Samsung smartphones blend intuitive software, high-speed performance and all-day battery life, making them a favourite choice for Android users worldwide. With the much-anticipated S25’s release making a splash in January 2025, our shortlist is bursting with flagship powerhouses, budget-friendly models and everything in-between.
Our experts have rounded up the best Samsung phones with outstanding tech, top camera capabilities, and options to suit every budget. Browse some of our favourite handsets and explore our pay monthly deals.
- Best overall phone: Samsung S25 Ultra
- Best foldable phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
- Best previous-generation option: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Best large Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus
- Best premium entry-level phone: Samsung Galaxy S24
- Best flip phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
- Best FE (Fan Edition) phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
- Best affordable handset: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
- Best mid-tier Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy A55 5G
Our top picks of the best Samsung phones
Best overall phone: Samsung S25 Ultra
Some of Samsung's most cutting-edge technology to date is on display with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Built with a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor – customised for Galaxy - it offers super-efficient computing capability and faster AI performance, making it a portable powerhouse. AI isn’t an afterthought here; it’s carefully integrated into every element of the handset, offering an intuitive experience no matter what you’re using it for.
This attention to detail is clear to see in terms of design, too. All that processing power is stored safely behind a titanium frame, reinforced by durable Corning Gorilla Armor 2 display glass. With rounded corners to make the phone feel more comfortable in your hand, the S25 Ultra features thinner bezels, resulting in a 6.9-inch display; ever so slightly bigger than the S24 Ultra for a bolder and more immersive experience. This is a phone everyone can appreciate, from gamers with an eye for detail, to everyday scrollers looking for a genuinely eye-catching handset.
Samsung has seriously upgraded the camera on this latest offering too, with the S25 Ultra boasting an impressive 50MP Ultra Wide lens, compared to the S24 Ultra’s 12MP, allowing you to take super clear shots.
The S25 Ultra’s AI-powered Next Gen ProVisual Engine also means your photos will look more professional than ever before, with features such as automatic optimisation, Nightography Videos, Zoomed Images and Photo Assist helping you to take your photography to a whole new level. This is all on top of the already excellent S24 AI-powered camera features.
- Release date: January 2025
- Dimensions: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm
- Weight: 218g
- Display size and resolution: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (3,120 x 1,440 pixels)
- OS: Android 15
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP Ultra Wide + 200MP Wide Angle + 50MP Telephoto 1 + 10MP Telephoto 2
- Front camera: 12MP
- Bigger, thinner, sleeker screen than its predecessor, with a smaller weight to boot
- Fully integrated AI for faster processing and effortless actions
- Superb 50MP ultra-wide lens captures every detail, with improved colour and clarity
- Handy S-pen compatibility
As Samsung’s latest release, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a bigger investment when compared to other Samsung phones. This is more than justified when you consider the long-term software support you’re getting, alongside Samsung's years of tech updates and insights: this is a great option for anyone in the market for a powerful new Android.
Best foldable phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Samsung continues to lead in foldable technology, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is proof of that. Folded, the 6.3-inch display is bold and bright, bolstered by a smooth, responsive Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen. Unfold your phone to its full 7.6-inch capability and you’ll get the big-screen experience in your hands. With an almost-invisible crease, the text is brighter and easier to read, mobile games feel less crowded with more room to navigate, and videos can be viewed in crystal-clear, cinematic detail.
For the photo & video pros amongst us, the seamless screen makes taking, editing and reviewing photos a dream. Main cameras include an impressive 50MP primary sensor, alongside a 12MP and 10MP lens, whilst a 10MP front camera and 4MP under-display sensor are cleverly concealed inside the screen.
It’s not just entertainment where this handset impresses – the Z Fold 6 is well adapted to your work needs, as well as play. Run two apps simultaneously side by side; ideal for balancing multiple tasks. If you’re looking for the Swiss army knife of phones, this latest fold from Samsung is the phone for you.
- Release date: July 2024
- Dimensions: 153.5 x 132.6 x 5.6mm (unfolded), 153.5 x 68.1 x 12.1mm (folded)
- Weight: 239g
- Display size and resolution: 7.6-inch AMOLED (2,160 x 1,856 pixels) main display, and 6.3-inch AMOLED (968 x 2,376 pixels) cover display
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,400mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP + 10MP
- Under display camera: 4MP
- Cover camera: 10MP
- Ultra-wide, bright screen that delivers awe-inspiring visuals
- High-quality selfie camera, powered by integrated AI
- Housed in a tough Armour Aluminium casing with an improved, more durable hinge
If fold durability is holding you back from trying the Z Fold 6, don’t be put off; from the hinge to the screen, this is a phone that’s designed to go the distance. According to Samsung, the screen holds up to at least 200,000 folding cycles. That means that if you were to fold your screen around 100 times a day, it would last an impressive 5 years.
