Best Smartphones of 2026: CNET’s Editorial Picks for iOS and Android

Smartphone manufacturers promise varying durations of software and security support—ranging from one to seven years. This ensures access to new features and device protection over an extended period.

Smartphone cameras have improved significantly over the past five years. However, the number of lenses doesn’t always determine photo quality; optimization and software image processing play a more critical role.

Today’s flagship smartphones feature large displays, ranging from 6.1 to 6.8 inches for traditional models and up to 8 inches for foldable devices. This makes in-person testing before purchase particularly important.

If your family or friends use Apple’s iMessage and FaceTime, the iPhone is the optimal choice. For users within the Google or Samsung ecosystem, Android is the better option. Switching between platforms has become easier thanks to advancements in cloud services.

Following CNET’s 2026 testing, the iPhone 17, Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, and Motorola Razr Ultra were named the best smartphones. These devices deliver outstanding battery life, high-quality cameras, and vibrant displays with high refresh rate support.

The iPhone 17 was named the best smartphone for most users, starting at $799 with a carrier contract. The model features an updated display with a 1–120Hz refresh rate, Dual Capture and Center Stage for selfies, and increased brightness up to 3000 nits. Battery capacity has improved, offering an additional 8 hours of video playback compared to the previous version, and CNET’s tests confirmed one of the best battery life results.

Among Android flagships, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out with its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 12GB of RAM, and a camera system built around a 50-megapixel main sensor. The device supports advanced AI features, including object selection and audio editing. While the Galaxy S25 has been succeeded by the S26, it remains a solid choice for users who value stability and proven performance.

For fans of innovative form factors, the editorial team recommends the Motorola Razr Ultra, a foldable smartphone with a main display of up to 8 inches. The device combines compactness when folded with an expanded screen area, making it ideal for multimedia content.