Samsung smartphones blend intuitive software, high-speed performance and all-day battery life, making them a favourite choice for Android users worldwide. Launched in August 2026, Samsung's newest line-up of the Galaxy Z Fold8, Z Fold8 Ultra and Z Flip8 has raised the bar for foldables with lighter builds and smarter Galaxy AI.
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 Samsung handsets alongside great pay monthly deals from iD Mobile. brought to you by Currys.
- Best overall phone: Samsung S26 Ultra
- Best foldable phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8
- Best previous-generation option: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Best Plus phone: Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus
- Best premium entry-level phone: Samsung Galaxy S26
- Best flip phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8
- Best FE phone: Samsung Galaxy S26 FE
- Best affordable handset: Samsung Galaxy A37 5G
- Best mid-tier Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy A57 5G
- Best one-off release: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Best overall phone: Samsung S26 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the flagship phone Samsung fans have been waiting for, and it truly delivers on every front. Powered by the custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, Galaxy AI is at its smartest and most proactive in this phone - not just responding to what you do but actually anticipating what you’ll need next.
The 6.9-inch QHD+ AMOLED 2X display is nothing short of stunning, with vivid colours and sharp detail, even in bright sunlight. What really sets this screen apart though, is the industry-first built-in Privacy Display, giving you total control over what others can see. Whether that’s your whole screen, notifications or specific apps, you can cleverly protect your personal information without the need for a bulky screen protector. We're predicting that this feature is going to be a real gamechanger in the smartphone world.
The S26 Ultra doesn’t disappoint on the camera front, either. The 200MP wide lens, with an upgraded f/1.4 aperture that lets in 47% more light makes every shot brighter, with every detail produced in perfect clarity. Paired with new-and-improved Nightography photo for vibrant clarity even in low-light conditions, the S26 Ultra is a real photography powerhouse.
Keeping all of this powered is a 5,000mAh battery, which can keep you going for 31 hours of video playback; that’s through a full day and beyond. When you do eventually need a top-up, you can get back up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes.
- Release date: 11th March 2026
- Dimensions: 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9mm
- Weight: 214g
- Display size & resolution: 6.9-inch QHD+ AMOLED 2X display (1440 x 3120)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 1-120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
- RAM: 12GB (16GB with 1TB)
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 200MP + 50MP + 10MP + 50MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- World-first built-in Privacy Display that keeps your screen private, whenever you choose
- 200MP camera system for brilliantly detailed shots day or night
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor delivers seamless performance
As the S26 Ultra is Samsung’s flagship release, it comes with a more premium price tag. It’s a worthwhile investment, but if you’re looking for a more affordable option that’s still packed with innovative tech, the Samsung Galaxy A37 5G is a great pick.
Best foldable phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8
Big screens usually mean big phones, but the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 flips – or should we say folds – that idea on its head. At just 201g, it's the world's lightest foldable, and at only 4.5mm thick when open, it slips into a pocket far more easily than you'd expect from a phone that practically turns into a tablet when opened.
The all-new shape is also built around the way you use your phone. The 5.5-inch cover screen has a 10:16 ratio that's ideal for one-handed social scrolling, while the 7.6-inch 4:3 main screen is perfect for films or catching up on an e-book. Both screens reach 3,000 nits of brightness, and the main display's anti-reflection layer cuts down on glare. A double layer of titanium beneath the screen adds extra strength, so you can use your phone as normal without worrying about any damage.
The dual 50MP wide and ultra-wide cameras keep every shot sharp, and Galaxy AI gets in on the action too. My FanCam can spotlight one person from a group video, while Now Nudge suggests your next move and opens it in split view.
- Release date: August 2026
- Dimensions: 123.9 x 161.4 x 4.5mm (unfolded), 123.9 x 81.9 x 9.7mm (folded)
- Weight: 201g
- Display size and resolution: 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (2448 x 1848) main display, and 5.5-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X sub display (1972 x 1248)
- OS: Android 17
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
- Ram: 12GB (256GB/512GB), 16G (for 1TB)
- Battery: 4,800mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 50MP
- Front camera: 10MP
- Cover camera: 10MP
- Sleek passport-style design that weighs just 201g and is 4.5mm thin unfolded
- Samsung have introduced Flex Titanium, a double layer of titanium under the display for added strength
- Vivid dual 50MP cameras, with new AI-powered camera tools like My FanCam
With a bigger screen, upgraded cameras and more processing power, the Fold8 comes at a higher price point, so it’s worth weighing up whether you’ll make full use of its features. While it has less of the bells and whistles, the Z Flip7 FE is a great option if you’re in the market for a more affordable flip or fold.
