Best Smartphones
14 products ranked across 1123 cited reviews, videos and discussions · Updated 20 Aug 2026
On the stierproducts smartphones board, iPhone 17 Pro Max ranks #1 in S tier, ahead of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (#2, A tier) and iPhone 17 (#3, A tier). The board ranks 14 smartphones from S (best) to F (avoid), last researched 20 Aug 2026, drawing on 1123 cited reviews, videos and discussions. Placed in the bottom tiers as ones to avoid: Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Motorola Moto G04, Samsung Galaxy S25, and 1 other.
What moved on this board
6 tier changes recorded between 26 Jul 2026 and 14 Sept 2026. The 5 most recent are below.
- 7 Aug 2026 Motorola Razr Flip moved down from D to F. 1 more research game. 1 source added.
- 27 Jul 2026 Samsung Galaxy A36 moved down from D to F. 2 more research games. 2 sources added.
- 27 Jul 2026 Xiaomi 17 Ultra moved down from B to C. 2 more research games. 2 sources added, 1 removed.
- 27 Jul 2026 iPhone 17 moved up from B to A. 3 more research games. 1 source added, 2 removed.
- 27 Jul 2026 Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra moved up from B to A. 3 more research games. 2 sources added, 2 removed.
Each line shows what else changed at the same publish. It is not a statement of cause.
Frequently asked questions
iPhone 17 Pro Max sits at #1 in the S tier of our consolidated board, ranked across independent research runs over 1123 cited reviews, videos and discussions. The 2026 flagship delivers the best overall performance, camera system and software continuity, earning top marks from RTINGS and TechRadar.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra ranks #2 (A tier). Placed second for its flagship hardware, four-year Android updates and solid warranty.
Our research places Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Motorola Moto G04, Samsung Galaxy S25, Motorola Razr Flip in the bottom tiers (D/F). Samsung Galaxy A56 5G: Its recommendation within a specific budget range highlights its value proposition for cost-conscious buyers.
More in Phones & Wearables
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