Of all the phone manufacturers, Samsung's lineup of handsets may be the most robust, Want a phone that has a built-in stylus? You've got that. Want a phone that can expand into a tablet? You've got that too.

Also: Best Android phones you can buy right now (including flipping foldables)

Basically, finding the best Samsung phone for you boils down to your personal needs, use cases, and design preferences. Trust me, you'll have plenty of options laid out below, and not every one of them will be the right fit for you. 

To make the shopping process easy, we've personally tested most, if not all, the latest Galaxy phones that Samsung has to offer, and assembled a catalog of the top options for your choosing, including the more recent Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series, the value-driven A-series, and our top pick right now, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra .

The best Samsung phones in 2023

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best Samsung phone overall

June Wan/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Most complete smartphone experience money can buy
• Reliable quad-camera setup
• 256GB base storage leads the competition
• Integrated S Pen stylus for enhanced functionality

Cons

• Phone can be unwieldy for some, especially with a case
• Fast charging is still capped at 45W
• Pricier than most Android phones

More Details

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy  Display: 6.8 inchesRAM/Storage Options: 12GB RAM with 256GB/512GB/1TB  Rear cameras: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 10x optical, 10MP 3x optical  Battery: 5,000mAh

In the grand calculus of the Samsung multiverse, the Galaxy S23 Ultra reigns supreme. It's arguably the most no-frills smartphone that you can buy on the market, let alone from Samsung, which puts it at the top spot on our list.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a beefy 5,000mAh battery that can last you as long as two days, a customized Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor to keep things running efficiently, and the sacred Samsung S Pen -- ideal for jotting down notes, graphics designing, or even signing PDFs.

I tested the Galaxy S23 Ultra earlier this year and called it "one of the most complete handsets you can buy this year -- whether you like and need the excessive amount of features or not."

Being the latest and greatest also means that the S23 Ultra comes equipped with Samsung's newest advancements in camera technology, including a 200-megapixel main lens that's capable of capturing the highest-resolution images we've seen on any Galaxy phone. There's also 8K video recording at 30 frames per second if you're into that.

All this is to say that the Galaxy S23 Ultra is our pick for the best Samsung phone overall.

Review: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

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Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

Best Samsung phone for most people

Jason Cipriani/ Pros & Cons Pros

• More wieldy 6.6-inch display
• Snappy performance with an Ultra-level processor
• Excellent battery life

Cons

• Samsung's software can be overbearing
• Selfie camera smoothening is aggressive

More Details

Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy  Display: 6.6 inches  RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM with 256GB/512TB  Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto Battery: 4,700mAh

Samsung's Galaxy S23 Plus is not as flashy as its Ultra sibling but remains a formidable pick-up for shoppers eyeing a meaningful upgrade. In fact, the core experience of the Ultra model is present on the Plus, including the OneUI software, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, 256GB of base storage, and a flexible camera system. 

In fact, I'd argue that the Plus-sized Galaxy S23, in some ways, is an even better phone to buy for some users. For example, it has a slightly smaller 6.6-inch display that makes it easier to manage with one hand, the panel is flat along the edges so it's less susceptible to damage (and easier to repair), and the camera system doesn't look like a tarantula staring back at you.

Alright, that last point might not be the best reason to buy the Plus model over the Ultra, but perhaps the$200 price difference is. At a starting price of$999 -- less if you wait for the holiday shopping season right around the corner -- the S23 Plus is the best Samsung phone for those who can live without all the Galaxy bells and whistles. And according to reviewer, Jason Cipriani, "as far as the S23 Plus is concerned, you're getting your money's worth."