Looking for more inspiration for your next phone? Check out our guide to the best foldable phones in 2026.
Best previous-generation option: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Launched in February 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is still one of the most capable smartphones out there. Delivering outstanding value, this phone is packed with some of the best Galaxy innovation without the higher price tag of the newly released S26 Ultra.
With a luxurious titanium frame, the S25 Ultra is as tough as it is premium. Reinforced with Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass and an additional IP68 water resistance rating, this handset can handle anything you throw at it. The immersive 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X similarly dazzles with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Whether you’re scrolling socials or deep in a gaming session, you can be sure it’ll be lag-free.
The S25 Ultra is a must for photography lovers. With an upgraded Ultra Wide 50 MP lens and seriously impressive 200MP Wide lens, you can capture extraordinary detail at any distance. The creative potential doesn’t end there – the S25 Ultra also features the iconic S Pen. Ideal for jotting down notes or even sketching on the go, the S Pen gives you all the productivity of a tablet in a pocket-sized device.
Find out more about this handset in our S25 Ultra expert review.
- Release date: February 2025
- Dimensions: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm
- Weight: 218g
- Display size and resolution: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (3120 x 1440 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 200MP + 50MP + 50MP + 10MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Professional-quality photography thanks to the 200MP quad-lens camera system
- Integrated S Pen for added precision and unmatched creativity
- Snapdragon 8 Elite processor custom-built to power the latest AI features
Packing plenty of tech into the handset, the S25 Ultra is one of the more substantial phones on this roundup, so, if you need a phone that’s easier for on the go, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge weighs in at a sleek 163g.
Best Plus phone: Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus
Sitting between the compact S26 and the powerful S26 Ultra, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus is the perfect all-rounder.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the redesigned back. With the S26 series, Samsung has moved away from the individual cutout lens design, bringing all three lenses together into one clean, polished transparent island on the back of the phone. It might be a small change, but it has a big visual impact, making the phone feel noticeably more premium and modern – fitting for Samsung’s flagship range.
Built with the cutting-edge Exynos 2600 processor, performance has seen a step up from the previous generation. Multitasking is faster, apps open instantly and even graphics-heavy games run super smoothly. Then there’s the impressive 4,900mAh battery, which can keep up with you all day and then some, with around 31 hours of video playback.
The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display has also been upgraded with Samsung’s smart ProScaler technology. Borrowed from the same innovation behind Samsung’s high-end TVs, it upscales lower-resolution content in real-time, making everything from social media clips to video calls look cinematic and true-to-life, with richer tones and finer detail.
- Release date: March 2026
- Dimensions: 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3mm
- Weight: 190g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (3120 x 1440 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Exynos 2600
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,900mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 10MP + 12MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Long-lasting battery life, with 31 hours of video playback
- Brand-new translucent island camera design for a cleaner, more premium look
- ProScaler technology upgrades content in real-time for sharper, immersive viewing
Despite being part of the same S26 series, the S26 Plus doesn’t feature the S26 Ultra's 200MP camera, so it’s worth exploring that model if super-detailed photography is your priority.
Best premium entry-level phone: Samsung Galaxy S26
If you’re looking for the latest in mobile innovation, but don’t fancy an Ultra-sized handset, the Galaxy S26 is Samsung’s most compact flagship this year. At 6.3 inches and 7.2mm thin, it packs powerful AI and buttery-smooth performance into a perfectly pocket-friendly design.
The S26 is also the most accessible way into Samsung’s full flagship experience. You get the same Exynos 2600 processor as the S26+ and the same Galaxy AI suite of handy tools, but all at a more affordable price point. Take Now Nudge, for example. Now Nudge scans what’s happening on your screen in real-time and brings up smart, contextual suggestions. If a friend texts you about dinner, it’ll nudge you to book a table, or if someone asks for a specific photo, it’ll jump straight to your Gallery for you.
Subtle, but genuinely useful, it’s thoughtful features like this that really set the S26 apart from other entry-level handsets.
The triple-lens camera system also punches well above its weight, packing in 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide and 10MP telephoto lenses that bring stellar quality to your photography. Night-time photos come out sharp and true-to-life, and the inbuilt ProVisual Engine enhances every shot.
