The 7 Best Smartphones

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE strikes an impressive balance between performance and affordability. Its 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display delivers stunning color accuracy and deep blacks, while the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything from scrolling through apps to playing games feel buttery smooth. The phone weighs just 190 grams, making it one of the lighter flagship devices on the market without sacrificing durability thanks to its Gorilla Glass Victus+ and premium aluminum frame.

Camera performance is a standout feature, powered by a triple rear setup including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens. The integrated Galaxy AI Generative Edit tool lets you intelligently remove unwanted objects, resize elements, and enhance compositions in ways that previously required desktop software. Nightography technology ensures excellent low-light performance, while the 12MP selfie camera with ProVisual Engine captures sharp, detailed self-portraits.

Battery endurance is genuinely impressive with the 4,900mAh capacity easily lasting a full day under typical use. The Exynos 2400 processor handles demanding tasks smoothly, and the improved cooling system maintains consistent performance during extended gaming or video streaming. Google Gemini Live integration adds practical AI assistance, allowing you to show the camera real-world problems and get instant intelligent responses. This phone represents excellent value for anyone seeking premium features without flagship pricing.

Galaxy AI Capabilities

The S25 FE includes Samsung's Galaxy AI suite, with basic features available free. Generative Edit allows you to intelligently move, resize, and erase elements from photos while AI recreates missing details seamlessly. This feature produces images up to 12MP resolution.

Google Gemini Live

Access real-time AI assistance by sharing your camera view with Gemini. Ask questions about objects, places, or problems you're seeing and get instant intelligent responses. This feature requires an internet connection and is available to users 18 and older in select regions and languages.

Note on AI Features

Basic Galaxy AI features are included at no cost. Enhanced Samsung AI features and third-party AI services may require separate accounts or subscriptions. Always verify response accuracy when using AI assistance tools.

Who Should Buy This Phone?

The Galaxy S25 FE is perfect for users who want premium features without flagship pricing. It suits photography enthusiasts who value advanced camera tools, professionals needing reliable all-day battery life, and anyone who appreciates a large, smooth display for streaming and gaming.

What You'll Need to Know

The phone comes unlocked and works with all major US carriers. However, the advertised Super Fast Charging 2.0 requires a separate 45W charger (not included). Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables to avoid damage. The device includes a USB-C charging cable, quick start guide, and SIM tray ejector tool.

Comparison Considerations

Compared to the standard Galaxy S25, the S25 FE offers a larger 6.7-inch display and bigger battery. The S25+ offers higher RAM (12GB) and better processor, but costs significantly more. If you need a foldable phone, the Z Flip7 is available but at a much higher price point. For most users, the S25 FE provides the best balance of features and value.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G strikes an impressive balance between performance and affordability. Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate delivers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling that rivals phones costing significantly more, while the 1080 x 2340 resolution maintains excellent clarity at 385 ppi. The octa-core processor with 4GB RAM handles everyday tasks, social media, streaming, and light gaming without noticeable lag, though demanding applications may experience occasional slowdowns compared to premium models.

Photography capabilities are a standout feature for this price range. The 50MP primary rear camera with f/1.8 aperture captures sharp, detailed images in daylight and low-light conditions, while the 2MP macro lens enables creative close-up shots. The 13MP front-facing camera performs well for selfies and video calls. Battery performance is reliable, with the 5,000mAh capacity easily lasting a full day of moderate use, and the included 25W fast charger gets you back to full power quickly. The IP54 dust and water resistance rating provides practical durability for everyday wear and tear.

Software longevity is a major advantage, with Samsung committing to 6 years of OS upgrades and security updates, ensuring your device stays current and secure well into the future. The factory-unlocked design works seamlessly with T-Mobile and global GSM networks, making it ideal for travelers or international users. However, compatibility is limited to GSM carriers in the US, so verify network support before purchasing if you use Verizon, AT&T, or other CDMA providers. The lack of a headphone jack and no expandable storage beyond 128GB may disappoint some users, though dual SIM support and microSD card expansion offer flexibility for those needing extra storage.

