If you're in the market for a new smartphone, you know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right one. Glass rectangles that do everything from messaging and streaming to gaming and photography—they're essential, yes, but not exactly thrilling to splurge on. That’s why we’ve sifted through the options to bring you the best smartphones based on value and price.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Smartphones:
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
1See it at Amazon
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
2See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### Apple iPhone 16 Pro
4See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
### Google Pixel 8
0See it at Amazon
### PocoX5 5G
1See it at Amazon
### RedMagic10 Pro
1See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic
### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
0See it at AmazonOf course, what everyone values varies. Some prioritize stellar photography, while others crave extreme gaming performance. If binge-watching is your thing, you’ll want a phone with a dazzling display. Rest assured, we’ve tested phones that cover all the bases.
From the best Android phones and iPhone alternatives to the latest releases from Apple, here are phones that do a bit of everything. None are practical duds or overly compromised to hit a low price point. You won’t just find the newest models either—sometimes, price drops make older models even more appealing. So, depending on what you’re looking for, browse through the best picks across the market.
Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Smartphone
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
1Experience the ultimate blend of power and elegance with a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen and a processor robust enough to handle anything—from gaming to video editing. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSUnmatched performanceSuperior camera systemCONSTitanium frame adds weightThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the epitome of versatility. It delivers top-tier performance with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, capable of running the latest games smoothly, even at max settings. Whether you're gaming or multitasking, this phone handles it all effortlessly.
The stunning 6.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a 1-120Hz refresh rate ensures crisp visuals and smooth transitions. The new anti-glare finish enhances visibility outdoors, but this impressive screen does come with one trade-off: the phone is bulkier due to its titanium frame. Still, its durability and sleek design make it a standout choice.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
5 Images
With a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 50MP 5x telephoto, the camera system is nothing short of extraordinary. Daytime and nighttime shots alike are breathtaking, and the 12MP front camera excels in selfies.
For its price, the S24 Ultra delivers unmatched value. Its high-end specs and premium build justify the cost.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Best Camera Phone
### Google Pixel 9 Pro
2An elegant design, outstanding cameras, and long-term software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a standout choice. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1280x2856, 495 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G4Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 48-Megapixel Telephoto, 42-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,700mAhWeight199g (0.44lb)dPROSStellar camera performanceCompact and stylish designLong-term software updatesCONSGaming performance trails behindBase storage could be larger
The Google Pixel 9 Pro reigns supreme in the photography department. Its triple-camera setup offers versatility, with each sensor delivering sharp, vibrant images. Whether you’re shooting landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects, the results are consistently impressive.
The phone itself is a visual treat, featuring a refined aluminum-and-glass design. Its 6.3-inch OLED display is bright, colorful, and smooth at 120Hz. While it lags slightly behind top-tier competitors in gaming performance, it remains plenty capable for daily tasks and AI-driven features.
Pixel 9 Pro – Main Camera Samples
22 Images
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Best iPhone
### Apple iPhone 16 Pro
4The iPhone 16 Pro offers powerful performance, a sleek design, and top-notch cameras—all at a competitive price. See it at Best BuySee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48
