2026 年最佳手机推荐：iPhone 18 Pro、三星 Galaxy S26 等七款机型实测对比

Tech > Smartphones

These are the best phones of 2026 from Samsung, Apple, and Google - all thoroughly tested and competing for the top spot.

Article updated on October 12, 2026, 4:05 pm EDT

/ inside ZD labs

This year’s phone launches are coming to an end, with Apple most recently joining the list with the iPhone 18 Pro series and iPhone Duo. That makes right now, just weeks before the holiday shopping season kicks off, one of the best times to start weighing your options if you’re due for an upgrade.

Our Picks

Disclaimer

Our experts have tested this product and selected it for this story. Its inclusion and description here solely reflect findings from our independent review. The company has paid for highlighted placements on this page.

Improved battery life with faster 40W wired charging; New 48MP telephoto supports 8x optical-quality zoom; A19 Pro processor and vapor chamber cooling greatly improves performance

Pricer than most flagship smartphones; Not the largest screen on the market; Aluminum layering is easily scratched off

AI-centric Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset; Reliable, far-shooting camera system; One of the brightest yet private displays on the market

On the pricier side for a non-foldable phone; No Qi2 wireless charging still; Battery life is just average for a big phone

Fairly accessible, starting at $599; Solid computation photography capabilities for the price range; Outstanding software with seven years of updates

Lack of a dedicated telephoto lens is felt; Huge bezel around the screen makes the phone appear outdated

Short and wide display is ideal for consuming content, and ergonomics; Large 4,800mAh battery can last the full day; Relatively lightweight for a foldable at 201 grams

No stylus support; Lack of a dedicated telephoto lens; Still expensive at a starting price of $1,899

Performs well in benchmark tests, with reliable graphics processing throughout; 80W fast-charging (and 50W wireless) with charger in the box; 7,300mAh battery keeps the device running for two days; IP69 rating to sustain harsher conditions

Camera system is a step below other flagship phones; Video recording and AI tuning are not the best; Still not available at carrier stores

Quality triple camera system that's backed by practical AI tools; Plenty of useful Gemini features that work with Tensor G6; Up to 25W, Qi2.2 wireless charging

Both models cost $100 more this year; No major hardware changes; Lower base RAM (12GB instead of 16GB)

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Best flip-style foldable phone

4-inch external display for quick interactions; Performant Snapdragon 8 Elite processor; 68W wired charging and 30W wireless charging are above standard; Textured back covers give the phone a lot of personality

Expensively priced at $1,499; Shorter software update cadence than competing phones; No telephoto lens for far-distance photos

We’ve tested just about every major phone release in 2026, from the Samsung Galaxy S26 series to the Google Pixel 11 models, and compiled a list of the seven best phones below, based on lab testing and real-world use. The best phones aren’t just the most expensive options from different brands, but ones that truly stand out as high performers and endurance leaders, and are capable of capturing life’s moments.

What is the best smartphone right now?

After extensively testing dozens of devices, our pick for the best phone overall is the iPhone 18 Pro. It’s not the flashiest model in this year’s Apple lineup, nor does it have the largest screen, but it nails all the fundamentals that make it a truly worthwhile, premium phone for many people.

Also: We ran battery tests on 17 phones – this model lasted the longest

This year’s camera system is more capable than ever, with a variable aperture system (and greater functionality on iOS 27) that makes the iPhone 18 Pro a top-of-the-line creative device. Apple has also improved the battery life. When paired with the A20 Pro’s power efficiency, it yields all-day endurance. The iPhone 18 Pro is not cheap, starting at $1,199, but our testing found this year’s model to be worth the money, especially if you can snag a carrier deal or trade-in promotion.

To be clear, our pick for the best phone overall may not be the best for you. Regardless of which option on this list you choose to invest in, expect it to be high-performing with a display bright enough for outdoor use and a camera system that meets your photography needs.

Best phones of 2026

sponsored-placement / ZDNET

Improved battery life with faster 40W wired charging; New 48MP telephoto supports 8x optical-quality zoom; A19 Pro processor and vapor chamber cooling greatly improves performance

Pricer than most flagship smartphones; Not the largest screen on the market; Aluminum layering is easily scratched off

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Expert Take

While the iPhone Duo received most of the spotlight during Apple’s iPhone keynote this year, the iPhone 18 Pro remains the brand’s flagship model, with a more advanced camera system, a longer battery rating than last year, and an upgraded A20 Pro chipset. The size to performance ratio of the iPhone 18 Pro helps it truly stand out in a year full of heavy hitters.

