10 Best Cell Phone Sales in 2026

You know the feeling. You open a deal page, scroll past forty "up to 50% off" banners, and still have no idea which phone is actually worth handing over your credit card for. The choices are overwhelming: unlocked versus prepaid, renewed versus new, international models with better specs but janky carrier support. The difference between a good phone and a great phone often isn't the name on the box, it's the small details you won't notice until day thirty.

We've sorted through the current landscape to find the 10 best cell phone sales available right now. These picks cover the full range, from Samsung's latest mid-range stunners to Motorola's reliable workhorses, a renewed iPhone for the iOS crowd, and even the kind of prepaid bundle that makes a great backup phone or first phone for a kid. Whether you need a daily driver that will last years or something cheap to get the job done, one of these is your next phone.

TL;DR: The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is the one most people should buy: great AMOLED display, super fast charging, and six years of software support. The Moto G 5G (2024) is the best value unlocked phone for the money. The Samsung Galaxy A37 5G offers premium features like IP68 water resistance and a flagship-tier display. The iPhone 12 (Renewed) is the best entry into iOS for less.

#	Product	Display	Storage	Camera	Best for
1	Samsung Galaxy A17 5G	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	128GB + up to 2TB microSD	Triple lens (50MP main)	The all-rounder who wants a long-lasting, well-supported phone
2	Moto G 5G (2024)	6.6" 120Hz LCD	128GB + up to 1TB microSD	50MP Quad Pixel + Macro Vision	The value seeker who wants 5G and a big battery
3	Samsung Galaxy A37 5G (2026)	6.7" Super AMOLED	128GB	Triple lens (50MP HDR main)	The person who wants water resistance and a premium screen on a mid-range phone
4	Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)	6.7" pOLED	256GB	50MP Ultra Pixel with OIS	Note-takers and photo editors who want a built-in stylus
5	Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE	6.7" Super AMOLED 90Hz	128GB + 4GB RAM	Dual 50MP + 2MP macro	Dual-SIM users and international travelers on T-Mobile networks
6	Apple iPhone 12 (Renewed)	6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED	64GB	Dual 12MP	The iOS-first buyer on a tight budget
7	Samsung Galaxy A14 5G (Renewed)	6.6" AMOLED	64GB	Quad camera array	The ultra-budget shopper who wants 5G and a Samsung ecosystem
8	Tracfone Moto g 5G (2024) w/ Plan	6.6" HD+ 120Hz LCD	128GB	50MP Quad Pixel	The prepaid user who wants 5G and a month of service included
9	Tracfone Moto g Play 2024 w/ Yearly Plan	6.5" 90Hz LCD	64GB	50MP Quad Pixel	The set-it-and-forget-it user who wants a full year of service
10	UMIDIGI G9A	6.75" HD+ 90Hz	64GB + up to 2TB microSD	8MP (basic)	The absolute rock-bottom budget buyer who still wants a big screen and headphone jack

How we picked

We considered what actually matters when you're trying to find the best cell phone sales. Here are the factors we weighed:

• Display quality. A 90Hz or 120Hz screen makes scrolling feel fluid; Super AMOLED and pOLED panels deliver deeper blacks and richer colors than standard LCD. We prioritized phones that don't skimp on the one thing you look at all day.
• Battery life and charging speed. A 5000mAh battery is the new standard for all-day use, but fast charging (18W or higher) is what keeps you from panicking at 3 PM. We gave extra credit to phones with Super Fast Charging or TurboPower.
• Camera system versatility. A high-megapixel main sensor is table stakes. Optical image stabilization, a dedicated macro lens, and good low-light processing separate the phones you'll actually enjoy shooting with from the ones that frustrate.
• Storage and expandability. 128GB is the minimum we'd recommend for most people. Expandable storage (microSD) is a huge bonus, letting you carry your entire media library without breaking the bank on a higher-capacity model.
• Software update commitment. A phone that gets three, four, or six years of OS and security updates is worth more than one abandoned after a year. Long software support extends the usable life of the phone dramatically.
• Carrier compatibility. Unlocked phones work on most US carriers; international models may only work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs. Locked prepaid phones are an easy path if you don't mind being tied to one carrier. We note the trade-offs.

1. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G: Best Overall

Pros

• Gorgeous 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with smooth visuals
• Super Fast Charging charges quickly; 5000mAh battery lasts all day
• Six OS upgrades and six years of security updates
• 2TB of expandable storage via microSD
• IP54 dust and splash resistance with Gorilla Glass Victus

Cons

• Plastic frame doesn't feel as premium as glass-backed phones
• Camera lacks optical image stabilization, so night shots can blur
• Only 128GB internal storage (but expandable)

Best for

The person who wants a modern, well-built phone with a stunning display and the longest software support in the category, without paying flagship prices.

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This is the best cell phone sale for almost everyone right now. The Galaxy A17 5G is Samsung's most polished mid-range phone to date, and it shows in the details. The Super AMOLED panel is bright and vivid enough that you'll forget you're not looking at a Galaxy S-series screen. The 90Hz refresh rate (we assume, based on Samsung's recent A-series specs) makes scrolling through social feeds feel quick and responsive.

What really sets the A17 apart is the software commitment. Six years of OS updates and six years of security patches mean this phone will still be getting new features in 2032. That is rare at any level, and almost unheard of in the mid-range. Pair that with a massive 5000mAh battery and Super Fast Charging that doesn't keep you tethered to a wall outlet for hours, and you've got a phone that will genuinely serve you for half a decade.

The camera is good but not great. The 50MP main sensor captures detailed shots in good light, and the ultra-wide lens adds versatility. But without OIS, low-light photos can come out soft or blurry if you don't hold perfectly still. Samsung's Night mode helps, but it's not a match for the dedicated processing you get on the more expensive Galaxy A37. Still, for most people's daily shooting, it's more than adequate.

2. Moto G 5G (2024): Best Value Unlocked

Pros

• 120Hz display makes everything feel lightning fast
• Vegan leather back feels premium and resists fingerprints
• 50MP camera with Quad Pixel technology improves low-light shots
• 5000mAh battery with 18W TurboPower charging
• Clean, near-stock Android with minimal bloatware

Cons

• LCD panel lacks the deep blacks of AMOLED
• 4GB RAM can feel tight with heavy multitasking
• Only 128GB storage, though microSD expansion is available

Best for

The buyer who wants a fast, dependable unlocked phone with 5G and a premium feel, without spending more than necessary.

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Motorola has been quietly winning the value game for years, and the 2024 Moto G 5G is a strong contender. The 120Hz LCD display is noticeably smoother than the standard 60Hz panels on phones at similar levels. Combined with Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, streaming movies and YouTube is a genuinely good experience.

The vegan leather back is a smart touch. It makes the phone feel more expensive than it is, and it doesn't attract greasy fingerprints like glass does. The 50MP camera uses pixel-binning to capture more light, so evening shots come out brighter than you'd expect. The dedicated Macro Vision lens is a fun addition for close-up nature shots or reading fine print.

Performance is solid for everyday tasks, but 4GB of RAM is the bare minimum in 2026. If you tend to keep dozens of Chrome tabs open while jumping between apps, you might notice occasional reloads. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor handles the basics well, though heavy games will suffer. For a communication and media consumption device, it's excellent value among the best cell phone sales.

3. Samsung Galaxy A37 5G (2026): Premium Features, Mid-Range Price

Pros

• IP68 water and dust resistance (a rare find in this segment)
• Super AMOLED display with great color and brightness
• Nightography delivers genuinely usable low-light photos
• Exynos 1480 processor handles gaming and multitasking well
• 6 OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates

Cons

• No microSD card slot
• 128GB internal storage is non-expandable
• Super Fast Charging 2.0, but still slower than some competitors' 45W+ charging

Best for

The user who wants a premium, water-resistant phone with a top-tier display and the latest Samsung features, and is willing to forgo expandable storage.

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The Galaxy A37 5G is the most premium phone in this roundup. It borrows heavily from Samsung's flagship line, including the IP68 rating that lets it survive a dunk in the pool or a rainy commute. The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display is gorgeous, with deep blacks and excellent outdoor visibility.

