In the vast world of smartphones, choosing the right Android device can be a daunting task. Whether you’re a die-hard cameramaniac, a battery life champion, or a budget-conscious buyer, there’s a perfect Android phone out there with the specs and features to match your needs. We’ve explored the latest offerings to identify the best Android phones across various categories, so you can find the perfect match for your mobile lifestyle.
While the iPhone vs. Android debate is always heated, we have made it our mission to narrow down the top models in Android technology. Ready to figure out which phone is best for you? StudyFinds researched the best Android phones on the market, finding seven of the most commonly recommended picks across 10 expert sources. Your personal preference will depend on what features you find most valuable in a phone, along with your preferred price range. Let us know your pick in the comments below!
➡️ How Our “Best Of The Best” Lists Are Created
StudyFinds’ “Best of the Best” articles are put together with the idea of taking the work out of common consumer research. Ever find yourself searching for a product or service on Google and reading multiple reviews to find items listed across many of them? Our Best of the Best lists are created with that process in mind, with each item ranked by how frequently it appears on expert reviews or lists. With Best of the Best, you are getting consensus picks — making them truly the best of the best!
The List: Best Android Phones, According to Experts
1. Google Pixel 8 Pro
The Pixel 8 Pro improves on the Pixel 7 Pro in almost every way, offering everything from an improved display and facial recognition to faster charging, and image capture in HDR for beautiful photos. Android Police highlights that the phone boasts a refined look with a matte glass back and flat-edged display. More importantly, they argue that the biggest improvements lie in the software. Google has made significant investments in AI enhancements across its apps, and these advancements are on full display with the Pixel 8 Pro.
The new model also includes a bevy of AI-powered features to make life easier like text-to-speech recognition or context-aware Call Screening responses. ZDNet focuses on what they call the Pixel 8 Pro’s “accessible creativity.” This refers to the way Google’s phone empowers users to take creative pictures without needing to be a professional photographer. They credit the Pixel 8 Pro’s powerful triple-camera system, combined with Google’s computational photography expertise, as the key factor that sets it apart from competitors.
Engadget agrees that Google made substantial upgrades to the Pixel line-up, placing these phones at the top of their list. They mention the new Tensor G3 chip, brighter displays, improved cameras, and longer battery life as key improvements. Engadget attributes the Pixel 8 Pro’s enhanced capabilities in photography and everyday use to the Tensor G3 chip, updated sensors, and a host of new AI-powered features, as well.
2. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung has led the way for top of the line Android phones in the past few years with their Galaxy line, and the Galaxy S23 Ultra is a powerhouse of a phone made for heavy users who expect a lot from their tech. Reviewers agree that the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra represents the pinnacle of the Galaxy Ultra line. Digital Trends highlights its powerful processor, exceptional camera, and beautiful display, all wrapped in a well-designed package. While expensive, they acknowledge it’s a phone built to last.
It isn’t cheap, but has every feature you could possibly need with the battery and processing power to back it up. Tech Radar describes design changes including a larger flat surface area that better accommodates the S Pen stylus. They also mention the use of the latest Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for increased durability, and all the expected features from prior models such as water resistance and fast wired charging. The camera system is also a highlight, with a powerful main lens, multiple telephoto options, and an ultrawide lens, all working together to produce impressive photos.
The Verge acknowledges the phone’s high price tag and large size, but also recognizes it as the most powerful Android phone on the U.S. market currently. They point to the advanced processor, integrated S Pen with storage, and the unique dual telephoto camera system as evidence of Samsung packing everything they can into this feature-rich phone.
3. OnePlus 11
If you want a powerful phone that can still perform alongside other Androids but doesn’t cost nearly as much, the OnePlus 11 is cheaper for phones that do almost the same thing. The OnePlus 11 is even a strong competitor to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, particularly when considering its price point. Tom’s Guide highlights the OnePlus 11’s exceptional value with long battery life, powerful performance, and an improved camera system.
The cameras aren’t top tier, however, but will work just fine if you only plan to use your phone to capture the casual photo here and there. CNET emphasizes the OnePlus 11’s incredibly fast charging speeds, which can fully charge the battery in just 25 minutes with the 100-watt charger (though the U.S. version is limited to 80 watts, still faster than Samsung’s offering). They conclude that this phone is ideal for users who prioritize affordability, fast charging, and overall performance.
This phone’s incredible battery will last you 12-13 hours on a full charge depending on activities. ZDNet acknowledges OnePlus’s shift in strategy over the past few years, moving from budget-friendly phones to premium models and now back to a value-focused approach. They point out that for the low starting price, the OnePlus 11 offers a feature-rich package including a large display, long-lasting battery, capable camera system, and powerful processor.
4. Google Pixel 7A
If you don’t want to shell out for the Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, the 7A is a great option that still allows you to take advantage of most of the features that make the Pixel a great choice. Wirecutter points out that you get most of the important features like the Tensor G2 processor, a capable 64-megapixel camera, wireless charging, secure Face Unlock, and a vibrant 90Hz display for a much lower cost.
