Samsung has been on a roll this year. From launching a tri-fold phone and introducing a unique Privacy Display-equipped Galaxy S26 Ultra in Q1 to announcing the first compact book-style foldable in July, the company has shown its innovative might. While its mid-range phones might not be the best value, there’s no denying that the Korean phone maker has some of the best flagship phones on the market.
Our Picks
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Thin and light design
- Excellent form factor
- Great displays
- Reliable performance and battery life
- On the pricier side
- No Qi2.2 wireless charging
- No wireless charging
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Best display on a phone
- Versatile cameras
- Reliable performance
- Lightweight design
- 10MP telephoto camera is dated
- S Pen isn't as useful as it used to be
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Thin and light design
- Anti-glare coating on the folding screen
- Bigger battery than before
- Reliable performance
- Average-quality telephoto camera
- Expensive
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Polished and sleek designs feel better than ever
- Snappy performance with an Ultra-level processor
- 7 years of OS updates is the industry standard
- No Qi2.2 charging
- No camera upgrades
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Price is very reasonable compared to Google and Apple
- A 'jack of all trades, master of none' smartphone
- Reliable 5,000mAh battery that gets you up to two days of usage
- Up to five years of software and security updates
- Low-band 5G support
- User interface can be sluggish at times
- Cameras are not as capable as competing midrange phones like the Google Pixel 10a
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Affordably priced and available unlocked
- Large 6.7-inch display with all-day battery life
- Extensive software support compared to Motorola and TCL
- Plastic build can feel cheap
- Limited to 128GB storage size
- MediaTek processor is just decent for performance
Bottom Line
Bottom Line
Like any other brand, Samsung has a model for every pocket and every budget. If you need a good everyday phone, there’s the Galaxy S26. If you want something compact, you now have two options with the Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. If you want something durable, Samsung has rugged phones as well. And we have tested them all.
If you are in the market for an Android phone, you’re likely to consider Samsung. So, here are our picks for the best Samsung phones you can buy today.
What is the best Samsung phone right now?
After extensively testing the latest phones on the market, I’ve found that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the best Samsung phone right now. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is a close second with the company’s top-of-the-line features and specifications, including an S Pen stylus for precision inputs, a 200MP camera system, and a unique display feature. However, I’ve been using the Fold 8 since launch, and it is still as joyful as ever. Its compact size and the ability to unfold into an iPad Mini-like aspect ratio is amazing. However, not everyone wants a folding phone or spend $1,900 on their next phone.
That’s why our runner-ups on this list are just as noteworthy. The smaller Galaxy S26 is nearly as capable as the Ultra model but costs at least $300 less. You’ll lose the S Pen and 200MP camera but retain most of the software AI features and AMOLED display. For something more experiential, consider the Galaxy Z Flip 8, which folds into a pocketable square and is accessibly priced.
The best Samsung phones in 2026
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Best Samsung phone overall
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Pros & Cons
- Thin and light design
- Excellent form factor
- Great displays
- Reliable performance and battery life
- On the pricier side
- No Qi2.2 wireless charging
- No wireless charging
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the best phone I’ve used this year. Sure, it doesn’t have the Privacy Display or a 200MP camera like the Galaxy S26 Ultra, but it has the unique ability to combine flip pocketability and fold usability. Having a book-style foldable fit in my pocket like a small compact phone has been a game-changer. If you don’t want a big phone and have the money for it, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the best phone you can buy right now. It is thin, light and will fit almost any pocket.
The Fold 8 has more practical aspect ratios on both the cover screen and the folding screen. For the first time, a book-style foldable is great for both reading and consuming video content, without feeling cramped in either use cases. The latest Galaxy AI suite also brings some useful features like real-time call translation, voice commands that work across multiple apps, and MyFanCam. My real-world testing suggests these AI functions surpass those on competing Android devices in speed, consistency, and overall usefulness.
I miss having S26 Ultra’s anti-reflective screen, but the AMOLED display and a reliable 4,800mAh battery are good additions. It is paired with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip (with 12GB/16GB of RAM), which contributes to a more power-efficient experience. In my two months of use, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 has consistently lasted me through full work days without any issues.
As for the cameras, you miss out on the telephoto lens, but the 50MP main sensor’s high-resolution mode is enough for up to 4x digital zoom. It also has an upgraded 50MP ultrawide camera that captures landscape and macro shots with greater detail and vibrancy.
