Buying a phone can be complicated. Whether you want a standard slab-style smartphone, a modern folding phone, or a basic feature phone, there are several small but important factors to consider before making a choice. PCMag has been covering cell phones for at least three decades and can help you sort through all the noise. Right now, four phones stand out among our Editors' Choice winners: the Apple iPhone 17 with its great mix of features and performance for the price, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra with its artist-friendly S Pen stylus, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 with its expansive inner screen, and the Google Pixel 10a for its superb value. However, all the phones here are worth your attention, so be sure to explore our full reviews, linked below. Further down, we walk you through everything you need to know to pick the best one.
Overview
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Best iPhone for Most PeopleApple iPhone 17
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Best for Artists and Note-TakersSamsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
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Best Android Phone for Most PeopleGoogle Pixel 10 Pro
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Best Midrange Android PhoneGoogle Pixel 10a
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Best Folding PhoneSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
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Most Affordable Android PhoneSamsung Galaxy A17 5G
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Best Voice PhoneTCL Flip 4 5G
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Best Battery LifeApple iPhone 17 Pro Max
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Best Flip PhoneMotorola Razr Ultra
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Best Alternative to Google and SamsungOnePlus 15
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Best iPhone for Most PeopleApple iPhone 17
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
With the iPhone 17, Apple has meaningfully upgraded the base model to bring it in line with the rest of the iPhone 17 family—and competing flagships. With more than 24 hours of battery life, fast charging, modern radios, and high-quality hardware, it's a near-total package. Unless you're a power user who wants the photo and video tools of the Pro models, the iPhone 17 is the better value proposition.
Who It's For
Value-seeking iPhone fans: The entry-level iPhone 17 would be considered a Pro-level model just a few years ago. In fact, it gets you much of the iPhone Pro experience for hundreds less. For $799, it packs 256GB of storage, a powerful Apple processor, and excellent cameras. What's not to like?
Selfie lovers: Apple’s iPhone 17 introduces a new selfie camera capable of capturing both vertical and horizontal photos without requiring the user to rotate the phone. If you want some variety in your selfies without having to change the way you use your phone, the iPhone 17 is a great pick.
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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Best for Artists and Note-TakersSamsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra features high-end specs, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor, up to 1TB of storage with 16GB of RAM, and the best camera stack available on an Android phone in the US. The embedded S Pen stylus is another significant point in its favor, particularly if you're an artist or note-taker who likes to sketch or jot on the run. Let's not forget Galaxy AI, which is equal parts useful and fun, and Samsung's powerful productivity software, which lets you multitask on the large screen with ease. Lastly, if you care about security, it has a Privacy Display that can hide the screen from view, reducing the risk of shoulder surfing.
Who It's For
Privacy Seekers: The Privacy Display shields the display from onlookers, which means you can view sensitive material in public where only you can see it.
Artist and Notetakers: The Galaxy S26 Ultra keeps stylus fans happy. The Ultra features a removable S Pen, which lets you place the stylus on the screen for longhand writing, mind-mapping, or sketching, in ways a keyboard cannot replicate.
People who want the best Samsung phone: The S26 Ultra’s specs are out of this world, with a 5x optical telephoto zoom, a 200MP main camera, a superfast Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and an enormous 6.9-inch OLED.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 15 hours, 5 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 200MP, 50MP, 50MP, 10MP; 12MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy Dimensions 6.61 by 3.37 by 0.35 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 3,120 by 1,440 pixels Screen Size 6.9 Learn More Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Review -
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Best Android Phone for Most PeopleGoogle Pixel 10 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Google’s Pixel 10 Pro packs the company’s best hardware and software into a tough, midsize phone. You get premium construction, a bright, detailed screen, sharp cameras, and AI that runs locally to speed up everyday tasks. Features like live call translation and language-based photo edits create standout experiences you rarely find elsewhere.
Who It's For
Uncompromising small phone fans: The Pixel 10 Pro packs virtually everything its larger sibling has in a small, dense body. Google's AI features work exceptionally well on this phone, while its cameras produce some of the best photos you'll see from any smartphone.
Long-term phone users: Google offers seven years of operating system updates, security fixes, and feature drops. That means the Pixel 10 Pro hardware may age, but its software will stay current thanks to Google's generous policy. If you prefer to hold onto your investment, the Pixel 10 is worth considering.
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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Best Midrange Android PhoneGoogle Pixel 10a
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel 10a is an excellent midrange value for Android fans thanks to its capable pair of cameras, bright screen, smooth performance, and refined design. It also offers a good range of AI-based photo-editing features, along with more than 14 hours of battery life and an IP68 rating for protection against dust and water ingress. We especially like that Google promises seven years of software updates, just like for the flagship Pixel 10 lineup.
