Although the market for small phones isn't nearly what it used to be, you can still find a relatively compact handset that doesn't compromise on top features. PCMag has been writing about phones for at least three decades, so you can trust that we've thoroughly researched the few remaining phones that meet a reasonable definition of "small." Among our Editors' Choice winners are the Google Pixel 10 Pro for its top-notch cameras and the Apple iPhone 17 for its incredible value. Of course, all our recommendations are worth your consideration, so be sure to read the linked reviews below for our in-depth evaluations. For more details to keep in mind while you shop, don't miss our buying guide at the end.
Overview
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![Apple iPhone 17]()
Best Small iPhoneApple iPhone 17
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![Google Pixel 10 Pro]()
Best Small Camera PhoneGoogle Pixel 10 Pro
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![Google Pixel 10a]()
Best Affordable Android PhoneGoogle Pixel 10a
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![TCL Flip 4 5G]()
Best Voice PhoneTCL Flip 4 5G
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![Samsung Galaxy S26]()
Best Small Android PhoneSamsung Galaxy S26
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![Apple iPhone 17e]()
Best Affordable iPhoneApple iPhone 17e
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![Motorola Razr Ultra]()
Best Flip PhoneMotorola Razr Ultra
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Apple iPhone 17]()
Best Small iPhoneApple iPhone 17
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
At 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches, the iPhone 17 is an ideal choice if you're seeking a powerful, premium phone in a (relatively) small and comfortable form factor. The iPhone 17 strikes an excellent balance between screen size and one-handed usability, making it a standout in the small phone category.
Who It's For
Apple fans who don't need it all: The smallest iPhone 17 offers cameras and performance rivaling Apple’s earlier iPhone Pro models. Featuring the simplest design among the bunch, the iPhone 17 has two rear cameras positioned atop a relatively small, pill-shaped camera bump. Its screen is also identical to the iPhone 17 Pro’s, with smooth animations and an always-on display.
People who need good battery life: In our battery rundown test, the iPhone 17 lasted 24 hours and 31 minutes. Battery life varies by usage, but this small iPhone should last the workday and then some.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 24 hours, 31 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Dimensions 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,622 by 1,206 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Apple iPhone 17 Review -
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![Google Pixel 10 Pro]()
Best Small Camera PhoneGoogle Pixel 10 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel 10 Pro is an excellent option if you want a premium, compact Android phone packed with standout AI features and excellent cameras. It delivers a complete, uncompromised Pixel experience in an elegant frame that is comfortable to hold and use.
Who It's For
Shutterbugs: The Google Pixel 10 Pro produces some of the finest photography from a smartphone, bar none. It features a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide, and a 48MP telephoto camera with a 5x optical zoom. You get excellent color reproduction and detail capture for beautiful pictures by a phone that easily fits in your pocket.
The AI curious: Beyond its excellent cameras, the Pixel 10 Pro comes with every Google AI feature available. Magic Cue proactively gives you information before you need it (for example, a confirmation number for a flight). Voice Translate allows you to communicate with people in another language using your own voice and intonation. Camera Coach also teaches you how to be a better photographer. And if you dislike any or all of these, you don’t need to use them.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 12 hours, 40 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 50MP, 48MP, 48MP; 42MP CPU Google Tensor G5 Dimensions 6.02 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,856 by 1,280 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Google Pixel 10 Pro Review -
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![Google Pixel 10a]()
Best Affordable Android PhoneGoogle Pixel 10a
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel 10a wraps up the most compelling features of other Pixel phones at a more affordable price while still keeping the footprint (relatively) compact. You get excellent photos thanks to a combination of quality hardware and Google's computational photography algorithms. Its beautiful 6.3-inch OLED display is visible even in bright sunlight thanks to its maximum 3,000-nit brightness. It also features the same Tensor G4 processor as its pricier Pixel 10 siblings, providing swift AI performance.
Who Its For
People who want great Google photography: If you want Google-grade photos without the Pro price, the Pixel 10a delivers. Its 48MP main sensor and 13MP ultra-wide produce sharp, consistent images that look nearly indistinguishable from Google’s Pro models.
People who hang on to their phones for a while: Google supports the Pixel 10a with seven years of OS updates, security fixes, and feature updates. Additionally, the Pixel receives its updates before other Android devices, allowing you to enjoy the latest features for years to come.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 12 hours, 15 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 13MP; 13MP CPU Google Tensor G4 Dimensions 6.06 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,424 by 1,080 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Google Pixel 10a Review -
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![TCL Flip 4 5G]()
Best Voice PhoneTCL Flip 4 5G
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The TCL Flip 4 5G connects to the latest generation of cellular technology and has terrific call quality. It features a utilitarian 5MP camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB-C charging port. Plus, its embedded battery offers up to 40 hours of talk time on a single charge.