Best previous-generation option: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra hit headlines as one of the best releases in 2024. With an outstanding camera configuration that includes a 200MP primary sensor, top-tier performance and an impressive 5,000mAH battery, it's a handset that excels on every level.
For us, the gorgeous 6.8-inch AMOLED display makes this phone one that deserved the headlines. For the first time, boasting a flatter design without curved edges the thin bezels highlight the brightness and clarity of the display: you’re always be aware that you’re holding a genius piece of tech in your hands. The brightness of the design has staying power; whether you’re sneaking a glance at your phone after the lights are out, or sat out in the sun, you’ll be able to see your display without any strain.
Corning Gorilla Armor Glass covers the screen, adding a scratch-resistant layer that doesn’t take away from the sleek, rectangular design. For a bigger phone – the biggest in the S range Samsung had ever released at time of launch – the S24 Ultra boasts a sophisticated camera array with an efficient, thin design making the overall handheld experience feel premium.
- Release date: January 2024
- Dimensions: 162.3 x 79 x 8.6mm
- Weight: 232g
- Display size and resolution: 6.8-inch AMOLED (3,120 x 1,440 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 200MP + 50MP + 12MP + 10MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Previously unmatched display quality, with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits
- Excellent suite of cameras, leading with a high-resolution 200MP wide lens
- S-Pen compatibility, combined with a flat-edged design for easy notetaking
With up to 24 hours of battery life available for moderate users, the S24 Ultra is one of the most impressive Android releases of 2024. Alternatively, if you’re looking for another Android that balances a robust battery performance with high-levels of multi-functionality alongside the core Android experience that comes with a Google phone, the Google Pixel 8 could be a good match for you.
Best large Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus
A star player in Samsung's 2024 lineup, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus offers a blend of premium features that feel like a natural step up from its predecessor (the S23 Plus). Most notably, it features a slightly larger 6.7-inch display (previously 6.6-inch) and a brighter screen, while the flat-sided frame and slim profile feels state of the art.
Galaxy AI really comes to life in this model; on a bigger screen, the integrated AI features feel intuitive. Handy tools like Circle to Search and new-and-improved photo editing capabilities are further powered by the excellent processor, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
- Release date: January 2024
- Dimensions: 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7mm
- Weight: 196g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch AMOLED (3,120 x 1,440 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,900mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 10MP + 12MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processing for smooth, uninterrupted usage
- Impressive battery life, with up to 31 hours of video playback time
Sleek and modern, the flat-sided design of the S24 Plus feels fresh and new when compared to the curved edges seen on older Samsung devices. If price is a factor to you and you prefer the more rounded design of past Samsung phones, you could try the Samsung Galaxy A55 which still boasts an impressive performance across your day-to-day tasks.
Best premium entry-level flagship Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy S24
If you enjoy the S24 experience without the Ultra-sized handset, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is a smaller and slightly more affordable option. At 6.2-inches, it offers a great balance between powerful performance and a satisfying screen size, housed within a more compact design. The phone’s luxe satin finish has a subtle sheen, yet textured enough to let you keep a firm grip whilst holding.
Aesthetics aside, we've shortlisted the S24 for the series’ remarkable Galaxy AI capabilities. Whilst Chat Assist and Note Assist have quickly become part of everyday life, the most noticeable AI power is delivered in the camera. Galaxy’s ProVisual Engine lets you take photos that feel high-end and incredibly lifelike. Zoom in on crystal-clear details, even in low light conditions; we were impressed by the bright shades captured, despite the looming grey British weather on the day! The care Samsung have taken to deliver this level of colour and detail shouldn’t be underestimated; grainy, dull night-time shots are now a thing of the past.
- Release date: January 2024
- Dimensions: 147 x 70.6 x 7.6mm
- Weight: 167g
- Display size and resolution: 6.2-inch AMOLED (2,340 x 1,080 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 2400
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 4,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP + 10MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Speedy, responsive performance wrapped up in a smaller, 6.2-inch form
- Excellent camera features, complete with low-light photography capabilities
The S24 is built with an Exynos 2400 processor, rather than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor used across the S24 Plus and the S24 Ultra. This won’t affect your day-to-day usage, but is noteworthy for those of us who may make the most of their processing power for the latest mobile gaming.
Best flip phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
The Galaxy Z Flip 6 might be among Samsung’s best flip phones to date. Billed as Samsung’s most compact phone, there’s a huge amount of power hidden under the hood here.
When unfolded, the Z Flip 6 stretches out to a huge 6.7-inch screen, rivalling the display of the S24 Plus. The fold can be angled too, adding a lovely touch when taking in-the-moment selfies; you can now preview your shots on the cover screen as you take them, at the angle of your choosing.