Nightography is the highlight of the camera system. Samsung's computational photography does real work here, pulling detail out of dimly lit scenes without introducing the noise or color shifts you see on cheaper sensors. The 50MP main camera is paired with an ultra-wide and a depth sensor, giving you flexibility in composition.

The trade-off is storage. There is no microSD slot, so you are stuck with the 128GB you buy. That is tight if you shoot lots of 4K video or install large games. If you are the kind of person who offloads photos to the cloud regularly, it's fine. Otherwise, weigh the A17 or the Moto Stylus if you need more room. The processor, the Exynos 1480, is capable enough to keep the phone feeling current for years, and the six-year update promise matches the A17.

4. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024): Built-in Pen Power

Pros

• Integrated stylus with improved software for note-taking and editing
• Stunning 6.7-inch pOLED display with billion-color depth
• 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization produces sharp shots
• 256GB internal storage is the most in this lineup
• 30W TurboPower charging is very fast

Cons

• No microSD card slot (but 256GB may be enough)
• Stylus is plastic and feels slightly wobbly compared to the Galaxy S Ultra S Pen
• 8GB RAM is good, but some apps might not fully utilize the stylus features

Best for

Creative types, note-takers, and anyone who has ever wished they could quickly jot down an idea or edit a photo without opening a laptop.

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The Moto G Stylus 5G is the only phone here with a built-in stylus, and it makes a difference. The pen slides out from the bottom and lets you write notes on the lock screen, sketch in apps, or precisely edit photos. The updated software in 2024 adds better palm rejection and a quick menu for your most used pen actions.

The pOLED display is one of the best screens in this roundup. It covers over a billion colors and works with Dolby Atmos audio for a rich media experience. The 50MP camera with OIS is the best in its class for low-light video, because the stabilization keeps your footage smooth without needing a gimbal.

The 256GB of internal storage is generous, but the lack of expandability means you need to manage your space. If you fill it with music and photos, you will eventually hit the limit. The 8GB of RAM keeps multitasking fluid, and the stylus works well with split-screen mode. This is a niche device, but if you live in that niche, nothing else on this list serves it better.

5. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (International Model): Dual SIM and a Great Screen

Pros

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED 90Hz display is fantastic for media
• Dual SIM capability (great for travel or separating work/personal lines)
• 128GB storage with microSD expansion
• 50MP dual camera system produces good shots in daylight
• 5000mAh battery lasts well over a day

Cons

• 4G LTE only (no 5G)
• Only compatible with T-Mobile and its MVNOs in the US
• No power adapter included
• 4GB RAM may feel limited under heavy use

Best for

International travelers or anyone who needs two active SIM cards, and who uses T-Mobile or a network that runs on T-Mobile's towers.

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The Galaxy A16 is an international model that delivers a lot of screen for the money. The Super AMOLED panel with 90Hz refresh is a pleasure to use, and the overall build quality is classic Samsung: solid plastic with a polished finish. The dual SIM slot means you can keep your personal number active while popping in a local data SIM when you travel.

The biggest catch is carrier compatibility. This phone works well on T-Mobile and its prepaid sub-brands (Metro, Mint, etc.), but it will not work on Verizon, AT&T, or most of their MVNOs. If you are on T-Mobile and want a big screen with expandable storage, this is a strong option. The 50MP camera is the same sensor found on many Samsung mid-rangers, so expect decent daylight shots and acceptable night photos with a steady hand.

No power adapter is included, so you will need to supply your own USB-C charger. The 4GB RAM is on the low side for 2026, but if you don't run many apps at once, Android 14 handles it fine. This phone is a solid choice for its specific audience, and it earns its spot among the best cell phone sales for dual-SIM users.

