Premium 5G Smartphones That Balance Performance, Photography and All-Day Connectivity
Created January 12, 2026 • Updated February 14, 2026
Expert reviewers and consumers agree: the best 5G phones now deliver flagship-level processing power, advanced AI camera systems, magnetic wireless charging, and dependable battery life across all major carrier bands.
Rank#01
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung finally ditched the sharp corners for a more ergonomic grip, but did they lose their power-user edge? After 12 months of real-world testing, here is how the S25 Ultra stands up against the 2026 flagship crop.
Shrook Score
85
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
85
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra marks a pivotal shift in Samsung's design philosophy, moving away from the "boxy" aesthetic toward a rounded, more pocket-friendly silhouette. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite (Gen 4) and featuring a significantly upgraded 50MP secondary camera array, it remains the most versatile "everything" phone.
Pros
Ergonomic Rounded Design: The move to rounded corners significantly improves long-term comfort and reduces palm fatigue during one-handed use. /n Anti-Reflective Gorilla Armor: The display remains the gold standard for outdoor visibility, effectively killing 75% of glare compared to standard glass. /n Consistent 50MP Sensor Array: Moving the Ultrawide and 3x Telephoto to 50MP sensors ensures color consistency and high-resolution crops across all focal lengths. /n Snapdragon 8 Elite Efficiency: The 3nm architecture provides incredible thermal headroom, preventing the "dimming" issues seen in previous high-brightness scenarios. /n Integrated S-Pen: Still the only flagship offering a built-in stylus, which remains indispensable for document signing and remote camera shutter control.
Cons
Charging Speed Plateau: Stuck at 45W wired charging while competitors have moved to 80W-100W, making full top-ups feel sluggish in 2026. /n Software Subscription Fears: Increasing integration of "Premium" AI features has users worried about future paywalls for functionality that was previously free. /n S-Pen Position: The stylus remains on the left side, which continues to be a point of friction for the majority of right-handed users. /n Shutter Lag: Despite improvements, there is still a perceptible delay when capturing fast-moving subjects (kids or pets) in indoor lighting. /n Minimal Base RAM: Starting at 12GB RAM for the base model feels stingy for a device heavily marketed as an AI powerhouse.
Forget the "incremental update" fatigue. With a 12GB RAM floor and a significantly narrowed Dynamic Island, the iPhone 17 Pro Max feels like the first true "post-smartphone" device from Cupertino.
Shrook Score
87
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
87
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
Best Phone
The iPhone 17 Pro Max marks a pivotal shift in Apple’s strategy, prioritizing massive internal memory and thermal efficiency to facilitate on-device LLMs. While the exterior remains familiar, the leap in under-display sensor tech and the A19 Pro chip's neural performance makes it a foundational upgrade for the next era of mobile computing.
Pros
Narrowed Dynamic Island via under-display Face ID components
12GB RAM allows for significantly more persistent Apple Intelligence features
All-new 48MP Telephoto sensor with superior low-light performance
Grade 5 Titanium frame with improved heat dissipation
ProMotion display reaches 1 nit for extreme battery saving in Always-On mode
Cons
Charging speeds remain capped at 30W wired, trailing competitors
The camera bump has reached a thickness that makes table-wobble unavoidable
Base storage is still limited for a device focused on 4K ProRes video
The move to eSIM-only has expanded to more regions, frustrating travelers
Weight remains significant despite titanium, leading to hand fatigue
After a year on the market, the Pixel 9 Pro has shifted from a "smart" phone to an essential companion.
Shrook Score
83
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
83
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Google Pixel 9 Pro represents the pinnacle of Google’s "Pro" evolution, finally offering flagship-tier camera hardware in a pocketable 6.3-inch form factor. While the Tensor G4 processor doesn't win the benchmark wars against Apple or Samsung, the device excels in real-world fluidity, AI-driven photography, and a sophisticated industrial design.
Pros
Super Actua display with industry-leading peak brightness and color accuracy. /n • Compact 'Pro' size allows for one-handed use without sacrificing camera specs. /n • The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is a massive, reliable upgrade over previous optical versions. /n • Best-in-class skin tone reproduction and HDR processing in the camera system. /n • Seamless AI integration through Gemini Live and on-device features like Call Notes.