At a cheaper price point, the 7A still does more than most of Google’s other budget phones. While it has a smaller screen than other Pixel 7 models, Digital Trends says the 6.1-inch display is still impressive with rich colors and a smooth refresh rate, making it a great choice for everyday use.
The device has 8GB of RAM, runs on the Tensor G2 chip, and offers two cameras – a 64 megapixel main camera (higher than the iPhone 15 Pro’s main 48 megapixel camera) and a 13 megapixel ultrawide lens. Wired goes a step further, calling the Pixel 7a close to the “perfect phone for everybody.” They cite its attractive design, powerful processor for smooth performance, an upgraded camera system that delivers excellent photos, a comfortable display size, and a bright 90Hz refresh rate for a great user experience.
5. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A54G is another great budget option if you’re looking for a more wallet-friendly Android. The phone doesn’t have the fastest processor but should be able to handle most basic apps just fine if you aren’t planning on doing any heavy gaming or multi-tasking. Tom’s Guide highlights that for a cheap price, you get features typically found in flagship phones, including a long-lasting battery, a bright display, and an impressive camera system.
The camera on the Galaxy A54 isn’t the best and wouldn’t out perform the Pixel 7A in quality, but for the casual phone user who is only snapping photos here and there for memories, it should suit users just fine. TechRadar dives into the camera system, specifying a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, accompanied by an ultrawide sensor and a macro sensor. They praise the camera’s ability to capture bright and colorful photos in various scenarios, while acknowledging that the best quality comes from the main sensor.
ZDNet positions the Galaxy A54G within Samsung’s A series strategy, which prioritizes value, display quality, and battery life. They acknowledge that you might miss some of the more premium features found in higher-end models, but this phone offers a compelling alternative to those focused solely on camera performance, like Google’s Pixel A series.
6. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
If you want an unconventional phone that still has a screen the size of a smartphone, but can also fold to save space, this model is for you. The outside screen even lets users scroll though some apps, tackle calls, and answer messages while providing a bit of modern nostalgia that resembles old flip phones. Wired focuses on the phone’s compact folded size and the increased functionality of the 3.4-inch cover screen. They mention the ability to scroll through widgets and even use some apps without unfolding the phone. While they acknowledge camera improvements over the Motorola Razr+ and a more solid build overall, they point out that battery life isn’t a strong point.
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 will still cost you a bit more than the other models on our list, which makes it hard to stand up to competitors if you value faster processors or better cameras, but the phone is designed well. CNET emphasizes the significant improvement in the cover screen size, allowing users to perform many tasks without unfolding the phone. They praise the phone’s overall design, making it a strong contender in the foldable phone market.
7. Nothing Phone (2)
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced novelty phone that will make you stand out, the Nothing Phone 2 is a great alternative to larger brands. The main feature is the light up glyphs on the back of the phone that can be programmed to represent different notifications. This model marks the brand’s debut in the U.S. market and is seen as a significant improvement over its predecessor. Wired acknowledges a price increase but highlights the phone’s powerful Snapdragon processor, high-quality display, and features like wireless charging and contactless payments.
It’s cheaper than other smartphones, but doesn’t offer full water resistance or the best camera, but this model is more about its unique design and display. The Verge highlights the phone’s strengths in terms of screen size, daily performance, battery life, and a competent camera system. However, they find the phone’s unique feature, the customizable LED light strips on the back (“glyphs”), to be more visually interesting than functionally useful compared to the standard always-on display.
Other reviewers, however, love how unique the glyphs are. Digital Trends focuses on the phone’s distinctive design, which remains unlike anything else on the market. They acknowledge the large size but praise its lightweight and manageable feel.
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
Huawei Mate 50 Pro
Huawei kills them.
Huawei has no GOOGLE support so don’t get mad. Nowadays people rely on Google products, specially in work/job.
Yes it does. There’s an app that allows to install Google services.
Non è proprio così. I servizi google poi non servono solo per le app.
I agree, also the new 2021 2022 and 2023 Motorolas will destroy.perfprmamce if they were compared. I am only willing to buy Motorolas and something else only if Motorolas isn’t a available. I owned Moto e6, Moto g play 2021, Moto g pure, Moto g go and a Moto g stylus 2022.
I agree. Looking forward to the g 84 5g.
Pixel 7 pro is the real king. Samsung can’t do what google does. What a joke Tom. Number 3 really. 😂
Xiaomi 12 Pro
Great phone…
Did you examine the Google Pixel 6a as well because it may perform better than the other phones in your list? I’ve never heard of OnePlus & yet, it’s got TWO models in your bestseller list. Could you to cite statistics whether it’s actually a bestseller or not? In fact, the best way to evaluate or compare phones are the sales records. Thanks.
