Most people seeking a new phone simply desire a familiar device that performs better than their current one. If this describes your needs, reliable options are presented in these recommendations.
For those desiring something more advanced, several excellent choices exist. While current devices may offer iterative improvements over older models, reflecting a focus on software innovation rather than hardware, delightful new devices are still available. For instance, a folding phone now provides full water and dust resistance, flip phones offer more than just nostalgia, and some phones feature up to four rear cameras. Additionally, some models boast appealing styles. Future developments, as hinted at CES 2026, suggest even more interesting phones are on the horizon.
Many consumers in the US acquire phones through carrier deals. If this is your preferred method, ensure a clear understanding of the terms and the duration required to maintain a plan for device reimbursements.
In this article
- The best iPhone for most people
- The best Android phone for most people
- The best high-end Android phone
- The best phone for around $500
- The best high-end iPhone
- The best flip phone
- The best folding phone
- Other phones we tested
- What’s coming next
Key Considerations
Smartphone Testing Methodology
Each phone undergoes rigorous testing, involving daily use with a personal SIM card for a minimum of one week. This includes setting up the phone from scratch, loading personal apps, and simulating real-world usage scenarios such as stress-testing the battery, using GPS navigation while streaming audio, and taking rapid-fire portrait mode photos. The process of switching phones regularly has become mostly painless.
Top-notch Software Support
Devices featured here boast powerful processors and ample RAM, ensuring long-term performance. A benchmark of four years of OS updates and five years of security updates is a healthy expectation for this category, with many models meeting or surpassing this standard.
A Fantastic Camera
While many phone cameras perform adequately in good lighting, the recommended devices offer advanced features such as useful telephoto lenses, excellent portrait modes, or impressive low-light capabilities. Stabilization for the main camera is essential in this category.
Best-in-Class Build Quality
The top-tier devices feature robust IP68 ratings, durable glass on both front and back, and sturdy aluminum frames for superior build quality.
Value
Beyond premium devices, the selection also considers phones that provide an optimal balance of essential features at competitive prices. This may include recommending a lower-tier model if it offers significant features for its cost, or a previous year’s model if it remains relevant and the latest version lacks substantial upgrades.
For those seeking a high-quality smartphone on a budget, excellent options are available for under $600. For such recommendations, refer to our guide to budget smartphones.
The best iPhone for most people
Apple iPhone 17
- Always-on display enhances usability
- High refresh rate provides a smoother experience
- Cameras offer solid performance
- Battery life extends well through the day
- Price remains consistent
- Features a pleasant green color option
- Zoom capabilities are weaker compared to the Pro model
- Can experience heating during intense gaming
- Apple Intelligence features are currently limited or absent
Screen: 6.3-inch 2622 x 1206 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate / Processor: A19 / Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 main with sensor-shift IS; 48-megapixel ultrawide; 18-megapixel selfie / Battery: Not advertised / Charging: 40W wired, 25W wireless MagSafe (Qi2) / Weather-resistance: IP68
The standard iPhone 17 introduces significant upgrades, including a larger 6.3-inch screen with a 120Hz panel and an always-on display. These features notably improve the daily user experience. Additionally, it offers faster performance, enhanced battery life, and double the base storage at 256GB, all while maintaining the $799 starting price, which is considered a notable value.
Regarding its camera, the iPhone 17’s new 48-megapixel ultrawide camera matches the Pro’s resolution, resulting in sharper and more vibrant images. The main camera consistently performs well in most conditions. It also incorporates the Pro’s 18-megapixel selfie camera, allowing for horizontal shots without device rotation. For users prioritizing advanced zoom or portrait capabilities, the absence of a telephoto camera on the iPhone 17 might be a reason to consider the Pro model. However, for most users, the device’s 2x “optical quality” zoom is sufficient for everyday photography, making it a strong upgrade.
The best Android phone for most people
Google Pixel 10
- Qi2 wireless charging with magnets is a convenient addition
- AI features are finally showing practical utility
- Telephoto camera is a welcome inclusion
- Main and ultrawide cameras are not quite as advanced as the Pro model
- Battery life is only adequate
Screen: 6.3-inch, 1080p 120Hz OLED / Processor: Tensor G5 / Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.7 main with OIS; 13-megapixel f/2.2 ultrawide; 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto with OIS; 10.5-megapixel selfie / Battery: 4,970mAh / Charging: 30W wired, 15W wireless / Weather resistance: IP68
The Pixel 10 is an accessible Android phone offering useful upgrades over its predecessor. The integration of Qi2 with built-in magnets provides a delightful and easier wireless charging experience. AI features, such as Magic Cue, which proactively suggests information based on phone activity, are finally demonstrating promise. Furthermore, for the first time, the base model includes a dedicated telephoto lens.
However, a drawback exists: the Pixel 10 no longer features the same main and ultrawide camera hardware as the Pro. Essentially, it utilizes the two rear cameras found in the midrange Pixel 9A, supplemented by a telephoto lens. Despite this, the device’s triple camera system generally produces acceptable images. Beyond the cameras, the Pixel 10 incorporates the same Tensor G5 chipset as the Pro phones, which is beneficial for its AI capabilities.
Overall, the Pixel 10 largely builds upon the strengths of last year’s Pixel 9. While the downgraded camera is a concern, the addition of Qi2 and a telephoto lens mitigates this. If the camera trade-offs are acceptable, the Pixel 10 remains a solid choice for those seeking a flagship experience at a more accessible price.
The best high-end Android phone
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Features an excellent screen
- Includes an improved ultrawide camera
- Rounded corners enhance comfort
- Expensive
- Bulky design
- AI functionality remains inconsistent
Screen: 6.9-inch, 1440p 120Hz OLED / Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite / Cameras: 200-megapixel main with OIS; 50-megapixel 5x telephoto with OIS; 10-megapixel 3x telephoto with OIS; 50-megapixel ultrawide; 12-megapixel selfie / Battery: 5,000mAh / Charging: 45W wired, 15W wireless, Qi2 ready / Weather resistance: IP68
Samsung’s “Ultra” S-series phone continues to be a top choice for a feature-rich Android device, even if the