Cons
Charging speeds remain sluggish compared to Chinese flagship competitors. /n • Tensor G4 can still throttle performance during intensive 4K video recording or heavy gaming. /n • Video Boost processing still happens in the cloud, requiring a wait for "best" results. /n • The satin-finish side rails are prone to micro-scratches if not kept in a case. /n • Some AI features like "Add Me" feel more like party tricks than daily essentials.
Forget "Pro" envy—the iPhone 16 introduces vibrant colors, the versatile Action button, and a dedicated Camera Control that changes how you capture life. Is this the best standard model Apple has ever shipped? 📸✨
Shrook Score
78
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
78
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The iPhone 16 represents the most significant closing of the gap between "standard" and "Pro" models in years. By introducing the A18 chip, the Action Button, and the brand-new Camera Control, Apple has moved away from simply recycling last year's tech. It is a device built for the upcoming Apple Intelligence era, wrapped in a more durable and colorful chassis that prioritizes both style and functional utility.
Pros
Vibrant, saturated color options that stand out from the Pro's muted tones.
The new A18 chip provides a noticeable jump in gaming and multitasking efficiency.
Introduction of the Action Button allows for high-level customization via Shortcuts.
Camera Control button simplifies the photography experience for casual users.
Improved thermal capacity prevents the device from throttling during intensive tasks.
Cons
The 60Hz display refresh rate feels dated compared to cheaper Android rivals.
Charging speeds remain relatively slow despite the move to USB-C.
The Camera Control button has a steep learning curve and sensitive pressure settings.
Lack of a dedicated telephoto lens limits long-range photography options.
Apple Intelligence features are rolling out in slow, regional phases.
Thinner, lighter, and boxier than ever, the Z Fold 6 attempts to turn the foldable phone from a novelty into a necessary professional tool. But is AI enough to justify the upgrade?
Shrook Score
84
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
84
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents a significant design pivot, moving toward a more industrial, squared-off aesthetic that mimics the S24 Ultra. While the internal hardware remains largely unchanged, the software experience is overhauled with Galaxy AI and seven years of support.
Pros
Significant weight reduction (239g) makes it feel like a standard slab phone in the pocket. \n New 22.1:9 cover screen aspect ratio improves typing accuracy and app scaling. \n IP48 rating provides the first official (though limited) protection against solid particles. \n Peak brightness of 2,600 nits ensures excellent legibility under direct Australian sun. \n Seven years of guaranteed OS and security updates ensure long-term relevance.
Cons
Camera hardware remains identical to the Fold 5, lacking the "Ultra" optics users crave. \n 25W wired charging feels archaic compared to Chinese foldable competitors. \n The S Pen still requires a separate case and is not integrated into the device body. \n The internal screen crease, while improved, is still more visible than on the OnePlus Open. \n High-intensity tasks can lead to thermal throttling during prolonged gaming sessions.
Google’s latest base model sheds the "budget" feel for a premium glass-and-metal overhaul. With the Tensor G4 and 12GB of RAM, is this the year the Pixel finally matches its software smarts with reliable hardware?
Shrook Score
74
Mixed or Average
Shrook Score
74
Mixed or Average
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Google Pixel 9 represents a significant shift in Google’s hardware strategy. Moving away from the distinct "visor" design of previous years, it adopts a more industrial, premium aesthetic. Under the hood, the Tensor G4 focuses on efficiency and on-device AI performance rather than raw gaming benchmarks. With a massive jump to 12GB of RAM and a significantly brighter Actua display, it is no longer the "lesser" sibling, but a flagship in its own right, emphasizing AI utility through tools like Gemini Nano, Pixel Studio, and "Add Me" photography.
Pros
Refined industrial design with premium flat-edge finish /n Exceptional 2700-nit Actua display for outdoor visibility /n Massive 12GB RAM upgrade improves multitasking and AI speed /n Class-leading computational photography and new 'Add Me' feature /n Improved thermal management and modem stability over the Pixel 8
Cons
Tensor G4 benchmark performance still lags behind Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 /n Charging speeds remain slower than Chinese flagship competitors /n AI features like Pixel Studio can feel gimmicky for professional users /n Base storage remains at 128GB in an era of 4K video /n Occasional software bugs in early-release Gemini integrations
Samsung just shattered the "disposable" budget phone cycle. With six years of guaranteed updates, the Galaxy A16 5G promises to stay relevant until 2030. But does the hardware have the legs to go the distance?
