Whether you want a cutting-edge phone or a more affordable option, we tested the best from Apple, Samsung, Google and more.
From the brand-new iPhone 15 lineup to the foldable Galaxy Z Flip 5, smartphone shoppers have endless options.
While the phones included in this list vary when it comes to size, price and features, they share a few things in common. The best phones of 2023 have fast processors and vibrant screens to make your Netflix shows look great. The best phones also have high-quality rear cameras that allow you to take gorgeous images you’ll return to look back on for years to come. Budget-friendly phones like the Pixel 7A also offer smooth performance at a more cost-conscious price.
With so many options, figuring out which one is actually best for your own needs can be tough.
To simplify the decision for phone shoppers, we’ve rounded up our top picks. Each phone on this list meets the requirements for what CNET considers to be the best smartphone. From high-end phones packed with cutting-edge tech to budget devices under $500 and everything in between, plenty of worthwhile options are available for everyone.
Every phone on this list has been thoroughly reviewed and tested, and you’ll find options across iPhone and Android that fit different needs and different budgets.
What is the best phone for most people?
The best phone for iPhone fans is the $799 iPhone 15. It has one of Apple’s most recent processors, the A16 Bionic chip found in last year’s iPhone 14 Pro, meaning it should support new software features for years to come. The iPhone 15 has the best balance of camera performance and features (like the Dynamic Island) that will feel new to those coming from older iPhones to satisfy most people.
Our favorite Android pick is currently the Google Pixel 7 Pro, typically priced at $899. Note that the Pixel 8 Pro is out and we are currently testing it. It has some of the best cameras found on any phone sold today at a more affordable price than Samsung’s top-of-the-line phone. The Pixel 7 Pro also packs a number of convenient features that are unique to Google’s devices, such as the ability to sharpen out-of-focus photos to make the subject look clearer. Keep in mind that Google is expected to announce the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro next month.
For more info, read our guide to help find the best phone for your needs and take a look at our tips on how to buy a new Apple iPhone or Android phone and where to snag the best phone deals.
