10 Best Latest Samsung Phones in 2026

Buying a new Samsung phone in 2026 means facing a lineup that stretches from the cutting edge to the sensible daily driver. You have the S-series flagships that redefine what a smartphone can do, the foldable Z-series that bends the rules entirely, and the A-series phones that pack genuinely impressive features at a more everyday scale. The challenge isn't finding a good phone, it's finding the right one for you.

We have sorted through Samsung's 2025 and 2026 releases to pick the best latest Samsung phones across every category. Whether you need the best camera system Samsung has ever built, the biggest screen on a phone that folds into your pocket, or a reliable companion that just works without fuss, there is a phone here for you. Below you will find our top picks broken down by use case, with honest pros and cons for each.

TL;DR: The Samsung Galaxy S26 is our top pick overall: the most complete flagship with Galaxy AI and a stunning display. The Galaxy Z Fold7 is the best foldable for productivity and media. The Galaxy A57 5G is the best mid-range option for long-term value. And the Galaxy A17 5G is the most affordable entry-level pick that still feels modern.

#	Product	Display	Storage	Main Camera	Battery	Best for
1	Samsung Galaxy S26	6.7" Dynamic AMOLED 2X	256GB	200MP + wide + ultrawide	5000mAh	Anyone who wants the best all-round Samsung experience
2	Samsung Galaxy S25+	6.7" Dynamic AMOLED 2X (ProScaler)	256GB	50MP + telephoto + ultrawide	4900mAh	Users who want flagship power with a bit less bulk than the S26
3	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7	8.0" foldable AMOLED + 6.5" cover	512GB	200MP + telephoto + ultrawide	5000mAh	Power users who want a tablet in their pocket
4	Samsung Galaxy S25 FE	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	256GB	50MP + ultrawide + macro	4900mAh	Those who want S-series AI and camera features without the top-tier price
5	Samsung Galaxy A57 5G	6.7" Super AMOLED Plus	256GB	50MP + ultrawide + macro	5000mAh	Buyers who want a future-proofed A-series phone with IP68
6	Samsung Galaxy A37 5G	6.7" Super AMOLED	128GB	50MP + depth + macro	5000mAh	Anyone needing a slim, IP68-rated phone for everyday use
7	Samsung Galaxy A36 5G	6.7" 120Hz Super AMOLED	256GB	50MP + ultrawide + macro	5000mAh	T-Mobile and GSM users who want a high-refresh display
8	Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Black)	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	128GB	50MP + ultrawide + depth	5000mAh	The best starter smartphone for first-time buyers or families
9	Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Blue)	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	128GB	50MP + ultrawide + depth	5000mAh	Same as above but in a more vibrant color option
10	Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Gray)	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	128GB	50MP + ultrawide + depth	5000mAh	Same as above but in a classic neutral tone

How We Picked

We evaluated these phones on what actually matters when you live with a Samsung phone day to day, not just the spec sheet.

• Galaxy AI integration and practical smarts. Samsung's AI features like Circle to Search, Generative Edit, and Now Nudge are becoming essential, not gimmicks. We favored phones that put these tools front and center and keep them updated.
• Camera systems that deliver in real light. A good 50MP main camera is table stakes now. We looked at how each phone handles low light, portrait mode, and video stabilization, and whether the extra lenses (ultrawide, telephoto, macro) actually improve the shots you take.
• Display quality and handling. Resolution and peak brightness matter less than how the screen looks outdoors, how smooth scrolling feels, and whether the phone is comfortable to hold one-handed. The A-series Super AMOLED panels punch well above their weight, while the S-series dynamic AMOLEDs are class-leading.
• Battery life and charging practicality. A 5000mAh battery is great, but super-fast charging speeds and consistent daily endurance are what prevent battery anxiety. We weighed the charging technologies (Super Fast Charging 2.0 vs standard) and the battery management software.
• Software update commitment. Samsung has set the standard with six OS upgrades and six years of security updates on many of these phones. A phone that will stay current through 2032 or 2033 is a better long-term investment than one with a shorter window.
• Build durability and water resistance. IP54 is fine for splashes, but IP68 means you don't have to panic if you get caught in the rain. We gave extra credit to phones that don't force you to baby them.

