Smartphones aren't exactly the most thrilling purchases. Rectangular slabs of glass primarily used for messaging, YouTube, social media, and photography – essential, yes, but expensive if you crave the latest models. This guide focuses on the best smartphones, prioritizing value for money.

TL;DR – Top Smartphone Picks:

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Our top choice.

1. See it at Amazon Google Pixel 9 Pro: Excellent camera phone.

2. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy Apple iPhone 16 Pro: Top iPhone choice.

3. See it at Best Buy See it at Apple Google Pixel 8: Best mid-range option.

4. See it at Amazon Poco X5 5G: Best budget smartphone.

5. See it at Amazon RedMagic 10 Pro: Best gaming phone.

6. See it at Amazon See it at RedMagic Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Best foldable phone.

7. See it at Amazon

Value is subjective. Some prioritize photography, others gaming performance, or display quality. We've tested phones across all these areas.

This selection includes top Android and iPhone models, along with older models offering exceptional value due to price drops. Consider your needs and explore these top contenders.

Contributors: Jacqueline Thomas, Callum Bains, and Danielle Abraham

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How We Selected the Best Smartphones:

The mobile phone industry heavily relies on persuasive marketing, urging consumers to upgrade constantly. While newer models often introduce features, many users don't need them. Our selection emphasizes value across various budgets, focusing on durable phones with guaranteed long-term software support.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Is Samsung better than Apple? Both offer premium phones with excellent features. The key difference lies in their operating systems (Android vs. iOS). Choose based on your OS familiarity.

• Are iPhones better than Android phones? Premium iPhones and Android phones are remarkably similar. The choice depends on your existing ecosystem (Apple or Windows) and personal preference.

• Which Android phone offers the best value? The Google Pixel 8 provides excellent performance, design, and long-term software support at a competitive price.

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