life (OnePlus 15), photo AI features (Google Pixel 11 Pro) or display tech (its Galaxy S26 Ultra sibling). And its price hike is more a reflection of the state of the industry than a result of upgrades, so if you’re looking for a cheaper but still powerful option, look for the Galaxy S25 or other Android phones from last year.
Read CNET’s Galaxy S26 review.
Screen size
6.3 inches
Processor
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Cameras
50-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 12-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Black, white, cobalt violet, sky blue
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 debuted over the summer. Its pricing starts at $1,900. / Andrew Lanxon/CNET
Best phone for consuming content
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Unique, versatile design
Minimized crease on main display
Longer battery life than Z Fold 7
Solid camera quality
No telephoto lens
No built-in magnets for Qi2 charging
High $1,900 starting price
AI capabilities can be spotty
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is a refreshing spin on Samsung’s 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.
With a spacious 7.6-inch inside display, it’s 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’s an incredibly versatile yet compact device that’s made for those of us who can’t stop scrolling or binge-watching.
Why we like it
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is not only adorable and satisfying to hold, but it’s 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’s well-suited for practically any type of media you want to consume.
Who it’s best for
This phone is for anyone who spends a lot of time scrolling through social media, watching videos or reading digital documents or ebooks.
Who shouldn’t get it
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.
Read CNET’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 review.
Screen size
Cover: 5.5-inches; Main: 7.6 inches
Processor
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Camera
50-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10 megapixel selfie (inner screen) 10-megapixel selfie (outer screen)
Colors
Lavender, graphite, cream, pistachio (Samsung online exclusive)
The iPhone Duo has a 7.6-inch inner dispaly. / Celso Bulgatti/CNET
Best foldable phone for hardware-software integration
Apple iPhone Duo
iOS 27 integration offers a seamless experience across both displays
Versatile passport-size design works well across apps
48-megapixel wide and ultrawide cameras take crisp photos
Matte inner display reduces glare and crease appearance, offers a satisfying feel
IP68 rating proves sleekness can coexist with top-of-the-line water and dust resistance
Under-display FaceTime camera makes inner screen more immersive
Lack of FaceID detracts from the premium experience
Without a telephoto camera, ProRAW or ProRes, photo capabilities are more limited than on the iPhone 18 Pro
FaceTime camera isn’t ideal for photos or video; footage isn’t as sharp as what’s captured on the cover selfie camera
Multitasking is limited to landscape mode on the inner screen without resizing, while portrait mode only supports multitasking through picture-in-picture video playback
Right-side controls could be a struggle for left-handed people using the Duo one-handed
The iPhone Duo is by no means the first of its kind, but that doesn’t stop Apple’s passport-size foldable from standing out amongst its peers. Seamless software integration and unique hardware touches lend to the premium experience. If you’ve been waiting to buy a foldable phone but didn’t want to leave iOS, there’s finally a great option for you.
Why we like it
The iPhone Duo shows how intuitive foldable phones can be when hardware and software work in harmony. iOS is seamless across both screens, and apps that have been optimized for the Duo smoothly transition as the phone is opened or closed, thanks to the uniform 1.4:1 aspect ratio.
The Duo’s passport-size design makes it easy to slip into a pocket, and it has a nice, compact in-hand feel. Plus, the matte inner display reduces glare and the appearance of a crease, leading to a more immersive experience when watching videos or reading.
Who it’s best for
The iPhone Duo is great for people who work on their phone; the larger inner display is handy for jotting down notes, editing videos or writing in a document, for instance. If you’ve wanted a phone-tablet hybrid that’s small enough to fit in a pocket but that can unfold into a larger display for watching videos and multitasking, then the Duo is a solid choice – especially if you want to stick with iOS.
Who shouldn’t get it
The Duo – and foldable phones in general – isn’t for everyone. If you don’t have a need to multitask or work or watch videos on your phone, there’s not much of a draw here. Pro-level photographers will likely be deterred by the lack of a telephoto camera, ProRAW capture and ProRes video. You also have to be OK with adapting to elements like a shorter screen when the Duo is closed, plus the lack of FaceID.
Read CNET’s iPhone Duo review.