- Release date: March 2026
- Dimensions: 149.6 x 71.7 x 7.2mm
- Weight: 167g
- Display size and resolution: 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (2340 x 1080 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Exynos 2600
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,300mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 10MP + 12MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- This is the most compact handset in the S26 range, making it ideal for the everyday
- Smart, personalised suggestions and shortcuts with Now Nudge AI
- 7 years of OS updates for long-term value and protection
Best flip phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8
If you want a flip phone that gives you all of the nostalgia, but that's actually built for 2026, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8 is our pick. It's Samsung's thinnest and lightest Flip yet at 180g - and just 6.1mm when unfolded - making it an impressive 8g lighter than the Flip7. A smoother Armor FlexHinge and a wider gap around the inner bezel also make the handset satisfyingly easy to flick open with one hand.
The 4.1-inch FlexWindow is where the Flip8 really cements its place as one of Samsung’s best technical designs yet. Reply to messages, skip a song or glance at your calendar without unfolding your screen, and let Galaxy AI's Now Brief give you your daily rundown. Locking in for a scrolling session? Open your handset up, and you'll find a 6.9-inch display with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, handy when the sun's out. It’s a fully-fledged smartphone and a pocket-sized assistant rolled into one.
Creators, you're well looked after too. The 50MP main lens and 12MP ultra-wide lens work with FlexMode for hands-free shots, while Super Steady's Horizontal Lock keeps your footage level even when you're on the move. Photo Assist can then tweak your snaps simply by using a written prompt.
- Release date: August 2026
- Dimensions: 166.9 x 75.4 x 6.1mm (unfolded), 85.7 x 75.4 x 13.1mm (folded)
- Weight: 180g
- Display size and resolution: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (2520 x 1080 pixels) main display, and 4.1-inch Super AMOLED (1048 x 948 pixels) sub display
- OS: Android 17
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Exynos 2600 custom for Galaxy
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 4,300mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP
- Front camera: 10MP
- World’s lightest Flip yet, at just 180g
- Up to 31 hours of video playback on offer thanks to the 4,300mAh battery
- Customisable 4.1-inch FlexWindow for messages, widgets and more, all without unfolding your screen
The Flip8 is a great all-rounder, but its IP48 rating is a step down from the IP68 dust and water resistance you'll find on phones like the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This is typical for a flip phone, but if a tougher rating matters to you, the S26 Ultra could be a better fit.
Best FE phone: Samsung Galaxy S26 FE
If you want flagship features without the flagship price tag, the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is the pick that makes the most sense. It's the first phone in the Galaxy S26 family to launch with One UI 9, bringing Samsung's newest software and context-aware Galaxy AI features to a more affordable handset from day one.
At 193g and 7.4mm thick, the S26 FE keeps a similar slim profile to its predecessor, striking a good weight-to-battery balance for a phone with a 4,900mAh cell and three rear cameras. It's also built to last, with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and an IP68 rating protecting it against dust and submersion in water. The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display runs at up to 120Hz and hits a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, so scrolling feels smooth and the screen stays readable outdoors.
On the camera side, the 50MP main sensor comes with OIS for steadier shots, backed by a 12MP ultra-wide and an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. Samsung's Galaxy AI tools, including My FanCam, help you edit and personalise photos and videos straight after capture, while the 4,900mAh battery and 45W wired charging keep you going through the day.
- Release date: September 2026
- Dimensions: 161.6 x 76.9 x 7.4mm
- Weight: 193g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, FHD+ (2340 x 1080 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: Exynos 2500
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 4,900mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 12MP + 8MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- First in the Galaxy S26 range to launch with One UI 9 and the latest Galaxy AI tools
- Triple rear camera with 3x optical zoom and OIS, for sharper everyday shots
- Slim, durable design with IP68 water and dust resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus+
The Galaxy S26 FE trades a few flagship extras, such as the S26 Ultra's bigger zoom range and higher-end chipset for a lower price, so it's worth thinking about how much you'll actually use those features day to day. If you want the full flagship experience, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is worth a look instead.
Best affordable handset: Samsung Galaxy A37 5G
Great phones don’t need to cost a fortune, and the Galaxy A37 5G is proof of that. With a big screen, solid cameras and a long-lasting battery, the A37 5G ticks all the boxes that actually matter, without the price tag you’d expect.
The design side is often where costs are cut with the more affordable models, but not with the A37 5G. Say goodbye to plastic backs and dull colour options, and hello to glass finishes and stylish colourways like Awesome Lavender and Awesome GrayGreen. You don’t have to worry about scuffs or splashes on your nice new phone either with tough Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and durable IP68 protection.
