Best Phones to Buy in 2026: Expert-Tested and Compared
Choosing the best smartphone in 2026 is more challenging than ever. Flagship phones are delivering near-professional cameras, long-lasting batteries, foldable designs are finally mature, and AI-powered features are becoming genuinely useful. At Technologies for Mobile, our team tested and analyzed dozens of smartphones released in late 2025 and early 2026 to identify the devices that truly stand out.
From Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series to Google’s Pixel 10 family and innovative foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Motorola Razr Ultra, this guide breaks down the best phones you can buy in 2026, complete with real-world performance insights, current prices, score breakdowns, and clear recommendations.
Best Phone for Most People: Apple iPhone 17
Starting Price: $829 (or $799 with carrier activation)
Why It’s Our Top Pick
The iPhone 17 delivers near-Pro performance at a significantly lower price. It now features a 1–120Hz variable refresh rate, an ultra-bright 3,000-nit display, upgraded cameras, and excellent battery life. Apple has effectively narrowed the gap between its base and Pro models, making the iPhone 17 the best all-around phone for most users.
Specifications
- Display: 6.3-inch OLED, 1–120Hz, 3,000 nits
- Processor: Apple A19
- Cameras:
- 48MP wide
- 48MP ultrawide
- 18MP front
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours longer video playback than iPhone 16
- OS: iOS 26
- Storage: Starts at 256GB
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 8.5 |
| Performance | 9.5 |
| Features | 9.5 |
| Battery | 9 |
| Cameras | 9 |
Best for: Most users who want a premium iPhone without Pro pricing
Not ideal for: Power users who need telephoto photography or maximum battery life
Best Android Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25
Starting Price: $799
Why We Like It
The Galaxy S25 offers flagship-grade performance, excellent cameras, and practical AI tools at a competitive price. Samsung’s decision to include the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM across the lineup makes the base S25 feel just as capable as its pricier siblings.
Specifications
- Display: 6.2-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- 10MP 3x telephoto
- 12MP ultrawide
- 50MP wide
- RAM: 12GB
- OS: Android 16 with One UI 8
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Performance | 9.2 |
| Features | 9 |
| Battery | 9.1 |
| Cameras | 9.2 |
Best for: Android users who want flagship performance without paying Ultra prices
Not ideal for: Galaxy S24 owners considering a minor upgrade
Best Premium iPhones: iPhone 17 Pro & iPhone 17 Pro Max
Prices:
- iPhone 17 Pro – $1,099
- iPhone 17 Pro Max – $1,199
What Makes Them Special
These are the most powerful iPhones ever tested. The Pro Max delivers the best battery life we’ve seen on any smartphone, while both models feature an all-new design, a brighter display, and a versatile 48MP triple-camera system.
Specifications
- Display:
- 6.3-inch (Pro)
- 6.9-inch (Pro Max)
- Processor: Apple A19 Pro
- Cameras:
- 48MP wide
- 48MP ultrawide
- 48MP telephoto (4x / 8x)
- 18MP front
- OS: iOS 26
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 8 |
| Performance | 10 |
| Features | 9 |
| Battery | 9 |
| Cameras | 10 |
Best for: Power users, mobile photographers, and heavy users
Not ideal for: iPhone 15 Pro or 16 Pro owners
Best Flip Phone: Motorola Razr Ultra
Price: $1,300
Highlights
The Motorola Razr Ultra is the most refined flip phone available. It combines strong battery life, excellent displays, and a fun, premium design. While expensive, it delivers a unique foldable experience that few rivals match.
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Features | 7 |
| Battery | 8 |
| Cameras | 8.5 |
Best Budget Phone: Google Pixel 9A
Price: $499
Why It’s a Standout
The Pixel 9A proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great phone. With solid cameras, a bright display, reliable performance, and useful AI tools, it delivers exceptional value.
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 8.5 |
| Performance | 8.5 |
| Features | 9 |
| Battery | 9 |
| Cameras | 9 |
Most Durable Foldable: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Price: $1,799
Why It Wins
With an IP68 rating, excellent battery life, and a reliable hinge, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold sets a new standard for durability in foldable phones.
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 8 |
| Performance | 8.5 |
| Features | 9 |
| Battery | 8 |
| Cameras | 8 |
Quick Price Comparison (USD)
| Phone | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | $829 |
| Galaxy S25 | $799 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | $1,099 |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | $1,199 |
| Pixel 9A | $499 |
| Motorola Razr Ultra | $1,300 |
| Pixel 10 Pro Fold | $1,799 |
In 2026, smartphone buyers are spoiled for choice. The iPhone 17 is the best overall phone for most people, while the Galaxy S25 remains the top Android pick. Power users will gravitate toward the iPhone 17 Pro Max, foldable fans will love the Motorola Razr Ultra, and budget-conscious buyers can’t go wrong with the Pixel 9A.
No matter your budget or preference, this year’s phones offer meaningful improvements in performance, battery life, and usability.
For more in-depth smartphone reviews, comparisons, and the latest mobile technology updates, visit our official channel:
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