If you're on the hunt for the best Android phone, you're entering a dynamic world that offers far more than just alternatives to the iPhone. From folding powerhouses like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 that blur the lines between smartphone and tablet, to devices optimized for gaming with dedicated buttons and advanced cooling systems, the Android market is a hotbed for innovation. You'll also find compelling options in the new Galaxy S25 lineup, which is now available for order. And the best part? You don't necessarily need to shell out over $1,000 to get a top-notch device; there are plenty of great options at various price points.

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 AmazonMy journey with Android phones began in 2012 with my first Android and 3D phone, and since then, I've had the opportunity to test and use a wide range of Android devices. From budget-friendly options to the first 5G phone, gaming-centric models, and various folding and flipping designs, I've seen it all. My colleagues and I have hands-on experience with the best from Samsung and Google, as well as lesser-known brands that offer competitive alternatives. If you're looking for a great Android phone, we've got the insights to guide you.

Here, you'll find not just the best Android phones but also some of the best smartphones overall. Whether you're after the cream of the crop with all the bells and whistles or a budget-friendly option that punches above its weight, there's something for everyone. And with the fast-paced nature of the Android market, you won't have to wait a year to see what's next, unlike iPhone users.

Contributions by Jackie Thomas, Danielle Abraham, and Georgie Peru.

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best Android Smartphone

Our top pick### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

0Experience a stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED screen on a powerhouse phone equipped with a processor that can handle multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and exceptional camera performance with ease. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavySince Samsung introduced the Ultra designation, these devices have represented the pinnacle of the brand's capabilities and design. Our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review confirms its place as the top Android phone of 2024. This phone brings a wealth of features to the table, making it a standout choice.

Starting with the display, you'll enjoy a 6.8-inch 1440p AMOLED panel that offers high brightness, deep contrast, and fluid motion with a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The S24 Ultra also retains S Pen support for precise input when a fingertip isn't enough. Samsung has encased this in a new blend of Gorilla Glass, one of the strongest available, and a titanium frame for added durability. It's also water and dust resistant.

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC powers the S24 Ultra, capable of running the latest apps, top-tier games at max settings, and ensuring smooth operation for years to come. Samsung's commitment to seven years of operating system updates matches Google's promise for its latest Pixel phones, ensuring long-term support.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 ImagesSamsung has equipped the S24 Ultra with five lenses, including a 200-megapixel main sensor for incredible detail. There's also a 12MP ultra-wide camera for broader shots, and both 3x and 5x telephoto lenses for zooming in on subjects.

You can leverage AI tools to search for objects in photos or enhance and edit your images with ease. With top-notch performance, an exceptional design, versatile cameras, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S24 Ultra outshines nearly every other Android phone available. Until another device can challenge Samsung across the board, the S24 Ultra remains our number one pick.

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 visually stunning smartphone, though its unfolded aspect ratio may feel unusual. 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 weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 we reviewed is a formidable device with dual personalities. Folded, it's a sleek phone with a 6.2-inch display. Unfolded, it transforms into a 7.6-inch tablet with a 4:3 aspect ratio, perfect for productivity. Both screens use vibrant AMOLED panels, ensuring stunning visuals.

The Z Fold 6's performance is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, offering a significant boost over its predecessor. Whether you're multitasking with split screens, using DeX for a desktop experience, or playing the latest games, the Z Fold 6 handles it all with ease.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 ImagesIn the camera department, the Z Fold 6 features a 50MP main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a zoom lens with 5x optical magnification and up to 30x digital zoom. Like the S24 Ultra, it supports Samsung's AI tools for photo editing, and with an S Pen, you can leverage fine editing capabilities on the larger internal screen.

The versatility of the Z Fold 6 makes it the top choice among foldable Android phones. However, Samsung also offers the smaller Z Flip 6, which trades some camera and multitasking capabilities for a more compact design. For those who choose the Z Fold 6, consider our list of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 cases for added protection.

