10 Best Smartphones 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is a premium foldable smartphone that stands out with its large 8-inch main screen, allowing you to multitask with up to three apps open at once — great for productivity or entertainment. Despite the big screen, it remains surprisingly slim and light, making it comfortable to carry. Its 512GB storage offers plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos, while the 12GB of RAM and the customized Snapdragon 8 Elite processor ensure smooth and fast performance, whether you're browsing, streaming, or gaming. The phone runs on the latest Android 16 with Samsung’s OneUI 8, providing a modern and user-friendly interface.

The camera system is impressive, featuring a 200MP main sensor that delivers very detailed pictures, making it one of the best cameras you can find on a foldable phone. Battery life is designed to support a busy day with its 4400mAh capacity, but given the large screen size and powerful components, heavy users might need to recharge by evening. Build quality has improved with a tough Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, offering better durability for a foldable device, although foldables are generally more delicate than traditional phones.

The phone's unlocked status means it works with all carriers, and extra features like AI photo editing and screen-sharing with Google Gemini add convenience. This phone suits users wanting a cutting-edge device that blends a tablet-like display with smartphone portability, especially if multitasking and photography are priorities. For those who prioritize battery endurance above all or prefer a more compact, less expensive phone, this model might feel like a compromise.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a solid choice if you want a powerful, well-rounded smartphone for everyday use. Its 6.2-inch ProScaler display offers a sharp 2340 x 1080 resolution, which means clear visuals and vibrant colors—great for watching videos or browsing. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor is one of the fastest available, so you can expect smooth performance whether you're multitasking, gaming, or using demanding apps. With 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it has plenty of memory and space for apps, photos, and videos without worrying about running out.

The 4000mAh battery is decent but not the largest around. It should comfortably last a full day with regular use, especially with fast and wireless charging features to quickly top up when needed. The camera system shines in low-light conditions thanks to AI Night Mode and Audio Eraser, which reduces background noise in videos, helping you capture clearer moments. Portrait mode also enhances skin tones for flattering photos. Running Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7, the phone offers a user-friendly experience with helpful features like a smart assistant for multitasking and proactive notifications. The build quality is premium and water-resistant, making it durable for everyday handling.

The screen size is on the smaller side compared to many recent flagship phones, which might not appeal if you prefer larger displays. Also, while the 4000mAh battery capacity is fine, some competitors offer bigger batteries for longer use without charging. Finally, the phone comes unlocked, which is great for carrier flexibility but check compatibility with your network. The Galaxy S25 suits users looking for a fast, stylish Android phone with strong camera capabilities and solid all-around performance, especially if you value a manageable screen size and smooth multitasking.

The Google Pixel 9 is a solid choice if you want a smartphone that shines in photography and smooth everyday use. Its 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120 Hz refresh rate offers a crisp and fluid viewing experience, great for browsing and watching videos. Battery life is reliable, promising up to 24 hours of talk time with its 4700 mAh battery, so it should comfortably last a full day of typical use without frequent recharging. The camera system is a standout, featuring a 50 MP main sensor and a 48 MP ultrawide lens that supports impressive macro shots. Google’s advanced AI tools like Magic Editor and Best Take help you easily enhance photos even if you’re not an expert.

Powered by a 3.2 GHz processor and equipped with 12 GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 handles multitasking and apps smoothly without lag. Storage at 128 GB offers decent space for apps, photos, and media, though it lacks expandable memory. Running on the latest Android 14, the phone benefits from timely updates and a clean, user-friendly interface. Build quality feels premium and the Wintergreen color adds a fresh, stylish touch. If you’re looking for a larger screen or more storage options, this might feel a bit limited. Also, it lacks a headphone jack, relying on USB-C for audio. This phone suits users who prioritize camera performance and AI features, desire a smooth and responsive phone, and appreciate flexibility with carriers thanks to its unlocked status.