Why we like it: One of the big upgrades with this year’s model is battery life, with Apple touting up to 36 hours of video playback. That’s up from 33 hours on the iPhone 17 Pro, and nearly matches the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s rating. Battery size is one reason for the improvement, but Apple is also crediting the A20 Pro chipset for its power efficiency, as well as the new vapor cooling chamber that dissipates heat during intense workloads. Apple’s battery rating has always aligned with our lab findings, and from our review, both the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are longer-lasting than ever.

The design of the iPhone 18 Pro is similar to last year’s model, with the biggest differences being colors — it now comes in Silver, Black, Glacier (Blue), and Burgundy (Red) — and the redesigned Dynamic Island. The latter now takes up less space on the front screen and supports up to three Live Activities (up from two). Notably, both Pro models have gotten heavier this year, which makes the smaller Pro easier to recommend for most people.

But the biggest upgrade comes in the form of a variable-aperture camera system, with a mechanical six-blade design that lets the iPhone control how much light it lets in for improved depth of field and low-light detail. Apple will let you manually adjust the different f-stops, should you want to, but the aperture will automatically adapt to the exposure of your shots for improved image quality.

Review: iPhone 18 Pro

Who it’s for: The iPhone 18 Pro is still the best iPhone for professional users, content creators, and those who seek a highly capable handset. This is an iPhone for those who want the best camera system on the market, and it can last throughout the day, too.

Who should look elsewhere: That said, the iPhone 18 Pro did see a $100 price increase over its predecessor, bringing the starting price of the 256GB configuration to $1,199. It’s not drastically more expensive, but still at a price that requires some consideration of alternatives. If you’re shopping on a lighter budget or prefer a smaller phone, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 are formidable options.

AI-centric Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset; Reliable, far-shooting camera system; One of the brightest yet private displays on the market

On the pricier side for a non-foldable phone; No Qi2 wireless charging still; Battery life is just average for a big phone

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Expert Take

Why we like it: Samsung’s flagship phone continues to top the list for our benchmark tests. The latest model, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, delivers in almost every way, from general performance to display technology to camera quality, with flaws that you really have to look closely to uncover.

The standout feature of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is its Privacy Display, which dims half the screen’s pixels, so it appears tinted when viewed at an off angle. This complex display tech can be customized to hide important information, such as 2FA message alerts and passwords. Its one caveat? A screen that’s a little less sharp and vibrant than its predecessor, but the security benefits easily outweigh the drawbacks here.

Review: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung has also equipped the Galaxy S26 Ultra with an updated Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, capable of running high-end games like Genshin Impact and heavy AI tasks without much stuttering. The improved efficiency is paired nicely with 60W wired charging, the first and fastest we’ve tested on any Samsung phone to date.

Who it’s for: The Galaxy S26 Ultra is for people who want a phone with high utility, advanced security features, and a camera system that can shoot virtually anything. You’ll also have to be willing to pay to play, as the phone typically starts at $1,300. Carrier deals, retailer discounts, and other trade-in offers are your best friends if you really want one.

Who should look elsewhere: I mentioned earlier that the S26 Ultra isn’t flawless. For one, it lacks the Qi2 magnetic adapter that’s required to attach compatible accessories without an additional case. It also has a camera configuration that’s nearly identical to last year’s model, and it’s still a large, 6.9-inch phone, at the end of the day. It’s also just a really big and bulky phone, so it’s not always a comfortable experience, even if you have larger hands.

Those who prefer something less expensive and easier to hold should consider Samsung’s smaller options, such as the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus.

Fairly accessible, starting at $599; Solid computation photography capabilities for the price range; Outstanding software with seven years of updates

Lack of a dedicated telephoto lens is felt; Huge bezel around the screen makes the phone appear outdated

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Expert Take

Why we like it: The Pixel A series is always a treat to review because, for the most part, you’re getting everything you can get in the flagship version of the Pixel, but in a smaller, less expensive package.

Truth be told, it’s hard to buy a phone today that doesn’t meet all the table stakes, but Pixels — even midrange Pixels — tend to rise to the top in terms of features. Google’s software is awesome to use — it’s one of the best versions of Android you can find.

The Pixel 10a in particular is good at photography. There are two camera sensors — a wide and ultrawide, but it lacks a telephoto lens. That’s fairly common for midrange phones, but what the Pixel 10a does, it does well, including all of Google’s computational photography tricks and Gemini tricks as well.

