Other Phones to Consider
We test a ton of Android phones. We like the ones below, but you'll be better off with one of the options above. If you haven't yet done so, check out our Best Cheap Phones and Best Folding Phones guides for more.
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE for $650: If Google's Pixel 10 doesn't appeal, you can get a really great Samsung phone for around $500 (it's often on sale at this price!). The Galaxy S25 FE is like a “lite” version of the flagship Galaxy S25, with a bigger 6.7-inch screen, a larger battery, and a triple-camera system that includes a 3X optical zoom lens. Performance isn't as good, but I never had any issues (you may not be able to play the most demanding games at the highest graphical settings). The screen is sharp, bright, and smooth, and this phone is even Qi2 Ready if you use a compatible magnetic case. I don't recommend buying it at its MSRP (buy the S25 at that point), but when it's frequently at $500, it's a smart option.
Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Samsung Galaxy A56 5G for $500: The weird thing about the Galaxy A56 is that it hasn't been on sale as often as the Galaxy S25 FE. The two are often sitting at the same price, and if that's the case, you should absolutely buy the S25 FE instead. But if the A56 ever drops below $400, I think it's a nice smartphone with good performance, more than a day of battery life, and great build quality. The cameras are OK, and it lacks wireless charging, but it has many of the bells and whistles you want, and Samsung has a lengthy software update policy for this phone.
Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold for $1,799: I think Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7 takes the cake as the best folding phone designed like a book in 2025, but if you prefer Google's Pixel phones, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold (7/10, WIRED Review) isn't a bad option. It's nowhere near as thin, but it does have Qi2 magnets built in, meaning you can attach it to various magnetic accessories, like car docks and phone chargers, or attach magnetic wallets or power banks to the phone. It's also one of the only folding phones with an IP68 dust- and water-resistance rating for peace of mind. The screens look great, battery life is solid, and the camera system is reliable. It's easy to get into split-screen mode, but I think there's more Google can do to improve the multitasking experience.
Google Pixel 9 series Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Google Pixel 9 series for $499+: The Pixel 9 series (9/10, WIRED Recommends) from 2024 is still a great buy if you can find them on sale. The Pixel 9 is similar to the Pixel 9a but with better build quality and larger camera sensors. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL have the 5X optical camera and the vapor chamber cooling, among other perks. The key is to make sure you avoid paying MSRP. These have dipped fairly often in price during sale events, and now, as stock gets cleared, you can probably find a killer deal if you hold out.
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