Screen size
Cover: 5.4 inches; Main: 7.6 inches
Processor
A20 Pro
Cameras
48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 12-megapixel selfie (outer screen), FaceTime selfie (inner screen; no resolution provided)
Colors
Star white, night sky
The Pixel 11 Pro Fold’s spotlight feature is its durability. / Abrar Al-Heeti/CNET
Most durable foldable phone
Pixel 11 Pro Fold
Durable build
Thinner design over last year
Slimmer bezels and slightly larger cover screen
Plenty of handy AI and software updates
Cameras and battery are a step down from other Pixel 11 Pro models
$100 pricier than last year’s foldable
No anti-reflective display makes crease more prominent
The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is Google’s 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.
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 — a rarity in the world of foldables.
Why we like it
Foldables are pricey, with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starting at $1,899. Having a durable device offers some peace of mind. That’s the Pixel 11 Pro Fold’s strong suit — quite literally. Along with an IP68 rating and scratch- and crack-resistant glass, Google’s latest foldable still maintains a sleek profile, allowing it to feel relatively slim and light.
Who it’s best for
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.
Who shouldn’t get it
The Pixel 11 Pro Fold’s expansive 6.5-inch cover screen is something of a double-edged sword. It’s spacious enough to comfortably type, scroll and watch movies, but that also means I tend to forget there’s a larger 8-inch screen inside, and so I typically stick to the cover screen.
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’t 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.
Read CNET’s Pixel 11 Pro Fold review.
Screen size
Cover: 6.5 inches; Main: 8 inches
Processor
Google Tensor G6
Cameras
48-megapixel (wide), 10.5-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (telephoto), 10 megapixel selfie (inner screen) 10-megapixel selfie (outer screen)
Colors
Obsidian, olive
Best premium flip phone
Galaxy Z Flip 8
Thin and light design
Improved cover screen software
Most powerful flip phone so far
Higher price
Weaker battery life
Galaxy AI feels pushy
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 8 packs a lot into its thin and foldable frame, making it a joy to use in hand. Plus, Samsung’s One UI 9 combined with Android 17 gives the Z Flip 8 fun features including My FanCam, which uses AI to track someone in a video so it looks as though the camera is following them. It also makes it a lot easier to switch from an iPhone if you’re making the leap to an Android phone.
Why we like it
The Z Flip 8 has a significantly improved cover screen, making it easier to use just about any Android app on it. Even with its thinner design, the phone still gets one of the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processors for snappy performance.
Who it’s best for
The Z Flip 8 is a great option for Galaxy fans that want something more compact that unfolds into a more standard-size phone. Seven years of software and security support should also make it a good long-term option.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you want a flip phone with more battery life, Motorola’s Razr Ultra will cost more at $1,500, but it has a bigger battery and faster wired charging than the Z Flip 8.
Read CNET’s Galaxy Z Flip 8 review.
Screen size
4.1-inch cover; 6.9-inch internal
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Cameras
50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Mint, pink, cream, graphite
The back of the Pixel 11. / Joseph Maldonado/CNET
Best bridge from iPhone to Android
Pixel 11
Google’s $899 Pixel 11 refines and improves its base phone to include many of the Pro-level features you may be looking for — including a third telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. The phone’s 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’s MagSafe accessories and AirDrop support via Android’s Quick Share.
Why we like it
While the Pixel 11 isn’t Google’s most powerful phone, it includes nearly all of the company’s 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’s Gemini assistant features. The phone’s base price increase over the Pixel 10 is understandable, since its $899 price for 256GB matches last year’s storage equivalent.
Who it’s best for
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’re using an iPhone 14 or older, you’ll see the most benefit from the Pixel 11’s upgraded features.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you want a phone that’s better for gaming, Samsung’s Galaxy S26 and Apple’s iPhone 17 series have processors that are better suited for graphically intensive multiplayer games. If you want the absolute best cameras and don’t 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.
Screen size
6.3 inches
Processor
Google Tensor G6
Cameras
48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto), 10.5-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Frost, hibiscus, pistachio, obsidian
Best-value flip phone for most people
Motorola Razr (2026)
Solid, reliable design with fun colors
Good cover screen for selfies
Fast-charging battery
Price hike of $100
Specs struggle with multitasking
Limited three-year Android support
The Motorola Razr 2026 remains the cheapest mainstream foldable, even with a $100 price bump owing to the RAM shortage. But it’s no slouch in the specs department, with a decently powerful processor, dual 50-megapixal rear cameras and a large 3.6-inch cover screen that goes up to a 165Hz refresh rate. It has many of the same premium features as its pricier Razr Plus and Razr Ultra siblings, leaving little reason to pick them over the Razr.