Review: Google Pixel 10a

Who it’s for: The Pixel 10a is a budget phone typically starting at $599. It comes in a variety of fun colors, such as Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian. Though it lacks a telephoto camera, the other two cameras are exquisite.

I was particularly impressed with its ability to capture moving subjects without the typical blur you’ll see at this price. Low-light photography is also quite good.

As for the rest of the phone, the software is the main other selling point. This is Google’s phone running Google’s operating system. If you are a tech nerd, that should appeal to you — especially at the attractive price. You can also easily buy the phone unlocked and take it to any carrier you want in the US, if you’d like.

Who should look elsewhere: The biggest downside to the Pixel 10a is its design. In addition to the gigantic bezel that runs around the screen, the phone’s back lacks the camera “visor” that’s become iconic to the brand over the last few years.

On the plus side, the camera bump is nearly flush with the back of the phone. On the downside, it’s frankly a little boring, and the bezels around the front scream 2017-era smartphone. It’s not a great look, so if you fancy a phone that stands out from the pack, this one is not for you.

If you’re a spec nerd, you may also not like that this phone tops out at 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The latter isn’t terrible, but the former doesn’t exactly scream future-proof. Add in the fact that Tensor processors are not known for their impressive power, and gamers might want to find a different option as well.

Short and wide display is ideal for consuming content, and ergonomics; Large 4,800mAh battery can last the full day; Relatively lightweight for a foldable at 201 grams

No stylus support; Lack of a dedicated telephoto lens; Still expensive at a starting price of $1,899

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Expert Take

Why we like it: We heard rumors last year that Samsung was working on a wide-style foldable phone, and this July, the Z Fold 8 launched to global fanfare. After testing the phone, through the honeymoon phase and all, the group consensus is that the Z Fold 8 very much lives up to the hype.

The big kicker with the Z Fold 8 is its short, stubby form fshape, with a design akin to a passport rather than a remote control. You’re getting a 5.5-inch, 10:16 aspect-ratio display on the front, making it feel like a BlackBerry, and a 7.6-inch, 4:3 aspect-ratio display when unfolded. This clever play on dimensions makes the Z Fold 8 Samsung’s most media-optimized phone yet, with noticeably smaller letterboxing (black space) when watching movies and videos.

Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

When unfolded, the phone effectively becomes an e-reader tablet, with a crease that’s less noticeable compared to previous Z Fold iterations. Samsung is chalking that up to an updated Flex Titanium hinge that’s both more durable and thinner. While the Z Fold 8 loses out on a dedicated telephoto lens, leaving it with just the main and ultrawide cameras, it fills the rest of its internal space with a large 4,800mAh battery that we’ve found to be very reliable.

Who it’s for: I recommend the Z Fold 8 to mobile enthusiasts who want an entertainment-first device, whether they’re consuming content with the outer display tilted or with the inner display at full brightness (3,000-nit peak). Existing flip phone users may also consider the Z Fold 8, as its shorter form factor makes the transition much more seamless. Samsung recently reported more Z Flip users have switched to the Z Fold than ever, thanks to the latest model.

Who should look elsewhere: The Z Fold 8 is still a big investment, with a starting price of $1,900 for the 256GB configuration. If budgeting is a concern, and the various trade-in offers and promotions don’t tip in your favor, I recommend the older Z Fold and Flip models that have since dropped in price. The lack of a dedicated telephoto lens may also be a deal-breaker for some users. If you demand more from a foldable phone — and are willing to pay for it — consider the Z Fold 8 Ultra model instead. You may even consider waiting it out for the iPhone Duo to launch later in October.

Camera system is a step below other flagship phones; Video recording and AI tuning are not the best; Still not available at carrier stores

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Expert Take

Why we like it: While OnePlus announced it’s exiting the US market, the OnePlus 15 remains one of the most well-rounded flagship experiences we’ve tested. The phone has a large 6.8-inch 165Hz AMOLED display, a 7,300mAh battery, a triple-camera setup with a competent 50MP main lens at the helm, the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and more. At a starting price of $900, it’s difficult to find a better flagship phone deal right now.

Putting the value aspect aside, the OnePlus 15 shines with its charging speed; it’s something I’ve learned not to take for granted, as competing Android flagships tend to require hours longer to top up. From my tests, the phone’s 80W wired charging can power it from 0% to 50% within 10 minutes, with a full charge taking closer to 30 minutes.

Review: OnePlus 15

That’s compared to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, for example, which takes more than an hour to fully charge at its standard 60W rate. OnePlus also includes an 80W charger in the box, a free bonus that benefits those who don’t want to spend more on accessories and are always on the go.