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
Who it’s for: The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is for those who don’t want a big phone and don’t want to compromise on battery life by opting for a small phone. In my opinion, it is the pinnacle of the best smartphone experience. It represents a particularly compelling option for individuals holding onto three to four-year-old devices, offering significant advancements across the board with a novel design
Who should look elsewhere: The new Samsung foldable is priced quite high. It isn’t for those who want a phone under $1,200. It is also not made for those who want a camera phone or a device with a dedicated telephoto camera. In that case, you should look at the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Display size: 5.5-inch inches and 7.6inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide | Front camera: 10MP and 10MP | Battery: 4,800mAh | Price: Starting at $1,899
Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
Best no-compromise Samsung phone
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Pros & Cons
- Best display on a phone
- Versatile cameras
- Reliable performance
- Lightweight design
- 10MP telephoto camera is dated
- S Pen isn't as useful as it used to be
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: While the Galaxy Z Fold 8 might be Samsung’s most innovative phone by design, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is arguably the runner-up, flaunting its one-of-a-kind Privacy Display feature in a lightweight design. It is the most complete Samsung experience you can get on a phone. The device gets you top-of-the-line camera, an excellent screen, good battery life and reliable performance.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the best flagship Android slab phone right now. It features a unique screen feature that allows you to protect the on-screen content from onlookers without needing a third-party screen protector. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip, paired with 16 gigs of RAM and up to a terabyte of storage. The processor efficiency and a 5,000mAh cell keep it going throughout the day.
On the back, you get four cameras, with an upgraded and more reliable camera experience. I’ve noticed better shutter speed, consistency and night photography this year. There’s an S Pen too, if you like jotting down notes on your phone.
Review: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Who it’s for: The Galaxy S26 Ultra is made for those who want the most complete Samsung experience without going the foldable route. If you want a camera phone or somehting that’s understated yet innovative, this is the device to get.
Who should look elsewhere: The Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t for those who need a small phone. This is a big device, which requires two-handed use more often than not. Furthermore, it isn’t the phone to get if you don’t want to splurge over $1,000
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5for Galaxy | Display size: 6.9 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (5x optical zoom) and 10MP telephoto (3x optical zoom) | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $1,300
Joseph Maldonado/ZDNET
Best Samsung foldable phone for business
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra
Pros & Cons
- Thin and light design
- Anti-glare coating on the folding screen
- Bigger battery than before
- Reliable performance
- Average-quality telephoto camera
- Expensive
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the best foldable phone alongside the Fold 8. Its ultra-thin form factor and market-leading camera system in the US, making it a very good all-rounder.
Samsung took the traditional smartphone route when refining the outer display of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, and improved it further with the Fold 8 Ultra. It also added quality-of-life improvements like an anti-glare coating on the folding screen and made the phone easier to unfold. These two upgrades make a significant difference in daily life. Compared to the standard slab-style phone, you’re simply getting more screen with the Z Fold 8 Ultra, with a larger 8-inch display when unfolded.
Naturally, all the content I’ve been consuming on the phone, like video streaming, social media feeds, and Google Maps, is portrayed in a highly consumable manner; nothing feels disorienting or cropped out. While the foldable doesn’t match its S26 Ultra sibling spec-for-spec, the foldable has a versatile camera system and reliable performance.
Comparison: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Fold 6
Who it’s for: I often recommend the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold over other foldables because of Samsung’s feature-rich approach to software. Running on the OneUI launcher (over Android 17) means you can expect a simple yet customizable user interface, with support for up to seven years of operating system and security updates.
This ultra-slim design is also ideal for multitaskers and other people who want to see as much information at once as possible without reaching for a tablet or laptop. You simply won’t find a foldable with better ergonomics right now than this.
Who should look elsewhere: With a starting price tag of $2,100, you’re mostly paying for the innovation factor with this phone. So if you’re more interested in a safe and reliable handset that’s arguably much easier to repair, then I’d recommend a traditional slab phone like the Samsung Galaxy S26 series instead.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Display sizes: 6.5-inch exterior and 8-inch interior | Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP wide, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto | Front cameras: 10MP front | Battery: 5,00mAh | Price: Starting at $2,100
Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
Best small Samsung phone
Samsung Galaxy S26
Pros & Cons
- Polished and sleek designs feel better than ever
- Snappy performance with an Ultra-level processor
- 7 years of OS updates is the industry standard
- No Qi2.2 charging
- No camera upgrades
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: There is something about a small phone with flagship specs that gets our juices flowing. Not many phone makers produce flagship phones with 6.2-inch (or smaller) screens. They’re attractive because they’re more comfortable to use one-handed without compromising on specifications. Sure, the battery is smaller — it has to be, but beyond that, the Galaxy S26 is a powerful phone that checks all the right boxes.
