Buying guide
Most people keep a phone for four to six years. That makes update support, battery life and camera quality more important for a good purchase than raw processing power. The second decision is the operating system, because moving between Android and iOS costs time and often money for apps bought again. From 96 tested devices we picked four, each answering a different question.
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| Pick | Model | Score | Price | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best value | Samsung Galaxy A36 | 80/100 | 250 € | For anyone who keeps a phone for years and does not want to spend 500 euros. |
| Best price-performance | Xiaomi Poco F8 Ultra | 91/100 | 641 € | For gamers and heavy users who can do without long update commitments. |
| Best iPhone | Apple iPhone 17 | 88/100 | 807.45 € | For everyone in the Apple ecosystem and anyone looking for a compact phone. |
| Android flagship | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | 87/100 | 889.90 € | For anyone using the phone as a work tool and willing to carry 214 grams. |
250 €
For anyone who keeps a phone for years and does not want to spend 500 euros.
641 €
For gamers and heavy users who can do without long update commitments.
807.45 €
For everyone in the Apple ecosystem and anyone looking for a compact phone.
889.90 €
For anyone using the phone as a work tool and willing to carry 214 grams.
Update commitment
The most important figure on the spec sheet. Seven years of Android and security updates is the current best, three years means the phone ages out in software before the battery gives up.
Battery and charging
5000 milliamp hours is the standard, Chinese makers now ship 6500. Charging is where they part ways: 100 watts fills the battery in a good half hour, 25 watts takes three times as long.
Telephoto lens
The biggest gap between mid-range and high-end. Without a dedicated telephoto lens the phone upscales the zoom, which shows in low light. Some expensive models leave it out too.
Size and weight
Between 170 and 220 grams sits what feels like a whole class. If you often use the phone one-handed, stay below 6.5 inches.
Six years of Android updates for 250 euros, covered through 2031. No other phone at this price lasts as long, and it adds IP67 and a 120 Hz AMOLED.
Who it is for: For anyone who keeps a phone for years and does not want to spend 500 euros.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Where to buy
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At 91 out of 100 the highest rated phone in our catalogue, and that for 630 euros. A Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 6500 milliamp hours and 100 watt charging are otherwise flagship territory.
Who it is for: For gamers and heavy users who can do without long update commitments.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Where to buy
The first standard iPhone with a 120 Hz display, plus seven years of updates and a weight of 171 grams. That removes the main reason to reach for the far more expensive Pro model.
Who it is for: For everyone in the Apple ecosystem and anyone looking for a compact phone.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Where to buy
Down from a list price of 1449 euros to around 880, barely more than the iPhone 17. In return you get 200 megapixels, the S Pen and seven years of updates as well.
Who it is for: For anyone using the phone as a work tool and willing to carry 214 grams.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Where to buy