Who It's For
People who prefer voice calls: The affordable TCL Flip 4 confidently performs basic phone functions; the speakerphone and earpiece sound quite clear, and the battery life lasts for a long time.
People who want to simplify their lives: If your goal is to interact with your phone less, the TCL Flip 4 is a great choice. It runs on the simple KaiOS, which does not include social media or streaming apps. Writing messages is also challenging because you must use the Flip 4’s number keypad, making you think twice before firing off a text. The TCL Flip 4 is your ticket to mindfulness if you choose.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 20 hours Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 5MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 Dimensions 4.29 by 2.34 by 0.84 inches Operating System KaiOS Screen Resolution 240 by 320 pixels Screen Size 3.2 Learn More TCL Flip 4 5G Review -
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![Samsung Galaxy S26]()
Best Small Android PhoneSamsung Galaxy S26
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Samsung's Galaxy S26 features Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, a speedy modem, 12GB of RAM, and up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, all packed into a reasonably sized frame. The phone's 50MP main camera also captures sharp, vibrant photos, while its Full HD panel boasts 2,700 nits of peak outdoor brightness and supports HDR10+. Battery life is better than average, while wireless charging is a welcome convenience.
Who It's For
People who won't skimp on performance: The Galaxy S26 uses the same Qualcomm chip as the more expensive Galaxy S26+ and Ultra, delivering a virtually identical experience. If you want to multitask, game, or use Galaxy AI, the S26 won’t let you down.
Samsung users: If you’re already in Samsung’s ecosystem, consider the S26. Signing in to your Samsung account links your gear, providing a shared clipboard for moving text and Multi Control, which lets one keyboard and mouse work across multiple screens.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) TBD Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 50MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy Dimensions 5.91 by 3 by 0.37 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,340 by 1,080 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Samsung Galaxy S26 Review -
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![Apple iPhone 17e]()
Best Affordable iPhoneApple iPhone 17e
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Apple's iPhone 17e features a modern design and recent specs, including Apple's A19 processor and a 48MP Fusion camera. It's also the most affordable entry into the iOS ecosystem and among the most suitable phones for one-handed use. More importantly, it has some of the best battery life we've seen from a small iPhone.
Who It's For
People who want a lightweight iPhone: The iPhone 17e is one of the lightest new iPhones, weighing just 5.88 ounces. Plus, its 6.1-inch display with Ceramic Shield 2 keeps the phone compact and easy to hold and carry.
People who want the lowest-cost iPhone: The iPhone 17e is Apple’s least expensive new iPhone. Prices start at $599. The iPhone 17 costs $200 more, making the 17e the most affordable way to enter the iPhone ecosystem.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 22 hours, 2 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP; 12MP CPU Apple A19 Dimensions 5.78 by 2.82 by 0.32 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,532 by 1,170 pixels Screen Size 6.1 Learn More Apple iPhone 17e Review -
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![Motorola Razr Ultra]()
Best Flip PhoneMotorola Razr Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Motorola Razr Ultra effectively leverages its dual-screen design, unlike many alternatives, allowing you to run virtually any app on either the vivid 4.0-inch outer display or the expansive 7.0-inch inner panel. We also like its IP48 waterproof rating, stylish design, competitive performance, and fast 68W wired charging.
Who It's For
People who want the best of both worlds: The Razr Ultra’s compact clamshell body makes it small enough to easily fit into pockets (even little ones). However, it unfolds to reveal an enormous OLED screen, making it a big phone ready for multitasking or watching a movie. If you want to carry a large-screened device in a tiny form factor, that’s the Razr Ultra.