3. Poco X5 5G

Best Budget Android Phone

### Poco X5 5G

0An ultra-affordable phone that offers 5G connectivity, smooth performance, and a crisp display, though its camera system and gaming performance are modest. 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 has a knack for delivering budget-friendly smartphones packed with features. The Poco X5 5G I personally reviewed was a steal at launch in 2023 for about $220, and it continues to offer excellent value.

The standout feature of the Poco X5 5G is its 6.67-inch AMOLED display, boasting a sharp 1080x2400 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures vibrant colors, deep contrast, and smooth visuals for games and other content on a sizable screen.

Powered by the Snapdragon 695G SoC, the X5 5G delivers solid performance for its price. It can handle games like Genshin Impact at medium settings and boasts a large 5000mAh battery for extended use. Even at maximum screen brightness, it can stream Netflix for nearly 20 hours.

Poco X5 5G – Photos

9 ImagesAdditional features include an IR blaster for universal remote control functionality and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which are rare in budget phones in the US. However, the Poco X5 5G may not receive long-term software support, having launched with Android 12 and updated to Android 14. Its camera system is also underwhelming, but for users focused on content consumption, web browsing, and staying connected, the Poco X5 5G offers a lot for the price.

4. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Android Phone

### RedMagic 10 Pro

0The RedMagic 10 Pro offers exceptional gaming performance and sustained power in an impressive 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 supportWhile other phones might be more well-rounded, the RedMagic 10 Pro excels in gaming performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, it's a powerhouse, and RedMagic's active cooling system ensures sustained performance during long gaming sessions. This means stable frame rates even at maximum settings, allowing you to ignore mobile game warnings about high settings.

The RedMagic 10 Pro features a large 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a bright, sharp, and fast 144Hz refresh rate. The selfie camera is hidden under the screen for an uninterrupted view. It also includes capacitive shoulder buttons for enhanced control in games, and the touchscreen has an improved polling rate for quick input responses.

Though the RedMagic 10 Pro's cameras aren't as impressive as some competitors, and it doesn't promise as many software updates as Samsung, Google, or OnePlus, it offers a powerful package at a competitive price, starting at $649. This savings can be invested in a quality mobile phone controller, making it a formidable alternative to gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck.

5. Google Pixel 8

Best Midrange Android Phone

### Google Pixel 8

1Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 offers solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a bright, beautiful OLED display at a reasonable 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 modelThe Pixel 8 may not be the latest model, but it remains an excellent choice, especially at its now-reduced price. It's a significant step up from the Pixel 8a for just $100 more.

The Pixel 8 features the Tensor G3 SoC, which offers improved performance and cooler operation. It's also slightly smaller, making it more pocket-friendly and easier to use with one hand. The 6.2-inch display boasts a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, ensuring great visuals for games and movies, complemented by decent stereo speakers.

One of the Pixel 8's standout features is its seven-year update commitment, ensuring long-term support for operating system, security patches, and new features. This is crucial for maintaining device security and usability.

The camera system on the Pixel 8 is another highlight, with a strong main sensor that excels in low light and delivers sharp, colorful photos. While the ultra-wide camera isn't as impressive, its wide field of view allows you to capture more in a single shot. For a phone priced at $500, the Pixel 8's camera performance is a significant advantage.

What to Look for in an Android Phone

Choosing the right Android phone can be challenging, but here are key factors to consider:

Storage space is essential, especially for those who enjoy filming videos, playing games, or storing music. While fewer phones offer Micro SD slots for expansion, some of our picks provide up to 1TB of storage. Alternatively, cloud storage can free up space on your device.

RAM is crucial for smooth multitasking. While 4GB is sufficient for basic use, heavier gaming and app usage require more. All our recommended phones have at least 6GB of RAM.

The processor is vital for performance. The number of cores and clock speed determine processing speed. Snapdragon processors are common in Android phones, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Tensor G4 being among the best currently 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 popularized the 'smartphone' concept in 2007, Google's Android OS has been a major competitor. An Android phone runs Google's Android operating system, and with few exceptions, any device running Android qualifies as a smartphone.