One of the best Android telephones to purchase in 2025

Why we prefer it: Samsung’s flagship cellphone continues to reign supreme throughout the board in our checks. The newest mannequin, the Galaxy S26 Extremely, delivers in virtually each means, from common efficiency to show high quality to cameras, with flaws that you simply actually should nitpick for.

The standout function of the Galaxy S26 Extremely is the brand new Privateness Show, which dims half the display’s pixels so it seems tinted when seen at an off angle. This complicated show tech may be personalized to cover vital data, equivalent to 2FA message alerts and passwords. Its one caveat? A display that is rather less sharp and vibrant than its predecessor — although the safety advantages simply outweigh the drawbacks right here.

Evaluate: Samsung Galaxy S26 Extremely

Samsung has additionally geared up the Galaxy S26 Extremely with an up to date Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, able to working high-end video games like Genshin Affect and heavy AI duties with out a lot stuttering. The improved effectivity is paired properly with 60W wired charging, the primary and quickest we have examined on any Samsung cellphone so far.

Who it is for: The Galaxy S26 Extremely is for customers who desire a handset with excessive utility, superior security measures, and a digital camera system that may shoot nearly something. You may additionally should be a consumer who’s keen to pay to play, because the cellphone begins at $1,300. Provider offers, retailer reductions, and different trade-in presents are your finest pals if you happen to actually need one.

Who ought to look elsewhere: I discussed earlier that the S26 Extremely is not flawless. For one, it lacks the Qi2 magnetic adapter that is required to connect appropriate equipment with out a further case, has a digital camera configuration that is practically equivalent to final 12 months’s mannequin (for these hoping for one thing considerably higher or completely different), and it is nonetheless a big, 6.9-inch cellphone, on the finish of the day.

Those that favor one thing cheaper and simpler to carry ought to think about Samsung’s smaller choices, such because the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Extremely specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Show dimension: 6.9 inches | Storage choices: As much as 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP most important, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom | Entrance digital camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Worth: Beginning at $1,300

Why we prefer it: The Pixel A sequence is at all times a deal with to assessment as a result of, for probably the most half, you are getting all the pieces you will get within the flagship model of the Pixel, however in a smaller, cheaper package deal. 

Fact be instructed, it’s totally arduous to purchase a cellphone immediately that does not meet all of the desk stakes, however Pixels — even midrange Pixels — are inclined to rise to the highest by way of options. Google’s software program is superior to make use of — it is probably the greatest variations of Android you will discover.

The Pixel 10a particularly is sort of good at pictures. There are two digital camera sensors — a large and ultrawide, but it surely lacks a telephoto lens. That is pretty widespread for midrange telephones, however what the Pixel 10a does, it does very effectively, together with all of Google’s computational pictures tips and Gemini tips as effectively.

Evaluate: Google Pixel 10a

Who it is for: The Pixel 10a is a funds cellphone beginning at $499. It is available in a wide range of enjoyable colours, equivalent to Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian. Although it lacks a telephoto digital camera, the opposite two cameras are beautiful. 

I used to be notably impressed with its means to seize shifting topics with out the standard blur you will see at this value level. Low-light pictures can also be fairly good.

As for the remainder of the cellphone, the software program is the primary different promoting level. That is Google’s cellphone working Google’s working system. In case you are a tech nerd, that ought to attraction to you — particularly on the engaging value level. It’s also possible to simply purchase the cellphone unlocked and take it to any service you need within the US, if you would like. 

Who ought to look elsewhere: The most important draw back to the Pixel 10a is its design. Along with the large bezel that runs across the display, the cellphone’s again lacks the digital camera “visor” that is change into iconic to the model over the previous couple of years. 

On the plus facet, the digital camera bump is sort of flush with the again of the cellphone. On the draw back, it is frankly slightly boring, and the bezels across the entrance scream 2017-era smartphone. It isn’t a fantastic look, so if you happen to’re somebody who fancies a cellphone that stands out from the pack, this cellphone shouldn’t be for you.

For those who’re a spec nerd, you may additionally not like that this cellphone tops out at 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The latter is not horrible, however the former does not precisely scream future-proof. Add in the truth that Tensor processors usually are not identified for his or her spectacular energy, and avid gamers would possibly need to discover a completely different possibility as effectively.

Google Pixel 10a tech specs: Processor: Tensor G5 | Show dimension: 6.3-inch | RAM/Storage: 8GB with 128GB or 256GB | Battery: 5,100mAh | Digital camera: 48MP huge, 13MP ultrawide, and 13MP entrance | Worth: Beginning at $499

Why we prefer it: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 stays the most effective foldable cellphone in 2026, due to its ultra-thin kind issue and market-leading digital camera system, which captures extra lifelike pictures than competing fashions from OnePlus and Google, in response to our checks. 

