Last year, we saw some of the best Android phones ever released. After all, Android offers a variety of form factors and price points, from very affordable to ultra-premium phones that cost thousands (yes, plural) of dollars. You can choose from the standard candybar form factor, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, or foldable phones like the Motorola Razr Ultra, and pick from budget options like the Google Pixel 9a, all the way up to the most expensive Android phone you can buy, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
We put every device through rigorous testing, using it for weeks to evaluate every little detail. Android phones are especially exciting for us -- not just because of the diverse hardware, but because each brand brings its own unique spin on the operating system. Unboxing a new Android phone always feels like an adventure. To help you find the right one, here are our top picks for the best Android phones in every category.
What is the best Android phone right now?
I thoroughly test every Android phone that makes its way onto my desk, spending at least two weeks -- up to months -- with each device before deciding whether it fits within ZDNET's buying guide. My pick for the best Android phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for $1,300, which features the company's flagship features and capabilities, including an S Pen stylus for precision inputs, AI features for productivity and creativity, a 200MP camera system, and the most durable display on any Galaxy phone yet.
Also: We ran battery tests on 17 phones - this model lasted the longest
In our February update, we added the OnePlus 15 as a top pick based on our testing.
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Best Android phones in 2026
Show less View now at Amazon View now at Samsung Why we like it: The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best handset of all the Android phones we've tested. The latest Galaxy AI embedded in the device brings a slew of generative AI capabilities, including real-time phone call translations, multi-app AI voice prompts, enhanced photo editing, and a new AI Select tool that offers contextual shortcuts based on what you hover over. Notably, I've found that most of these features outperform AI tools offered by competing Android phones regarding speed, reliability, and practicality. Like its predecessor, the S24 Ultra, the S25 Ultra is built with a large 6.9-inch AMOLED and a reliable 5,000mAh battery. It helps that the S25 Ultra is made of a lightweight yet durable titanium frame and features Corning's Gorilla Armor 2, which is ideal for users who worry about damaging or scuffing up their devices. Under the hood, the S25 Ultra includes an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset for improved graphics and AI features, and 12GB of RAM. From our testing, the Qualcomm processor not only yields greater day-to-day performance but also improves power efficiency for longer endurance. This is roughly nine hours of typical use per charge. Lastly, the big upgrade for the new camera system is a 50MP ultrawide lens that produces greater detail and vividness when capturing landscape and macro shots. Review: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Who it's for: Although the price of the S25 Ultra is still fairly inaccessible at $1,300, the phone's upgrades may entice users holding onto older devices and looking for something more capable. The S25 Ultra retains last year's anti-reflection screen which, when paired with the larger cooling chamber, makes it a fantastic multimedia device and easy to use when outdoors. If money is no object, or you score a competitive offer from your local carrier or retailer, then the S25 Ultra is the best phone you can buy today. Who should look elsewhere: With the S25 Ultra, you'll have to live with the fact that the S Pen no longer supports Bluetooth gestures, which previously allowed users to snap with a click of the stylus key. And if you're tight on budget or not a fan of the Ultra model's boxier footprint, I'd recommend a lower-tier S25 model or check out the Google Pixel 10 Pro series. Both options offer similar features but for less money. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | Display size: 6.9 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $1,300 Value 7 Performance 10 Battery life 10 Camera quality 9 Display 9 Pros AI-centric Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset
Improved ultrawide rear camera
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