The reliability doesn’t stop there with this handset. There’s also a 5,000mAH battery – which is massive for this price point – that can easily get you through 2 full days on a single charge. Samsung also promises six OS updates and six years of security, so you can rest assured that your phone is built to last and protected for years to come.
- Release date: April 2026
- Dimensions: 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4mm
- Weight: 196g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED (2340 x 1080 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 1480
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 8MP + 5MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ for premium durability at an affordable price
- 6 OS updates and 6 years of security patches to keep your phone secure and up to date until 2031
- 2 days of battery on a single charge
The long-lasting battery and Super Fast Charging 2.0 are standout features of the A37 5G; but as this is a more budget-friendly phone, it doesn’t have wireless charging capabilities. If this is something you frequently rely on, we’d recommend the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge instead.
Best mid-tier Samsung phone: Samsung Galaxy A57 5G
Samsung have always set the bar for mid-tier phones, but the Galaxy A57 5G might just be their best one yet.
Sleeker and lighter than its predecessor, it’s the kind of phone that makes you do a double take. With a glossy finish, thinner camera island and newly slimmed down bezels around the 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display; the screen feels more immersive and premium than ever.
The camera doesn’t disappoint either. A 50MP wide-angle lens and optimised Nightography ensure your photos are more vibrant, clear and true-to-life, whatever the lighting or setting. Awesome Intelligence tools take your pictures to the next level with Object Eraser, Best Face and Edit Suggestion features helping you to clean up a background, fix a blink or sharpen a shot in just a few taps.
From photo editing to long gaming sessions, the A57 5G is built to handle whatever you throw at it. Equipped with a larger vapor chamber cooling system, your phone will stay cool, calm and collected without any performance lag – even when you’re in the middle of a particularly intense game. It’s the extra additions like this that make a real difference on a mid-tier phone and make Samsung’s A57 5G stand out.
- Release date: April 2026
- Dimensions: 161.5 x 76.8 x 6.9mm
- Weight: 179g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus (2340 x 1080 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB
- CPU: Exynos 1680
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear camera: 50MP + 12MP + 5MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- Flagship-level power at a more accessible price with the Exynos 1680 chipset
- Oversized cooling system for better gaming and performance
- Speedy 45W charging, with up to 60% charge in just 30 minutes
While the Awesome Intelligence tools on this phone are impressive, particularly for photo editing, a few of the most advanced Galaxy AI features are only exclusive to the newer ranges of the S-series, like the Galaxy S26.
Best one-off release: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
The epitome of small but mighty, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge weighs in at just 163g. Offering a super-slim design, the standout AI enhancements we know and love from Samsung and a top-notch 200MP camera, the S25 Edge is built for those who want power, protection, and futuristic design all in one.
Despite its lighter weight, the S25 Edge doesn’t skimp on hardwearing design, with an IP68 rating that protects your device in up to 1.5 meters of water, for 30 minutes. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Armor for added defence against scratches and knocks, so you're covered on all fronts.
This durability is reflected in this handset’s camera setup, too. The excellent 200MP main sensor captures crisp, vibrant images even in wet and or dark environments; inbuilt, AI-powered camera tech adapts to lighting and movement to help you get the perfect shot, without worrying about moisture interfering with performance.
Including a Galaxy-exclusive Snapdragon 8 Elite processor under the hood, the S25 Edge delivers lightning-fast performance for gaming, streaming, and multitasking. 12GB of RAM and generous storage options are paired with a sleek 120Hz refresh rate, meaning this handset is built to keep up with more demanding actions, with plenty of room to host your favourite apps, games and photos.
- Release date: May 2025
- Dimensions: 75.6 x 158.2 x 5.8mm
- Weight: 163g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x (3,120 x 1,440 pixels)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256 or 512GB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 3,900mAh
- Rear camera: 12MP ultra-wide lens + 200MP wide-angle
- Front camera: 12MP
- Subtle but stunning curved-edge display for immersive viewing
- 7 years of OS and security updates
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Fast wireless charging (up to 25W)
With less battery capability than the S25 flagship handsets – 3,900mAh, compared to the S25 Ultra’s 5,000mAh – you might find yourself reaching for a charger sooner, especially if you’re switching from the Ultra. Make no mistake though, this is a battery that can still go the distance, with up to 24 hours of video playback.
Summary
No matter what kind of handset you’re looking for, Samsung’s offering only continues to impress. If you’re not sure which Android to go for next, have a read of our full breakdown of the best Android phones of 2026.
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 S26 Ultra – released in March 2026.