Samsung took the standard cellphone route when refining the outer show of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, choosing a wider, extra customary aspect-ratio panel slightly than the narrower one on the Galaxy Z Fold 6. That makes a notable distinction in hand-feel and ergonomics, although the 2 telephones are solely $100 aside. In comparison with the usual slab-style cellphone, you are merely getting extra display with the Z Fold 7, with a bigger 8-inch show when unfolded. For reference, most modern-day telephones vary from 6 to six.8 inches.

Naturally, all of the content material I have been consuming on the cellphone, like video streaming, social media feeds, and Google Maps, is introduced in a extremely consumable means; nothing feels disorienting or cropped. Whereas the foldable does not match its Extremely sibling spec-for-spec, the Z Fold 7 really shines and greater than makes up for the “inferior” 200MP digital camera system in lengthy publicity pictures and selfies, due to its self-standing nature. 

Evaluate: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Who it is for: I typically suggest the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold over different foldables due to Samsung’s feature-rich strategy to software program. Operating on the OneUI launcher (over Android 16) means you may count on a easy but customizable consumer interface, with help for as much as seven years of working system and safety updates. I can not say the identical for the OnePlus Open or Motorola Razr.

This ultra-slim kind issue can also be perfect for multitaskers and different customers who need to see as a lot data without delay as attainable with out reaching for a pill or laptop computer. You merely will not discover a foldable with higher ergonomics proper now than this.

Who ought to look elsewhere: With a $2,000 beginning price ticket, you are principally paying for the innovation issue with this cellphone. So, if you happen to’re extra interested by a secure and dependable handset that is arguably a lot simpler to restore, I might suggest a conventional slab cellphone just like the Galaxy S26 sequence.

Customers searching for a foldable cellphone must also think about the Google Pixel 10 Professional Fold if they like a handset with much less bloatware and a stubbier design, or the older Galaxy Z Fold 6 if they need S Pen stylus help, which the Z Fold 7 omits.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Show sizes: 6.5-inch exterior and 8-inch inside | Storage choices: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP huge, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto | Entrance cameras: 10MP entrance | Battery: 4,400mAh | Worth: Beginning at $2,000

Why we prefer it: The OnePlus 15 delivers one of the vital well-rounded flagship experiences we have examined, with a big 6.8-inch 165Hz AMOLED show, a 7,300mAh battery, a triple-camera setup with a reliable 50MP most important lens on the helm, the newest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and extra. For a beginning value of $899, it’s totally troublesome to discover a higher flagship cellphone deal proper now.

Placing the worth facet apart, the OnePlus 15 shines with its charging velocity; it is one thing I’ve realized to not take without any consideration, as competing Android flagships are inclined to require hours longer to prime up. From my checks, the cellphone’s 80W wired charging can energy it from 0% to 50% inside 10 minutes, with a full cost taking nearer to half-hour. 

Evaluate: OnePlus 15

That is in comparison with the Samsung Galaxy S26 Extremely, for instance, which takes greater than an hour to completely cost with its 60W customary. OnePlus additionally contains an 80W charger within the field, a free bonus that advantages customers who do not need to spend extra on equipment and are at all times on the go.

One other vantage level is the OnePlus 15’s IP69 score, which surpasses that of competing handsets. By IP69 requirements, the cellphone can stand up to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets and modifications in humidity. In different phrases, leaving the system in a washer and dryer, and even dropping it in a pot of boiling soup, will not harm it. 

Who it is for: The OnePlus 15 usually begins at $899, which is cheaper than its closest present opponents, the $1,099 Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus and Google Pixel 10 Professional. The value level alone makes it price recommending to customers looking for a flagship cellphone expertise with out spending $1,000 or extra. For the cash, you will additionally get the quickest charging speeds on the US market, nice for customers who’re at all times on the go or require as a lot energy as attainable in a given time.

Who ought to look elsewhere: Whereas the OnePlus 15 hits virtually each mark from our testing, options just like the Google Pixel 10 Professional and Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus are extra available at service shops and promise longer software program help, each of which are perfect for customers in search of a tool they’ll maintain onto for the following 5+ years. 

The OnePlus 15 additionally falls quick in video recording and total digital camera high quality, with our checks revealing inconsistent HDR seize, colour processing, and imperfect stabilization. Due to this fact, customers who rely closely on video recording ought to think about different flagship telephones, such because the iPhone 17 Professional or Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely.