---

1. Samsung Galaxy S26: The Complete Flagship

Pros

• The most powerful Galaxy processor yet, with AI acceleration that makes everything feel instant.
• Photo Assist and Generative Edit tools that actually clean up bad shots without looking fake.
• The 200MP main camera captures detail even a prosumer would appreciate.
• Vibrant display that handles HDR content beautifully, even in bright sunlight.
• Samsung Wallet built-in, so you can leave cash and cards at home.

Cons

• No expandable storage, so the 256GB is what you get. Heavier users will need to manage files.
• The base model ships with 256GB, and if you need 512GB or 1TB, you have to step up to the Ultra (not covered here).

Best for anyone who wants the best latest Samsung phone without compromise.

Check current price on Amazon →

The Galaxy S26 is the phone Samsung has been building toward for years. The processor isn't just fast on benchmarks, it makes Galaxy AI features feel natural. You can type a description of what you want to edit and the phone actually does it, removing photobombers or changing the whole mood of a shot with a tap. The 200MP camera is overkill for most social media shots, but when you zoom in on landscape detail or crop a group photo, you see exactly why it's there.

The display is the best in this lineup. It's bright enough to read in direct sun, and the colours are vivid without being cartoonish. The front camera is wider than previous generations, which makes a real difference in group selfies. Battery life easily gets through a full day of heavy use. The only real downside is the lack of a microSD slot, but if you're not hoarding 4K video, 256GB will be plenty. If you want the pinnacle of what Samsung offers in 2026, this is it.

---

2. Samsung Galaxy S25+: Smaller Flagship, Big Power

Pros

• Snapdragon 8 Elite processor handles everything from gaming to video editing without breaking a sweat.
• AI Camera with Audio Eraser cleans up noisy video backgrounds surprisingly well.
• ProScaler display technology provides sharp upscaling for lower-res content.
• Portrait mode captures skin tones naturally without over-smoothing skin.

Cons

• Only 256GB storage and no microSD option, same as the S26.
• The camera system is a step down from the S26's 200MP array, especially in low-light zoom.

Best for people who want flagship performance but don't need the absolute latest S26.

Check current price on Amazon →

The S25+ was Samsung's flagship for most of 2025, and it still holds up extremely well next to the S26. The Snapdragon 8 Elite is a beast, so apps open instantly and the phone never stutters. What makes it stand out is the AI camera's Audio Eraser, which removes wind noise or crowd chatter from video, a feature that actually changes how you shoot at concerts or in parks.

The display uses ProScaler technology that makes streaming video look cleaner than the raw resolution would suggest. The 50MP main camera is no slouch either, especially for portraits. Where the S25+ falls short is the telephoto performance. At 10x zoom or in very low light, the S26 pulls ahead noticeably. But if you are upgrading from an S23 or earlier, the S25+ will feel like a huge leap. The 4900mAh battery matches the S26 in daily use. It's a great choice if you find a good deal.

---

3. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7: The Foldable Productivity Master

Pros

• The 8-inch inner screen lets you run up to three apps side by side, which is genuinely useful for work.
• The 200MP camera is the same class as the S26's, so photos look incredible on the big display.
• The new slimmer and lighter design makes it feel closer to a regular phone when folded.
• The cover screen is wider and more usable this year.

Cons

• Still thicker and heavier than any slab phone, even after the slimming updates.
• The battery life, while improved, still trails the S26 by a noticeable margin under heavy use.

Best for anyone who wants a tablet that also works as a phone, especially for multitasking and media.

Check current price on Amazon →

The Z Fold7 is the most ambitious phone in this roundup. Samsung has finally made the cover screen feel natural to type on, and the 8-inch inner display is bright and crease-resistant enough that you stop noticing the fold after a minute. Having three windows open at once is great for copying notes from a browser into a document while a video plays. That kind of multitasking is something no slab phone can match.

The camera system now matches the S-series with a 200MP main sensor, so you don't have to choose between a foldable and good photos. Night shots are sharp, and the telephoto zoom holds up well. The biggest trade-offs are bulk and battery. The Z Fold7 is still a chunk in your pocket, and on days with heavy navigation and streaming you will need to top it up by evening. But if you want the best latest Samsung phones for productivity, this is it.

---

4. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Flagship Features, Lighter Build

Pros

• Large 6.7-inch display with smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
• Lightweight and slim, easy to use one-handed compared to the bigger flagships.
• Generative Edit lets you move or erase objects in photos just like the S26.
• Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ for daily durability.