6. Apple iPhone 12, 64GB (Renewed): iOS on a Budget

Pros

• Unlocked and works on all major US carriers
• Familiar iOS ecosystem with excellent app support
• Super Retina XDR OLED display is still vibrant
• 5G capable
• Renewed units are tested for full functionality and minimal cosmetic wear

Cons

• Only 64GB of storage (no microSD slot)
• Renewed battery tested to at least 80% of original capacity, but battery life may be reduced
• No headphone jack, no charger included
• Older design with large notch and slower refresh rate (60Hz)

Best for

The buyer who wants an iPhone for the ecosystem, iMessage, and Apple services, but can't justify the cost of a new model.

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The iPhone 12 is now a few generations old, but it remains a remarkably capable phone. The A14 Bionic chip still handles iOS 17 and 18 smoothly, and the Super Retina XDR display holds up well against modern OLED panels. For people deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, this is the cheapest way to get a genuine iPhone experience.

The renewed units in this sale come unlocked, so you can use any carrier. They are inspected for cosmetic damage (minor scratches that aren't visible at arm's length) and go through a full diagnostic test. The battery is guaranteed to be at least 80% of original capacity, which is acceptable but not great. If you are a heavy user, you will be charging before the day ends.

The 64GB storage is the real limitation. With no expandable storage, you will need to manage photos and apps carefully. Streaming media and cloud storage help, but power users will feel the squeeze. This phone is best as a secondary device, a first phone for a teenager, or for someone who only uses a few apps and doesn't store much locally. It is one of the more niche best cell phone sales, but the Apple faithful will appreciate it.

7. Samsung Galaxy A14 5G (Renewed): The Cheapest 5G Samsung

Pros

• 5G connectivity at a very low entry point
• 6.6-inch AMOLED display (good for the money)
• Quad camera array including a 50MP main sensor
• 5000mAh battery provides solid endurance
• Unlocked and works on most carriers

Cons

• Only 64GB internal storage, microSD expansion helps
• Older Android 13 operating system; may only get one more version update
• 4GB RAM is limiting
• Renewed condition means some cosmetic wear may be present

Best for

The absolute budget-minded buyer who still wants 5G speeds and a Samsung user interface.

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The Galaxy A14 5G is an older phone that still gets the job done. The AMOLED display is a nice surprise at this level, delivering better contrast than the LCD panels you often see on budget phones. The quad camera setup is more marketing than substance, but the 50MP main lens takes passable daytime photos.

The renewed units come with Android 13 installed, and it is unclear how many OS updates Samsung will provide for a model this old. You will get security patches for a while, but do not expect Android 17 or 18. That is the trade for such a low entry point.

Battery life is the strongest part of this phone. The 5000mAh cell lasts through a full day of moderate use, and charging is fast enough to top up in under two hours. If you need a cheap phone for calls, texts, maps, and occasional social media, this will work fine. Just be prepared for a slower, more budget experience.

8. Tracfone Motorola Moto g 5G (2024) with Activation Promotion

Pros

• Includes a $20 Unlimited Talk, Text, and 4GB Data 30-Day Plan
• 5G network access on Verizon's network
• 50MP camera with Quad Pixel technology
• 128GB storage is generous for a prepaid phone
• 120Hz LCD display is smooth

Cons

• Locked to Tracfone; cannot use on other carriers
• Only 4GB of data in the included plan (can add more)
• No headphone jack
• 10W charging is slow compared to competitors

Best for

Someone who wants a simple prepaid phone with 5G speed, and the included plan makes it a near-turnkey solution.

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The Tracfone version of the Moto g 5G offers the same solid hardware as the unlocked model but locks you into Tracfone's prepaid network (which runs on Verizon towers). The deal sweetener is the included $20 plan that gives you unlimited talk and text plus 4GB of data for 30 days. That is enough to get started without any additional purchases.

The phone itself is a capable mid-ranger. The 50MP camera takes good outdoor shots, and the 120Hz screen is smoother than most prepaid phones. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor handles everyday tasks without major slowdowns. The 128GB storage is more than you usually see on prepaid phones, and there is a dedicated microSD slot if you need more.

The slow 10W charging is a disappointment in 2026. A full charge from empty takes over two hours. And being locked to Tracfone means you cannot take this phone to another carrier later. If you are happy with Tracfone's coverage, this is a solid buy among best cell phone sales for prepaid users.