Another vantage point is the OnePlus 15’s IP69 rating, which surpasses that of competing handsets. By IP69 standards, the phone can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets and humidity fluctuations. In other words, leaving the device in a washer and dryer, or even dropping it in a pot of boiling soup, won’t damage it.

Who it’s for: The OnePlus 15 typically starts at $899, which is cheaper than its closest current competitors, the $1,099 Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus and Google Pixel 11 Pro. The price alone makes it worth recommending to consumers seeking a flagship phone experience without spending $1,000 or more. For the money, you’ll also get the fastest charging speeds on the US market, great for users who are always on the go or require as much power as possible in a given time.

Who should look elsewhere: As mentioned earlier, OnePlus has announced that it will no longer be selling and servicing its products in the US. This means that after the remaining years of the OnePlus 15’s update cycle, likely before or by 2030, it may not receive the necessary software and security support to run effectively.

For that reason, we would not recommend the OnePlus 15 if you plan to use it for more than five years. It’s a fantastic phone, but there’s no guarantee that it’ll receive the next big Android update in due time.

Quality triple camera system that's backed by practical AI tools; Plenty of useful Gemini features that work with Tensor G6; Up to 25W, Qi2.2 wireless charging

Both models cost $100 more this year; No major hardware changes; Lower base RAM (12GB instead of 16GB)

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Expert Take

Why we like it: Many would argue that Google was very modest with the upgrades to the Pixel 11 Pro series this year, but the few changes the brand made helped make an already fantastic camera system even better.

It starts with the new 50MP main sensor on both the Pro and Pro XL models, which features an updated Image Signal Processor to capture more accurate details in hair and fabric. Google’s also replaced last year’s telephoto lens with a larger 1/1.96″, 48MP sensor, allowing the phones to pull in colors and light more effectively, even when zooming as far as 120x.

We compared the improved zoom capabilities of the Galaxy S26 Ultra during Made by Google week and found the output dramatically better, with Google’s AI processing identifying and sharpening subjects more accurately than Samsung’s.

This is thanks to the new Tensor G6 chipset, which also speeds up Night Sight capturing by 4.5 times faster compared to the Pixel 10 Pro series, as well as general HDR processing. We’re big fans of what Google has offered in terms of AI-enhanced camera features, too, including the new Magic Capture, which lets you record a video while AI identifies ideal scenes and automatically captures frames.

Who it’s for: The Google Pixel 11 Pro series remains a solid pick for Android and AI enthusiasts who want to experience the latest software capabilities on a handset. Google is still very much ahead of Apple when it comes to what agentic and automated tasks our phones can handle, from ordering deliveries in the background to populating the right app suggestions based on on-screen context.

Users who want a flexible camera system, especially one that’s capable of capturing distant subjects with shockingly clear detail, should also consider the Pixel 11 Pro series.

The colors and finishes of this year’s Pixel 11 Pro series are also quite nice, with Canyon being a popular choice amongst the tech crowd.

Who should look elsewhere: While the Pixel 11 Pro series gets our recommendation for its camera prowess, it’s still a step below the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 18 Pro in overall performance. Battery life is another concern; Google continues to bank on its Tensor chipset’s power efficiency to sustain the Pixel phones’ endurance, leaving the devices’ longevity in question.

Google Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G6 | Display size: 6.3 and 6.8 inches | Storage options: 256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto | Front camera: 42MP | Battery: 4,985mAh/5,115mAh | Price: Starting at $1,099 (Pro) and $1,299 (Pro XL)

Best flip-style foldable phone

Motorola Razr Ultra (2026)

Pros & Cons

Expensively priced at $1,499; Shorter software update cadence than competing phones; No telephoto lens for far-distance photos

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Expert Take

Why we like it: Deciding on the best compact phone came down to the wire, with Motorola’s Razr Ultra just scraping by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 8. ZDNET’s Cesar Cadenas went hands-on with the Razr Ultra model this year, and was thoroughly impressed by the improved hinge system, meaning the phone feels sturdier to flip open and close. Cadenas also applauded the performance, which is underpinned by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 16GB of RAM.

Motorola’s outer display still supports virtually any app you throw at it, meaning you can browse the web, play games, scroll TikTok, and handle other mobile tasks without ever needing to flip the device open. Samsung’s platform is more limited in this regard, which always felt like a missed opportunity when testing.