Cons

• The camera system lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, so 3x zoom is digital only.
• The chipset is fast but not quite as powerful as the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the S25+.

Best for people who want the S-series experience and AI features at a more approachable level.

Check current price on Amazon →

The Fan Edition line has always been about keeping the core flagship experience while trimming the less essential bits. The S25 FE does that well. The display is gorgeous, the 4900mAh battery lasts a full day, and the AI editing tools are the same as the far more expensive S series. You can circle a stranger in the background and the phone will remove them cleanly.

The main camera captures detailed photos in good light, and the selfie camera with the ProVisual Engine produces natural skin tones. The trade-off is zoom. If you frequently take photos of distant subjects, you will miss the telephoto lens. The processor is a premium-tier chip but not the latest, so heavy gaming sessions might not maintain peak framerate as long as on the S25+. For everyday apps, social media, and casual photo editing though, it feels every bit as fast as the flagships.

---

5. Samsung Galaxy A57 5G: Mid-Range with Premium Promises

Pros

• IP68 water and dust resistance, which is rare in this price tier.
• 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0 gets the 5000mAh battery from near empty to full fast.
• Six years of OS and security updates, matching the flagship promise.
• The Super AMOLED Plus display is bright and colorful.

Cons

• The Exynos chip delivers good but not great performance for heavy gaming.
• No 120Hz refresh rate, so scrolling feels less fluid than on some competitors.

Best for anyone who wants a durable, long-lasting phone that won't slow down after two years.

Check current price on Amazon →

The A57 is where the A-series starts to feel almost premium. The metal frame and IP68 rating give it a solid, confident feel that you don't get from cheaper models. The 50MP main camera with Nightography Video captures watchable low-light footage, and the triple lens setup gives you flexibility. The display is a standard 60Hz, which is a bit of a letdown when many mid-rangers now offer 90 or 120Hz. But the panel quality itself is excellent, with deep blacks and great outdoor visibility.

Where the A57 really shines is longevity. Samsung promises six OS upgrades and six years of security patches, so this phone will still feel current in 2032. The 256GB internal storage is generous, and though there is no card slot, most people will have plenty of room. The battery easily makes it through a full day, and the 45W charging is much faster than what you get on the A17. If you are buying for a teen or an older relative who wants a phone that lasts, the A57 is a solid recommendation.

---

6. Samsung Galaxy A37 5G: Slim, Durable, and Dependable

Pros

• Slim design that feels lighter than its 5000mAh battery suggests.
• IP68 water resistance, same as the flagship S24 and S26.
• Circle to Search with Google is included, making finding items seamless.
• The Exynos 1480 chip handles day-to-day tasks without lag.

Cons

• Only 128GB storage and no microSD slot for expansion.
• The 50MP camera is decent but lacks optical image stabilization.

Best for users who want water resistance and a long-lasting battery in a slim package.

Check current price on Amazon →

The A37 sits in a sweet spot between the budget A17 and the more expensive A57. It is notably slimmer than either of them, and the lavender color is genuinely nice. The IP68 rating means you can take it to the pool or use it in light rain without a case, which is something you usually only get on Samsung's more expensive models.

The display is a Super AMOLED with good color saturation, and the 5000mAh battery comfortably lasts a day and a half with moderate use. The chip is fast enough for social media, streaming, and navigation, though you might see some slowdown in demanding games. The biggest practical downside is the storage. 128GB fills up faster than you expect, especially if you record video or download offline maps. For a phone that aims to be your daily driver for years, that is a constraint. Still, if you are careful with cloud storage, the A37 offers excellent value in durability and everyday usability.

---

7. Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: The International Powerhouse

Pros

• 120Hz Super AMOLED display, making scrolling and animations very smooth.
• 256GB storage and 8GB RAM for solid multitasking.
• 25W fast charger included in the box.
• Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor with Android 15 and up to 6 major OS upgrades.

Cons

• This is an international model, so carrier compatibility is not guaranteed, especially with Verizon and its MVNOs.
• No eSIM support, physical SIM only.
• No US manufacturer warranty, only seller return policy.

Best for global travelers and T-Mobile users who want a high-refresh display at a lower price.

