Ryan Haines / Android Authority
Here at Android Authority, we spend a lot of time talking about the best Android phones you can buy at any given time. Want a phone with great cameras? Long battery life? Something at a low price? We know exactly the right phone for you.
But there’s another side to that coin: the Android phones you shouldn’t buy. Which phones are you better off skipping? As someone who’s been reviewing and writing about Android phones for a decade, that’s what I’m here to answer.
While there are endless Android phones from unknown brands on Amazon and other online retailers that you should always avoid, I’m focusing this list on major Android phones that you’re likely already considering. Also, while some of the phones here are ones we’ve previously recommended, they’re not necessarily the best purchase in August 2025.
Got it? Great. Without further ado, here are seven Android phones I don’t recommend buying right now.
What do you think is the worst Android phone to buy in August 2025? 188 votes Google Pixel 9 16 % Google Pixel 9 Pro/9 Pro XL/9 Pro Fold 17 % Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge 29 % Samsung Galaxy A36 5G 13 % Motorola Moto G (2025) 20 % Other (let us know in the comments) 4 %
Google Pixel 9
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority Pixel 9
My first couple of picks may seem contradictory, as they’re some of the highest-rated phones from last year, but there’s a good reason for their inclusion on this list. It starts with the base model Google Pixel 9.
The main reason not to buy the Pixel 9 is that the Pixel 10 is set to be announced on August 20, and it’s shaping up to be a significant upgrade. The Pixel 10 is expected to feature a new 5x telephoto camera (something the Pixel 9 doesn’t have), Qi2 wireless charging with built-in magnets, a larger battery, and slightly faster wired charging.
... continue reading