Update: We last updated this article on October 13, 2025 with Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
Samsung, the South Korean brand, is known for offering a phone at each price point. Whether you are seeking a budget phone or a flagship phone, there’s something for everyone in this Galaxy. So if you want an Android phone that can rival Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem or one that offers 7 years of updates, investing your money into a Samsung device makes sense. Here is a list of the best Samsung phones that you can currently buy.
Best Samsung Smartphone by Use Case and Price
Best Premium Flagship Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Starting at $1219)
Why We Recommend It
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the peak of innovation and offers everything under the sun. It is the top-tier premium smartphone that offers a flagship experience. From the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite to a versatile 200-megapixel quad camera, it has everything you need in one phone. Then there’s the S-Pen to jot down your midnight thoughts and Samsung Dex so you can convert your phone to a workstation. With seven years of OS updates, this phone will probably last longer than your relationship. Oh, and there’s One UI 7 with its crazy animations that are currently available only on a handful of phones. It is the best Samsung phone money can buy you right now.
Who Should Buy It:
Power users who want the absolute best Android has to offer should get the S25 Ultra. It’s perfect for mobile photographers and video creators who need versatile, high-resolution cameras. It’s great for productivity too – writers, artists, or professionals can use the S Pen for note-taking and editing, and Samsung DeX turns it into a PC-like workstation. Gamers and performance junkies will love the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and giant, bright display. With 7 years of updates, it’s also great for those looking to stick with their phone for a long time.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Given its huge screen and bulky form factor, it’s not ideal for those with small hands. Furthermore, the premium price tag also puts it out of reach for those on a budget. If you don’t care about the S-Pen, then you can get most of the features in the more affordable S25 and S25+. And for all avid note takers out there, S-Pen doesn’t support Bluetooth this time. You will be better served by last year’s S24 Ultra. In short, if you want a simpler, more affordable phone, or if you don’t need the very latest specs, you might skip this Ultra model.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ One UI 7- it’s the best Android skin available | ❌ Few changes compared to the S24 Ultra |
| ✅ Snapdragon 8 Elite for top-tier performance | ❌ No Silicon Carbon battery like other phones |
| ✅ 7 years of OS updates | |
| ✅ Amazing 200-megapixel cameras | |
| ✅ Magnetic wireless charging | |
| ✅ S-Pen that isn’t available on any other phone |
Best Overall Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus (Starting at $999)
Why We Recommend It
Want a good Samsung flagship without the fancy price tag of the Ultra? Meet the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus. It has a smaller, albeit great, 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2x with a 120Hz refresh rate. You get the same raw performance thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite underneath. There’s also the 7 years of OS updates, 45W wired charging, and Samsung Dex support. The 50-megapixel triple camera setup supports 4K at 30 FPS. One UI 7 is one of the smoothest software skins, and you get the Galaxy AI found on the more expensive Ultra model. It has most things except for the S-Pen and the versatile camera system.
Who Should Buy It:
Anyone who wants a top-tier Android phone but doesn’t need an S Pen or the absolute maximum camera zoom should consider the S25+. It’s ideal for those who want great gaming and multitasking power (thanks to the 8 Elite chip). You still get a large, bright screen for media and games, long software support, and the premium feel of a glass/titanium build. It’s a particularly good choice if you upgrade regularly or just want “a flagship without the Ultra tax.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
This phone isn’t for buyers who really need the S-Pen or that extra telephoto zoom of the Ultra. It lacks a built-in S Pen slot and omits the 5x optical (periscope) lens. So if you want strong zoom or stylus input, go Ultra. Also, if you want a more compact phone, the S25 will serve you better. And budget-minded buyers could look at the S24 FE or even a Samsung midranger (like the A56) for a much lower price.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Great 6.7-inch AMOLED panel with 120Hz | ❌ No periscope telephoto lens |
| ✅ Amazing cameras | ❌ No S-Pen |
| ✅ Samsung Dex support | |
| ✅ Same Snapdragon 8 Elite as S25 Ultra | |
| ✅ 7 years of OS updates |
Also Read:
- Samsung Planning to Skip One UI 7.1 Update in Favor of One UI 8
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Is Coming Soon: Expected Launch Date Revealed
Best Compact Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 (Starting at $799)
Why We Recommend It
Want the best compact phone? The Samsung Galaxy S25 is the ideal small phone if you want a Samsung smartphone only. The 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display is perfect for one-handed usage and comes with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the same Snapdragon 8 Elite processor as the rest of the S25 lineup. Furthermore, you get a great triple camera setup including a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Overall, it’s a better compact phone than the iPhone 16e and will get longer software updates.