With the S26 serving as the base model for the lineup that also includes the S26 Plus and the S25 Ultra, it rounds out a selection of phones of all sizes, sharing the same specifications throughout the lineup. So you’re not missing out on anything by choosing the smallest (and least expensive) flagship in Samsung’s arsenal. The company also upgraded the battery this year, so it can last an entrie day on medium use.
Who it’s for: Small phone fans can rejoice that this puny pocket powerhouse is available for those who want all the power and performance of a flagship phone, but don’t want to carry around a small airplane runway in their skinny jeans. People with frequent access to electricity will also be fans. The 4,400mAh battery can last a day with light to medium usage, but it can definitely survive a day if you can drop it on a charger while you work, for example.
Another set of users who will want to use this phone — or any other phone in this list — are Samsung ecosystem customers. Samsung has tablets, laptops, and wearables that all work better with a Samsung phone in your pocket, so the S26 would be a good option for those who already have a Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Ring, or a Galaxy Tab.
Who should look elsewhere: Battery life is the chief concern with this phone. During my testing, I found that the phone can last a day, even with medium to heavy usage away from Wi-Fi. But in this day and age, flagship phones will usually last for a day and a half, meaning if you forget to plug in your phone overnight, you can wake up and make it to work before you’ll need to charge again. That’s not the case here.
The Galaxy S26 also doesn’t have the S26 Ultra’s camera chops. The S26 Ultra has larger and better camera sensors for all three cameras (and adds an extra telephoto besides). So if you’re looking for absolutely top-notch photography, this phone isn’t the one for you.
Samsung Galaxy S26 specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy | Display size: 6.3 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto (3x) | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 4,400mAh | Price: Starting at $899
Nina Raemont/ZDNET
Best Samsung phone under $400
Samsung Galaxy A37 5G
Pros & Cons
- Price is very reasonable compared to Google and Apple
- A 'jack of all trades, master of none' smartphone
- Reliable 5,000mAh battery that gets you up to two days of usage
- Up to five years of software and security updates
- Low-band 5G support
- User interface can be sluggish at times
- Cameras are not as capable as competing midrange phones like the Google Pixel 10a
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: For those prioritizing excellent value — getting the most “bang for your buck” — the Galaxy A37 5G presents a compelling case, potentially steering buyers away from the pricier S and Z series. There are three standout reasons why this device arguably surpasses other sub-$400 options: it boasts a fantastic AMOLED screen that smoothly ramps up to a 120Hz refresh rate, features a versatile triple-camera system headlined by a 50MP main sensor, and includes a 5,000mAh battery that lasted me well into the night.
With the A37 5G, Samsung focused on the features users value most at this price point. Compared older A-series devices, this model offers tangible upgrades like a more premium glass back. It is powered by a devcent Exynos 1480 chip, paired with 6GB/8GB of RAM, and enhancements to the camera system. Crucially, its inclusion in Samsung’s long software and security update commitment offers longevity rarely matched by competitors in this price bracket.
Review: Samsung Galaxy A37 5G
Who it’s for: The Galaxy A37 5G is primarily targeted toward value-conscious consumers seeking a highly capable smartphone under the $400 mark (at the current price). Its combination of a high-quality 120Hz AMOLED screen, a respectable 50MP main camera, and a large 5,000mAh battery addresses the core features many users look for in a reliable daily driver. I recommend the Samsung phone to most people who want a little more power and performance than traditional budget handsets.
The A36 5G is also an excellent choice for individuals who value long-term usability and security. The five-year update commitment provides peace of mind and considerably extends the device’s lifespan compared to rivals like Motorola and OnePlus.
Who should look elsewhere: While the A37 5G excels in value, it may not satisfy users seeking specific niche features or aesthetics found in some competitors. Those prioritizing a particularly unique or “exciting” design language might find alternatives like the Nothing Phone 3a more visually appealing.
