There isn’t one phone that leads for every buyer. In Stuff’s September 2026 guide, the iPhone 17 is the overall pick and Google’s Pixel 10 is its Android all-rounder; TechRadar’s refreshed US guide instead puts the newly launched iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max at the top. Those are outlet-specific rankings, not a shared consensus. The right choice depends on budget, platform, camera needs, screen size and how long you plan to keep the phone.
Best phones right now at a glance
| Best for | Phone | Why it stands out | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balanced all-round use | Apple iPhone 17 | Stuff’s overall pick, with a 120Hz OLED display, strong performance and camera upgrades. | No telephoto camera; USB 2.0 data speeds. |
| Premium iPhone camera and performance | Apple iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max | TechRadar’s top US picks, featuring the A20 Pro chip and a three-camera system with variable aperture on the main camera. | Price increase and limited design changes, according to TechRadar. |
| Android all-rounder | Google Pixel 10 | A 6.3-inch 120Hz display and triple rear cameras, including a telephoto camera. | The 128GB base storage may be limiting; wireless charging is slower than on Pro models. |
| Budget | Google Pixel 10a | TechRadar’s sub-$500 recommendation, with a 6.3-inch display and a stated seven-year OS and security update commitment. | Demanding image editing and summarization can feel sluggish in TechRadar’s testing. |
| Large-screen Android power use | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | A 6.9-inch flagship with advanced cameras, high performance, an integrated S Pen and Privacy Display. | Large size and premium pricing make it best for buyers who will use its extras. |
| Gaming and tested battery life | Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro | Tom’s Guide recorded 20 hours 34 minutes in its 2026 battery test. | Gaming-focused design, camera compromises, high cost relative to newer phones and limited remaining software support. |
Recommendations and product availability vary by publication, country and retailer. Stuff’s September 2026 guide reflects its own selection criteria, while TechRadar’s ranking is for the US; check local pricing and stock before buying.
How to choose the right phone
Set a budget and check storage
Compare the price of the storage tier you actually need, not just the cheapest configuration. A more expensive model may be worthwhile if you need its camera hardware or performance, but those features do not benefit everyone. The Pixel 10’s 128GB base configuration is one example where storage deserves consideration before purchase.
Choose the platform you want to use
Decide whether iOS or Android better fits the apps, services and devices you already use. The recommendations here cover both platforms, but they do not establish a universal platform winner.
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- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Match the cameras to your photos
If you mainly take everyday photos with the main camera, you may not need a premium camera system. A telephoto camera matters if you want more reach without relying only on digital cropping; the Pixel 10 includes one, while Stuff lists the iPhone 17’s lack of telephoto as a drawback. The iPhone 18 Pro models add a three-camera system and variable aperture on the main camera, features aimed at buyers seeking more advanced camera options.
Consider screen size and handling
Refresh rate and display size shape everyday use as much as peak performance does. The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10a each have a 6.3-inch display, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 6.9-inch screen. A larger display may suit reading, video or work, but is not automatically better if you prefer a more manageable handset.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Compare battery evidence carefully
Battery-test results are useful for comparing phones within a publication’s stated method, not as a guarantee of your own runtime. Tom’s Guide reported 20 hours 34 minutes for the ROG Phone 9 Pro, 18 hours 24 minutes for the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 16 hours 10 minutes for the Galaxy S26 Ultra in its 2026 test results. TechRadar reported 15 hours 16 minutes for the Pixel 10a in its 2026 lab test. These are results from different publications and should not be treated as directly comparable measurements or promises for every use pattern.
Check the support horizon
Software support matters most when you intend to keep a phone for years. TechRadar reports that the Pixel 10a has seven years of OS and security updates. For the ROG Phone 9 Pro, Tom’s Guide warns that limited software support remains, an important trade-off for a specialist model.
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
When each recommendation makes sense
Choose iPhone 17 for a balanced iPhone
Stuff’s September 2026 guide names the iPhone 17 its best overall phone, citing strong performance, a 120Hz OLED screen and camera upgrades. It is a sensible fit if you want an iPhone without moving to the newest Pro tier. Its lack of a telephoto camera and USB 2.0 data speeds matter if those are priorities.
Choose iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max for premium features
TechRadar’s recently refreshed US guide ranks the newly launched Pro models at the top, emphasizing the A20 Pro chip and the three-camera system with variable aperture on the main camera. TechRadar also notes a price increase and limited design changes, so this is a premium choice for buyers who specifically want the newer camera and performance features rather than a budget pick.
Rank #4
- Charger NOT Included, 6.7" Super AMOLED FHD+, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 385 ppi, 800 nits (HBM), 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 4GB RAM, microSDXC, Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 5MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.0, Android 14, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
- 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/25/41/66/71/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM + eSIM
- US Model – Global Connectivity – Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
Choose Pixel 10 for an Android all-rounder
Stuff recommends the Pixel 10 for its 6.3-inch 120Hz display, triple rear cameras including telephoto, and a price more accessible than Pro models. Consider another storage tier if 128GB is too tight for your photos, apps or downloads; Stuff also notes slower wireless charging than on the Pro models.
Choose Pixel 10a for a lower-cost phone
TechRadar positions the Pixel 10a as a sub-$500 option and lists a 6.3-inch display, Tensor G4 processor, 5,100 mAh battery and seven years of OS and security updates. Its testing found everyday tasks fine, but more demanding image editing or summarization can feel sluggish. The sub-$500 positioning is TechRadar’s description, not a verified current price for every market or retailer.
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- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Choose Galaxy S26 Ultra if you need a big-screen tool
The guides describe Samsung’s 6.9-inch flagship as a high-performance phone with advanced cameras. Stuff also highlights the integrated S Pen and Privacy Display. Those features and the large screen can suit a power user, but the phone’s size and premium price make it a poor fit if you will not use them.
Choose ROG Phone 9 Pro for gaming and battery testing
Tom’s Guide’s 2026 battery test recorded 20 hours 34 minutes for the ROG Phone 9 Pro. That is a publication-specific result rather than a runtime promise. Tom’s Guide also flags camera trade-offs, high cost relative to newer phones and limited remaining software support, so consider whether gaming strengths outweigh those compromises.
Quick Recap
Sources for the recommendations and test results
- TechRadar’s best phones guide for its US recommendations, Pixel 10a details and 2026 lab battery result.
- Stuff’s best smartphones guide for its September 2026 iPhone 17 and Pixel 10 recommendations and Galaxy S26 Ultra observations.
- Tom’s Guide’s best phones guide for its 2026 battery-test results and ROG Phone 9 Pro trade-offs.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
