Samsung, Google & OnePlus: Best Android phones to buy in 2026

If you are thinking of upgrading your phone, here are the Top Android picks for powerful performance, stunning cameras, smooth AI tools, long software support, and reliable everyday use. Whether you want flagship speed, incredible photos, or balanced value, these phones deliver excellence for all users in 2026.

Android smartphones have long shed the outdated perception of being less powerful or harder to use than iPhones. In 2026, Android devices are not just competitive they are leading the smartphone market with cutting-edge processors, advanced AI features, versatile camera systems, and highly customizable software experiences.

From premium flagships to budget-friendly workhorses, the latest Android lineup offers something for every kind of user. After extensive hands-on testing by TechRadar’s in-house experts, the OnePlus 15 has emerged as the best Android phone overall, earning a rare five-star rating. It’s joined by strong contenders from Google and Samsung, including AI-focused Pixel devices and Samsung’s most refined Galaxy phones to date.

Best Android Phone Overall: OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 sets a new benchmark for Android smartphones. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and backed by up to 12GB of RAM, it delivers top-tier performance across gaming, multitasking, and daily use. A massive 7,300mAh battery provides exceptional endurance—up to three days of real-world usage in testing—while still supporting fast charging.

Its 6.78-inch AMOLED display supports refresh rates up to 165Hz for select games, making it one of the best screens available. The triple 50MP rear camera system performs consistently across wide, telephoto, and ultra-wide shots. OxygenOS, based on Android 16, offers a smooth, customizable experience with minimal bloat.

Despite a more understated design and limited carrier availability, the OnePlus 15 stands out as the most complete Android phone of the year.

Best Android Phone for AI: Google Pixel 10 Pro & Pixel 10 Pro XL

Google’s Pixel 10 Pro lineup remains the gold standard for AI-driven smartphone features. Powered by the Tensor G5 chipset and equipped with 16GB of RAM, these phones integrate Google Gemini deeply into the operating system.

Exclusive tools such as Call Screening, Call Notes, Magic Cue, and advanced photo editing features give Pixel users functionality unavailable elsewhere. While raw performance trails Snapdragon-powered rivals, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL excel in software intelligence, photography, and long-term support.

Both models feature bright Super Actua displays and a versatile triple-camera setup with a 5x telephoto lens, making them ideal for users who prioritize smart features over benchmarks.

Best Android Camera Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is the most capable Android camera phone available. Its 200MP main sensor is supported by a 50MP ultra-wide lens, a 3x telephoto, and a 5x optical zoom camera—offering unmatched flexibility for photography and video.

Beyond imaging, the S25 Ultra delivers flagship performance via the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip, a large QHD+ display, integrated S Pen support, and excellent battery life. While it’s large, expensive, and more than many users need, it remains the ultimate choice for photography enthusiasts.

Best Premium Android Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus

For those who want flagship performance without the bulk or price of the Ultra, the Galaxy S25 Plus is Samsung’s most balanced premium phone. It shares the same powerful chipset as the Ultra, features a sharp 6.7-inch display, and offers excellent battery life.

While its camera system isn’t as advanced as the Ultra’s, Samsung’s software optimization and AI tools ensure reliable results. The S25 Plus is ideal for users who want top-tier performance without unnecessary extras.

Best Android Phone for Most People: Google Pixel 10

The standard Pixel 10 is the easiest Android phone to recommend. It combines a clean Android 16 experience with useful AI features, a compact design, and Google’s industry-leading promise of seven years of software updates.

It’s also the first non-Pro Pixel to include a 5x telephoto lens, giving it more camera versatility than many competitors in its class. While performance and battery life are merely average, the Pixel 10 excels in usability, software polish, and long-term value.

Best Budget Android Phone: Google Pixel 9a

The Pixel 9a delivers exceptional value, offering reliable performance, excellent cameras—especially macro photography—and seven years of Android updates at a mid-range price. Its design is divisive, but durability and usability take priority here.

Despite modest performance and unremarkable battery gains, the Pixel 9a stands out for users who want a dependable Android phone that will age gracefully without breaking the bank.

Best Folding Android Phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the most refined foldable yet. Thinner, lighter, and more powerful than its predecessors, it features an 8-inch inner display, Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, and a 200MP main camera—an industry first for foldables.

Running Android 16 with One UI 8, the Fold 7 makes excellent use of multitasking and AI tools. Its high price remains the biggest drawback, but for users seeking cutting-edge design and productivity, it’s the best folding Android phone available.

Bottom Line

Android phones in 2026 offer unmatched variety and innovation. Whether you want the best overall performance, the smartest AI features, the strongest camera system, or the best value for money, there’s an Android phone that fits the bill. The OnePlus 15 leads the pack, but Google and Samsung continue to push Android forward in meaningful—and increasingly specialized—ways.