Shrook Score
75
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
75
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G represents a pivotal shift in the entry-level smartphone market. By extending its flagship-grade software support—six years of OS and security updates—to a sub-series device, Samsung is challenging the industry standard of planned obsolescence. The device features a refined, slimmer "Key Island" design, a vibrant 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, and an upgraded IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. While it retains some legacy budget compromises like the "Infinity-U" waterdrop notch and a mono speaker, its focus on longevity makes it a unique proposition for value-conscious consumers.
Pros
Unprecedented 6 years of OS and security updates for a budget device /n Gorgeous 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate /n Slimmer 7.9mm profile with the ergonomic "Key Island" frame /n IP54 dust and water resistance rating for improved durability /n Expandable storage via microSD up to 1.5TB
Cons
Thicker bottom chin and dated waterdrop notch design /n Lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack compared to its predecessor /n Mono speaker setup lacks depth and stereo separation /n Charging speed capped at 25W with no charger in the box /n Virtual proximity sensing can be less reliable than physical sensors
Forget the "flagship killer" label—the OnePlus 15 has evolved into a genuine apex predator. With a massive 6,500mAh Glacier Battery and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, it’s built for power users who refuse to be tethered to a wall socket. ⚡
Shrook Score
88
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
88
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The OnePlus 15 arrives as the culmination of the brand's pivot back to its enthusiast roots while maintaining premium build quality. Featuring the latest BOE X3 "Ultra" display and a refined Hasselblad Master Camera System, it addresses previous criticisms regarding telephoto consistency and thermal throttling. It stands as a formidable alternative to the Ultra and Pro Max tiers, focusing on raw speed, longevity, and a clean, high-performance software experience.
Pros
Next-gen 6,500mAh Glacier Battery technology offering genuine two-day endurance.\nIndustry-leading thermal management with a massive dual-cycle vapor chamber.\nThe BOE X3 display reaches unprecedented peak brightness with improved PWM dimming for eye comfort.\nHasselblad-tuned 50MP triple-camera array with improved periscope zoom clarity.\n100W SuperVOOC wired and 50W AirVOOC wireless charging remains the gold standard for speed.
Cons
Still lacks a dedicated hardware "Pro" video mode to compete with Sony or Apple.\nThe physical size and weight remain substantial, making it a "two-handed" phone for most.\nNo official IP68 rating in some regions (limited to IP65 in base configurations).\nOxygenOS continues to feel more like ColorOS with a different coat of paint.\nTelephoto performance still lags slightly behind the Galaxy S-series Ultra in extreme zoom scenarios (100x+).
Forget opening your phone for every notification. The 2024 Razr Plus turns its massive cover screen into a productivity powerhouse, blending high-fashion vegan leather with genuine technical utility. Is this the year Motorola finally dethrones the Galaxy?
Shrook Score
78
Generally Favorable
Shrook Score
78
Generally Favorable
Published December 31, 2025 • Updated January 28, 2026
The Motorola Razr Plus (2024), known globally as the Razr 50 Ultra, represents the pinnacle of foldable maturity. By expanding the external display to 4.0 inches and refining the hinge, Motorola has moved beyond the "gimmick" phase of foldables. It features a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a unique 50MP telephoto lens in place of the traditional ultrawide, and a sophisticated AI suite. This device is designed for users who want to minimize distractions while maintaining a premium, tactile smartphone experience.
Pros
Massive 4.0-inch pOLED cover screen with 165Hz refresh rate
Elegant vegan leather finish in iconic Pantone colors
IPX8 underwater protection for enhanced durability
Fast 45W wired and 15W wireless charging capabilities
Highly functional external display that runs almost any app
Cons
Lack of an ultrawide camera lens (replaced by telephoto)
Software update cycle lags behind Samsung and Google
Occasional thermal throttling during intense gaming sessions
Internal screen crease is still visible under direct light
Limited availability of specialized heavy-duty cases
