It cannot be easy to select the finest smartphone for your needs. With so many brands offering comparable features at similar rates, it can be difficult to determine which gadget has the capabilities you seek. If you’ve already decided you only want an iPhone, your selection is slightly easier. (Even yet, Apple’s lineup is more diverse than ever.) Those contemplating Android will have even more alternatives and, most likely, more questions. Do you want a camera that can zoom in on distant sights, or do you want sophisticated AI that can screen your incoming calls for you? We test cell phones year-round at Engadget and can help you understand what’s available and what to look for. Of course, we’ve included our best recommendations to help you narrow down your options.
Which is better, Android or iOS?
When looking for the greatest smartphone, it’s apparent that each operating system has advantages and disadvantages. Apple’s close-knit ecosystem makes it extremely simple to share data between iPhones, iPads, and Macs and smoothly transfer phone calls or music from one device to another. At the same time, because services like Apple Messages aren’t available on other platforms, you’re locked in.

Regarding Android, there is a considerably greater choice of devices from firms such as Google, Samsung, Sony, and others. On the other hand, Android phones do not have the same level of software support and frequently have lower trade-in values. In short, there is no correct response. However, it would be best to consider how your phone will blend in with the rest of your equipment. So, unless you’re sick of one operating system and prepared to learn another, switching from an iPhone to an Android phone (or vice versa) certainly doesn’t make sense – especially if everyone in your home uses the same platform.

Cameras
Determining what photo tools you want is critical because your cell phone frequently serves as your primary camera. Nowadays, almost any smartphone can shoot a good image in bright light. However, you must upgrade to more expensive equipment if you want a long optical zoom.

A close-up of the camera bulge on the Pixel 6 Pro.

Cherlynn Low / Electronics

Mid-range phones frequently include only two rear cameras (a primary wide-angle lens and a secondary ultra-wide lens) and can struggle in low-light circumstances. Each phone manufacturer also offers different features that may better fit your taste. Apple gives four color settings on the latest iPhones and Google’s Pixel 6, including useful capabilities like dedicated long exposure and action pan modes.

Will you be getting 5G or Wi-Fi 6?

The good news is that by 2022, most phones will support at least 802.11ac Wi-Fi and one or more types of 5G connectivity. However, you’ll have to pay a little extra if you want the fastest wireless connections available. For example, mmWave 5G on certain networks provides up to gigabit download rates, lower latency, and increased bandwidth. However, because mmWave 5G requires more advanced (and therefore more expensive) modems, it is frequently lacking from budget and mid-range handsets like the iPhone SE.

On the plus side, mmWave 5G isn’t as widely available as other 5G variants, so depending on where you live and what network you’re on, you might not be missing out on much if you buy a phone that doesn’t support it. It’s similar to Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6e, which are available on a few high-end smartphones but more difficult to obtain on lower-cost handsets. Wi-Fi 6 also requires a compatible router, so unless you know you need it or have a specific use case, the lack of mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 6E support shouldn’t be a dealbreaker when shopping for a new phone.

Other aspects to consider

Because not everyone agrees on what makes the finest phone, you should consider any other features that are particularly essential to you. Mobile gamers would most likely appreciate the 120Hz refresh rates offered by devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 and the Apple iPhone 14 Pro. Alternatively, if battery life is vital, you should generally go with a larger iPhone or an Android phone with a battery capacity of between 4,000 and 5,000 mAh. Meanwhile, if you find yourself juggling a lot of devices, having a phone that enables reverse wireless charging, which on Samsung phones even allows you to recharge the company’s Galaxy Watches, can be very useful.

iPhone 14 Pro; best iOS smartphone.

The iPhone 14 Pro represents the most significant modifications to Apple’s top line in years. The firm has finally (sort of) abandoned the notch with the new Dynamic Island, replacing it with a pill-shaped cutout to house the front cameras for Face ID. Aside from being smaller than before, the island also includes a software update that makes notifications, media playback, and current activities appear more consistent.

But it’s not just the Dynamic Island that elevates the iPhone 14 Pro to the next level. The new Always On Display keeps you updated on alerts without depleting your battery, and the impending Emergency SOS via Satellite allows you to go further with peace of mind. Those not ready to give up real SIM cards may be hesitant to purchase this year’s phones, which lack onboard slots and are entirely eSIM. Fortunately, Apple’s setup and conversion process makes the transition painless. The iPhone 14 Pro is the best Apple handset money can buy, with excellent performance, strong cameras, an OLED display, and decent battery life. – Cherlynn Low, Assistant Editor

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra; best Android smartphone.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra features almost everything you desire or need in a high-end flagship phone. It has a stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate 120Hz, a fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 engine, greater battery life, and a built-in S Pen for all your drawing and notetaking requirements. A massive 200MP sensor for the phone’s main camera is new for 2023, along with better OIS, 8K/30fps video recording, and more shooting capabilities in the Expert RAW app.

The primary drawbacks are that the S23 Ultra is as pricey as ever, starting at $1,200, and that, while its advanced photo and video features have a lot of potential potentials, to put in some extra time and effort to get the most out of them. And, because the phone’s design, display, and majority of its cameras are so similar to prior generations, anyone who purchased an S22 last year can safely forego upgrading this time. The S23 Ultra, on the other hand, is in a class of its own for individuals looking for a genuine do-everything smartphone and is our pick for the finest Android phone. – Senior Reporter Sam Rutherford