Samsung Galaxy A37 5G tech specs: Processor: Exynos 1480 | Display: 6.7 inches | RAM/Storage: 6GB with128GB, 8GB with 128GB or 256GB | Cameras: 50MP wide, 8MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 12MP front-facing camera | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $450 (on sale for $380)
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Best cheap Samsung phone
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G
Pros & Cons
- Affordably priced and available unlocked
- Large 6.7-inch display with all-day battery life
- Extensive software support compared to Motorola and TCL
- Plastic build can feel cheap
- Limited to 128GB storage size
- MediaTek processor is just decent for performance
Get it now
Expert Take
Why we like it: The Galaxy A16 5G brings desirable features like 5G connectivity and a large 5,000mAh battery to an impressively low $200 price point. This makes it a compelling option for consumers focused on value and essential capabilities.
For its budget price, the A16 5G includes some of the better specs I’ve seen in this range, including a sizable 6.7-inch 90Hz AMOLED display, expandable storage up to 1TB, a capable 50MP main camera for day-to-day shots, and four years of security updates. My hands-on testing found the phone surprisingly sturdy to manage, with a smooth display that’s great for browsing and watching shows.
Also: The best cheap phones ZDNET’s tested
Who it’s for: The Galaxy A16 5G is ideal for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing long battery life, 5G access, and the flexibility of expandable storage without a high cost. It’s for those seeking reliable essentials, including students, children, elders, and casual users.
It also suits those who want a better-than-average 90Hz AMOLED display — most phones in this price range have 60Hz displays for more stuttery animations — and a decent camera for everyday use, backed by long-term software support.
Who should look elsewhere: I always remind readers that expectations should align with the price; the A16 5G lacks the premium feel and top-tier performance of flagships, and that’s to be expected. Users needing a device that can handle more strenuous tasks like video editing and high-graphics gaming should consider spending more for a midrange or flagship phone.
Serious mobile photographers will also find the camera system basic. As an alternative, I’d highly recommend the Google Pixel 8a, which offers a more reliable software and camera experience.
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G tech specs: Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300 | Display: 6.7 inches | RAM/Storage: 4GB/128GB | Cameras: 50MP wide, 5MP wide, 2MP macro, and 13MP front-facing camera | Battery: 5,000mAh | Price: Starting at $199
Score Breakdown
Why choose a Samsung as your smartphone of choice?
While previous comparisons have placed Apple ahead of Samsung regarding the overall phone experience, Samsung is arguably the best option in 2026. One reason is the variety of models across different price points, from the A-series that encapsulates the sub-$500 market to the S-series for premium shoppers. Having tested the latest handsets from both brands (and others), I find that the Samsung Galaxy continues to offer the most features and capabilities at relatively competitive prices.
When compared to the Google Pixel lineup specifically, Samsung wins out by having a more robust software experience, with greater customizability for users to modify settings, home screen setups, app behaviors, and more. Historically, Google has leaned on Samsung to debut the latest software features, such as Circle to Search and enhanced Gemini, so you can count on Galaxy phones to field more innovative capabilities sooner.
Overall, the popularity of Samsung is a key asset to the brand, as there’s a greater variety of cases and accessories, as well as more certified repair technicians for after-sales support.
Which Samsung phone is right for you?
| Choose this Samsung phone… | If you want… |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 | The novelty of a foldable without any usability issues. It is the best combination of pocketable design and book-style fold usability |
| Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | The top-of-the-line flagship Samsung phone with all the bells and whistles in a traditional form factor. It’s pricier than most, but it’s worth the money if you want a no-frills handset that can do just about everything. |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra | A tablet/smartphone hybrid, foldable, and one of the most innovative Samsung devices available. It’s arguably one of the best foldable phones on the market, too. |
| Samsung Galaxy S26 | A small phone that’d fit every hand with no compromises on screen, battery, or camera versatility. |
| Samsung Galaxy A36 5G | You’re shopping on a $400 budget. Even then, you’ll receive a generous suite of premium features like a 120Hz OLED, a triple-camera setup, and a long-lasting battery. |
| Samsung Galaxy A16 5G | You’re shopping on a $150 budget, but still want a good handset. It’s difficult to impress in this price range, but the A16 5G gets the job done. |
Factors to consider when choosing a Samsung phone
ZDNET writers like myself spent months testing every phone in this best list while also sourcing opinions and recommendations from industry experts and analysts who have also tested the devices. Here are the key factors that we look for when curating the top picks.