Review: Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

Best Samsung foldable phone

June Wan/ Pros & Cons Pros

• An innovative gapless folding design
• Armor Aluminum material for a lighter and sleeker phone
• High IPX8 water resistance
• S Pen support
• Improved processor and software optimized for foldables

Cons

• Still expensive, but generous trade-in offers abound
• S Pen purchase and store separately

More Details

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2  Main display: 7.6 inches  Cover display: 6.2 inches  RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM with 256GB/512GB/1TB internal options  Cameras: 12MP ultrawide, 50MP wide angle, 10MP 3x telephoto, 10MP cover screen, 4MP under main display  Battery: 4,400mAh 

The 2020 Galaxy Z Fold 2 set the bar for foldable devices that also serve as mini tablets. The Z Fold 3 improved on that phone with two of the most highly requested features from Fold users (S Pen support and IPX8 water resistance), while the Z Fold 4 improved the rear cameras and form factor of the phone. 

And now, with the Z Fold 5, you'll get an upgraded processor in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which should improve the phone's overall performance, from battery efficiency to camera capture. This year's model is also notably thinner than the last, and thanks to the no-gap hinge mechanism, 's Jason Hiner said in his review that "the Fold 5 feels like the way foldables always should have been."

The Android 13 software found in the Z Fold 5 gives the phone some serious productivity upgrades, especially in terms of multi-app usage thanks to the improved Taskbar and wider support for gesture navigations that ease the transition from multiple active windows.

Like the Z Fold 4, the Fold 5's cameras are not quite as good as the S23 Ultra's suite, but the hardware is clearly superior to any foldable predecessor, and the competition. And it certainly helps that the Z Fold 5 is not as heavy and bulky as its predecessors.

Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

Best compact Samsung phone

June Wan/ Pros & Cons Pros

• High-quality materials, fit, and finish
• IPX8 water resistance
• Larger external display is game-changing
• The most pocketable Galaxy phone yet

Cons

• No telephoto camera
• Battery is reasonably underwhelming compared to larger phones

More Details

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2  Main display: 6.7 inches  Cover display: 3.4 inches  RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM with 256GB/512GB internal options  Cameras: Two rear 12MP, 10MP selfie  Battery: 3,700mAh 

While the Z Fold 5 is the best Samsung foldable, it's the new Z Flip 5 that will likely sell the most and appeal to the masses. Not only is the clamshell handset less expensive than the Z Fold, but it's more compact and portable and has a more user-friendly learning curve.

Shape-shifting displays aside, the Z Flip 5 is very similar to the standard Samsung Galaxy S-series flagship, with a large 6.7-inch AMOLED panel that's crisp and bright, up to 512GB of RAM for those high-resolution pictures and videos, and a healthy 3,700mAh cell powering it all.

I tested the flip phone for weeks and was left impressed by how many refinements Samsung had made when compared to the last-gen Z Flip. Thanks to the new 3.4-inch outer display, the gapless hinge design, and improved durability, I noted in my full review that "unless Samsung unveils some form of XR headset later this year, the Z Flip 5 is without question the company's most ambitious product of 2023."

Folks who thrive in social media and content creation especially will love the Z Flip 5's ability to switch between shooting styles like camcorder mode and flex mode, much like its predecessor, the Z Flip 4. The camera system on this is not on the level of Samsung's Ultra and Plus phones, but it's reliable enough for everyday captures.

Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

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Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Best Samsung phone under$450

June Wan/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Price is more than reasonable
• A 'jack of all trades, master of none' smartphone
• Reliable 5,000mAh battery
• Up to five years of software and security updates

Cons

• Low-band 5G support
• Plasticky build quality
• Cameras are not as capable as flagships

More Details

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G tech specs: Processor: Samsung Exynos 1380  Display: 6.4 inches RAM/Storage: 6GB/128GB  Cameras: 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 32MP front-facing camera  Battery: 5,000mAh

While the flagship Galaxy S and Z fold series provide compelling options, they are flagship phones priced in the$900 and higher range. In order to offer customers another alternative, Samsung created the Galaxy A series, led by none other than the A54 5G.

There are really three key reasons why you should buy the Galaxy A54 5G over any other sub-$500 phone: For$449, you get a fantastic 6.4-inch AMOLED display that ramps up to 120Hz refresh rate, a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP main sensor, and a beefy 5,000mAh battery. 