US Carriers: This device is compatible with T-Mobile and T-Mobile MVNOs (Metro, Standup Mobile). It will NOT work with Verizon, AT&T, Spectrum, Total Wireless, or other CDMA-based carriers.

Global Networks: This 4G model supports GSM networks worldwide outside the US, making it ideal for international travel. It does not support eSIM technology.

4G LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66

Verify your carrier's network compatibility before purchase to ensure proper functionality.

Who Should Buy This Phone? The Galaxy A16 4G is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable, feature-rich smartphone with excellent display quality and camera performance. It's perfect for T-Mobile users, travelers using GSM networks internationally, and anyone wanting long-term software support without premium pricing.

Who Should Look Elsewhere? If you're a Verizon or AT&T customer, this phone won't work on your network. Users requiring 5G connectivity, heavy gaming performance, or extensive multitasking may want to consider higher-tier models with more RAM and faster processors.

What's in the Box? Your purchase includes the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G smartphone, a 25W fast charger, USB Type-C cable, and documentation. A protective case and screen protector are recommended accessories for long-term durability.

Warranty & Support: This is an international model without manufacturer warranty, but it's covered by the return policy. Samsung provides 6 years of software updates and security patches through One UI and Android system updates.

The Moto G Power 5G 2024 strikes an excellent balance between performance and affordability for everyday smartphone users. The 6.7-inch FHD+ 120Hz display delivers smooth, vibrant visuals whether you're streaming shows, scrolling social media, or playing casual games. Paired with Dolby Atmos stereo speakers and a MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor, this phone handles multitasking and 5G connectivity without lag, making it a solid choice for those who want modern features at a reasonable price.

Camera performance impresses given the price point, with the 50MP main sensor and Optical Image Stabilization producing sharp, detailed photos even in challenging lighting. The 16MP front camera handles video calls and selfies well. Battery life is genuinely impressive, routinely lasting over a day with moderate use, and the 30W TurboPower charging gets you back in action quickly. The vegan leather back feels premium and resists fingerprints, adding durability without excessive weight.

One realistic limitation is that the single rear camera lacks ultra-wide and telephoto lenses, so you won't have the versatility of pricier models. The MediaTek processor, while efficient, doesn't match flagship Snapdragon performance for intensive gaming. However, for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing battery life, carrier flexibility, and reliable everyday performance, the Moto G Power 5G 2024 delivers outstanding value and real-world usability that justifies its position as a top-rated unlocked phone.

Global Unlocked Network Support

This phone works seamlessly with all major U.S. carriers and dozens of prepaid options, giving you complete freedom to choose your service provider. Simply insert a compatible SIM card and you're ready to go.

Major Carriers: Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile

Prepaid Networks: Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Simple Mobile, Total Wireless, Tracfone, Net10, Mint Mobile, Google Fi, H2O Wireless

5G Support: Compatible with 5G networks where available (5G service plan required; coverage varies by location and carrier)

No carrier locks means you can switch providers anytime without restrictions, making this ideal if you travel frequently or want maximum flexibility.

Real-World Battery Performance

The 5000mAh battery consistently delivers over 24 hours of mixed use including calls, messaging, streaming, and browsing. Light users often see 2 full days between charges. Video playback extends to roughly 15+ hours on a single charge.

Charging Speed

30W TurboPower charging gets you from 0-50% in approximately 30 minutes and a full charge in around 60-70 minutes. Note that the charger may be sold separately depending on your market, so verify what's included in your box.

Battery Health

The lithium-ion battery supports fast charging without excessive heat, and Motorola's optimization helps maintain long-term battery health. For extended lifespan, avoid leaving the phone at 100% charge for prolonged periods.

Tip: Enable Adaptive Battery in settings to extend battery life by 10-15% by learning your usage patterns.

Rear Camera (50MP with OIS)

The 50MP sensor uses pixel binning to create sharp 12.5MP photos with excellent detail. Optical Image Stabilization is the real standout here, delivering noticeably steadier shots in low light and when shooting video. The camera excels in daylight and handles evening scenes better than most phones at this price point. Video recording tops out at 4K at 120fps, perfect for action clips and slow-motion content.

