Best Android phones to buy in 2021 – CNET [CNET]

August 22, 2021 Thomas Giboney technology

The phone world moves quickly and today’s leading manufacturers are innovating faster than ever before. Features like vivid Super AMOLED displays and fast 5G connectivity are now commonplace, and those with deep pockets can access cutting-edge, futuristic tech such as foldable displays. Samsung’s Galaxy line dominates the Android category but other companies are gunning for the honor of being the best Android phone — and you, the customer, benefit from all this competition.

Tons of great Android smartphone options are available at a variety of prices, ranging from budget Android phones to high-end flagship phones. We took a look at them all and rounded up our favorites. These phones all have generally great cameras, battery life, screens or all of the above. We also took into consideration features such as wireless charging and 5G. Read on to see our top picks for the best Android phones and check out our tips on how to buy a new phone, too. We’ll update this list periodically as we review new products.

Read more: Best phones of 2021

Top-of-the-line Android

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Read our Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G review.

$800 at Amazon

Best Android phone for affordable 5G

Google Pixel 5A 5G

Google’s Pixel 4A 5G was our top Android pick if you want 5G on the cheap and its successor, the Pixel 5A 5G is a solid replacement. The phone has good battery life and great rear cameras and at $449 it’s one of the best, cheapest ways of getting 5G when it goes on general sale on August 26.

Read our Google Pixel 5A with 5G review.