It helps that the Razr Ultra outpaces the Z Flip 8 in other meaningful ways, including its 5,000mAh silicon-carbon battery (compared to the Z Flip 8’s 4,300mAh) that supports 68W fast wired charging, 512GB of storage (compared to the Z Flip 8’s 256GB starting model), and a fluid 165Hz refresh rate display (compared to the Z Flip 8’s 120Hz).

Review: Motorola Razr Ultra (2026)

Who it’s for: Typically costing $1,500, the Razr Ultra is not a cheap flip phone by any means. That’s why its more affordable siblings, the Razr and Razr Plus, exist. But if you want the most complete, durable, and visually stimulating flip phone on the market right now, you’ll have to pay to play with the Razr Ultra.

We applauded Motorola for continuing to explore new color and material finishes with the Razr Ultra, and that’s something fashion-forward users will likely favor, too. The battery in this year’s model also lets the compact phone run much longer.

Who should look elsewhere: When buying the Razr Ultra, you should also consider aspects like Motorola’s relatively short software update cadence, which ranges from two to three years, versus Google and Samsung’s seven years. If you’re looking for a phone that’s even more forgiving when dropped, I’d invest in a traditional slab handset instead, like the Samsung Galaxy S26 series or iPhone 17 series.

If budgeting is a concern, I advise you to look into last year’s Razr Ultra model, which has the same Qualcomm processor, general form factor, and camera setup, for around $700 — basically half off — at most major retailers.

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Which is the right phone for you?

Having a list of your must-have smartphone features can go a long way toward narrowing down your options. If you’re a mobile professional or travel a lot for work, you’ll want to choose a phone that can provide you with at least a full day of use on a full battery and both LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity.

If you’re looking for your teen’s first smartphone, a budget-friendly and less feature-heavy option may be better to prevent overspending and misuse. If you’re a content creator or other creative professional, you’ll want a phone with an excellent front and rear camera to capture photos and videos for your social media feed.

Android vs. iOS: How to decide

Android

Google’s operating system has always been about personalization, app freedom, and flexibility. For example, dozens of Android manufacturers launch phones annually, while iOS runs only on Apple’s iPhone, which releases two models yearly. Naturally, there are more Android app developers, niche software and services, and phones that go beyond the glass slab.

Pros

Customization: While the latest iPhone software, iOS 27, is the most customizable version yet, Android is still ahead in modifying settings, looks and appearance, and more. You can adjust settings on a per-app basis, install third-party launchers, icon packs, and other services, and even tweak system animations to make the operating system faster; App variety: According to AppExperts, there are over 3.5 million Android apps on the Google Play Store and more than 1.8 million apps on the iOS App Store. That’s a big difference in volume that ultimately affects people who want more niche and specific apps for work and play. For example, while both platforms will carry services like WhatsApp and Instagram, Android usually has the upper hand with companion apps for consumer products, unreleased APKs, and more. There’s also free access to sideload apps from third-party stores — that process is exclusive to European users as far as iOS is concerned; Price and availability: Both Android and iOS are offered across the mid-to-high price tiers, but the former goes a step further with options that cater to budget-oriented shoppers. If you’re shopping for a smartphone for less than $300, unless you’re willing to buy a second-hand iPhone that’s already a few generations old, Android handsets are your best option. Android phones also come in foldable form factors, from clamshell-style devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 to book-style ones like the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold

Cons

Security and privacy: The abundance of Android phones and app makers means there are more opportunities for cybercriminals to access your personal information and/or install malware. How these attacks are prevented and managed also varies across manufacturers, with some OEMs like Google doing a better job than others like Xiaomi; Inconsistency with quality: Like security and privacy, you must always consider which Android maker you’re buying a phone from and what it offers across different price ranges. Larger legacy brands like Samsung have a greater reputation for quality assurance and value. In contrast, smaller, newer brands like Nothing and OnePlus must prove themselves, sometimes taking risks that backfire in the process

iOS

The iPhone’s operating system remains one of the most robust and closed in on the market, with unique features that only amplify the Apple hardware experience. Whether you’re using an older or newer iPhone, iOS offers superior feature parity across generations than Android, with extended software support being one of its biggest benefits.