Who It's For
Google fans seeking a bargain: If you've ever wondered what the big deal is about Pixels, the Pixel 10a offers the best of Google in an affordable package. This is Android as Google envisions it, with various AI features that make the Pixel 10a fun to use.
People who love taking photos: Every phone on this list can take good photos, but the $499 Pixel 10a provides the best value. Google’s hardware and software shape the Pixel’s image workflow to effortlessly produce beautiful pictures.
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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Best Folding PhoneSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the best large-screen foldable yet. It's lighter and more compact than the Z Fold 6, yet still offers a larger cover screen and a larger internal screen. We also like the IP48 rating and Samsung's commitment to seven years of software support. It features a stronger hinge, powerful multitasking capabilities, advanced Galaxy AI tools, excellent 5G and Wi-Fi radios, and a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor—all of which contribute significantly to justifying its admittedly high price.
Who It's For
Tablet lovers: If you want a larger screen while working with the Z Fold 7, just open it up, and you've got a tablet to work with. It's a great option for those looking to do more with one device (though it costs as much as two).
Design buffs: Somehow, Samsung made the Z Fold 7 so thin that it resembles a regular (non-folding) smartphone while closed. Opening up the Z Fold 7 reveals its remarkable thinness, measuring just 0.17 inches. The refined hinge feels sturdy, while its excellent build quality showcases Samsung's capabilities.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 13 hours, 10 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 200MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP, 10MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy Dimensions 6.24 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches folded, 6.24 by 5.64 by 0.17 inches open Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,184 by 1,968 pixels Screen Size 8 Learn More Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Review -
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Most Affordable Android PhoneSamsung Galaxy A17 5G
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is an excellent value for under $200. Highlights include a large 90Hz screen, a good camera system, an IP54 rating against dust and water, and a guarantee of six years of security updates. It's not as tough as pricier phones, nor as fast, but given its low price, you can't ask for more.
Who It's For
Budget-conscious buyers: If your budget is limited, the Galaxy A17 5G is an excellent choice thanks to its good everyday usability, above-average cameras, and long battery life. Midrange models outgun it, but it's easily the best phone under $200.
Parents: If the thought of spending nearly $1,000 on a flagship phone for your child seems daunting, the Galaxy A17 should grab your attention. This Samsung is perfectly capable of handling the basics, so kids won't think of it as a toy. The phone's six years of support also mean the device will remain secure for years to come.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 15 hours, 45 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 50MP, 5MP, 2MP; 13MP CPU Samsung Exynos 1330 Dimensions 6.47 by 3.07 by 0.30 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,340 by 1,080 pixels Screen Size 6.7 Learn More Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Review -
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Best Voice PhoneTCL Flip 4 5G
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The TCL Flip 4 5G is an excellent voice phone with an embedded battery, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB-C charging port. It also features a 2MP camera, which is useful in a pinch. Wi-Fi, 4G, and 5G connectivity, along with email access, can help keep you in the communication loop.
Who It's For
People who just want to make calls: If you aren't interested in owning a smartphone, the affordable TCL Flip 4 5G confidently performs basic phone functions. The speakerphone and earpiece sound quite clear, and the battery lasts for a considerable amount of time.
Retro enthusiasts: The Flip 4 is a classic-style clamshell flip phone designed for today's cellular networks. If you prefer to text using a physical number pad, the TCL Flip 4 is the ideal choice. This device has no touch screens and no social media apps, so forget about endless swiping. The Flip 4's limited app selection should be sufficient for the lightest tasks (such as email), but its primary function is simply to be a phone.
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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Best Battery LifeApple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is packed with everything Apple has to offer. It features the largest screen among iPhones, its battery lasts over 32 hours, the Camera Control button offers more creative flexibility, and upgraded radios ensure faster wireless performance. It also features advanced video capture tools that are among the best available on any phone.
Who It's For
Serious multimedia creators: The iPhone 17 Pro Max includes some of the most powerful camera and video features of any phone on the market. Few others can record super high-quality ProRes footage in HDR at 4K120. If you create content for a living, this is the phone to get. Moreover, it offers up to 2TB of storage, more than enough to hold all your projects.
People who want the best battery life: The iPhone 17 Pro Max's battery life is remarkably long, lasting 32 hours and 11 minutes in our battery rundown test. The Pro Max outlasts not only its siblings but also most Android phones.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 32 hours, 11 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Pro Dimensions 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,868 by 1,320 pixels Screen Size 6.9 Learn More Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max Review -
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Best Flip PhoneMotorola Razr Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Motorola Razr Ultra embraces its dual-screen design in a way many alternatives don't; you can run virtually any app you want 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 with small pockets: The Razr Ultra lets you easily carry a 7-inch screen around with you, no matter how big or small your pockets are, by folding it in half. Like the clamshell phones of old, the Ultra closes with a satisfying thunk, giving you a squarish brick to carry around. Additionally, its front screen is large enough to allow you to accomplish a lot without opening the phone.
