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Quick answer: for most people the best smartphone this year is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra if you want the most capable Android phone, the Google Pixel 8 if you care most about the camera and clean software, and the Motorola Moto G Power if you want a long-lasting phone on a smaller budget. Every phone below is sold unlocked, so it works with the major US carriers.
Phones are a personal choice, so we grouped the picks by what they do best rather than ranking them on a single score. Use the buttons to see today’s price on Amazon, because phone prices change often.
Best Smartphones at a Glance
| Phone | Best for | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Power users, big screen, stylus | Flagship Android |
| Google Pixel 8 | Point-and-shoot photos, clean Android | Compact flagship |
| Samsung Galaxy S25+ | Flagship features in a smaller body | Flagship Android |
| Motorola Razr+ 2025 | A phone that folds to fit a pocket | Flip foldable |
| Motorola Moto G Power 2026 | Battery life on a budget | Mid-range |
| Motorola Moto g 2026 | Basic everyday use | Budget |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 | An older flagship at a lower price | Previous-gen flagship |
| T-Mobile Revvl 7 Pro 5G | Lots of storage for the money | Budget 5G |
How to Choose the Best Smartphone
Unlocked vs carrier phones
An unlocked phone is not tied to one carrier, so you can switch plans or use a local SIM when you travel. Check that the model supports your carrier’s 5G bands before you buy. Prepaid carrier phones cost less up front but usually stay locked to that carrier for a period of time.
Camera
Megapixel numbers matter less than processing. Pixel phones are known for consistent point-and-shoot results, while Samsung Ultra models add long zoom lenses. If photography is your main reason to upgrade, see our best phone for photography guide.
Battery and charging
Battery life depends on screen size, processor and how you use the phone. Motorola’s Power models are built around a large battery, and most current phones support USB-C fast charging. Check whether a charger is included in the box, since many phones now ship without one.
Software updates
A phone that receives updates for longer stays secure and gets new features. Samsung and Google promise several years of Android and security updates on their recent flagships, while budget models usually get fewer. Check the update policy if you plan to keep the phone for three years or more.
Storage and size
Most phones no longer take a memory card, so choose enough storage up front: 128GB suits light users, 256GB or more is better if you shoot a lot of video. Large phones like the Ultra are easier to read and type on, while a flip phone such as the Razr+ folds in half to fit a small pocket.
On a tight budget? Our best affordable smartphones list focuses on cheaper models, and best camera phones for Cricket Wireless covers prepaid options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best smartphone right now?
There is no single best phone for everyone. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the most feature-packed Android phone on this list, the Google Pixel 8 is the easiest choice for great photos, and the Moto G Power is the value pick for battery life.
Should I buy an unlocked phone?
For most people, yes. An unlocked phone works with any compatible carrier, makes it easy to switch plans, and lets you use a local SIM when you travel. Confirm your carrier supports the model before you buy.
Is an older flagship better than a new budget phone?
Often it is. A previous-generation flagship like the Galaxy S23 usually has a better camera, screen and processor than a new budget phone. The trade-off is fewer remaining years of software updates.
How long should a smartphone last?
Three to five years is typical for a flagship phone, limited mainly by battery wear and the end of software updates. Budget phones often get fewer years of updates, so they may need replacing sooner.