Why we like it
The Razr’s 4-inch cover screen is large enough to handle any quick tasks, from sending simple text and email responses to checking calendar events and weather — but its real value is in shooting high-megapixel selfies with its rear cameras. It’s a capable phone for handling everything else using its 6.9-inch inner display, with a MediaTek Dimensity 7450X chip, 12GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage.
Who it’s best for
Folks who want a pocketable phone with good cameras for casual shots are the best demographic for the Razr 2026. Its folding design is its most appealing feature, and its cover screen is large enough for checking notifications and taking selfies.
Who shouldn’t get it
The Razr 2026 isn’t without weaknesses; while most US retailers will sell the version with 256GB of storage, there are configurations starting at 128GB, which is below most other phones and leaves little room for photos, videos, games and other things that take up space. Anyone who shoots a lot of photos or saves files on their phone should take pause; ditto for folks who want their phone to take the best pictures, since the Razr’s shooters aren’t quite up to par with Samsung, Apple or Google’s phone cameras. Its processor is less powerful than other phones, so folks who want blistering performance should look elsewhere.
Read CNET’s Motorola Razr (2026) review.
Screen size
3.6-inch (cover), 6.9-inch (inner)
Processor
MediaTek Dimensity 7450X
Cameras
50-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 32-megapixel (selfie)
Colors
Bright White, violet Ice, sporting green, hematite
Best budget phone
Google Pixel 10A
iPhone-convert friendly
Simple, clean phone design
Good at photography
Missing several Pixel 10 features
Similar to the Pixel 9A
Google’s Pixel 10A remains one of the best value options at $599, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While it won’t steal away anyone enamored by the more expensive Pixel 10, it’s still an easy recommendation when you just need a phone.
Why we like it
The Pixel 10A’s ability to send photos and files over AirDrop via Android’s QuickShare makes this phone a lower-cost way to switch from an iPhone SE to Android without losing that helpful feature. Even those that don’t care about AirDrop can appreciate the Pixel 10A’s camera, which remains one of the best available among phones under $600.
Who it’s best for
Someone who wants a nice phone, but isn’t interested in poring through technical details. It’s also a nice gateway phone for people switching from an iPhone to Android, thanks to its AirDrop support.
Who shouldn’t get it
Google’s 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’t follow this tradition thanks to its slower processor and lack of a telephoto camera, which the $799 Pixel 10 has. It’s also not ideal if you absolutely need iMessage or FaceTime access.
Screen size
6.3 inches
Processor
Google Tensor G4
Camera
48-megapixel wide, 13-megapixel ultrawide, 12-megapixel selfie
Colors
Lavender, berry, obsidian, fog
Factors to consider when buying a new phone
Pick the most important feature: Is it screen size? Camera quality? Battery life? This will help narrow down your choices. Phones like the iPhone 18 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.
Don’t dismiss $500 to $800 phones: You can get a great phone that does almost everything that a more expensive flagship model can do for a fraction of the price. Google’s Pixel 11 (which starts at $899) 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.
Shop Cyber Monday: Look for sales and deals close to holidays, especially Amazon’s Prime Day and Cyber Monday.
Consider last year’s models: When a new phone launches, stores and carriers discount their older phones to clear existing stock.
See the phone in person: It’s worth going to a store and trying out a potential phone. You may love or hate the way it looks and feels.
Decide on Android or iPhone: Do you have a lot of iPhone apps and Apple subscriptions? Stick with an iPhone. If you’ve invested in loads of Android apps, you may want to stay on that side of the fence. Otherwise, it’s simple enough to switch platforms.
Budget for a case and screen protector: Phones 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.
How we test phones
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.
Throughout our testing, we’re 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.
Samsung’s foldable options can be a good choice if you’re looking for a fresh phone design.
Zooey Liao/Numi Prasarn/CNET
Photography
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 that launched with the Google Pixel 10 series.
Battery life
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’t always included in the initial review but sometimes added later in an update.
We use benchmarking apps to measure each phone’s 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.
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.
The iPhone 18 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra are two top-tier phones with premium cameras.Abrar Al-Heeti/CNET
Read more: How We Test Phones
Phone FAQs
What is the best time to buy a phone?
Typically, the best time to buy a phone is just after it’s been announced. Some companies offer 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’s price down by hundreds of dollars — if not cover the cost entirely.
How long should a phone battery last?