Who Should Buy It
It’s made for those looking for a solid compact phone that doesn’t compromise on performance..The S25 delivers on all core essentials with flagship grade performance and cameras in a smaller form. It’s great for people who often browse or text with one hand, gamers who move around, or anyone put off by very large phones. Furthermore, if you are switching from an older iPhone model like the 13 mini or simply want a small flagship, it’s a great choice.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
If battery life is a major priority for you, then you should look for other options. The S25 Plus or Ultra can be a much better option with its long battery backup. Also, if you watch a lot of videos or TV shows, the small screen won’t offer the most immersive experience. Similarly, the 3x telephoto lens and smaller charging speed might deter potential buyers.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Same One UI experience | ❌ Average battery backup |
| ✅ Compact form factor | ❌ Slower 25W wired charging. |
| ✅ 7 years of updates | |
| ✅ Amazing Cameras | |
| ✅ Premium glass back design |
Best Phone for Productivity: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 (Starting at $1999)
Why We Recommend It
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the biggest change to Samsung’s foldable in recent years. It fixes two of the major complaints: cover screen and cameras. You get a bigger 6.5-inch cover display which is finally wide enough for typing. Not only does it bring a bigger screen, but it is also the thinnest foldable you can buy. Measuring just 8.9mm and 215 grams, it’s pretty close to the S25 Ultra. Speaking of the Ultra, it also borrows a couple of things, such as the camera and the processor. You get the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy and the same 200MP primary sensor.Other upgrades include a armor FlexiHinge and 7 years of OS updates.
Who Should Buy It
For all the multi taskers and productivity focused enthusiasts out there, the Z Fold 7 is the one for you. Whether it’s drafting emails, attending video calls or editing photos, everything is better on the bigger screen. Thanks to the wider cover screen, you can use it as a regular phone. The 200MP primary camera means you get the same camera quality as the S25 Ultra.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
If you want a foldable phone that comes with S-Pen support then sadly, the Z Fold 7 isn’t it for you. And the battery capacity is still stuck at 4,400mAh which is the same as the Z Fold 3. To make matters worse, you only get 25W wired charging which certainly isn’t the fastest around. The $1999 price tag is a high premium that keeps it out of most people’s pockets.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Biggest improvement to Z Fold in recent years | ❌ $1999 is out of reach for most people |
| ✅ Thinnest and lightest foldable till date | ❌ No S-Pen support |
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor | ❌ Same 4,400mAh battery as Z Fold 3 |
| ✅ Bigger cover screen and inner display | ❌ Still stuck at 25W wired charging |
| ✅ Better hinge and 7 years of OS updates |
Best Flip Phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 (Starting at $1099)
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 addresses the biggest complaint made by Samsung users: the cover screen. It gets a massive 4.1-inch cover display that goes edge to edge. It’s also brighter at 2600 nits with the inner screen now being noticeably bigger at 6.9-inches. Furthermore, the Flip 7 has a more durable Armorflex hinge and AI features include Gemini Live. You also get a noticeable bigger battery at 4,300mAh apart from the latest One UI 8 with 7 years of updates.
Who Should Buy It
If you want a fun phone that still does serious flagship stuff. For all the vloggers, selfie fiends, and anyone who values compact pocket carry, this is the flip to get. The bigger cover screen means quick replies, camera framing, and AI help without fully opening; fold‑at‑any‑angle FlexCam remains perfect for tripod‑free shooting.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
The Exynos 2500 isn’t the most powerful chip out there and the flip form factor only makes things worse. While it’s great for day to day usage, don’t expect it to play Genshin Impact at the highest settings. And the lack of a telephoto lens might disappoint all the camera purists out there. Also, if you rarely use the folding tricks, the S25 series gives you similar AI and performance in a simpler package.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Biggest 4.1-inch cover screen on a Samsung flip | ❌ Exynos 2500 is slower than competition |
| ✅ Massive 4,300mAh battery | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Slimmer and more durable hinge | ❌ No 25W charger |
| ✅ Android 16 with 7 years of updates |
Also Read:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Series Is Disappearing From US, Buy Now if You Want One
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Breaks Cover in New Renders, Surprisingly Thin Design
Best Mid-Range Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE (Starting at $600)
Why We Recommend It:
The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is the newest phone on the list, offering great specs at a mid-range price. It is the most popular phone during sales and discounts, and there’s a reason for it. You get all the Galaxy AI features and respectable performance without the premium price. Starting with the design, you get a familiar back panel with rings around the camera lenses. The screen size is also similar to the S24 Plus with a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x panel. As far as the performance is concerned, you get the Exynos 2400, found on last year’s Galaxy S24. With 7 years of OS updates and an IP68 rating, it’s the perfect phone for long-term buyers.
