The best phone you can buy in 2026

Four excellent phones, four clear reasons to pick each.

Best overall and best for video, iPhone 17 Pro

The most predictable, best-supported, widest-ecosystem choice, and still the reference for phone video. The aluminium redesign fixed the thermals and the battery; the 100mm telephoto fixed the everyday camera.

Best camera versatility, Galaxy S26 Ultra

The longest zoom on any phone, the brightest and most readable outdoor screen, an S Pen in the box, and seven years of Android updates.

Best point-and-shoot and value flagship, Pixel 11 Pro

The camera that just works, the cleanest Android, seven years of support. Drop to the Pixel 11 to save $200 and lose very little.

Best battery and charging for the money, OnePlus 13

A 6000 mAh battery, 100W wired charging and a returning alert slider for $899. The camera is the only real compromise.

---

The verdict: There is no single best phone, there is the best phone for how you use one. Match the list above to your priorities.

Sources

• GSMArena specifications