Best Phones to Buy Right Now (October 2026)
We cannot test every phone, so this list is built from specs, prices and what people are actually buying. It is based on information we collected in October 2026. Prices are approximate and change by country.
Best for most people: Apple iPhone 17
$799, a smooth 120Hz screen, 256GB of storage and a light 177 g body. It was the best-selling phone in the world for April to June 2026, according to Counterpoint Research.
Best for photos and zoom: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
A 200MP main camera plus 3x and 5x zoom lenses, a 5,000 mAh battery and 60W charging. If you prefer an iPhone, the Apple iPhone 17 Pro has a 4x telephoto camera.
Best for battery life: Redmi K100
A 10,000 mAh battery with 100W charging. It launched in China on October 28, so check whether it reaches your country before you plan around it.
Best compact Android: Google Pixel 11
A 6.3-inch screen, a 5x telephoto camera and a 4,985 mAh battery for $899. The Samsung Galaxy S26 is another compact choice.
Best foldable: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8
A 7.6-inch inner screen in a 201 g body, the lightest Galaxy Z Fold so far. It is expensive, so be sure you want a foldable.
Best mid-range value: Samsung Galaxy A57 5G
A 120Hz AMOLED screen, 5,000 mAh battery and 45W charging at about $550.
Best on a tight budget: Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
A big AMOLED screen, 5,000 mAh battery and a microSD slot at a low price.
These are editorial picks, not lab test results. Always check current prices and reviews from several sources before buying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best phone to buy in October 2026?
For most people, the iPhone 17 offers the best mix of price, screen and popularity. The right choice depends on your budget and whether you prefer iPhone or Android.
Which phone has the best battery?
The Redmi K100 has a 10,000 mAh battery, but it launched in China and a global release is not confirmed. Among widely sold phones, the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 5,000 mAh battery with 60W charging.
What is the best cheap phone?
The Galaxy A17 5G is a good low-cost pick with a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, 5,000 mAh battery and microSD slot.