Smartphones aren't exactly thrilling purchases. Most people use these glass rectangles for messaging, YouTube, social media, and photos – essential, but pricey if you want the latest models. We've selected the best smartphones based on value for money.
TL;DR – Best Smartphones:
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Our top pick)
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Google Pixel 9 Pro
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See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
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See it at Best Buy See it at Apple
Google Pixel 8
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See it at Amazon
Poco X5 5G
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See it at Amazon
RedMagic 10 Pro
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See it at Amazon See it at RedMagic
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Value is subjective. Some prioritize photography, others gaming performance, or display quality. We've tested phones across the spectrum.
This list includes top Android and iPhone options, both new and older models offering excellent value due to price drops. Consider your needs when choosing.
Contributions by Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best Smartphone Overall
A 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and exceptional camera system make this a versatile device. Our review highlighted its performance in gaming (60fps in Genshin Impact at max settings) and multitasking. The large, anti-glare display is stunning, though the titanium frame makes it large and heavy. It also includes an S Pen.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photo Samples:
The camera system is impressive, featuring a 200MP wide sensor, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP 5x telephoto for exceptional image quality. The 12MP front camera is also strong. It's pricey, but delivers exceptional value.
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How We Selected the Best Smartphones:
The phone industry pushes upgrades constantly. We selected phones across various budgets that offer the best value. Unless you're a professional photographer or gamer, you likely don't need the top-tier features. We prioritized durability and long-term software support.
Best Smartphones FAQ:
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