If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're diving into a diverse world of options that extend far beyond just iPhone alternatives. From foldable giants like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 that blur the line between smartphone and tablet, to gaming-focused devices equipped with extra buttons and air-cooled components, the Android market is a playground for innovation. You can also explore the newly available Galaxy S25 lineup, which offers compelling features without necessarily breaking the bank. Many of these devices offer great value, proving you don't need to spend over $1,000 to get a top-notch phone.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Android Phones:
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
0See it at Amazon
### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
0See it at Amazon
### Poco X5 5G
0See it at Amazon
### RedMagic 10 Pro
0See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic
### Google Pixel 8
1See it at AmazonI've been using Android phones since 2012, starting with my first Android and 3D phone. Over the years, I've tested a wide range of devices, from budget-friendly options to the first 5G phones, gaming phones with unique features, and various folding, flipping, and even twisting phones. I've experienced what Samsung and Google consider their best, as well as what lesser-known brands have to offer. My colleagues and I have hands-on experience with these devices, ensuring we can guide you to the best Android phone for your needs.
Here, you'll find not just the best Android phones, but some of the best smartphones overall. Whether you're looking for top-of-the-line features or a budget-friendly option that exceeds expectations, we've got you covered. And if nothing quite fits, keep checking back; the Android market evolves quickly, offering new choices much faster than the annual iPhone cycle.
Contributions by Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Android Smartphone
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
0Experience a stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone powered by a robust processor that effortlessly handles multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and its impressive camera system. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavySince Samsung introduced the Ultra branding, these models have represented the pinnacle of the brand's capabilities and design. Our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review confirmed its place at the top in 2024. This phone offers so much, making it the best Android phone available.
The display is a highlight, featuring a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED screen with high brightness, extreme contrast, and a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra also supports the S Pen for precise input, encased in a new, durable Gorilla Glass blend and a titanium frame with water and dust resistance.
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC powers the phone, ensuring it can run the latest apps, play high-end games at max settings, and maintain smooth performance for years. Samsung promises seven years of OS updates, matching Google's commitment to its latest Pixel phones.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
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Samsung equips the Galaxy S24 Ultra with five cameras, including a 200-megapixel main sensor for exceptional detail. There's also a 12MP ultra-wide camera for broader shots and both 3x and 5x lenses for close-ups. AI tools enhance your photography experience, allowing object searches and AI-based photo editing.
With its top-tier performance, exceptional design, versatile camera system, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra sets the standard for Android phones. Until another device can challenge Samsung on all fronts, the S24 Ultra remains the top choice.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Android Phone
### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly fast and beautifully designed smartphone, though its unfolded aspect ratio can be unusual. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdLarge and in charge, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 we reviewed is a dual-natured beast. When folded, it features a tall but narrow 6.2-inch display. When open, it reveals a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, transforming from a smartphone to a tablet. Both displays utilize AMOLED panels, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrast.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is designed for productivity, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which offers a significant performance boost (up to 22% in our tests) over its predecessor. Whether multitasking, running the phone in desktop mode via DeX, or enjoying the latest games like Wuthering Waves or Zenless Zone Zero, the Z Fold 6 keeps up effortlessly.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos
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Camera-wise, the Z Fold 6 features a 50MP main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a zoom lens with 5x optical magnification and up to 30x digital zoom. Like the S24 Ultra, it benefits from Samsung's AI tools for photo editing, and with an S Pen, you can achieve detailed edits on the internal display.
The versatility of the Z Fold 6 makes it the top choice for the best folding Android phone. However, if you're looking for something smaller, consider the Z Flip 6, which we also reviewed, offering a more compact design with some trade-offs in camera and multitasking capabilities.
For protection, check out our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases if you choose this Android phone.
Poco X5 5G
Best Budget Android Phone
### Poco X5 5G
0This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming performance may not impress. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.8-inch OLED, 1116x2480, 400 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading VersionCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery6,500mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSBrilliant display for gaming and entertainmentExcellent sustained gaming performanceStylish designCONSShorter software supportUnderwhelming camera systemPoco is known for its budget-friendly smartphones, and the Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed was a great value at launch in 2023 for around $220, and it continues to offer good value at its current price.