Pros:

Exclusive, ecosystem-based services: Strength in numbers is the name of the game for iOS, with the operating system notorious for its exclusive apps and services, such as iMessage and FaceTime, which make switching away from the iPhone more difficult than it should be. It helps that Apple has surrounded the iPhone with hardware and software that work harmoniously with iOS, including handshake casting to iPads, pulling health data from an Apple Watch, and even hearing aid tests via AirPods; Quality of apps: Beyond the first-party apps, US developers often spend more time creating and optimizing iOS apps than Android apps due to the higher percentage of Apple users. As a result, services like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok function more fluidly on iOS than on Android; Longevity: When you buy a new iPhone, expect upwards of seven years of software support. While Android phone-makers such as Google and Samsung have begun to match Apple’s software update policy, the Cupertino tech giant remains the most consistent and reliable, regardless of the model. For reference, Samsung has a better track record of updating its flagship phones than its midrange phones

Cons

Restrictive experience: Apple has loosened its grip on customizability over the years, with the latest iOS 27 update even expanding the contrast levels of Liquid Glass. However, compared to Android, the iPhone software still has a way to go. For example, you still can’t customize notification types at a per-app level, set navigation gestures beyond swiping from the left side to go back, or download third-party app icons; Poor file management: If you’ve ever downloaded an image from the web on an iPhone, you’ll know just how cumbersome it can be to locate that file later on. Sometimes, downloaded photos and videos will be directed into the file manager app first, requiring further action to fully migrate them into the Photos app

Factors to consider when choosing a phone

The process of making our phone selections includes real-world testing and researching about the phones for weeks, consulting with colleagues, industry experts, and analysts who also have hands-on experience with the smartphones, and then selecting the best from all of the available choices.

Ultimately, we weigh in the following aspects when curating this list:

Design: There’s only so much you can do with a slab design, but size differences, material choices, color options, and even the ability to bend a screen in half give shoppers enough diversity to have a preference. That’s why we have a recommendation for every design; Performance: For many, smartphones are the center of our lives, which means the best ones are performant and can handle most, if not all, tasks you throw at them; Camera: Arguably the most valuable feature of a smartphone; the consistency and reliability of a camera system can make or break the overall mobile experience. We test every device in broad daylight and in the darkest of nights when finalizing this list; Battery: Every option in this guide should last you at least a day of moderate use. We also consider what devices support fast charging and/or wireless charging; Value: Prices are noted, but the most important thing with buying a phone is getting your money’s worth. With these picks, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best bang for your buck

How we test phones

ZDNET’s review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every major phone release, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and special features. Here’s a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:

Design and ergonomics: How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many people’s buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing; Performance: Several factors affect a phone’s performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, all background tasks closed, and as stable a mobile connection as possible; Camera quality: ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models; Battery life and charging: It’s also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it — wired, wireless, or both; Special features: These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite; Pricing and availability: Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally

For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive phone testing methodology page.

Kerry Wan’s smartphone advice

I’ve used dozens of smartphones in the past year alone, learning the ins and outs — the tips and tricks — to make the most out of my handset. Here are my three biggest pointers on taking care of your smartphone right now.

Speeding up your smartphone

Something I always do when setting up a new Android phone is dialing up animation and transition speeds. You can do this by turning on Developer Options, a backend catalog of system settings meant for developers to access, but rules were meant to be broken, right?

To turn on Developer Options, go into your About Phone page in the settings and look for the Build Number. Tap on that seven times and you should see a pop-up indicating that Developer Options has been turned on. Now, the activated tab will appear in the main settings list. From within, scroll down until you find Windows, Transition, and Animator duration scale. Tap into each and switch from the 1x default setting to .5x to double the speed of your phone’s animations.

Optimizing your battery health

To preserve your phone’s battery life, it’s best to charge it between 20% and 80% and never let it drop to 0% or charge fully to 100%. This is because the heat generated from overcharging the phone can burn — or degrade — the battery, reducing its number of charge cycles. This phenomenon is the reason why you shouldn’t charge your phone overnight or leave it plugged in for an extended period of time.

When in doubt, after a year or two of usage, consider getting your phone’s battery swapped to refresh its charge cycles. You’ll be amazed at how well it functions again.

How to keep your phone clean

Unless you’re invested in a repairs and warranty plan like Apple Care, consider suiting your phone with a protective case or tempered glass screen protector. Beyond drop protection, the two accessories will prevent the phone from getting scratches, scuffs, and other blemishes and can greatly reduce the chance of water damage. For what it’s worth, if a manufacturer says its phone is rated IP68, that means the device can withstand dust ingress and be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter.

Occasionally, take an alcohol pad and wipe down your phone. If you think about it, your phone is just as likely to accumulate germs as your hands, so don’t forget to clean it.

2026 年最佳手机推荐：iPhone 18 Pro、三星 Galaxy S26 等七款机型实测对比

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