10 Best Smartphones 2026 in the United States

The Google Pixel 10 Pro is a strong choice for those seeking a modern Android smartphone with impressive features. Its 6.3-inch Super Actua display is bright and sharp, making it easy to see even in sunlight, and the smooth 120 Hz refresh rate enhances fluidity in animations. The battery life is robust, with a 4870 mAh capacity that supports over 24 hours of regular use, complemented by fast charging for quick top-ups when needed.

Camera performance stands out with a triple rear system including a 50 MP main sensor and 100x Pro Res Zoom, delivering detailed and clear photos even in low light, along with 8K video recording for high-quality videos. Powered by the Google Tensor G5 chip and 16 GB of RAM, the device handles everyday tasks and multitasking smoothly. It offers ample 256 GB storage for apps, photos, and media. Running the latest Android 16, it provides a clean, intuitive experience with helpful AI features like the Gemini assistant that can respond naturally and assist while using the camera.

The phone's build uses durable aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing resistance to scratches and drops for added peace of mind. While the unlocked status offers carrier flexibility, the weight of 11.3 ounces may feel a bit heavy compared to other phones, and the large size might not suit those who prefer smaller devices. Despite advanced AI features, some users may require time to adjust. For anyone seeking a powerful, well-built phone with excellent cameras and smart AI tools, particularly fans of Google's ecosystem, the Pixel 10 Pro is a compelling option.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is a standout choice if you’re looking for a modern foldable smartphone that excels in multitasking and entertainment. It features an impressive 8-inch foldable OLED display, which is bright and sharp, making it great for watching videos, browsing, or using multiple apps at once with split-screen. The phone runs on Google's powerful Tensor G5 chip, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and more demanding apps. With 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, it offers plenty of space and speed for most users.

The battery life is solid, easily lasting over 24 hours, and it supports fast Qi2 wireless charging, so you won’t be tied down for long when charging. The camera system is advanced, featuring a triple rear setup with a 5x telephoto lens and Super Res Zoom up to 20x, allowing for sharp close-ups and clear group photos. It also includes useful AI features like the Gemini assistant for natural conversations and smart tasks. Build quality is robust for a foldable phone; the gearless hinge is designed for long-term durability, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 along with an IP68 rating means it’s resistant to water and dust.

Being unlocked, it works well with most US carriers and supports dual SIM options, which is great for flexibility. On the downside, foldable phones can be heavier and thicker than regular smartphones, and while the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is built tough, foldable devices generally need a bit more care. Also, the screen resolution is decent but not as high as some premium phones, so if you prioritize the sharpest display, this might feel a bit less crisp. This phone is best suited for users who want a large, versatile screen combined with strong cameras and AI features, especially if you appreciate the novelty and productivity of a foldable design.

The Nothing Phone (3) is a solid choice if you want a powerful and stylish Android smartphone. Its display is a large 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a sharp resolution and smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making everything from videos to scrolling look bright and fluid. The phone’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor combined with up to 16GB RAM ensures fast and efficient performance whether you're browsing, gaming, or multitasking. Storage is generous at 512GB, enough for plenty of apps, photos, and videos without worrying about space.

One standout feature is its camera setup: four 50MP cameras including a main, periscope zoom, ultra-wide, and front camera. This system offers sharp photos, great low-light shots, and 4K video recording, which is great if you love taking photos or videos for social media. The phone also has AI-powered tools to help organize your photos and offers unique features like the Glyph Interface, which uses light patterns for notifications and interactive effects, adding a fun twist.

Battery life is strong with a 5150mAh battery, supporting fast and wireless charging, so it should last a full day of typical use and recharge quickly. The phone runs Android 15, the latest operating system, keeping things smooth and up-to-date. Build quality is solid with IP68 water resistance and a sleek design, though it does not include a headphone jack, so wireless or USB-C headphones are needed. The Nothing Phone (3) is designed for users seeking a high-performance device with an excellent camera system and vibrant display, alongside some creative new features, but may be less ideal for those who rely on wired headphones or prefer a more traditional phone design.