Best Gaming Phone of 2026

The iPhone 16 represents the strongest positioning of Apple's entry-level flagship in years, narrowing the capabilities gap between standard and Pro models more decisively than any previous generation. Released in September 2024 with the A18 chip paired with 8GB of RAM, this device delivers meaningful performance improvements, enhanced thermal management, and genuine battery life gains that enable full-day reliability for most users. The vertical camera layout unlocks spatial video recording for immersive content creation, while the new Camera Control button introduces tactile camera operation that previous base models lacked. Despite these advances, the iPhone 16 remains a device in transition—the headline feature of Apple Intelligence was unavailable at launch, the display remains locked at 60Hz refresh rate, and the Camera Control button exhibits practical usability challenges in real-world shooting scenarios. For users upgrading from iPhone 14 or earlier models, the iPhone 16 delivers sufficient generational improvement to justify purchase. For iPhone 15 owners, the gains are marginal.

The Motorola Razr Ultra represents a decisive shift in flip phone priorities, eschewing compromise for flagship-level performance. Equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16GB RAM, and a 4,700mAh battery, this foldable delivers desktop-class processing power in a compact, pocketable format. The device features a 7-inch main AMOLED display alongside a 4-inch cover display, both refreshing at 165Hz. Motorola differentiates with premium material choices including genuine wood and Alcantara finishes. While the camera system delivers competent results across three 50MP sensors, image processing remains Motorola's weakest link. Battery endurance stands out as a category leader, surpassing competing flip phones by meaningful margins. At \$1,300, the Razr Ultra commands a premium over previous Razr models, positioning itself directly against Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series.

The Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max represents the pinnacle of smartphone engineering for 2025, delivering exceptional battery life that extends well beyond a full day, a transformative triple 48MP Pro Fusion camera system with 8x optical-quality zoom, and industry-leading performance from the A19 Pro chip with 12GB RAM. The redesigned aluminum unibody with camera bar eliminates the wobble that plagued predecessors while introducing the striking Cosmic Orange color option. Professional-grade video features including 4K at 120fps, the innovative 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera, and the brightest smartphone display at 3000 nits peak brightness make this device ideal for content creators and power users. However, the substantial size at 6.9 inches and 233 grams challenges one-handed use, while reported aluminum finish scratching and the switch from titanium raise durability and premium positioning questions. The high starting price presents the biggest obstacle, particularly with the capable standard iPhone 17 available for \$400 less with only minor compromises. For users who demand maximum performance, professional camera capabilities, and industry-leading battery life while accepting the size and cost premium, the iPhone 17 Pro Max delivers one of the most capable smartphones available.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra establishes itself as the premier Android flagship through exceptional display technology, outstanding battery endurance, and sophisticated AI integration that genuinely enhances productivity. The 6.9-inch screen delivers unmatched brightness and color accuracy, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor ensures flagship performance across demanding applications. The versatile quad-camera system captures stunning images with excellent low-light capability, though hardware upgrades remain modest beyond the improved 50MP ultrawide sensor. Advanced AI features like cross-app voice actions and Audio Eraser demonstrate meaningful innovation, even as some capabilities like Now Brief require further maturation. The refined titanium design sheds weight while maintaining premium build quality, though the removal of S Pen Bluetooth and absence of integrated Qi2 magnets represent notable compromises. Seven years of software support ensures long-term value for the \$1,299 starting price. For users seeking the absolute best Android experience with cutting-edge AI and a built-in stylus, the Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers compelling capability, though those satisfied with the S24 Ultra may find the improvements too incremental to justify immediate upgrade.

The Motorola Razr Ultra represents a decisive shift in flip phone priorities, eschewing compromise for flagship-level performance. Equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16GB RAM, and a 4,700mAh battery, this foldable delivers desktop-class processing power in a compact, pocketable format. The device features a 7-inch main AMOLED display alongside a 4-inch cover display, both refreshing at 165Hz. Motorola differentiates with premium material choices including genuine wood and Alcantara finishes. While the camera system delivers competent results across three 50MP sensors, image processing remains Motorola's weakest link. Battery endurance stands out as a category leader, surpassing competing flip phones by meaningful margins. At \$1,300, the Razr Ultra commands a premium over previous Razr models, positioning itself directly against Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series.