Best phone 2021: The top 15 smartphones available in the United States as of 2021

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The best phone right now is an Android, but our top 15 choices include a combination of Apple's best iPhones and a wide range of devices from several manufacturers. Every device on this list has been tested by our phone experts, and we've compared them all to create a list of the best phones for 2021.

Purchasing a phone is a difficult decision since you will most likely be investing a significant amount of money. You need choices, so instead of making a single "best phone" recommendation, we've compiled a list of the best. We consider the advantages and disadvantages of each model on our list.

Our best phone list is regularly updated to ensure you're getting the best smartphone for your needs. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is our current top pick, but you can also consider the iPhone 12, OnePlus 9 Pro iPhone 12 Pro, or Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, all of which we've found to be powerful phones for reasons other than than operating system.

So we have a favorite, but not everyone is looking for the same features in a smartphone. Some people want Apple's iMessage and FaceTime, so they'll stick with iOS 14, while others want endless customizations and Google Assistant, so they'll go with Android 11.

There are also financial factors, which we've taken into account, with options like the OnePlus 9 ranking high on our list for the value it offers. Some phones, such as the Google Pixel 5 and the Samsung Galaxy S20 Fan Edition, debuted at a significantly lower price than rivals, making them excellent choices for those who don't want to spend a lot of money on a handset.

Similarly, your cell phone plan of choice can influence your decision; especially because some carriers offer particularly good cell phone deals for certain handsets, while others do not.

Almost all smartphone prices have risen to – and even exceeded – $1,000, so you'll want to think carefully about your purchase. With all of our experience conducting phone reviews, we're here to help you navigate the top phone choices.

5G phones are becoming more important and common, and foldable phones will be a big deal one day. Plus, keep in mind that this list is subject to change during the year, as handsets such as the iPhone 13, Sony Xperia 1 III, and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 are expected to launch over the next 12 months.