OnePlus 15 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Show dimension: 6.8 inches | Storage choices: 256GB/512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP most important, 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP telephoto | Entrance digital camera: 32MP | Battery: 7,300mAh | Worth: Beginning at $899

Why we prefer it: Deciding on the most effective compact cellphone got here all the way down to the wire, with Motorola’s Razr Extremely simply scraping by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7. I went hands-on with the Razr Extremely mannequin final 12 months, and was completely impressed by the improved hinge system (learn: the cellphone feels sturdier to flip open and shut), in addition to the efficiency, which is underpinned by an up to date Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 12GB of RAM.

Motorola’s outer show nonetheless helps nearly any app you throw at it, which means you may browse the net, play video games, scroll TikTok, and do different cell duties with out ever needing to flip open the system. Samsung’s platform is extra restricted on this regard, which at all times felt like a missed alternative when testing.

It additionally helps that the Razr Extremely has a textured backing, together with new Alcantara and Wooden finishes, which I’ve discovered to be simpler to carry and grip than competing flip telephones. Contemplating how fragile these foldable units may be — something with so many shifting elements usually are — the improved grip is straightforward to understand.

Evaluate: Motorola Razr Extremely (2025)

Who it is for: Usually costing $1,500, the Razr Extremely shouldn’t be an inexpensive flip cellphone by any means. That is why its extra reasonably priced siblings, the Razr and Razr Plus, exist. However if you need probably the most full, sturdy, and visually stimulating flip cellphone in the marketplace proper now, you will should pay to play with the Razr Extremely.

I applauded Motorola for exploring new colour and materials finishes with this 12 months’s Razr, and that is one thing fashion-forward customers will probably favor too. The battery on this 12 months’s mannequin — 4,700mAh, up from 4,000mAh — can also be a lot bigger, which you’ll by no means actually complain about.

Who ought to look elsewhere: When shopping for the Razr Extremely, you must also think about facets like Motorola’s comparatively quick software program replace cadence, which ranges from 2 to three years, versus Google and Samsung’s 7 years. For those who’re in search of a cellphone that is much more forgiving when dropped, I might put money into a conventional slab handset as a substitute, just like the Samsung Galaxy S26 sequence or iPhone 17 sequence.

Motorola Razr Extremely (2025) tech specs: Processor:  Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Show sizes: 4-inch exterior and 7-inch inside | Storage choices: 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP huge, 50MP ultrawide | Entrance digital camera: 32MP huge | Battery: 4,700mAh | Worth: $1,300 (at present on sale for $1,100)

Why we prefer it: AI is a part of the mainstream now, however earlier than you’d ever heard of ChatGPT, Google was utilizing AI to up its pictures recreation in large methods. First, it used AI to assist clear up pictures and make topics clearer, then it allowed you to take away objects from pictures, and now it lets you seamlessly merge pictures collectively into that good second. 

All that’s to say, if you happen to worth pictures, the Pixel 10 Professional XL and its suite of artistic AI options is what needs to be in your pocket.

The Pixel 10 Professional sequence can also be the primary to help Qi2 25W wi-fi charging with Pixelsnap magnets. This implies it’s going to be appropriate with the present suite of MagSafe digital camera equipment like tripods, mounts, and docks, and may prime up at a faster price than competing Android telephones.

Evaluate: Google Pixel 10 Professional XL

Who it is for: The Pixel Professional 10 XL is for photographers who need to seize a fast point-and-shoot picture after which discover how AI can improve it. 

It democratizes a variety of what you see skilled photographers do with apps like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, permitting you to maneuver topics round and fill within the gaps left behind, improve lighting, and even put topics into a brand new setting. 

This is not actually new to smartphone pictures, however Google has been doing it for therefore lengthy that it reveals, each within the workflow and within the outcomes.

The Pixel Professional 10 XL has the biggest non-folding display that you should utilize as a viewfinder, which is vital for locating the precise composition. It additionally has the biggest battery and the quickest charging of all of the Pixels, so if these specs are vital to you, then this cellphone is the winner.

Who ought to look elsewhere: That is the biggest and most costly Pixel you should buy (that does not fold), so people who find themselves on a funds might need to have a look at our midrange decide on this record — the Pixel 10a. There’s extra on that cellphone beneath. The Pixel 10 Professional XL begins at $1,199, so it is undoubtedly not for the faint of coronary heart.

That is additionally a big cellphone, so that may remove the thin jean crowd. For those who’re a back-pocket cellphone service, it’s possible you’ll need to have a look at this cellphone’s smaller sibling, the Pixel 10 Professional, which has virtually precisely the identical specs (and the identical pictures chops) in a smaller package deal.

Google Pixel 10 Professional and 10 Professional XL tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G5 | Show dimension: 6.3 and 6.8 inches | Storage choices: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP most important, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto | Entrance digital camera: 42MP | Battery: 4,870mAh/5,200mAh | Worth: Beginning at $999 (Professional) and $1,199 (Professional XL)