If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're diving into a dynamic world of options that offer more than just iPhone alternatives. From folding giants like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 that blur the line between smartphone and tablet, to gaming-focused devices with extra buttons and air-cooled components, the Android market is where innovation thrives. The new Galaxy S25 lineup, already available for pre-order, is just one example of the exciting developments in this space. Remarkably, many of these options offer excellent value, meaning you don't need to spend upwards of $1,000 to get a top-notch 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 AmazonWith years of experience testing Android phones since 2012, I've explored everything from budget options and the first 5G phones to gaming devices with unique features and folding, flipping, and even twisting models. Together with my colleagues Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru, we've thoroughly evaluated what Samsung, Google, and other manufacturers offer, ensuring you get the best recommendations.

Here, you'll find not just the best Android phones but some of the best smartphones overall. Whether you're looking for top-tier features or budget-friendly excellence, our list covers it all. And if you don't find exactly what you're looking for, keep an eye out as the Android market evolves rapidly, offering new choices frequently.

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Android Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

0Enjoy a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a phone packing a processor with enough power to run multiple apps, edit videos, game, and power the stunning cameras. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBMStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavySamsung's Ultra models have always been at the pinnacle of their capabilities and design. After our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we've confirmed it's worthy of the top spot in 2024. This phone excels in numerous aspects, making it the best Android phone available.

The display is a highlight, featuring a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED with high brightness, extreme contrast, and a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra retains S Pen support for precise input and is encased in a new blend of Gorilla Glass and a titanium frame for durability, with water and dust resistance.

Internally, it's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, which can handle the latest apps and games with ease. Samsung also promises seven years of operating system updates, matching Google's commitment to their Pixel phones.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung has equipped the S24 Ultra with five cameras, including a 200-megapixel main sensor for incredible detail, a 12MP ultra-wide, and 3x and 5x lenses for versatile photography. The phone also integrates AI tools for object search and photo editing.

With its top-tier performance, exceptional design, versatile cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is unmatched among Android phones. It remains the leader until another device can challenge it across all aspects.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Android Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

0The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly fast and gorgeous smartphone, held back only by the unusual aspect ratio when unfolded. 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 weirdLarge and in charge, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 we reviewed is a formidable device with dual functionality. Folded, it features a 6.2-inch display; unfolded, it reveals a 7.6-inch screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, effectively transforming from a smartphone to a tablet. Both displays use AMOLED panels for vibrant colors and deep contrast.

The Z Fold 6 offers significant performance boosts, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is up to 22% faster than its predecessor. It's perfect for multitasking, running desktop-like DeX mode, or playing high-end games.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 ImagesPhotography on the Z Fold 6 is strong, with a 50MP main camera, an ultra-wide sensor, and a zoom lens offering up to 30x digital zoom. It also supports Samsung's AI photo editing tools, and with an S Pen, you can edit finely on the internal display.

The Z Fold 6's versatility makes it the best folding Android phone. For those interested in a smaller foldable, the Z Flip 6 is another option, trading some camera and multitasking features for a more compact design.

You can also explore our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases if you choose this phone.

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

0An ultra-affordable phone offering 5G, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though the cameras and gaming performance may not be the best. 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 consistently delivers impressive budget smartphones, and the Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed is no exception. Launched in 2023 for about $220, it remains a great value.

The standout feature is the 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering a 1080x2400 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate for excellent contrast, vibrant colors, and smooth visuals, ideal for gaming and entertainment.

Powered by a Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G provides solid performance for its price, capable of running games like Genshin Impact at medium settings. Its 5000mAh battery supports extended use, lasting nearly 20 hours of Netflix streaming at max brightness.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 ImagesAdditional features include an IR blaster for universal remote control functionality and a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, the Poco X5 5G's software support is limited, and the camera performance is modest. Still, for a device focused on entertainment and basic functionality, it offers great value.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

0The RedMagic 10 Pro combines exceptional performance with sustained power 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 supportThe RedMagic 10 Pro stands out for its gaming prowess. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and featuring active cooling, it offers stable frame rates even during long gaming sessions. This active cooling is a significant advantage over phones that rely solely on passive cooling.

The 6.85-inch AMOLED display is large and vibrant, boasting a 144Hz refresh rate and an under-display selfie camera for an uninterrupted gaming experience. The phone includes capacitive shoulder buttons for additional control and an enhanced touchscreen polling rate for responsive gameplay.

While the cameras are not as impressive as some competitors, and the software update support is shorter, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers a powerful gaming experience at a starting price of $649. This savings can be used to invest in a quality mobile phone controller, making it a formidable competitor to devices like the Steam Deck.

5. Google Pixel 8

Best Midrange Android Phone

### Google Pixel 8

1Running on a G3 Tensor chip, you'll enjoy solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a bright, beautiful 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 modelThough the Pixel 8 isn't the latest model, it remains an excellent choice, particularly since its price has dropped significantly. The Tensor G3 SoC offers improved performance and efficiency, and the phone's smaller size makes it more pocket-friendly.

The 6.2-inch display features a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, delivering great visuals. The Pixel 8 also boasts seven years of updates, ensuring long-term security and feature support.

Its camera system is a highlight, with a 50-megapixel main sensor that excels in various lighting conditions, and a wide-angle lens for expansive shots. At around $500, the Pixel 8 provides excellent value for its camera capabilities.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

Choosing the right phone involves considering several key factors. Storage space is essential, especially if you plan to store videos, games, or music. While fewer phones come with Micro SD slots, some of our recommendations offer up to 1TB of internal storage. Alternatively, cloud services can help manage space.

RAM is vital for multitasking. A minimum of 4GB is suitable for standard use, but for gaming and heavy app use, more RAM is beneficial. All our picks have at least 6GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance.

The processor is crucial for overall performance. Higher core counts and clock speeds result in faster operations. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, while Google's Tensor chips power Pixel devices. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Tensor G4 are among 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 launched the 'smartphone' concept in 2007, Google has competed with its Android operating system. An Android phone runs Google's Android OS, and aside from a few exceptions, any device running Android is considered a smartphone.