- Design: Unlike how we would compare the best Android phones, comparing Samsung phones across different price points mostly boils down to the hardware. How a phone is designed, what materials the manufacturer chooses, and whether the device can take a hit or two are considered when picking the very best.
- Cameras: The camera systems on Samsung phones have gotten superb over the past few years, so much so that you’re well off even if you opt for a mid-ranger like the Galaxy A37 or A57 5G.
- Special features: If there’s one thing that differentiates most Samsung phones from other manufacturers, it’s unique features. From the S26 Ultra with its built-in stylus and 200MP camera to the foldable screens of the Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, you’ll feel a sense of wonderment when using something that’s built differently.
- Availability: Samsung has a reputation for bringing the wildest phones to the press, even if they’re not readily available. That’s why every pick on this list can be purchased at the time of writing, whether that’s on Samsung’s website or at a local carrier store.
How we test Samsung phones
ZDNET’s review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every Samsung model, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and more. 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 users’ 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 the most stable mobile connection 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.
Latest news on Samsung phones
Samsung recently announced the Galaxy S26 FE, which is more expensive than before. You are better off buying the Galaxy S26 or S26 Plus instead of the new FE. The company also announced all-new foldables a couple of months ago, and the wide-screen Galaxy Z Fold 8 has been a fan favoritre.
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 in 2026:
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 (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 there, scroll down until you find Windows, Transition, and Animator duration scale. Tap into each and switch from 1x (default) to 0.5x 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 Samsung Care, consider suiting your phone with a protective case and/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 claims its phone is rated IP68, that means the device can withstand dust ingress and be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at 1 meter.
Also: Best satellite phones: Models tested from SpaceX, Garmin, & More
FAQ on smartphones in 2026
Which Samsung phones will get Android 17?
The latest version of Android, Android 17 is coming to the latest Samsung Galaxy phones, starting with the Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra, and Flip 8. The beta is already available on several Galaxy S-series models.
Which is best, Samsung Galaxy A or S?
While the A and S series of Samsung Galaxy phones cater to two different customers, there is an overlap in features and designs making both models worthy of consideration.
You should buy the A series if…
- You want a great-value smartphone that won’t break the bank (less than $500).
- There’s a generous installment plan or sign-on offer from your carrier.
You should buy the S series if…
- You want the most premium smartphone experience that Samsung offers and don’t mind paying for it.
- You value innovation and/or having the best display and camera performance.
What is the newest Samsung phone?
The newest Samsung phone is the Galaxy S26 FE. Before that, Samsung also launched the Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra and Flip 8 at the company’s July Unpacked event.
Which Samsung phone has the best camera?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has the best camera of any Samsung phone and one of the best overall cameras on the market. It features a 200MP main camera along with four accompanying cameras, allowing it to take extremely high-quality shots, including close-up images and ultrawide photos. The S26 Ultra can also video record in up to 8K UHD quality at 30fps, making it one of the most capable phone cameras money can buy.
Does Samsung have the best Android phone?
The ZDNET team ran extensive tests on the top Android phones in 2026, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra took the top spot, with one of the sharpest and most color-accurate displays on the market, an ample amount of RAM and storage, and an exceptional camera system that’s reliable even in dimmer environments.
Latest updates
- August 2026: Overhauled the best list and replaced several models, based on our recent testing. The new models included are Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy A37 5G.
- February 2026: Added information about Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked event, where we expect to see the Galaxy S26 series unveiled.
Other Samsung phones we tested
Be sure to check out ZDNET’s comparisons of the best phones and Android phones available. I’ve also listed the top Samsung picks that didn’t make our list for your further consideration.
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Best compact alternative
Samsung Galaxy S25
Get it now
Expert Take
Besides the Z Flip 7, the Galaxy S25, with its 6.2-inch display, can be considered one of the best compact Samsung phones available right now.
It doesn’t flip or fold, but the Galaxy S25 still packs a 4,000mAh battery, a more capable Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, and enough RAM to power its suite of Galaxy AI features.
Amazon
Best durable alternative
Samsung Galaxy XCover7
Get it now
Expert Take
If you’re looking for a modern Samsung phone that can handle drops, bumps, and harsh environments, consider the XCover7 model, which features a large screen and rugged build.
For more information on Samsung phones, as well as tips and tricks, check out how changing these settings on your Samsung phone can improve your experience, and the preinstalled apps you should delete from your Samsung phone immediately.