Front Camera (16MP)

The 16MP front camera produces clear selfies and handles video calls well. Night mode performs adequately for low-light selfies, though don't expect flagship-level beautification features.

Photography Tips

Use the OIS advantage by shooting in lower light where competitors struggle. The wide f/1.8 aperture gathers plenty of light. Avoid digital zoom beyond 2x to maintain image quality. HDR mode activates automatically in high-contrast scenes. For best results, tap to focus on your subject before shooting.

Limitation: Single rear lens means no ultra-wide or telephoto options, so you're limited to the main camera's fixed focal length.

The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G represents excellent value in the budget smartphone category. Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display delivers crisp visuals with vibrant colors and strong contrast, making it ideal for streaming, scrolling, and everyday content consumption. The 387 PPI pixel density ensures text and images appear sharp, while the 60Hz refresh rate keeps scrolling smooth for typical daily use. The display's 800-nit peak brightness provides adequate outdoor visibility for most conditions.

The triple-camera setup performs admirably across different scenarios. The 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization captures detailed photos with natural color reproduction, while the 5MP ultra-wide lens is perfect for landscape shots and group photos. The 2MP macro lens adds versatility for close-up photography. The 13MP front camera handles video calls and selfies competently. Battery life extends to 47 hours of talk time from the 5,000mAh capacity, providing solid endurance for typical usage patterns.

What truly sets the A17 5G apart is Samsung's commitment to long-term software support. Six years of security updates and six OS upgrades mean this phone will remain current and protected well into the future, a rarity at this price point. The inclusion of AI features like Circle to Search and Gemini integration adds modern functionality, though these require stable internet connectivity to work effectively. The expandable storage option eliminates storage anxiety, and the dual SIM capability appeals to business users and frequent travelers.

Circle to Search lets you quickly identify products, places, and information by circling objects on your screen. Found shoes you like online? Circle them to discover the brand and where to buy. Results depend on image clarity and uniqueness, so straightforward subjects work best.

Gemini Live brings conversational AI to your phone. Use voice commands to search for group game ideas, add events to your calendar, and send messages to contacts without switching between apps. This feature requires a Google Gemini account and internet connection.

Samsung Wallet integrates with Gemini for seamless mobile payments. Access compatible payment cards and memberships directly from your phone with Tap to Pay functionality. Ensure your bank's credit cards support NFC for full compatibility.

Who Should Buy: The Galaxy A17 5G suits budget-conscious buyers seeking modern features without flagship pricing. It's ideal for students, casual users, and anyone wanting reliable 5G connectivity with expandable storage. The dual SIM support appeals to business professionals and international travelers.

Who Should Skip: Heavy gamers and content creators may find the 4GB RAM and Exynos 1330 processor limiting for demanding apps. Those requiring advanced computational photography should consider higher-tier models. If you need underwater durability, the IP54 rating won't suffice for beach or pool use.

Important Notes: The 25W Super Fast Charger is sold separately, so budget an additional $30-40 for the advertised charging speed. MicroSD cards for storage expansion are also sold separately. Verify that your bank's credit cards support NFC for Samsung Wallet compatibility. The phone requires internet connectivity for Circle to Search and Gemini features to function properly.

Rear Camera System features a versatile triple-lens setup designed for everyday photography. The 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization captures sharp, well-detailed photos in good lighting and handles low-light situations reasonably well for this price segment. Digital zoom extends to 10x, though quality degrades at maximum magnification.

Ultra-Wide Lens at 5MP captures expansive landscapes and group photos with minimal distortion. The 2MP macro lens enables close-up photography of small subjects, flowers, and textures, adding creative flexibility without requiring additional equipment.

Front Camera delivers a competent 13MP sensor for video calls and selfies with natural skin tone reproduction. Face recognition biometric security integrates with the front camera for device unlock and payment authentication.

Video Recording supports 4K resolution at 30fps, suitable for everyday video capture and social media sharing. Optical image stabilization on the main sensor helps reduce shakiness during handheld recording.