The fashion-conscious: In a world of bland phones, the Razr Ultra stands out. Its folding form factor makes it turn heads, while its color options are unlike anything in the competition, thanks to a partnership with Pantone. The Ultra is available in Cabaret (pink), Mountain Trail (wood veneer), Rio Red, or Scarab (black Alcantara).
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 -
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Best Alternative to Google and SamsungOnePlus 15
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
OnePlus phones aren't as common to see as those from Google and Samsung, but they are often worth considering. The company's latest flagship matches today's leading phones spec-for-spec in terms of display, battery life, performance, and camera. It even sees OnePlus dipping its toe into AI and supports wired charging speeds of up to 80W via a proprietary power block.
Who It's For
People who want to try something different: The OnePlus 15 is ideal if you're looking for a device not made by Google or Samsung. OnePlus produces consistently good phones with genuinely useful software that will receive four years of OS upgrades.
Battery worriers: With more than 26 hours of battery life, the OnePlus 15 is one of the longest-lasting phones you can buy in the US. Its 7,300mAh silicon-carbon battery is second only to Apple's largest iPhone battery.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 26 hours, 11 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 50MP, 50MP, 50MP; 32MP CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Dimensions 6.35 by 3.02 by 0.32 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,772 by 1,272 pixels Screen Size 6.78 Learn More OnePlus 15 Review -
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Best For | Best iPhone for Most People | Best for Artists and Note-Takers | Best Android Phone for Most People | Best Midrange Android Phone | Best Folding Phone | Most Affordable Android Phone | Best Voice Phone | Best Battery Life | Best Flip Phone | Best Alternative to Google and Samsung | Best iPhone for Most People | Best for Artists and Note-Takers | Best Android Phone for Most People |
Operating System | iOS 26 | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 | KaiOS | iOS 26 | Android 15 | Android 16 | iOS 26 | Android 16 | Android 16 |
CPU | Apple A19 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G4 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Samsung Exynos 1330 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 | Apple A19 Pro | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Apple A19 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Google Tensor G5 |
Dimensions | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.61 by 3.37 by 0.35 inches | 6.02 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches | 6.06 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches | 6.24 by 2.87 by 0.35 inches folded, 6.24 by 5.64 by 0.17 inches open | 6.47 by 3.07 by 0.30 inches | 4.29 by 2.34 by 0.84 inches | 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches | 6.75 by 2.91 by 0.28 inches open, 3.47 by 2.91 by 0.62 inches closed | 6.35 by 3.02 by 0.32 inches | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.61 by 3.37 by 0.35 inches | 6.02 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches |
Screen Size | 6.3 | 6.9 | 6.3 | 6.3 | 8 | 6.7 | 3.2 | 6.9 | 7 | 6.78 | 6.3 | 6.9 | 6.3 |
Screen Resolution | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 3,120 by 1,440 pixels | 2,856 by 1,280 pixels | 2,424 by 1,080 pixels | 2,184 by 1,968 pixels | 2,340 by 1,080 pixels | 240 by 320 pixels | 2,868 by 1,320 pixels | 2,992 by 1,224 pixels | 2,772 by 1,272 pixels | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 3,120 by 1,440 pixels | 2,856 by 1,280 pixels |
Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 200MP, 50MP, 50MP, 10MP; 12MP | 50MP, 48MP, 48MP; 42MP | 48MP, 13MP; 13MP | 200MP, 12MP, 10MP; 10MP, 10MP | 50MP, 5MP, 2MP; 13MP | 5MP | 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 50MP, 50MP; 50MP | 50MP, 50MP, 50MP; 32MP | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 200MP, 50MP, 50MP, 10MP; 12MP | 50MP, 48MP, 48MP; 42MP |
Battery Life (As Tested) | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 15 hours, 5 minutes | 12 hours, 40 minutes | 12 hours, 15 minutes | 13 hours, 10 minutes | 15 hours, 45 minutes | 20 hours | 32 hours, 11 minutes | 22 hours, 3 minutes | 26 hours, 11 minutes | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 15 hours, 5 minutes | 12 hours, 40 minutes |
Buying Guide: The Best Phones for 2026
Which Cell Phone Carrier Has the Best Coverage?
Despite all the recent innovations in hardware and mobile software, choosing a wireless service provider remains the most important decision. No matter what phone you buy, it's a paperweight unless you have reliable wireless coverage. You should choose a carrier with fair prices and the best coverage in your area.
If you're interested in performance and live in a metro area, pay close attention to where the major carriers have deployed "mid-band" 5G (also known as C-band) and use phones that support this technology.
