If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're diving into a world of diverse options that go well beyond just iPhone alternatives. From folding marvels like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 that blur the line between smartphone and tablet, to gaming-centric devices with extra buttons and air-cooled components, the Android market thrives on innovation. With the new Galaxy S25 lineup already available for order, the range of compelling phones is vast. Many of these options offer competitive value, meaning you don't have to spend over $1,000 to get a great 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 an Android enthusiast since 2012, starting with my first Android phone, which was also my first 3D phone. Since then, I've explored and tested a wide array of Android devices, from budget options to the first 5G phones, gaming phones with unique features, and various folding, flipping, and twisting models. I've experienced the best from Samsung and Google, as well as lesser-known brands striving to keep pace or surpass them. My colleagues and I have hands-on experience with these devices, ensuring we provide comprehensive insights to help you find the perfect Android phone.
Here, you'll discover not just the best Android phones, but some of the best smartphones overall. Whether you're looking for top-tier features and quality or a budget-friendly device that exceeds expectations, we've got you covered. And if nothing quite fits, keep checking back – the Android market evolves quickly, offering new devices without the long waits typical of iPhone releases.
Contributions by Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Android Smartphone
Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
0Experience the power of a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone with a processor robust enough to handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and stunning camera operations. 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 started branding its top models with "Ultra," these devices have represented the pinnacle of their capabilities and design. After our comprehensive Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we confidently place it at the top of 2024's list. This phone offers an array of features, making it the best Android phone currently available.
Let's start with the display: a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED screen that offers high brightness, extreme contrast, and fluid motion with a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra also includes S Pen support for precise input when needed. Samsung has encased this in a new blend of Gorilla Glass, among the strongest available, and a titanium frame for added durability, with water and dust resistance as well.
Inside, you'll find the top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, ready to tackle the latest apps, run high-end games at max settings, and ensure smooth operation for years to come. Samsung's commitment to seven years of OS updates matches Google's promise for its latest Pixel phones, ensuring long-term support.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
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Samsung has packed the Galaxy S24 Ultra with five cameras, including a 200-megapixel main sensor capable of capturing incredible detail. For broader scenes, there's a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and for close-ups, both 3x and 5x lenses are available.
You can enhance your photography with AI tools, allowing you to search for objects in photos or edit and adjust images with AI assistance.
With top-tier performance, exceptional design, travel-worthy cameras, and extensive software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra outshines nearly every Android phone on the market. It will remain the number one choice until another device can challenge Samsung across all fronts.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Android Phone
### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is incredibly fast and boasts a gorgeous design, though its unfolded aspect ratio can feel 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 weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 we reviewed is a powerhouse with a dual nature. Folded, it presents a tall but narrow 6.2-inch display. Unfolded, it transforms into a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, enabling a seamless transition from smartphone to tablet. Both displays are AMOLED, offering vibrant colors and deep contrast.
Samsung equipped the Z Fold 6 with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, providing a significant performance boost over its predecessor (up to 22% in our tests). This makes it ideal for multitasking with split-screen setups, running like a desktop with DeX, or enjoying the latest games such as Wuthering Waves or Zenless Zone Zero.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos
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Photography is another strong suit of the Z Fold 6, featuring a 50MP main camera, an ultra-wide sensor, and a zoom lens with 5x optical magnification, capable of up to 30x digital zoom. Similar to the S24 Ultra, the Z Fold 6 can leverage Samsung’s AI tools for photo editing. An S Pen enhances the editing experience on the internal display.
The Z Fold 6's versatility makes it the top choice for a folding Android phone. For those preferring a smaller device, the Z Flip 6, which we also reviewed, offers a trade-off in camera and multitasking for a more compact form factor.
For protection, check out our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases.
Poco X5 5G
Best Budget Android Phone
### Poco X5 5G
0This ultra-affordable phone offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its cameras and gaming capabilities are modest. 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 has a knack for delivering feature-packed budget smartphones, and the Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed is a testament to this. Launched in 2023 for around $220, it remains a compelling value.
The standout feature of the Poco X5 5G is its display. While many budget phones settle for LCDs, Poco opts for a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a 1080x2400 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. This delivers excellent contrast and color for content consumption and smooth visuals for gaming.
The phone runs on a Snapdragon 695G SoC, which, while not the fastest, performs admirably for its price point. It can handle games like Genshin Impact at medium settings smoothly. Its 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting use, streaming Netflix for nearly 20 hours even 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, rare in today's phones.
However, budget devices have their drawbacks. The Poco X5 5G may not receive long-term software support, having launched with Android 12 and updated to Android 14. Its cameras are also underwhelming. But for those needing a device with a good screen and sufficient performance for entertainment, web browsing, and staying connected, the Poco X5 5G is an excellent choice.
RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Gaming Android Phone
### RedMagic 10 Pro
0The RedMagic 10 Pro excels in gaming performance, offering exceptional power and sustained performance in a sleek 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 supportIn my review, I found the RedMagic 10 Pro stands out for its superb gaming performance. It's powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and features active cooling to maintain performance over long gaming sessions. This cooling system outperforms the passive cooling found in most phones, ensuring stable frame rates at maximum settings.
The RedMagic 10 Pro sports a 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, offering a sharp and fast visual experience. The hidden under-display selfie camera provides an uninterrupted gaming view. The phone also includes two capacitive shoulder buttons for enhanced in-game control, allowing you to move, aim, and shoot simultaneously in FPS games. The touchscreen's high polling rate ensures quick response to inputs.
While the RedMagic 10 Pro's cameras may not match those of its competitors, and its software updates are less frequent than those from Samsung, Google, or OnePlus, it offers a powerful gaming experience at a competitive price of just $649. This savings can be invested in a quality mobile phone controller, making it a strong contender against devices like the Steam Deck.
Google Pixel 8
Best Midrange Android Phone
### Google Pixel 8
1Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI features, and a bright, vibrant 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 modelThe Pixel 8 may not be the latest model (I've reviewed the Pixel 9), but it remains a fantastic phone. Its age means it's often available at a lower price, making it an excellent value proposition compared to the Pixel 8a, which costs only $100 less.
The Pixel 8 features the new Tensor G3 SoC, which runs faster and cooler than its predecessor. Google also made the phone slightly smaller, enhancing its one-handed usability. The 6.2-inch display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, delivering crisp visuals for games, movies, and more, complemented by decent stereo speakers.
A key advantage of the Pixel 8 is its seven-year commitment to OS updates, security patches, and feature enhancements, ensuring long-term support and security.
The camera system is another highlight, with a main sensor that excels in low light and produces sharp, richly colored photos. While the ultra-wide camera isn't as impressive, it offers a wide field of view, making it a great value at around $500.
What to Look for in an Android Phone
Choosing the right phone can be daunting, so here are key factors to consider:
Storage space is essential, especially if you plan to store videos, play games, or download music. While fewer phones now include Micro SD slots for expansion, some of our recommendations offer up to 1TB of internal storage. Alternatively, you can use cloud services to free up space.
RAM is crucial for multitasking. While 4GB is sufficient for basic operations, heavy gaming and app use require more. All our picks have at least 6GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance.
The processor is vital for the phone's overall performance. The number of cores and clock speed determine processing speed. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, while Google's Pixel devices use Tensor chips. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Tensor G4 are currently the best available.
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 kickstarted the smartphone trend in 2007, Google has been competing 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.