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ represents a significant leap forward in smartphone AI integration. The standout feature is its Night Mode camera system, which combines advanced computational photography with real-time audio processing to eliminate background noise from videos. Whether you're recording at a concert, in a crowded cafe, or during low-light conditions, the camera intelligently separates desired sounds from unwanted noise while maintaining natural audio quality. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor powers these AI features seamlessly without draining battery life excessively.

The 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display is genuinely impressive, offering 513 pixels per inch and a 120Hz refresh rate that makes scrolling through apps, browsing social media, and watching videos feel incredibly smooth. The ProScaler technology enhances lower-resolution content intelligently, so older photos and videos look sharper than expected. Combined with the 4900mAh battery that supports both fast wired charging and wireless charging, this phone handles an entire day of heavy use comfortably for most users.

The multi-task voice command feature is where the S25+ truly shines for productivity-focused users. You can ask the phone to search for a restaurant, check if it's pet-friendly, and text the address to a friend in one natural language request. The Now Brief feature provides personalized daily insights from your apps without requiring manual setup. These AI capabilities require a Google Gemini account and work best with Samsung ecosystem apps, but they meaningfully reduce friction in daily smartphone usage once configured.

Advanced AI Features:

• Multi-Task Voice Commands: Execute complex requests in one ask. Search for information, send messages, and manage apps using natural language through Google Gemini integration.
• Now Brief: Personalized daily briefing that pulls select information from your apps before you ask for it, helping you stay informed without manual setup.
• Night Mode Camera: AI-powered video capture that reveals detail in low-light conditions while the Audio Eraser feature minimizes six types of unwanted sounds (voice, music, noise, crowd, nature, wind).
• Portrait Mode Intelligence: Advanced algorithms adjust skin tones and preserve natural textures automatically, producing professional-quality photos without manual editing.
• Call Translation: Real-time call translation powered by AI helps you communicate across language barriers seamlessly.

Important Notes: Basic Galaxy AI features are free, but enhanced features and third-party AI services may require subscription fees. Features require a Samsung account and compatible apps. Results vary based on input quality and app compatibility.

Bottom Line: The S25+ is ideal for users who want flagship performance without the premium pricing and bulk of the Ultra model. Both share the same processor and AI features, but the Ultra excels in photography with its 200MP main sensor and S Pen stylus support.

The Galaxy S26 represents Samsung's commitment to practical AI integration rather than gimmicks. The Photo Assist feature genuinely impresses with its ability to intelligently add missing objects and blend them seamlessly into existing scenes using proper lighting and shadows. Creative Studio extends this further by letting you generate custom wallpapers and 3D cartoons directly on your device. These aren't just novelty features; they save real time on tasks that would normally require desktop software or external apps.

The hardware foundation is solid. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor handles everything you throw at it without lag, while the 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display with 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling buttery smooth and colors pop with exceptional vibrancy. The wider front camera is a thoughtful upgrade for group selfies, eliminating the awkward stretching and multiple retakes that plague narrower sensors. Battery life is respectable at 4300mAh, and the 25W fast charging gets you back in action quickly.

What makes the S26 stand out is how Samsung's Now Nudge feature learns your habits and surfaces relevant information at the right moment. Combined with Samsung Wallet for contactless payments and the ecosystem integration with Galaxy Buds4 Pro for Hi-Res Audio, this phone feels like it's actively helping you stay organized rather than just sitting in your pocket. At 167 grams, it's refreshingly light and pocketable compared to larger flagships.

Photo Assist: Automatically enhance photos by typing or tapping to add missing objects, restore details, or apply new styles. Results are resized to 12MP with AI watermark.

Creative Studio: Generate custom wallpapers, stickers, and 3D cartoon illustrations directly on your phone without needing external software. Requires internet connection and Samsung account login.

Now Nudge: AI learns your habits and prioritizes apps, reminders, and notifications to surface the most relevant information exactly when you need it. Location permissions required for location-based suggestions.

Real-Time Translation: Hear translations hands-free through paired Galaxy Buds4 Pro for seamless multilingual communication.

Note: Basic Galaxy AI features are free with Samsung account login. Enhanced AI features and third-party AI tools may be subject to different terms and potential subscription fees.

