We’ve seen many critically acclaimed smartphone launches over the past year. We got smaller flagship phones with no-compromise optics like the Pixel 9 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro, while foldables saw more variety, with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Motorola stepping up to offer a better value-for-money Razr. It’s been a year of improved flagships with great optics, a few incremental upgrades, and better battery life with 5G connectivity. But you don’t need to spend upwards of $1,000 to get a good 5G phone.
The best 5G phones range from $300 to $1,800, and include several form factors. From small-screen Pro phones to big-screen foldables, there’s plenty to choose from, and we’re here to help. ZDNET tested and reviewed a plethora of 5G phones to help you choose the best device for your needs.
Also: The best phones: Expert tested
What is the best 5G phone right now?
We’ve tested dozens of devices, and our pick for the best 5G phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The smartphone features a sharp display with a never-seen-before less reflective coating that takes the cake for me. All flagship phones have versatile cameras and big and sharp displays, but features like these separate this Samsung phone from the rest. The new iPhone 16 Pro<!–> is a close second, with its upgraded camera setup and improved display.
However, our pick for the best 5G phone wouldn’t be the best for everyone. It depends on what you want from the phone and how much you are willing to invest in it. For instance, some might need the best cameras, while others would like to have the iPhone 16 Plus for its battery life. We’ve picked the best 5G phones for every need.
The best 5G phones in 2024
FAQs about 5G phones
Other 5G phones we’ve tested
There are a few really good 5G smartphones that didn’t make it to the list due to either lesser software support or the overall value factor didn’t match our pick. But you can also consider these 5G phones:
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