9. Tracfone Motorola Moto g Play 2024 with Yearly Plan

Pros

• Includes 1500 minutes, 1500 texts, and 1500MB data for one full year
• 90Hz display is unusually smooth for this price tier
• 50MP Quad Pixel camera takes decent stills
• 64GB storage with microSD expansion
• Great for kids, seniors, or as a backup phone

Cons

• Locked to Tracfone; not transferable
• Only 4GB RAM may cause slowdowns with multiple apps
• 1500MB data per year means you will need to buy more data if you use it much
• No 5G, 4G LTE only

Best for

A very light user who wants a phone with a year of service included and does not want to worry about monthly bills.

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This is the set-and-forget phone. The Moto g Play 2024 comes with a full year of service: 1500 minutes, 1500 texts, and 1500MB of data. For someone who uses their phone sparingly, that is a year of connectivity for one payment. You can add more data if needed.

The hardware is basic but not terrible. The 90Hz display is a surprise at this level, making the UI feel more responsive than the 60Hz screens on most prepaid phones. The 50MP camera is the same sensor used on more expensive Moto G phones, so you get decent photo quality in good light. The 64GB storage is enough for core apps and some photos, and you can add a microSD card.

Performance is limited by the 4GB RAM and Snapdragon 680 processor. You can run maps, messaging, and social apps, but heavy gaming or switching between many apps will cause lag. This phone is ideal for a first-time smartphone user, a senior who only needs calls and texts, or as a cheap backup to leave in the car.

10. UMIDIGI G9A: The Ultra-Budget Contender

Pros

• Huge 6.75-inch 90Hz display
• 3.5mm headphone jack and built-in FM radio (no internet needed)
• 8GB total RAM (4GB physical + 4GB virtual expansion)
• Up to 2TB microSD storage
• Unlocked and works on GSM networks

Cons

• Low-resolution HD+ display (720p) looks soft
• Camera is basic (8MP, poor low-light performance)
• Build quality is cheap plastic
• Brand has limited US support and warranty service
• No 5G, only 4G LTE

Best for

The absolute bare-bones budget buyer who wants the biggest screen possible and a headphone jack, and doesn't care about camera quality.

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The UMIDIGI G9A is the cheapest phone in this roundup, and you can feel it. The 6.75-inch display is large but low resolution, so text and images look slightly fuzzy. The camera is basic and struggles in anything but bright sunlight. The plastic body creaks if you squeeze it.

But there are surprising bright spots. The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling feel much smoother than you expect at this level. The 3.5mm headphone jack and FM radio are features that many flagship phones have abandoned. And the expandable storage up to 2TB means you can store an absurd amount of music and movies.

The real-world performance is acceptable for the basics: WhatsApp, YouTube at 720p, web browsing, and maps. Multitasking is limited by the 4GB physical RAM, even with the virtual expansion. This phone will not age well, but if you need a temporary device, a phone for a child, or a dedicated music player that also makes calls, the UMIDIGI G9A works. It is the definition of "you get what you pay for," but sometimes cheap is exactly what the situation calls for.

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Buyer's guide: how to choose cell phone sales

Choosing a phone from a sale can still feel like a lottery. Here are the specific factors you should weigh to make sure you end up happy.

Display and refresh rate

The display is the part of the phone you interact with every second you use it. A 60Hz screen works, but 90Hz or 120Hz makes scrolling, animations, and gaming feel noticeably smoother. Look for AMOLED or pOLED panels if you care about color accuracy and deep blacks. LCD is fine for bright environments on a budget, but you lose the contrast that makes video pop.

Battery and charging

A 5000mAh battery is the sweet spot for all-day use. Phones with smaller batteries (around 4000mAh) may require a top-up by evening. Charging speed matters more than you think. 18W to 30W charging can get you from zero to 50 percent in 30 minutes; 10W charging will take over two hours for a full charge. If you have a busy schedule, prioritize faster charging.