Who Should Buy It
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a great option for those who want a flagship experience at a mid-range price. With all the Galaxy AI features, 7 years of OS updates with One UI 8 out of the box, it’s a great phone for most users. Whether you are a first-time user looking to dip your toes into the Samsung ecosystem or someone who is upgrading from an older phone, it’s an option worth considering.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Those looking for the best cameras, performance, or standout design, the S25 FE isn’t for you. There are many better options in this price range if you don’t care much about the Samsung logo. Another pain point is the 8GB of RAM, which can prove to be a bottleneck in the future. The Exynos 2400 is also prone to heating issues and lags behind phones like the S25, which are powered by the 8 Elite.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Latest One UI 8 with 7 years of updates | ❌ Slow 25W wired charging |
| ✅ All the Galaxy AI features | ❌ Exynos 2400 has heating issues during intensive tasks |
| ✅ Premium design same as the S25 series | ❌ No LTPO support |
| ✅ IP68 rating, Samsung Dex, and wireless charging support | ❌ Incremental updates compared to S25 FE |
| ✅ Same display size as the S25 Plus |
Best Budget Phone: Samsung Galaxy A56 (Starting at $499)
Why We Recommend It:
Want the best Samsung phone under $500 that offers an all-rounder experience? Check out the Samsung Galaxy A56. You get the same 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display as the more expensive Galaxy S24 FE. The phone is powered by the Exynos 1580 processor and is one of the few phones, apart from the S25 series, to ship with One UI 7. Samsung promises six years of OS updates and an IP67 rating for durability. Moreover, you get a 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging support and cool AI features.
Who Should Buy It
This is ideal for buyers who want a big-screen Android experience on a strict budget. Students, parents getting a first smartphone for their teen, or anyone looking for a backup phone will love it. The large AMOLED display is great for watching videos or browsing, and the huge battery means you won’t need to charge every few hours
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Don’t pick this if you need top-tier speed or camera quality. The Exynos 1580 is decent but not as fast as flagship chips, so very heavy gaming or multitasking might stutter. Also, there’s no wireless charging or ultra-telephoto camera. In short, skip the A56 if you want bleeding-edge specs.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ One UI 7 out of the box | ❌ Average performance |
| ✅ 45W charging | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ 5,000mAh battery | ❌ No wireless charging |
| ✅ Fantastic 6.7-inch AMOLED display | |
| ✅ IP67 rating |
Best Design Phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge (Price $1099)
Why We Recommend It:
Want a durable yet lightweight phone wth no major compromises? Meet the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. The phone weighs just 163 grams and is 5.8mm thick. But don’t let its thinness fool you as you get Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 and an IP68 rating. It is also the thinnest phone from the company, measuring just 5.8 mm thick and weighing 163 grams. Inside it has the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and 12 GB RAM as the S25 Ultra. It also inherits the 200MP primary camera sensor, wireless charging, and 7 years of updates. So you are getting the Ultra grade performance in a slimmer package.
