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How to use the Which Phone Should I Buy?
- 1Set your maximum budget and choose iPhone, Android or either.
- 2Add must-haves such as minimum camera megapixels, battery or storage.
- 3Rate what matters most (camera, battery, speed, value, updates) and compare the top matches.
Megapixels aren't everything
A 200MP camera doesn't automatically beat a 48MP one. Sensor size, image processing and a telephoto lens for optical zoom often matter more. That's why our camera score also weighs telephoto lenses and the phone's processing power.
Don't forget software updates
Apple, Google and Samsung now promise 6–7 years of updates on many models, which keeps a phone secure and useful for longer. A slightly more expensive phone with long support can be better value than a cheap one with two years of updates.
When to buy a new phone
| Brand | Usual launch | Best time to buy the older model |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S | January–February | Right after the new launch |
| Google Pixel | August | Autumn sales and Black Friday |
| Apple iPhone | September | After launch, when the old model drops in price |
| Samsung Galaxy A | March | Mid-year promotions |
Last year's flagship or this year's mid-range?
A discounted flagship from last year usually has a better camera, screen and processor than a new mid-range phone at the same price, but check how many years of software updates remain. A mid-range phone with 6 years of updates can be the smarter buy if you keep phones a long time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best phone right now?
It depends on your priorities and budget. Flagships like the iPhone 18 Pro, Galaxy S26 Ultra and Pixel 11 Pro lead for cameras and speed, while phones like the Pixel 10a and Galaxy A57 offer great value.
How much battery do I need?
4,500–5,000 mAh lasts a full day for most people. Heavy users and gamers should look at 5,500 mAh or more. iPhones get good battery life from smaller capacities thanks to efficient chips.
Are prices accurate in my country?
We show US list prices. Prices vary by country, storage option and retailer, so check local stores before buying.