Check current price on Amazon →

The A36 5G is a compelling option if you are willing to deal with the carrier caveats. Its 120Hz screen is a big step up in fluidity compared to the standard 60Hz panels on the A17 and A37. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 is no performance monster, but combined with 8GB of RAM it handles everyday apps and light gaming without a hiccup.

The bundle includes a 25W charger, which is helpful. The 5000mAh battery lasts a full day. The camera system is similar to the A17's, decent in good light but nothing special. The real catch is connectivity. This phone is designed for T-Mobile and its MVNOs. It may work on AT&T and Verizon with manual APN settings, but compatibility is not guaranteed. It also lacks eSIM, so if you rely on digital SIM profiles for travel, this is not for you. If you are on T-Mobile and want the best latest Samsung phone for smooth scrolling, the A36 is a smart choice.

---

8. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Black): The Entry-Level Champ

Pros

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, which is huge for this segment.
• Expandable storage up to 2TB via microSD.
• Super Fast Charging gets you back up quickly.
• Six years of security updates, excellent for a budget phone.
• Circle to Search and other AI features included.

Cons

• Only IP54 dust and water resistance, so submersion is risky.
• The camera is basic and struggles in low light.

Best for first-time smartphone buyers or anyone who needs a reliable backup or family phone.

Check current price on Amazon →

The Galaxy A17 5G is proof that a budget phone doesn't have to feel cheap. The Super AMOLED display is bright and vivid, and the 128GB internal storage plus microSD expansion gives you all the room you need for apps and photos. The IP54 rating handles splashes and dust, but we would not take it in the pool. The 50MP main camera takes usable photos in good light, and the triple-lens setup includes an ultrawide that is handy for group shots.

Samsung includes Circle to Search and other Galaxy AI basics, which is rare at this level. The battery life is solid, and Super Fast Charging means you do not wait long to top up. For the money, the A17 is the best latest Samsung phone for anyone who just needs a modern smartphone experience without breaking the bank. The black color is the most understated, but the phone is also available in blue and gray, so you have options.

---

9. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Blue): The Entry-Level Champ

Pros

• Same excellent AMOLED display and expandable storage as the black model.
• Blue color adds a pop of personality.
• Six years of updates and Circle to Search included.

Cons

• Same IP54 limitation and basic camera performance.
• No 120Hz display, but still smooth for the price.

Best for buyers who want the same great A17 features but prefer a more colorful look.

Check current price on Amazon →

This is the same phone as the black A17 5G, just in a vivid blue finish. The blue is not overpowering, it's a clean, mid-tone blue that looks nice without being flashy. Everything we said about the black model applies here: the Super AMOLED display is the star, the software support is best-in-class for budget phones, and the AI features are a welcome surprise. If blue is your color, this is your phone.

---

10. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (Gray): The Entry-Level Champ

Pros

• All the same benefits: AMOLED, expandable storage, long updates.
• Gray is a professional, neutral option that works with any case.
• Same super-fast charging and solid battery life.

Cons

• Same camera and water resistance limitations as the other A17 models.

Best for users who want the A17 experience but prefer a gray finish that hides fingerprints better.

Check current price on Amazon →

The gray variant of the A17 is the most understated of the three color options. The back resists fingerprints better than the black does, and the phone looks professional in any setting. Otherwise, it is identical to the other A17 entries: a capable, well-supported budget device that handles everyday tasks with ease. If you are buying for yourself or a family member and color is the only difference, the gray is a safe choice.

---

Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Latest Samsung Phone

When you start looking at Samsung's 2025 and 2026 lineup, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Here are the key factors to consider before you decide.

Galaxy AI and Software Features

Samsung's AI tools are no longer just for the S series. Circle to Search, Generative Edit, and AI-assisted photo adjustments appear all the way down to the A17 5G. If you want the full suite, including Live Translate, Audio Eraser, and Now Brief, you need an S-series phone like the S26 or S25+. The A-series offers a subset that covers the most practical features, but the advanced AI processing speed is better on the flagship chips.

Display Technology and Refresh Rate

The display is what you interact with every minute you use the phone. Super AMOLED panels on the A-series are vibrant and do a good job with color accuracy. The S-series and the A36 5G add higher refresh rates (120Hz), which makes scrolling feel much smoother. If you read a lot of text or play games, the step from 60Hz to 120Hz is more significant than any other display spec. The S-series also has higher brightness for outdoor use.

