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Notebookcheck’s winter 2025/2026 comparison ranks the Xiaomi 17 Pro first, at 90.5%, followed by the Apple iPhone 17 Pro at 89.9%. Those are Notebookcheck’s own scores for that season—not a universal measure of which phone is best for you, or a current October 2026 ranking.
Use the list as a dated comparison, then choose according to your budget, camera needs, display preference, battery and charging priorities, sustained performance, update support, and local warranty and network compatibility. The source’s highlighted phones show why the top score and the best fit can differ.
What the winter 2025/2026 rankings say
Notebookcheck’s comparison covers 30 smartphones across different price classes and priorities. Its top six by publication score are:
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| Rank in Notebookcheck’s table | Phone | Notebookcheck score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Xiaomi 17 Pro | 90.5% |
| 2 | Apple iPhone 17 Pro | 89.9% |
| 3 (tie) | Xiaomi 17 | 89.2% |
| 3 (tie) | Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max | 89.2% |
| 5 | Xiaomi 17 Pro Max | 89.0% |
| 6 | Google Pixel 10 Pro | 88.9% |
These percentages are Notebookcheck’s scores in its winter 2025/2026 comparison. They are useful for understanding that publication’s ordering, but do not establish a standard shared across reviewers or a direct measure of value, local availability, or suitability for a particular buyer. See Notebookcheck’s winter 2025/2026 comparison.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Which phones stand out for different needs?
For a top-ranked premium option
The Xiaomi 17 Pro takes first place in Notebookcheck’s table, with the Apple iPhone 17 Pro immediately behind it. Use that ordering as a starting point, not a final decision: compare the exact local model, price, software configuration, warranty, and network-band support before buying.
For camera features and long update support
Notebookcheck characterizes the Google Pixel 10 Pro as having a strong camera setup and seven years of updates. The same comparison notes historical user dissatisfaction with price increases and fewer distinguishing features. Those are Notebookcheck’s source-attributed judgments, not a new independent test or a guarantee about your market’s price.
Rank #2
- Blazing-fast Qualcomm performance. Get the speed you need for great entertainment with a Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB**** of RAM.
- Fluid display + immersive stereo sound. Bring your entertainment to life with an ultrawide 6.5" 90Hz* HD+ display plus stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, and Hi-Res Audio**.
- 50MP*** Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
- 64GB**** built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps—and add up to 1TB more with a microSD card*****.
- Unbelievable battery life. Work and play nonstop with a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.*****
For a large battery, with a sustained-load caveat
Notebookcheck describes the Oppo Find X9 Pro as pairing a large battery with a fast SoC, while flagging heavy performance throttling under prolonged loads. If you run demanding games, capture long video sessions, or otherwise sustain heavy workloads, that caveat matters more than a brief peak-performance impression.
For a more affordable midrange choice
The list is not limited to flagship phones: Notebookcheck’s editor selection calls the OnePlus Nord CE 5 an unusually well-equipped midrange model, highlighting its bright 120 Hz AMOLED display and multi-year update promise. Check the exact update terms and local configuration before treating that promise as a purchase guarantee.
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.
How to choose from a mixed 30-phone list
A single overall ranking cannot settle trade-offs between premium features, price, battery life, camera priorities, and long-term support. Narrow the comparison in this order:
- Set a real budget. Compare prices available in your country for the same storage and regional model, rather than relying on a listing or offer shown for another market.
- Choose a comfortable size. Decide whether you prefer a compact phone or a larger display, and consider how the dimensions affect one-handed use and portability.
- Prioritize the camera use that matters to you. A source’s description of a strong camera setup is a useful clue, but check whether its camera strengths match your intended photos and video.
- Assess battery and charging together. Consider the battery claims alongside charging needs and your daily use; do not assume that a large battery alone guarantees the best experience.
- Consider sustained performance. If your workload is prolonged, pay attention to throttling caveats, not just the processor description or short-duration speed.
- Verify update support and ownership conditions. Check the maker’s terms for the exact model and region, as well as warranty coverage and service availability where you live.
Why this is a seasonal snapshot, not a current 2026 buying verdict
Notebookcheck’s comparison is specifically for winter 2025/2026. By October 2026, newer buying guides had appeared: GSMArena’s separate 2026 buyer’s guide was updated May 3, 2026, and Tom’s Guide published a later 2026 roundup. They provide later market context, but they do not retroactively change Notebookcheck’s original scores or establish that its winter ordering remains the best current ranking. GSMArena’s 2026 smartphone buyer’s guide and Tom’s Guide’s 2026 phone roundup are separate comparisons.
Rank #4
- 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)
Check before buying an imported or region-specific model
Products and offers in the winter comparison may vary by market. Before ordering a phone from another region, verify:
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- the exact model number, hardware, storage, and software configuration;
- compatibility with your carrier’s supported network bands;
- warranty coverage, repair options, and who is responsible for service;
- local availability and the live price from the specific seller.
An offer displayed for a model is not proof that the same configuration, price, or warranty is available where you live. Confirm those details with the seller and manufacturer before purchase.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
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.
