Top 14 Best Smartphones of 2022 [Buyer’s Guide]
Need a new best smartphone 2019 but don’t know which one is the very best for you? Here’s a guide comparing the current top-end best smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and others to assist you to pick the best phone for you.
There has never been a better time to buy a new flagship smartphone with many quality handsets available at a wider range of prices than ever before. Whether your priority is 2 days battery life, fantastic camera performance or a spectacular screen, there are lots to choose from.
This PopSmartphone buyer’s guide to best smartphone 2019 was last updated on 10 March and represents the most effective available models at the time. As new models are released and tested, this guide is updated to help you choose the right flagship smartphone for you.
Top 14 Best Smartphones 2019 on the market for iOS and Android
1. Best large Screen: Check Samsung Galaxy Note 9 at Amazon.“A high-quality giant screen phone.
2. Best Camera: Check LG V40 ThinQ at Amazon. “LG has been fighting for the title of best smartphone camera for years, and this could finally win the throne.”
3. Best Android: Check Google Pixel 3 at the Amazon. “May be able to sway die-hard iPhone fans to the opposing aspect.”
4. Runner-Up, Best large Screen: Check Google Pixel 3 XL at Amazon.“Operating the 6.3-inch screen might really need both hands.”
5. Runner-Up, Best Android: Check Samsung Galaxy S10 at Amazon. “The specs have made nice improvements to past models, that were already reliable phones to start with.”
6. Best Budget: Check Xiaomi Pocophone F1 at Amazon. “The performance will simply match those of higher-end models.”
7. Best Apple: Check iPhone Xs at Amazon. “You really can’t beat it within the premium smartphone range.”
8. Runner-Up, Best Apple: Check iPhone XR at Amazon. “Apple’s best upgrade for the common consumer.”
9. Best Various Brand (Android): Check OnePlus 6T at Amazon. “OnePlus includes a bona fide hit on its hands with the 6T.”
10. Best Splurge: Check iPhone Xs Max at Amazon. “This could be the best phone you’ve ever had.”
11. Best 2018 Release: Check Samsung Galaxy S9 at Amazon. “A stunning design, improved camera, and new features.”
12. Best Unlocked: Check Huawei P20 Pro at Amazon. “About pretty much as good as smartphones get.”
13. Best Battery: Check Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge at Amazon. “At least 2 days of moderate usage.”
14. Best Older iOS Model: Check Apple iPhone 7 at Amazon. “Improved battery, a much better camera, water resistance, and no headphone jack.”
1.Best Large Screen: Samsung Galaxy Note 9
As one of the first “Phablets,” the Galaxy Note 9 has lasted long enough to induce past time once we even use the term “Phablet” anymore.
It’s an important factor to remember because as “Plus” phones take over the market, Samsung’s Note line has had years to optimize their functionality for the larger screen.
Note 9 is no exception, giving a huge 6.4-inch display whereas remaining only 0.35 inches thick. That display could be a Quad HD+ Super AMOLED with a 2960 x 1440 resolution (516 PPI), so the huge real estate won’t lead to pixelation.
The cameras are pretty solid too, with an 8MP AF sensor on the front (f/1.7 aperture) and a dual-lens setup on the back: one wide-angle lens with a super-speed dual pixel 12MP sensor (variable apertures of f/1.5 or f/2.4) and a telephoto lens with a 12MP AF sensor (f/2.4 aperture). In other words, this phone could be a visual masterpiece.
Samsung has also updated the S Pen for this run, keeping the 4096 levels of sketchable sensitivity however adding in new Bluetooth connectivity (with a half-hour of charge time from the phone) that permits you to use the pen as an external expression device instead of just a stylus.
Note 9 also includes a 4,000 mAh battery to run all its taxing components. Roll that up with wonderful video functionality, a host of expected Samsung features.
Up to 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, and a 64-bit Octa-Core Processor, and you have a high-quality large screen phone (if your pocket will accommodate it).
2.Best Camera: LG V40 ThinQ
LG has been fighting for the title of best smartphone 2019 camera for years. With the V40 ThinQ, it should finally win the throne. The camera is well the most significant aspect of this device. It does not just have a camera: it has five of them.
Photos and video are best viewed on the gorgeous 6.4-inch, 3120 x 1440 display. The Snapdragon 845 processor with 6GB of RAM keeps everything moving, and there is 64GB of storage for photos, videos, and apps.
On the rear of the V40 ThinQ is a 12MP camera for standard shots typical of what we tend to see on today’s smartphones.
It also includes a 16MP wide-angle camera to capture a wide field of view and a 12MP telephoto camera for close-up shots. The front on the V40 ThinQ adds an 8MP standard camera and a 5MP wide-angle lens excellent for selfies with multiple friends. Altogether, these cameras add a full new level of smartphone camera versatility.