Camera system

The megapixel number is not everything. A 50MP sensor with pixel-binning (Quad Pixel technology) captures more light than a raw 50MP sensor without it. Optical image stabilization (OIS) is a huge help for low-light and video. A dedicated macro or ultra-wide lens adds versatility, but many budget phones have mediocre secondary lenses that you will rarely use. Focus on the quality of the main sensor.

Storage and expandable memory

128GB is the minimum comfortable storage for most people. If you take many photos or download media, 64GB will fill quickly. Expandable microSD storage is a safety net that lets you add capacity cheaply later. Some premium phones (like the Samsung Galaxy A37) omit the microSD slot, so be sure you pick a phone with enough internal storage if you go that route.

Software update policy

This is one of the most overlooked factors. A phone that receives three or more years of OS updates will feel fresh for longer and stay secure. Samsung leads here with up to six years on some models. Motorola typically offers two to three years. Renewed phones have a shorter remaining update window. If you plan to keep a phone for three years or more, look for a phone with a strong update commitment.

Carrier compatibility and 5G

Unlocked phones from major brands work on all US carriers. International models are often limited to T-Mobile and its MVNOs because they lack the necessary bands for Verizon and AT&T. Prepaid phones locked to Tracfone or other carriers cannot be used elsewhere unless unlocked later. 5G is becoming standard, but if you are on a tight budget, 4G LTE remains adequate for most tasks. Just check your carrier's 5G band support before buying.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I look for in the best cell phone sales?

Focus on three things: the quality of the display and refresh rate, the battery capacity and charging speed, and the software update commitment. Those factors determine how pleasant the phone will be day to day and how long it will last. A good sale gets you a phone that excels in those areas.

Is it worth buying a renewed phone?

Yes, if you are comfortable with minor cosmetic wear and a battery that may not be fresh. Renewed phones go through testing and are usually backed by a short warranty from the seller. They are a great way to get a higher-tier phone for less. Just check the return policy and the guaranteed battery condition.

What does "unlocked" mean for a cell phone?

An unlocked phone is not tied to any specific carrier. You can insert a SIM card from most US carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, etc.) and use the phone immediately. Unlocked phones are the most flexible option, especially if you travel or want to switch carriers later.

Will a Tracfone locked phone work on other carriers after a year?

Tracfone has an unlock policy: after 365 days of active service, you can request that the phone be unlocked. Once unlocked, it should work on other compatible carriers. The process requires a phone call or online request, and it is not immediate. Check Tracfone's current unlock requirements before you buy.

What is the difference between an international model and a US model?

International models are often sold at lower prices and may include features like dual SIM or a different processor. However, they may lack the precise LTE and 5G bands used by US carriers, particularly for Verizon and AT&T. Many international Samsung phones, for example, work only on T-Mobile networks in the US. Always confirm band compatibility.

Do these phones come with a charger in the box?

Some do, some do not. Samsung's recent international models (like the A16) do not include a power adapter. The UMIDIGI phone does include a charger. Most US market phones from Samsung and Motorola still ship with a charging cable, but the wall adapter is increasingly left out. Check the product description or features list to be sure.

Can I use a prepaid phone as an upgrade from an older phone?

Yes, as long as you accept that the phone may be locked to a specific carrier. Prepaid phones from Tracfone, for example, run on Verizon's network and offer solid service if that carrier works well in your area. They are often the simplest way to get a phone and service in one box.

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Final verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is our top pick for most people. It combines a fantastic Super AMOLED display, super fast charging, a massive battery, and an industry-leading six-year software support commitment. It is the phone that will feel current for the longest time, and that makes it the best cell phone sale for anyone who wants to buy once and not think about it for years.

If your budget is more constrained, the Moto G 5G (2024) delivers a smooth 120Hz screen, a vegan leather back, and reliable 5G performance for significantly less. It is the best value unlocked phone in this list. For the iOS faithful, the renewed iPhone 12 is a solid entry into the Apple ecosystem, provided you can live with the 64GB storage.

If you are still undecided, ask yourself one question: how long do you plan to keep this phone? If it is two years, almost any phone here will serve you well. If it is five years, prioritize the Samsung A17 or the Galaxy A37. That single decision will make your choice clear.

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