UScellular is currently available throughout the US, though much of its coverage is provided via partner networks. Meanwhile, Boost Mobile covers a good portion of the country with its 5G-first service.

Many virtual operators also use the big three networks for service, but offer lower monthly rates, cheaper international calls, or other benefits. They're typically better for less intensive users, and some don't even have family plans.
Mint Mobile (on T-Mobile), Consumer Cellular (on AT&T), and Spectrum Mobile (on Verizon) all received higher ratings in our Readers’ Choice survey than the companies that host their services.
AT&T owns Cricket, Dish owns Boost Mobile, T-Mobile owns Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile, Verizon owns Visible, and Google owns Google Fi (which also runs on T-Mobile). Verizon also owns Simple Mobile, Straight Talk, Total Wireless, and Tracfone. We spotlight some of our favorite virtual operators in our roundup of the best cheap phone plans. We also have a story on the best cheap phones.
If you're on T-Mobile, you should consider using a mid-band 5G-compatible phone. That's an easy choice—all T-Mobile 5G phones are now mid-band compatible.
To access AT&T's C-band network, any modern Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel will do. Many of Motorola’s US phones also support AT&T C-band.
If you're in one of Verizon's C-band areas, upgrading to a C-band-compatible 5G phone is a good move. The carrier's ultra-wideband network also provides super-fast mmWave 5G in select locations. If you are in one of those areas and want to take advantage, make sure your phone has that support.
You can find more 5G recommendations on our list of the best 5G phones.
Should You Get an Unlocked Phone?
Carriers often have confusing service and pricing plans, making unlocked phones as relevant and invaluable as ever.
Unlocked phones are those you buy from a third-party store or directly from the manufacturer; they aren't tied to a specific carrier. Usually, you can use them with AT&T or T-Mobile. However, some popular unlocked phones are also compatible with Verizon. For the most flexibility, look for a recent Apple iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy S or Z flagship, or high-end Motorola Edge phone. If you use a low-cost MVNO service, ensure your unlocked phone is compatible; some MVNOs don't support phones that should work on their networks.

In the past, unlocked 4G phones typically worked on all major carriers; however, 5G phones are different. Apple, Google, and Samsung's 5G phones typically work on every major US carrier; however, many other brands have limited band support or are only certified for specific carriers.
What Is the Best Smartphone?
There's actually less diversity in smartphone platforms and designs than ever. Android and iOS are the two remaining major smartphone platforms, both in US sales and in the availability of third-party apps. The iPhone has a well-developed App Store and some of the best media features. But Apple's tightly controlled ecosystem can feel stifling to some, though iOS is more customizable than ever. Android handsets offer a greater variety, and the OS allows you to customize nearly everything to tailor your phone to your needs. But it can also mean carrier bloatware you can't remove, and less consistent OS updates. Google and Samsung provide up to seven years of OS updates and security fixes. If you want an Android phone for the long run, consider those two manufacturers.

Strictly interested in Android? Head over to our roundup of the best Android phones. Baffled by the variety of iPhones? Here's how to decide which iPhone to buy. And if you want to document the world around you with your phone, we've also rounded up the best camera phones.
What Is the Best Feature Phone?
Some people still use simpler phones, despite the limited number of choices available. The top reasons to consider these models are their lower prices, ease of use, and often cheaper associated service plans (since mobile data is often not a factor). You'll find some great deals for voice-only plans on virtual carriers such as TracFone and Consumer Cellular.
Unlike smartphones, feature phones are a matter of "what you see is what you get." They don't receive software upgrades or run thousands of apps. Wireless network coverage is always the biggest factor, but individual phones can vary in reception, earpiece quality, transmission quality through the microphone, and sidetone (the echo of your voice that helps prevent you from yelling at the other person on the line). A phone with middling to poor reception quality can be almost impossible to use in areas with marginal coverage. In contrast, one with excellent reception can make the best of the little signal available.
For more, see our picks for the best phones for seniors and our roundup of the best phones for kids.
What's the Best Time to Buy a New Phone?
The best time to buy a new phone is when you need one. If your phone dies on the pavement, get whatever is available that best meets your needs. However, if you're watching your budget or staying on the cutting edge, a little knowledge and planning can save you from buying a phone that's about to be discounted or replaced with something newer and more advanced.
For instance, Google's flagship Pixels came out last August. Apple released the iPhone 17 models in September. Samsung introduced its new Galaxy S series in February and Galaxy Z folding phones last July. Motorola has been sticking to a spring cadence for its folding phones, while OnePlus announced its latest flagship in late 2025.
We update this story every time we review a new phone worth a spot on the list, so it changes often. Be sure to check back soon for our latest recommendations.