The 3300mAh battery is enough to keep you going all day, but you will probably recharge every night.
3.Best Android: Google Pixel 3
We perceive that there’s a serious divide between the iPhone and Android users of the world, but the Google Pixel 3 may be able to sway die-hard fans to the opposing aspect.
The phone features a 5.5-inch screen with the same crisp 2160 x 1080 resolution because of the previous model. It additionally comes pre-installed with Google Assistant.
Just say, “Hey Google,” then provides a command. you’ll play music, screen phone calls, or maybe take a group selfie without touching the device.
And we would be remiss if we did not take a moment to discuss the image quality. The Pixel 3 delivers professional-grade photos with an 8MP front-facing camera and 2 rear-facing cameras. One wide-angle 12.2MP rear lens with f/2.2 aperture, and a second with f/1.8 aperture. In addition, the Pixel captures videos in good 4K resolution and offers unlimited Cloud storage with Google Photos.
Overall, the Pixel 3 promises reliable performance and durability, that includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor along with either 64GB or 128GB of storage space.
The device itself additionally boasts an IP68 waterproof rating and contains a custom-designed Titan M security chip to make sure that your phone and the data stored within it are equally protected.
4.Runner-Up, Best Large Screen: Google Pixel 3 XL
With a 6.3-inch screen, operating the Pixel 3 XL may actually need both hands. But the design is sleek and weighs only 6.5 ounces, and the OLED display boasts rich, true-to-life colors with 2960 x 1440 pixels.
The XL has also increased its aspect ratio to 18:9, that makes for an even better video viewing expertise.
The XL is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, upgrading from the 2 XL’s 835 models. It also offers 4GB of RAM and therefore the option for 64 or 128GB of storage.
The battery features 18 watts of power and is compatible with Qi wireless chargers. The XL additionally sports most of the same special features because of the Pixel 3 including Google Assistant, Playground, and Google Lens.
Additionally, the phone’s camera boasts the same HD lenses on Pixel 3, promising 4K videos and professional-grade photos.
5.Runner-Up, Best Android: Samsung Galaxy S10
Samsung’s new flagship smartphone has made quite the splash since its release. The S10’s specs have made nice improvements to past Galaxy models (which were already reliable phones to start with).
The starting model holds a hyper-fast Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, that reaches record-breaking speeds among android phones. It holds 8GB of RAM, that is double the amount from its predecessor and offers 128GB or 512GB of internal storage.
The 3,400 mAH battery also comes equipped with an intelligent cooling system that protects your phone from heating whereas running energy-draining apps and games.
In addition, the S10 is compatible with wireless charging and even offers a new PowerShares feature, that lets you recharge alternative Galaxy devices from your phone.
The Galaxy S10 comes with a 10MP selfie cam, along with a set of 3 wide-angle lenses. The ultra-wide lens utilizes a 123-degree panoramic scope, creating gorgeous landscape shots with 16MP of resolution.
Further features, just like the Galaxy’s dual-aperture setting and 2x optical zoom, guarantee sharp, professional-looking photos with every click.
6.Best Budget: Xiaomi Pocophone F1
As technology improves, it’s no longer uncommon to search out budget phones that perform method above their price tag and the Xiaomi Pocophone F1 is not an exception.
Running on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 mobile platform and utilizing LiquidCool Technology, it’s a rapid response speed, whether you are browsing the web, streaming video, or playing games that may usually are reserved for gaming-specific smartphones.
With thick bezels and a notch, the 18.7:9 edge-to-edge display won’t boast the most elegant look, but the performance will simply match those of higher-end models, and the 4,000mAh battery will last for up to 2 days depending on how you are using the phone.
The 12MP and 5MP AI dual cameras allow for dual pixel autofocus, helpful in low-light conditions. The 20MP front camera can make for strong selfies in a sort of situations. This flexibility is similarly extended to the infrared-based face unlock sensor, which may perform well even at night.
7.Best Apple: iPhone Xs
A proper successor to the iPhone X, the iPhone XS is a lot of an incremental update than an outright new smartphone. But once you consider how wonderful the iPhone X actually was, an incremental update provides you lots to look forward to.
I have chosen the Xs as opposed to the Xs Max as a result of for the value, you really cannot beat it in the premium smartphone range.
Available in silver, space gray, or the new attention-getting gold color, and with a configuration of 64GB, 256GB or 512GB, this can be a phone you can still customize to meet your desires.
Apple has taken the time to step up the visuals with a 2436 x 1125 resolution (458 PPI) screen around that signature notch. That is pretty impressive considering its compact footprint. Another major update here is that the processor.