Most smartphones — even those at the top end — 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.
How much storage should I get on a phone?
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’s important to think about what your phone’s storage might look like in two or three years. It’s also important to think about what you’ll 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.
What are the best phone brands currently?
In 2026, some of the best phone makers include Apple, Samsung, Google and Motorola.
Apple iPhone 17iPhone 18 ProSamsung Galaxy S26 UltraSamsung Galaxy S26Google Pixel 11Google Pixel 10ADisplay size, tech, resolution, refresh rate6.3-inch OLED; 2,622 x 1,206 pixel resolution; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate6.3-inch OLED, 2,622×1,206 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate6.9-inch AMOLED; 3,120×1,440 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.3-inch AMOLED; 2,340×1,080 pixels; 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.3-inch OLED, 2,424×1,080 pixels, 60 to120 Hz variable refresh rate6.3-inch POLED, 2,424×1,080 pixels, 60-120 Hz variable refresh ratePixel density460ppi460 ppi500 ppi411 ppi422 ppi422 ppiDimensions (inches)5.89 x 2.81 x 0.31 in5.9 x 2.83 x 0.3 in6.44×3.07×0.315.89×2.82×0.286.0×2.8×0.3in6.1×2.9×0.4Dimensions (millimeters)149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95 mm150 x 71.9 x 8.75mm163.6×78.1×7.9149.6×71.7×7.2152.4×71.1×7.6mm154.7×73.3×8.9Weight (grams, ounces)177 g (6.24 oz)211 g (7.4 oz)214 g (7.55 oz.)167g (5.89 oz.)195 g (6.9 oz)183 g (6.5 oz)Mobile softwareiOS 26iOS 27Android 16Android 16Android 17Android 16Camera48-megapixel (wide)
48-megapixel (ultrawide)48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (telephoto)200-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto), 50-megapixel (5x telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto)48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto)48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide)Front-facing camera18-megapixel18-megapixel12-megapixel12-megapixel10.5-megapixel13-megapixelVideo capture4K4K8K8K4K4KProcessorApple A19Apple A20 ProQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for GalaxyQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for GalaxyGoogle Tensor G6Google Tensor G4RAM + storageRAM N/A + 256GB, 512GBRAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB12GB RAM + 256GB; 16GB RAM + 512GB, 1TB12GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB12GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB8GB + 128GB, 256GBExpandable storageNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneBattery3,692 mAhUp to 24 hours5,000 mAh4,300 mAh4,985 mAh5,100 mAhFingerprint sensorNone (Face ID)None (Face ID)Under displayUnder displayUnder displayUnder displayConnectorUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CHeadphone jackNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneSpecial featuresApple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: black, white, mist blue, sage, lavender. Fast charge up to 50% in 20 minutes using 40W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger.Apple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Siri AI. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: black, silver, glacier, burgundy. Fast charge up to 50% in 20 minutes using 40W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger.Aluminum frame; 7 years of OS and security updates; IP68 water and dust resistance; wireless PowerShare to charge other devices; integrated S Pen; UWB for finding other devices; 60W wired charging (charger not included); 25W wireless charging; no magnets for accessories; Galaxy AI; Gorilla Glass Armor 2 cover glass; privacy display2,600-nit peak brightness; 7 years of OS and security updates; IP68 water and dust resistance; wireless PowerShare to charge other devices; 25W wired charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging; lacks built-in magnets; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover screen; Galaxy AI30W wired charging, 25W Qi 2.2 wireless charging, Gemini, Magic Capture, Creator Suite Rambler, Live Translate with American Sign Language, IP68 dust and water resistance, 7 years of software and security updates7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops, Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass, IP68 dust and water resistance, 3,000-nit peak brightness, 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 30W fast charging with 45W charging adapter (charger not included), 10W wireless charging Qi certified, Satellite SOS, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 6, dual-SIM (nano SIM + eSIM), Camera Coach, Add Me, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Super Res Zoom, Circle to Search; colors: lavender, berry, fog, obsidian (black)US price starts at$829 (256GB)$1,199 (256GB)$1,300 (256GB)$900 (256GB)$899 (256GB)$499 (128GB)
Abrar Al-Heeti
Senior Technology Reporter
Abrar’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.
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Mike Sorrentino
Senior Editor
Mike 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.
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Patrick Holland
Director of Content
As 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.
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David Lumb
Managing Editor, Mobile
David 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.
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