Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is our most complete flagship pick. It combines a large premium display, strong performance, a versatile camera system and S Pen support in one device.
Why we picked it
It offers the broadest mix of display quality, camera flexibility, productivity tools and high-end performance of these three phones.
What we don’t like
It is large, heavy and expensive. Many buyers will never use enough of its advanced features to justify the extra cost.
Who should buy it
Choose it if you want a big screen, long-range zoom, the S Pen and maximum Android versatility.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you prefer a compact phone, easy one-handed use or simply want strong everyday value.
Closest alternative
Google Pixel 11 Pro — a smaller Android experience with Google’s newest point-and-shoot camera system.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is Apple’s no-compromise flagship: its biggest screen, longest battery life, A19 Pro performance and complete Pro camera system in one phone.
Why we picked it
It combines Apple’s strongest battery, fast performance, consistent photo and video results and its largest ProMotion display.
What we don’t like
It is large and very expensive. Buyers who do not need the extra battery or screen space should choose iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17.
Who should buy it
Choose it if you already use Apple services or devices, record plenty of video, or plan to keep your phone for several years.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you want Android customisation, a lower price or do not benefit from the wider Apple ecosystem.
Closest alternative
iPhone 17 Pro — the same Pro idea in a smaller, easier body.
Google Pixel 11 Pro
The Pixel 11 Pro is our photography-first pick for buyers who value Google’s new camera sensors, much faster Night Sight, helpful Gemini features and a clean Android experience more than maximum hardware features.
Why we picked it
It makes high-quality everyday photography easy and pairs that with useful editing tools and a straightforward version of Android.
What we don’t like
Its charging and sustained gaming performance are not the main reasons to buy it, and Samsung offers more specialist hardware features.
Who should buy it
Choose it if you want excellent point-and-shoot photos, Google-first software and helpful camera editing tools.
Who should skip it
Skip it if your priorities are intensive gaming, very fast charging, an S Pen or the widest possible zoom range.
Closest alternative
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra — the stronger choice for hardware versatility, sustained performance and productivity.