The style-conscious: The Razr Ultra is available in Cabaret (pink), Mountain Trail (a wood-like finish), Rio Red, or Scarab (dark green). These colors were specifically chosen through Motorola’s partnership with Pantone, which scouts fashion trends to identify what is popular now and what will be in the future. Additionally, the Ultra’s large 4-inch outer screen works so well that you may not need to open your phone as often. Either way, the Razr Ultra turns heads.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 22 hours, 3 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 50MP, 50MP; 50MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform Dimensions 6.75 by 2.91 by 0.28 inches open, 3.47 by 2.91 by 0.62 inches closed Operating System Android 15 Screen Resolution 2,992 by 1,224 pixels Screen Size 7 Learn More Motorola Razr Ultra Review -
Compare Specs
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4.5 Outstanding |
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4.0 Excellent |
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4.5 Outstanding |
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4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best Small iPhone | Best Small Camera Phone | Best Affordable Android Phone | Best Voice Phone | Best Small Android Phone | Best Affordable iPhone | Best Flip Phone | Best Small iPhone | Best Small Camera Phone | Best Affordable Android Phone |
Operating System | iOS 26 | Android 16 | Android 16 | KaiOS | Android 16 | iOS 26 | Android 15 | iOS 26 | Android 16 | Android 16 |
CPU | Apple A19 | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G4 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Apple A19 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform | Apple A19 | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G4 |
Dimensions | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.02 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches | 6.06 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches | 4.29 by 2.34 by 0.84 inches | 5.91 by 3 by 0.37 inches | 5.78 by 2.82 by 0.32 inches | 6.75 by 2.91 by 0.28 inches open, 3.47 by 2.91 by 0.62 inches closed | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.02 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches | 6.06 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches |
Screen Size | 6.3 | 6.3 | 6.3 | 3.2 | 6.3 | 6.1 | 7 | 6.3 | 6.3 | 6.3 |
Screen Resolution | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 2,856 by 1,280 pixels | 2,424 by 1,080 pixels | 240 by 320 pixels | 2,340 by 1,080 pixels | 2,532 by 1,170 pixels | 2,992 by 1,224 pixels | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 2,856 by 1,280 pixels | 2,424 by 1,080 pixels |
Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 50MP, 48MP, 48MP; 42MP | 48MP, 13MP; 13MP | 5MP | 50MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP | 48MP; 12MP | 50MP, 50MP; 50MP | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 50MP, 48MP, 48MP; 42MP | 48MP, 13MP; 13MP |
Battery Life (As Tested) | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 12 hours, 40 minutes | 12 hours, 15 minutes | 20 hours | TBD | 22 hours, 2 minutes | 22 hours, 3 minutes | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 12 hours, 40 minutes | 12 hours, 15 minutes |
Buying Guide: The Best Small Phones for 2026
What Size Phone Is Too Big?
Smartphones have increased in size, but our hands haven't. When LG launched its G2 smartphone in 2013, the company said that most people could comfortably hold a phone as wide as 2.8 inches. That might be why the width of the smallest Samsung Galaxy S phones and Apple iPhones has hovered around the 2.8-inch mark for years.
Palm breadth tells you how wide a phone can be before it falls out of your hand; thumb length tells you how wide a screen can be before it's inoperable with one hand. Healthline cites an old NASA study reporting that the average handbreadth is 3.1 inches for women and 3.5 inches for men. The Center for Construction Research and Training estimates are a bit lower: 2.91 inches for women and 3.3 inches for men.
We've used the 2.8-inch-wide measurement as the maximum width for phones eligible for this roundup, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find phones that meet this requirement. As such, a couple of phones on the list are over the 2.8-inch mark (though just barely). Many people might still find these phones a bit wide for one-handed use, but small phone beggars can't be choosers.
Why Are Phones Getting Bigger?
The push toward the mobile internet and video consumption initially drove the growth of phone screens. With phones now serving as people's primary window to the internet and preferred canvas for numerous video streaming services and video-centric social networks, larger screens are more compelling than smaller ones.
People also prefer larger batteries, and the easiest way to accommodate a bigger battery is to make the phone larger. Unlike other technologies, battery capacity has been highly resistant to technological improvement—attempting to squeeze more battery capacity into a smaller space often results in a problem.
Recommended by Our Editors
Finally, phone makers want to charge more. There's a deep-seated theme in American consumer culture that bigger is better and worth more: bigger cars, bigger houses, bigger TVs, and bigger phones. It's been difficult for phone makers to convince consumers that something small still holds value.
Small voice phones are worth considering if you're looking for a compact handset because you find large screens distracting or tiring. These little flip phones fit just as well in your hand now as their ancestors did in 2006.
The Future of Small Smartphones
Alas, it appears that small smartphones will continue to be a niche market. For example, Apple discontinued the iPhone mini because it was not selling well. Modern folding phones (specifically those that mimic the design of old-school flip phones) are worth considering, as they are at least pocketable.
Still thinking big? Check out our roundup of the best phones overall.