The Poco X5 5G's standout feature is its display—a 6.67-inch AMOLED panel with a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures excellent contrast and color for all types of content and smooth visuals for gaming.
Powered by a Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G offers solid performance for its price, capable of running games like Genshin Impact at medium settings. Its large 5000mAh battery supports extended use, providing nearly 20 hours of Netflix streaming at max brightness.
Poco X5 5G – Photos
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Additional features include an IR blaster for universal remote control functionality and a 3.5mm headphone jack, both rare in U.S. phones. However, the Poco X5 5G's software support may be limited, having launched with Android 12 and updated to Android 14. Its camera system also falls short, but for those needing a device with a great screen and sufficient performance for content consumption and communication, the Poco X5 5G is a solid choice.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Gaming Android Phone
### RedMagic 10 Pro
0The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional performance and sustained power in an impressive package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportWhile many phones are well-rounded, the RedMagic 10 Pro stands out for its exceptional gaming performance, as confirmed in my review. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, and its active cooling system ensures better performance sustain than most phones, which rely on passive cooling. This results in more stable frame rates during long gaming sessions, even at maximum settings.
The RedMagic 10 Pro also boasts a great gaming display—a 6.85-inch AMOLED panel with 144Hz refresh rate, offering a sharp, bright, and uninterrupted view thanks to the under-screen selfie camera. Two capacitive shoulder buttons enhance control, allowing for simultaneous actions in games like FPS titles. The touchscreen's enhanced polling rate ensures quick response to inputs.
While the RedMagic 10 Pro's camera system and software update promise may not match some competitors, it offers a powerful package at a competitive price starting at $649. Investing in a quality mobile phone controller with the savings can make it a formidable gaming device, even rivaling the Steam Deck.
Google Pixel 8
Best Midrange Android Phone
### Google Pixel 8
1Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, enjoy solid cameras, smart AI features, and a bright, beautiful OLED display at an affordable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.2-inch OLED, 1080x2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorTensor G3 Camera50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10.5-megapixel selfieBattery4,575 mAhWeight187g (0.41lb)PROSWonderfully responsive screenSeven years of updates and OS supportImpressive cameraCONSRAM upgrade reserved for Pro modelYes, the Pixel 8 isn't the newest model—I even reviewed the Pixel 9 myself. However, it remains a fantastic phone, especially since its age has brought the price down. It's a better value than the Pixel 8a, which costs just $100 less.
The Pixel 8 brings significant upgrades, including the Tensor G3 SoC, which performs faster and cooler than its predecessor. Google also made it slightly smaller, enhancing its one-handed usability. The 6.2-inch display features a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it perfect for games, movies, and more, complemented by decent stereo speakers.
A standout feature is its seven-year update commitment, ensuring the Pixel 8 stays secure and relevant with OS updates, security patches, and new features.
The camera system is another highlight, with a main sensor that excels in various lighting conditions, delivering sharp, vibrant photos. While the ultra-wide camera isn't as impressive, it offers a wide field of view. For $500, getting such a capable camera system is a great deal.
What to Look for in an Android Phone
Choosing the right phone involves considering several factors:
Storage space is essential, especially if you're into video recording, gaming, or music downloads. While fewer phones now include a Micro SD slot for expansion, some of our picks offer up to 1TB of storage, suitable for most needs. Alternatively, cloud storage can help manage your files.
RAM is crucial for multitasking. A minimum of 4GB is sufficient for basic operations, but heavier use, like gaming, benefits from more. All our recommended phones have at least 6GB of RAM.
The processor powers your phone's performance. The number of cores and clock speed impact how quickly the phone can process tasks. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Google's Tensor G4 being the latest and greatest.
Best Android Phones FAQ
What is the difference between an Android phone and a smartphone?
Android phones are a type of smartphone. Since the iPhone popularized the term 'smartphone' in 2007, Google has competed with its Android OS. An Android phone runs Google's Android operating system, and with few exceptions, any device running Android is considered a smartphone.