Rear Camera System: The dual rear setup combines a 50MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization and autofocus for sharp, detailed shots in various lighting conditions. The 10MP telephoto lens handles zoom photography without excessive quality loss.

Front Camera Upgrade: The new 12MP wide-angle front camera captures a broader field of view, making group selfies much easier. You no longer need to stretch your arm back to fit everyone in the frame, and the wider lens reduces distortion on faces at the edges.

Photo Assist Integration: The Photo Assist feature works seamlessly with your camera roll, letting you enhance existing photos by adding objects, restoring details, or applying artistic styles with AI assistance. This is particularly useful for fixing shots where someone blinked or an unwanted object appeared in the background.

Video Capabilities: Super Steady Video stabilization keeps footage smooth even when shooting while moving, making the S26 excellent for vlogging and action content.

Who Should Buy: The Galaxy S26 is perfect for anyone seeking a premium Android flagship with practical AI features, excellent cameras, and reliable performance. It's ideal for content creators who benefit from Photo Assist and Creative Studio, professionals who appreciate Now Nudge's smart organization, and users who want an unlocked phone that works with any carrier.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives: If you need dual SIM capability for managing multiple numbers, the S26's single SIM slot may be limiting. Users on a tight budget should explore the S25 series. If you require S Pen stylus support for note-taking and sketching, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the better choice.

Setup Tips: Enable Location permission in settings to get the most from Now Nudge's contextual suggestions. Create a Samsung account to unlock all Galaxy AI basic features. Consider pairing with Galaxy Buds4 Pro (sold separately) to experience Hi-Res Audio and real-time translation features.

Warranty & Support: The device includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Samsung Care+ is available for extended protection and accidental damage coverage. The phone is unlocked for all carriers, giving you flexibility to switch providers without restrictions.

The Galaxy Z Fold7 represents a significant leap forward in foldable smartphone design. The expanded 6.5-inch cover display now feels genuinely usable for everyday tasks, eliminating the awkward feeling of previous foldables when closed. When unfolded, the 8-inch AMOLED screen delivers an immersive canvas for content creation, gaming, and multitasking that no traditional smartphone can match. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive interactions across both displays.

Photography capabilities stand out as a major strength, with the 200MP main sensor and ProVisual Engine enabling exceptional detail capture and professional-level editing directly on the device. The Photo Assist feature lets you remove unwanted elements and adjust group photos with precision that previously required desktop software. The optical zoom and 30x Space Zoom provide versatility for different shooting scenarios, while night video recording with audio eraser adds practical value for content creators.

Performance remains consistently strong thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which handles simultaneous app usage and resource-intensive tasks without stuttering. The 12GB RAM ensures smooth app switching, while 512GB storage provides ample space for photos, videos, and applications. Battery life reaches approximately 11 hours of mixed usage, which is respectable for such a large, feature-rich device, though power users may appreciate having a charger nearby during extended outings.

The Galaxy Z Fold7 integrates Google Gemini as a central AI assistant, enabling live screensharing for real-time help on anything you point your camera toward. This feature bridges the gap between information and action, whether you're troubleshooting a problem, learning about unfamiliar objects, or getting creative guidance. The expanded inner screen provides plenty of room to interact with Gemini while maintaining visibility of your other apps.

Multitasking reaches new heights with the ability to run three apps simultaneously across the 8-inch display. Content creators benefit from the large workspace when editing photos, videos, or documents, while professionals can compare spreadsheets, emails, and reference materials side-by-side. The Photo Assist tool with Best Face detection and background removal simplifies post-processing workflows that would otherwise require separate applications.

The Big Screen Creative Suite brings together Samsung's productivity tools optimized for the expanded display. Whether you're writing, designing, or managing projects, the Z Fold7's screen real estate transforms how you interact with digital content. The combination of processing power and display size creates a device that genuinely bridges the gap between smartphone and tablet functionality.

The Z Fold7 represents the most significant upgrade in the Fold line, particularly with the 200MP camera system that surpasses the Z Fold6's 50MP setup. The larger cover display makes the device more practical for everyday use without constant unfolding. If you prioritize screen size and camera quality, the Z Fold7 justifies its premium positioning over the Z Fold6.