Apple has updated its chipset to a Bionic A12 with an incredible new neural engine. that provides you faster raw speeds and steps up the AI functionality of the phone, that is nice for features like FaceID and also the camera software.
The dual 12MP camera setup on the back provides you a wide-angle and telephoto lens. It is not exactly breaking any MP records, but it offers you some great resolution to play with.
The front-facing 7MP camera is really only a improve in software. however with image stabilization on both sides of the phone, cool new software features like HDR composite layering. Also the ability to adjust the portrait mode’s bokeh blur (after the picture is taken, no less), the iPhone is now in direct competition with the award-winning image software in the Google Pixel 2.
The Xs battery looks to have shrunk a bit here, but they have optimized the software to compensate. All of this, working in tandem with the updated iOS 12, makes the Xs a clear winner for our high spot.
8.Runner-Up, Best Apple: iPhone XR
Striking a perfect balance between worth and features, the iPhone XR is Apple’s best upgrade for the average consumer. Available in a sort of colors, the iPhone XR stands out against the muted palette of its more expensive counterparts.
However, the device is where the magic really happens. Running Apple’s A12 Bionic processor, the XR is an incredibly fast smartphone. Apps open and close instantaneously with 3GB of RAM that ensures there’s lots of memory for multitasking.
Featuring “Liquid Retina” technology, the display on the XR now takes up the whole face of the phone. Gone is the vaunted home button. now you’ll unlock your phone with Face ID, tech that created its debut with the iPhone X.
It too runs flawlessly because of the combination of hardware and software. the same is often said for the 12MP single lens camera on the rear. Smart HDR takes fantastic photos and portraits show a surprising depth of field. If you aren’t already sold, the 25 hours of talk time and 15 hours of internet use should seal the deal.
9.Best Alternative Brand (Android): OnePlus 6T
When it comes to choosing the most effective non-marquee brand for your next Android device, the choice is not even close. Hovering around the fringes of the android marketplace for years, OnePlus contains a bona fide hit on its hands with the 6T.
Billed as a mid-range device, this upgrade from the prior 6 model includes a bevy of latest features. One such feature, an on-screen fingerprint scanner located just below the 6.4 inch AMOLED display, will unlock your device in 0.34 seconds.
Unique features aside, the device excels all over else. A Snapdragon 845 processor pairs with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM for performance that is best-in-class.
Available with storage up to 256GB, the phone has lots of room for photos, games and more. All that space can are available handy once you begin taking photos and 4K video with the dual 16- and 20MP rear cameras.
There is an extra 16MP camera on the front. And with a 3700mAh battery, you’ll get a full day of use while not having to recharge.
10.Best Splurge: iPhone Xs Max
The XS Max, whereas occupying the same-sized footprint because the iPhone 8, manages to seriously amp up the screen size thanks to the edge-to-edge design.
So, as long as you don’t mind a little notch cutting in, you’ll get a whopping 6.5-inch display (technically 0.1 inches larger than the Galaxy Note).
It’s a bright, lovely OLED display with 2688 x 1242 resolution, a PPI of 458. Plus, Apple’s True Tone tech adjusts your screen color spectrum and brightness depending on the ambient lighting of the room you’re in.
The new chipset is pretty impressive, too: the A12 Bionic chip provides you requisite speed will increase but also millions of additional connections within the Neural engine to noticeably boost AI performance.
The camera system has additionally been stepped up, giving you two 12MP sensors on the back for a wide-angle and telephoto lens. The front-facing system may be a 7MP single lens setup, and both systems have image stabilization.
The software is that the real hero here though, as they have taken that raw power and harnessed it for an amazing layered HDR experience (excellent for low-light pictures without blown out highs) and an updated portrait mode that each effectively introduces background blur, however also lets you modify it after the fact.
The phones are available in silver, space gray, or new gold color with 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, and also the new iOS 12 means you’ll get all the most recent multitasking features and a brand new optimization for the A12 chip and battery. If you have got the space in your pocket (and your budget), this might be the best phone you’ve ever had.
11.Best 2018 Release: Samsung Galaxy S9
Equipped with a 5.8-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display, the screen of the Galaxy S9 pops with bright and spirited colors.
With support for HDR content, observation content is best than ever, thanks in part to the dual stereo speakers that are 40 % louder than the previous Galaxy S model.
Powered by a brand-new Snapdragon 845 processor that’s paired with 4GB of RAM, the S9 zips through opening applications or running multiple tasks within the background.
A 3,000mAh battery permits all-day battery life, whereas an IP68 rating adds water-resistance in up to five feet of water for up to half-hour.
The rear 12MP camera produces outstanding shots, and with Super Slo-Mo built into the camera, you’ll slow down video capture to 960fps for incredible results.