Who Should Buy it:
The Galaxy S25 Edge is all about style and minimalism. It’s made for all those influencers and celebrities looking to attract eyeballs wherever they go. The Edge is designed for those who prioritize aesthetics above everything else. You get a slim phone that can easily slide into pockets while offering top-tier performance. In short, get the S25 Edge if you want most of the Ultra’s capabilities but can’t tolerate the Ultra’s weight or thickness.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Don’t choose this if battery life or camera versatility is your top concern. The 3,900mAh battery means you will need to charge the phone twice and the 25W charging only makes it worse. Furthermore, you miss out on a telephoto lens, and the ultrawide is only 12MP instead of 50MP on the Ultra. The $1099 price tag means it’s expensive for what it currently offers.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Surprisingly thin at just 5.8mm | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Weight at 163 grams | ❌ Average battery backup |
| ✅ Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy | ❌ Downgraded ultrawide-angle lens |
| ✅ 200-megapixel primary camera |
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE: Most Affordable Samsung Flip
Why We Recommend It
Want a flagship grade flip phone experience without breaking an arm or leg? The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is the one for you. It offers a similar experience to last year’s Flip 6 with the same design. You get the same 6.7-inch panel and dual camera setup. Moreover, you get the latest One UI 8 with all the Galaxy AI.
Who Should Buy It
It is perfect for first-time flip phone buyers who are looking to dabble in the category. If you don’t care about the latest processor or a huge cover screen, it’s a great flip phone. For all influencers, selfie fanatics out there, the 50MP + 12MP rear setup still punches above price in good light. It allows for hands‑free shooting from a half‑folded “tripod” position so you can get on top of all those TikTok trends. Samsung’s 7 years of updates and Galaxy AI features make it a reliable long-term phone, especially if you can get the pre-order credits.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
For all the spec-obsessed nerds, the Z Flip 7 FE simply won’t cut it. The Exynos 2400 is nowhere near the Snapdragon 8 Elite or even last year’s 8 Gen 3. Furthermore, you lose out on a bigger cover screen, DeX support that Flip 7 brings to the table. The 8GB of RAM isn’t made to handle the multitasking sidebar you perform. And if you want a better package at a similar price, it’s better to opt for last year’s Flip 6 instead.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable than Flip 7 | ❌ Less powerful than last year’s Z Flip 6 |
| ✅ 7 years of updates with latest One UI 8 | ❌ Smaller cover screen than Z Flip 7 |
| ✅ All the AI goodies including Now Bar, Gemini Live and more | ❌ 8GB RAM isn’t futureproof |
| ✅ Same flagship sensors as last year’s Z Flip 6 | ❌ Only 128GB storage in base variant |
Summary: Which Samsung Phone Is the Best for Me?
| Use Case | Phone Model | Explanation |
| Best Flagship Phone | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | For users seeking the peak of Samsung innovation with top-tier performance, a versatile camera system, S-Pen, Samsung Dex, and extended software updates. It’s for those who want everything in one phone and are willing to pay a premium. |
| Best Overall Phone | Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus | For users who desire a high-end Samsung flagship experience without the Ultra’s price tag. It offers flagship performance, a great display, excellent cameras, Samsung Dex, and long-term software support, making it a well-rounded choice for most users. |
| Best Compact Phone | Samsung Galaxy S25 | Ideal for users who prefer a smaller, pocket-friendly phone that’s easy to use with one hand. Despite its size, it still delivers powerful performance, great cameras, and long software updates, making it a top compact phone choice. |
| Best Phone For Productivity | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | Designed for multitasking and productivity, this foldable phone offers a large 8-inch screen when unfolded, enhancing video calls, media consumption, and app usage. It supports Samsung Dex and S-Pen, and provides long-term software updates, catering to users who need a phone that can double as a tablet for work and play. |
| Best Flip Phone | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 | For users who prioritize portability and a unique, pocketable design. This phone folds in half, featuring a useful cover screen for quick tasks and a larger inner screen for regular use. It balances style with functionality, offering decent battery life and long software support in a compact form factor. |
| Best Mid-Range Phone | Samsung Galaxy S25 FE | This is for users seeking a balanced Samsung phone that offers essential flagship features without the high cost. It provides a similar experience to higher-end models with good performance, a versatile camera system, Samsung Dex, and extended software support, making it an excellent value mid-range option. |
| Best Budget Phone | Samsung Galaxy A56 | Tailored for users looking for an affordable Samsung phone under $500 that provides an all-around good experience. It features a large AMOLED display, good battery life, fast charging, and the latest One UI, making it a great budget-friendly choice with essential features. |
| Best Design Phone | Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | For users who prioritize aesthetics and a slim, lightweight design without sacrificing high-end specifications. This sleek phone is made for those who want a great camera without losing out on aesthetics. |