Clearly, Samsung knows what features users value the most, and if you have preferences beyond that list, then there are plenty of other picks above and below.

The A-series of smartphones also fall under Samsung's five-year commitment to software and security updates, which is rare for devices in this price range. As I put it in my review of the device, "This$450 phone absolutely nails the essentials -- things like a large display that feels as smooth as it looks, battery life that lasts, and software stability that similarly-priced phones simply can't match."

Review: Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

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Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

Best cheap Samsung phone

Samsung/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Affordably priced and available unlocked
• Large 6.6-inch display with all-day battery life
• Extensive software support

Cons

• Plastic build is not for all
• Macro and depth cameras are unreliable
• Only one color option: Black

More Details

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G tech specs: Processor: Mediatek Dimensity 700  Display: 6.6 inches RAM/Storage: 4GB/64GB  Cameras: 50MP wide, 2MP macro, 2MP depth sensor, and 13MP front-facing camera  Battery: 5,000mAh 

The flashiest of smartphone features tend to exist only on flagships, but many will find appeal in Samsung's humble Galaxy A14 5G, which boasts 5G connectivity, a massive 5,000mAh battery, and a budget-friendly$200 price tag. That's a compelling new package at a time when consumers are cutting down on spending.

And don't let the lower cost fool you; the Galaxy A14 5G has all the specs you'd want for a feasible mobile companion, from the relatively large 6.6-inch 90Hz display -- a rarity in this price range -- to the expandable storage (up to 1TB) to Samsung's four-year commitment to security patches. Oh, and the front-facing camera is higher resolution than ever for the selfie-lover in your life.

I spent time with the A15 5G just a week ago as my partner was upgrading her to the Z Flip 5 mentioned above. The phone won't feel like a million dollars, for one, but it was surprisingly sturdy to hold -- devices in this price range tend to feel more hollow and toy-like -- and the 90Hz display looked great for app browsing and navigating around.

Also: Samsung just launched its cheapest 5G Galaxy phone yet

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What is the best Samsung phone?

While the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra sits at the top of this year's ranking list, here's a wider scope of 's best picks and their respective feature sets. 

Samsung phone	Price	Display	Cameras	Battery
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G	$1,199	6.8 inches	200MP wide, 10MP with 10x optical, 10MP with 3x optical, and 12MP ultrawide. 12MP front-facing camera	5,000mAh
Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus	$1,799	6.6 inches	50MP wide, 10MP with 3x optical, and 12MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera	4,700mAh
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5	$1,799	7.6 inches and 6.2 inches	50MP wide, 10MP with 3x optical,  and 12MP ultrawide, 10MP cover screen, 4MP under main display	4,400mAh
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5	$999	6.7 inches and 3.4 inches	12MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP front-facing camera	3,700mAh
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G	$449	6.4 inches	50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 32MP front-facing camera	5,000mAh
Samsung Galaxy A14 5G	$199	6.6 inches	50MP wide, 2MP macro, 2MP depth sensor, and 13MP front-facing camera	5,000mAh

Which Samsung phone is right for you?

It was much easier to choose a Samsung phone option in the past when just the S and Note series were available, along with some low-range, basic phones. Samsung has significantly expanded its offerings with the A Series, Fold, and Flip options. So, the first thing you should now consider is your desired form factor.

First, decide if you want a standard "glass rectangle" smartphone or if you want a folding device. For maximum screen real estate, get a Z Fold 5. Or, for taking up the minimum space in your pocket and providing that extra bit of style, get a Z Flip 5 or Galaxy S23.

With Samsung's current lineup, you have phones priced from under$200 to over$1,200. Your budget should quickly help you figure out which price point is right for you. From there, begin comparing individual features, like stylus support, or which device has the best camera array. 