Following the theme of more recent releases, Samsung has nailed the suite of Galaxy AI features included with the Z Flip, both for use on the cover screen and the unfolded design. Samsung call the cover screen the ‘flex window’, just in case you come across this. We enjoyed the cover screen customisation (this can mirror your fold screen layout, or not!) alongside your AI integrations too; Chat Assist gives you a range of curated replies to messages to respond quickly without flipping. This is a phone built with a busy day in mind, and Galaxy AI acts as an ideal complement.
- Release date: July 2024
- Dimensions: 166 x 72 x 7mm
- Weight: 187g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch AMOLED (2,640 x 1,080 pixels) main display, and 3.4-inch AMOLED (720 x 748 pixels) secondary display
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP
- Front camera: 10MP
- A welcomed battery upgrade from 3,700mAh in the Z Flip 5 to 4,000mAh
- Adaptable cover screen, with the individuality & customisation that works for you
- Almost unnoticeable crease, leaving you with a vibrant, seamless 6.7-inch screen
Samsung’s commitment to flip phone technology has led to two exceptional releases in the last year – the Z Flip 6, and the Z Fold 6. If you’re looking for a more compact handset, the Z Flip 6 is ideal for you. If you’re in the market for a phone that doubles up as a mini computer, try the Z Fold 6 for the increased screen multi-functionality & space.
Best FE phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Fan Edition
With flagship-like features at a more affordable price, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a great mid-range Samsung phone. Fan Edition phones do what they say on the tin: they wrap up favourite features of each generation into an affordably-priced handset, complimenting the more premium phones within each series.
The S24 FE makes a statement all on its own, even without the FE price tag. Its 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen has a smooth refresh rate of 120 Hz that perfectly accentuates the vibrant colours on display, no matter whether you’re scrolling or gaming. With a 50MP primary sensor triple-camera combination, you can create amazing pictures in the majority of lighting scenarios, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious photographers. Read more about the handset from this S24 FE review.
- Release date: October 2024
- Dimensions: 162 x 77.3 x 8mm
- Weight: 213g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch AMOLED (1,080 x 2,340 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 2400e
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 4,565mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP + 8MP
- Front camera: 10MP
- Impressive refresh rate that makes lag a thing of the past, comparable to the S24 Ultra at 60 Hz to 120 Hz
- Super-sharp cameras, with a versatile set-up powered by AI
Best affordable handset: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
In keeping with each generation of A series, the Galaxy A35 5G balances some of Samsung’s most sought-after features with a more affordable price tag.
Samsung’s fantastic display technology is apparent on the Galaxy A35: the 6.6-inch screen is big, bold and clear, even in sunny or bright conditions. It’s covered with durable Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ that will help minimise scratches and scuffs on your device, with a glass back and plastic framing protecting your hardware. An honourable mention goes to the colour range on offer in the A series with colourways like Awesome Lilac and Awesome Lemon standing out amongst the more muted tones released in 2024.
The commitment to durability is also clear. Promised by Samsung are 4 generations of OS updates and 5 years of security updates from launch. If you’re looking for a well-rounded phone that will last, do check out the Galaxy A35 5G.
- Release date: March 2024
- Dimensions: 162 x 98 x 8.5mm
- Weight: 209g
- Display size and resolution: 6.6-inch AMOLED (1,080 x 2,340 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 2400e
- RAM: 6GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 8MP + 5MP
- Front camera: 13MP
- Impressive battery life, lasting up to 2 days with moderate use
- Solid storage options give you plenty of space to store apps and photos, with a MicroSD slot making it easy to upgrade your storage if you need to
Best mid-tier option: Samsung Galaxy A55 5G
Despite its more affordable price tag, the Samsung Galaxy A55 looks and feels like a high-end smartphone. Upgraded from the plastic back of the A54, the A55’s 6.6-inch display is encased in sleek metal. The flatter, elegant design is accentuated by rear camera display set in a minimalistic vertical trio.
Samsung have maintained the impressive camera lineup seen on the A54, and with good reason. Close-up details and wide-angle shots are made more impressive still with the range of photo-editing tools on offer, while features like Nightography and Portrait Mode help make even the most spontaneous selfie look clear.
- Release date: March 2024
- Dimensions: 161.1 x 77.4 x 8.2mm
- Weight: 213g
- Display size and resolution: 6.6-inch AMOLED (1,080 x 2,340 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 2400e
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 12MP + 5MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Stylish design with an immersive 6.6-inch display
- Excellent night-time photography capabilities
- Tough and durable, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+
Samsung phone FAQs
The primary difference between a Samsung "A" series phone and a Samsung "S" series phone is the price: the “A” is more reasonably priced, offering mid-range specifications. The “S” is Samsung's flagship line, so generally provides the most cutting-edge features, optimal performance, and luxury design.
Thanks to its focus on high-end performance, the Galaxy S series is known for consistently sharp camera quality. The "Ultra" model of the S series is usually regarded as the best option for photographers because of the high-resolution cameras and integrated editing tools included. Currently, the most powerful Samsung phone camera is the S25 Ultra – released in January 2025.