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The Best Android Phones, Tested and Reviewed
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The best Android phone means something different to everyone—it's hard to find one that caters to every need. But chances are there's a smartphone that comes close to what you're looking for. From the bottomless pit of phone choices, these are my favorite Android handsets, including the Google Pixel 8A, WIRED's top pick. All the phones we've selected have advantages, and I've laid them out as best as possible based on extensive testing.
See our other mobile buying guides for more, like Best iPhones, Best Cheap Phones, Best Samsung Phones, Phones With a Headphone Jack, Best Pixel Phones, and Best Folding Phones.
Updated November 2024: We've added the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE and notes about the upcoming release of the OnePlus 13 and Galaxy S25 series.
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Before You Buy
We recommend unlocked phones in this guide. When a phone is sold as unlocked, that means it can be used on multiple wireless carriers and networks. When you buy a phone directly from your wireless carrier, usually on a payment plan, it often comes locked to that network. Carriers are legally required to unlock a phone upon request so you can switch networks, but it's a big hassle. Try to pay full price for your phone, or make sure it specifically says it's unlocked. Buy it from the manufacturer directly, or investigate your carrier's policies for unlocking phones if they're bought on a payment plan that requires you to use its network. It's less of a hassle when you travel and want to switch to a local SIM card too.
The best way to switch phones is to follow the setup prompts when you first boot up your new device—make sure you transfer data from an ol…