If you didn’t heard about the “flagship killer” means you should delete your Google account
No patriot would ever use a China product and Huawei is an extension of the PLA because it was funded by the PLA at its founding, as the PLA has active agents in place in every country in the world, due to Mao’s fear of a U.S. invasion. That’s why every criminal organization in every country of significance is controlled by the PLA. I’ve witnessed first-hand the far-reaching tentacles of the PLA way back in the 90s when I was doing business with Chinese entities. China is allowing the PLA free reign to do whatever’s necessary to further the interests of the motherland in order to provide plausible deniability for the Chinese govt. In fact, the present generation of Chinese govt leaders may be unaware of the PLA’s hand in every major criminal activity around the world, as only members of the Politburo, which includes Xi Jinping, are privy to such knowledge. The CIA knows what’s going on with the PLA but can’t do anything about it. Previous attempts to act against the PLA has ended up in dead CIA agents. Even the Mafia, Yakuza, etc are controlled by the PLA. So, what the US can do is to act against the fruits of the PLA to undermine the US & control the world economy, which is to act against Huawei & other major Chinese entities, which the Bush, Clinton & Obama has allowed to flourish by stupidly outsourcing our manufacturing & R&D to China. NEVER, EVER TEACH THE CHINESE HOW TO DO THINGS RIGHTS BECAUSE THEY WILL END DOING IT BETTER THAN YOU. It’s in their DNA to strive to do better than their peers. How do you think that China can build rockets, space stations, nuclear subs, etc if not for the transfer of western technology. It’s best for us to resign ourselves to living with the reality of Chinese dominance but I truly believe if every western govt were to unite against China, our technology will become stronger and better than the Chinese because we also have our fair share of Chinese, Indian and European immigrants, who will contribute to our economy & help us to become free of Chinese dominance.
How much tinfoil do you use annually on those hats you wear?
Patriot? Lmao, wtf is a patriot and better yet; who gives a rats ass?
Totally agree. We will be driving Chinese cars in masses one day.
North America has the worst selection of Android phone. Each and every phone mentioned has flaws.
The Galaxy S22 is highly overrated, especially.
No headphone built-in. No SD Memory card space. I don’t care how many Gigabytes are provided. A memory card provision is good to have.
Traveling to other parts of South East Asia, Android phones are much better. Cheaper and more choices.
None of the phones mentioned are….what are they called…one of the best???
Total garbage. The more improvised an Android device is, the worst it becomes. Too expensive and none of the features that the older models used to have; which incidentally are more practical than the newer ones that are proclaimed to be “so good”. I am very happy with the Galaxy A52. Mid-range. But, it has all the necessities that these newer models are lacking of.
The problem with memory cards is they’re ridiculously easy to become corrupt and you lose all your data just like that. This is the primary reason they became obsolete. While I agree headphone jack is great, they’ve disappeared like the CD drive.
The Chinese phones like Huawai,Oppo, and more are dangerous but ignorant consumers only care about the price at the end of the day and what they might read on alternative websites or forums.Nobody cares about privacy until they become a victim.
The Pixel must be all around the worst phone of 2022/2023. With it’s design flaw of cracked camera lens in colder temps, to poor quality control, cheap low quality components, and horrible Ui, and more. I had one and returned it after a few weeks. It was a disaster.
Sophisits and trolls will always find ways to sound convincing and deny or deflect shortcomings unless it suits their narrative.
While expensive, Apple is your best bet followed by a distant second, Samsung for quality and user experience.
Everybody calm down, we all know overall, the s22 ultra is hands down the best phone in the world right now.
And Trump is the best president the world has ever had. Lol
Bogus and rubbish. Pixel 7 is the worst phone on so many levels.
I bought a Pixel 7 from Verizon.
Very nice phone except IT DOESN’T WORK ON 5G ANYWHERE.
The best connection I can get is an LTE, even though the two iPhones and Pixel 6 I have in the same room get 4 bars of 5G.
My crappy Samsung S22 got full 5G.
Verizon says the problem is the Pixel 7.
Did you write this now? It appears to be out of date.
lol😂
1. XIAOMI 13 Ultra is the king.
2. XIAOMI 13 PRO is next.
3. SAMSUNG GALAXY S23 ULTRA
The rest can come in any order.
the best phone that I’ve gotten is this phone that i have but i get to much junk email. i will be down loading something to get off of junk mail.
THE BEST PHONE IN THE WORLD IS THE GALAXY S23 ULTRA
What about usb connectivity? Very difficult to know if an android phone is compatible with external interfaces. Compagnies understood much before us, any music or videos interfaces are made for iphones. I am fed up paying 1000 usd, sterlings or euros, in those android phones while for the same price I could buy a guitar that I’ll be able to transfer to my daughter in 20 years. And wow, we are happy to benefit from updates for 3 years and after spend even more for a new phone. Us, consumers are aware that the quality of smartphones is decreasing year after year. If Samsung doesn’t wake up now, Apple will be the only one left on the market, which is bad for everyone.