Camera System: Versatility vs. Simplicity

The S26 and Z Fold7 pack a 200MP main camera with exceptional detail, plus optical zoom and excellent low-light modes. The S25+ and S25 FE have 50MP main cameras with good computational photography. The A57 and A37 have capable 50MP main sensors but lack optical zoom and dedicated night modes. The A17's camera is fine for well-lit social media shots but will disappoint if you shoot indoors or at night frequently. Decide how much camera quality you actually need; for many people, the A57 is enough.

Battery and Charging Speeds

All of these phones have large batteries (4900mAh or 5000mAh), so daily endurance is similar across the board. The difference is in how fast they charge. The Z Fold7 and A57 support 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0, which gets you from near empty to full in around an hour. The S26 and S25+ support 45W as well (the S26 may vary). The A37 and A17 use 25W charging, which is slower but still fast enough for overnight top-ups. If you often need a quick charge during the day, the 45W models are worth the extra.

Software Update Promise

Samsung has made a huge commitment to updates. The S26, S25+, Z Fold7, S25 FE, A57, and A37 all receive six OS upgrades and six years of security updates. The A17 and A36 offer the same. That means these phones will receive Android updates through 2031 or 2032. For the A17, that is extraordinary value. If you plan to keep a phone for four or five years, the update policy is a critical factor.

Build Quality and Water Resistance

IP68 water resistance is the gold standard, found on the Z Fold7, A57, and A37. The S26, S25+, and S25 FE are also IP68, but the front is Gorilla Glass with an aluminum frame. The A17 has only IP54, which means it resists splashes but cannot be submerged. If you often take photos near water, commute in rain, or are clumsy around liquids, IP68 gives real peace of mind.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Samsung phone has the best camera in 2026?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Z Fold7 share a 200MP main camera with a Pro-Visual Engine that produces the most detailed and color-accurate photos. For low light and zoom, the S26 is the better choice.

Are Samsung Galaxy AI features available on the A-series phones?

Yes, but the selection is smaller. The Galaxy A17, A36, A37, and A57 include Circle to Search and some AI editing tools. The full suite of AI features, including Live Translate and Audio Eraser, is reserved for the S-series and Z Fold7.

How long will Samsung support the Galaxy A17 5G with software updates?

Samsung promises six OS upgrades and six years of security updates for the A17 5G. That means it will get Android updates through at least 2031, which is remarkable for an entry-level phone.

Is the Galaxy Z Fold7 waterproof?

Yes, the Galaxy Z Fold7 has an IP68 rating, meaning it is dust-tight and can survive immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. It is not designed for swimming, but rain and drops are fine.

Does the Galaxy A36 5G work on Verizon?

The A36 5G is an international model. It supports LTE bands used by Verizon, but compatibility depends on IMEI acceptance and carrier policies. It is explicitly not guaranteed to work on Verizon or its MVNOs like Visible or Xfinity. It is best suited for T-Mobile and its MVNOs.

What is the difference between the S25 FE and the S25+?

The S25 FE has a larger 6.7-inch display, a lighter build, and a 4900mAh battery. The S25+ has a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a telephoto camera lens, and ProScaler display technology. The FE is aimed at buyers who want AI features without the highest price, while the plus delivers top-tier performance.

Which Samsung phone has the longest battery life?

All phones in this roundup have 4900mAh or 5000mAh batteries, so real-world life is similar. The S26, Z Fold7, and A57 typically last about a day and a half with moderate use. The 45W charging on the Z Fold7 and A57 gives the fastest top-ups.

---

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy S26 is the phone to beat in 2026. It combines the most powerful processor, the best camera system, the brightest display, and the most complete Galaxy AI suite into a package that balances everything well. For most people, it is the right choice.

If you need a foldable for multitasking and a big screen in a compact pocket footprint, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is the best foldable Samsung has ever made, though you pay for it in weight and battery. For buyers who want water resistance and long software support without paying for a flagship, the Galaxy A57 5G is the best mid-range option. And if you simply need a capable modern smartphone that does the basics well and will stay updated for years, the Galaxy A17 5G in any color is the smartest entry-level pick.

No matter which phone you choose from this list, you are getting a well-built device with a great display and software support that will keep it feeling fresh for years. Our pick for the best latest Samsung phones overall remains the Galaxy S26, but every phone here has a home.

This article contains Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.