12.Best Unlocked: Huawei P20 Pro
Chinese-based Huawei is the largest telecommunications manufacturer within the world. However, buying Huawei devices is not easy for us customers. The company has been caught up in a variety of international conflicts, causing us carriers and retailers to prevent selling Huawei products altogether.
So if you are in the market for a Huawei smartphone nowadays, you’ll have to buy an unlocked version on a 3rd party site like Amazon. But there is a reason you might need to go through so much trouble. The P20 pro is about pretty much as good as smartphones get.
The 6.1-inch OLED screen with 2240×1080 resolution is obvious and crisp. There is a notch on top, leaving room for the phone’s camera. Like most phones these days, it does not come with a headphone jack. And it’s IP67 rated, which means it’s both water- and dust-resistant.
But the real star of the P20 Pro is its camera. The phone’s triple camera system is one of the most effective smartphone cameras on the market, rivaling the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus and therefore the iPhone X.
It will take clear photos in low-light environments and zoom up to 3x without losing image quality. The phone additionally comes with an AI-powered engine that edits photos to look crisper.
13.Best Battery: Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
Hands-down, the best smartphone for battery life is that the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. Its 3,600 mAh battery is larger than most phones an ensures a minimum of 2 days of moderate usage, and perhaps a full day of intensive, video-heavy power consumption.
Of course, the S7 Edge’s sizable screen hogs a decent deal of all that power, therefore you can expect the slightly smaller Galaxy S7 to operate with similar efficiency, whether or not its 3000 mAh battery is less powerful. Once it involves sheer specs, though, the S7 Edge wins out a minimum of when it comes to the flagship, mainstream phones.
In addition to having nice battery life (and turning heads left and right), the Galaxy S7 Edge is perhaps the best gaming smartphone within the market right now.
So, what sort of features must you expect from it? how about a high-quality display with sharp resolution? Check.
The Galaxy S7 Edge includes a 5.5-inch, Quad HD (2560 x 1440) Super AMOLED display with a pixel density of 534 PPI. And what about a quick processor? Check. The S7 Edge includes a quad-core, 64-bit processor running Snapdragon 820 with a 4 GB RAM.
14.Best Older iOS Model: Apple iPhone 7
With Apple’s iPhone 7, you’ll find an improved battery, a much better camera, water resistance and, for better or worse depending on who you ask, no headphone jack. On high of that, the introduction of the A10 Fusion chipset offers a nice performance bump. It’s available in four colors, as well as jet black (which looks fantastic but is prone to fingerprint marks and scratches).
The iPhone is that the same size as its predecessors, but it’s IP67 water-resistance standards. You can keep your iPhone up to a meter of water for a half-hour without worrying about it getting fried.
The Taptic-home button can take some getting used to, but it’s a welcome change because the physical button had to go to make way for water resistance protection.
The 4.7-inch retina HD screen remains top-notch and is more vivid than the 6S, especially once it involves viewing in direct sunlight.
The inclusion of an f/1.8 sensor on the rear 12MP TrueTone camera, as well because the addition of optical image stabilization are definite upgrades as well. Low-light photography has improved, too, because of four smart LEDs built into the camera that 50 % more light than the previous iPhones.
The quad-core A10 chip is fantastic and permits for faster launching of apps and multitasking. Battery life on the iPhone 7 is way improved over the 6S, adding an additional 2 hours of talk time, because of the new processor and 14 percent larger battery. the lack of a headphone jack has caused quite a little bit of negative chatter, but this can be easily remedied with an adapter.
Overall, the iPhone 7 as well the best smartphone on the market these days.
Tested by PopSmartphone
How We Tested
We bought four top-rated smartphones that our reviewers tested by using them daily for weeks on end. We tend to ask our testers to consider the most necessary features once using these smartphones, from their operating system to their size. I have outlined the key takeaways here in order that you, too, know what to look for once shopping.
What to look for in a Smartphone
iOS versus Android – One of the most necessary decisions you’ll have to make once choosing a brand new smartphone is whether you want an iOS device (an iPhone) or one that runs Android. Each OS has its own advantages; high-end Android phones are often more advanced, but iPhones are additional popular domestically, so apps often arrive on iOS first.
Brand – If you have got opted for an automaton phone, you are going to have quite a few options once it involves the handset maker. Companies like Google, Samsung, HTC and a lot of all make Android-based phones. Many of the top phones from these brands have similar features, but you’ll have a powerful preference for or against certain companies.
Size – Phones are getting bigger and greater these days. Most iPhones and many Android devices are available in two sizes: standard and XL/Max. If you have got large hands and/or want to get lots of work done on your phone, you’ll want to consider getting a larger choice.