Choose this Samsung phone...	If you want...
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	The top-of-the-line flagship Samsung phone with all the bells and whistles in a traditional form factor. It's pricier than most but is worth the money if you want a no-frills handset that can do just about everything.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus	A Galaxy phone capable of accomplishing 80% of what the Ultra model can do and costs less. The Galaxy S23 Plus is also slightly smaller, making it easier to manage.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5	A tablet/smartphone hybrid foldable and one of the most innovative Samsung devices available. It's arguably the best foldable phone on the market, too.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5	A stylish and pocket-friendly smartphone that doesn't compromise performance. If you're shopping for your first foldable phone, this is the best place to start.
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G	You're shopping on a$500 budget. Even then, you'll receive a generous suite of premium features like the 120Hz OLED display, triple-camera setup, and long-lasting battery.
Samsung Galaxy A14 5G	You're shopping on a$200 budget, but still want a good handset. It's difficult to impress in this price range, but the A14 5G gets the job done.

How did I choose these Samsung phones?

writers spend upwards of months with every phone in this best list, while sourcing opinions and recommendations from industry experts and analysts who have also tested the devices. Here are the key factors that we look for when curating the top picks.

• Design: Unlike how we would compare the best Android phones, comparing Samsung phones across different price points mostly boils down to the hardware. How a phone is designed, what material choices the manufacturer makes, and whether or not the device can take a hit or two are considered when picking the very best.
• Cameras: The camera systems on Samsung phones have gotten really good over the past few years, so much so that you're well off even if you opt for a mid-ranger like the Galaxy A54.
• Special features: If there's one thing that differentiates most Samsung phones from other manufacturers, it's unique features. From the S23 Ultra with its built-in stylus and 200MP camera to the foldable screens of the Z Fold and Z Flip, you'll feel a sense of wonderment when using something that's built differently. 
• Availability: Samsung has a reputation for bringing the wildest phones to the press, even if they're not readily available. That's why, every pick on this list can be purchased at the time of writing, whether that's on Samsung's website or at a local carrier store.

What is the newest Samsung phone?

The newest Samsung phone is the Galaxy S23 FE, which features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, and a triple camera system at the rear. 

What is Bixby on Samsung phones?

Bixby was first introduced in the Galaxy S8 phones and, according to Samsung, is an "intelligence assistant" that can be activated by voice, taps, or text. Bixby is essentially Samsung's version of Siri and can perform the typical smart assistant functions like telling you the weather, translating text, and even controlling smart home appliances.

Which Samsung phone has the best camera?

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has the best camera of any Samsung phone and one of the best overall cameras on the phone market. It features a 200MP main camera along with four accompanying cameras, which allow it to take extremely high-quality shots including close-up images and ones that are ultrawide. The S23 Ultra can also video record in up to 8K UHD quality at 30fps, making it one of the most capable phone cameras money can buy.

Which Samsung phone is the best value for money?

There's beating around the Galaxy A54 5G and its wealth of flagship-killing features and specs. As flagship smartphones continue to creep up in price -- no thanks to inflation -- a$450 that does everyday tasks well is both a surprise and a blessing. As mentioned earlier, the value package of the A54 5G only looks better when you compare it to other smartphones in its price range, like the iPhone SE (2022) and now Google Pixel 7a.

Are there alternative phones to consider?

Be sure to check out 's comparisons of the best phones and Android phones available. We've also listed the top (non-Samsung) picks from both those guides below for your convenience. 

Best premium phone alternative

Google Pixel 8 Pro

The latest Pixel to hit the market, the Pixel 8 Pro delivers a familiar Google camera experience but now with enhanced generative AI features like Audio Magic Eraser, Magic Editor, and more.

View at Amazon

Best foldable alternative

Motorola Razr Plus

In many ways, the Motorola Razr Plus is superior to the Galaxy Z Flip 4, like the larger 3.6-inch external display and higher refresh rate panels. It also costs the same, making it a killer alternative.

View at Amazon

Best mid-range phone

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

The latest addition to the Galaxy S23 lineup, the FE offers flagship features at a more accessible price point. It'll be on sale starting October 26.

View at Samsung

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