BTTR is independent. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links. Why trust us?
I've been testing Samsung smartphones since the very first Galaxy model. I've been doing it so long, the websites I wrote for no longer exist, and finding links to that original coverage is nigh on impossible.
But since I launched BTTR in late 2022, I've reviewed 15 different Samsung phone models across their three main lineups: the flagship S series, foldable Z series, and affordable A series.
There are some big gaps in my testing – for some reason I wasn't offered any of the S25 models for review this year, for example.
But I've still tested more Samsung phones than most people, so I'm here to help you decide which Galaxy you should buy (if you've decided to buy a Galaxy phone, that is).
You may disagree with my choice, but that's okay. Different people like different things. If you feel passionately about it, tell me what you think the best Samsung phone right now is in the comments.
If you don't like (or can't afford) my top pick, I've suggested a couple of other noteworthy devices from my testing for subscribers below as well.
The best Samsung phone I've tested
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Samsung's flagship Ultra family of phones is one of the best examples of what can be done with smartphone hardware. For me, the 2026 S26 Ultra is the first phone in a long time that feels like it has actually innovated hardware.
The key feature here is the Privacy Display, which uses an intelligent approach to its pixels to reduce the viewing angle of the screen, so people can't easily look over your shoulder to see what's on your device.
Even better than this Privacy Screen being there is how you can customise it to only work on certain apps or notifications. So you can have privacy mode on when you're reading emails, but off if you're playing games.
The camera is exemplary, as you would expect. The Space Zoom feature is better than ever giving ridiculously decent pictures even when miles away. For concerts and sports matches, it gives you an up close look at what would otherwise be too far away to see.
If there's a disappointment, it's the fact that Samsung still hasn't popped Qi2 magnets into the phone itself. You can get the alignment through a case if you want, but not baking it into the phone is really just nit what you expect from a $2K+ device.
But there's a lot of value in that price. If you can justify the cost, you'll be very happy with your purchase.
Nick Broughall
Other models you could consider:
Fantastic foldable: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
While the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Fold6 were moth marvels of engineering, they weren't great devices to actually use.
Sure, when you opened up the phone it was cool to use as a square-ish tablet. But the cover display was way too narrow to comfortably type on, especially if you had the phone in a case.
Both of the older models were pretty chunky when folded, too, which made them uncomfortable in the pocket.
But the Fold7 is elegant. When folded, it's less than a millimetre thicker than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and opened up the phone is just 4.22 mm thin.
The cameras have been boosted this year to match the quality in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, making this a true flagship device in its own right.
With the SnapDragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, the Fold7 can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, and the 8-inch internal display is great for multitasking, letting you pop two mobile screens side by side easily.
There are still a few design improvements for Samsung to work on, but nothing that impacts performance. The camera bump makes the phone unsteady, and it's almost impossible to open the phone one-handed.
But this is an exceptional smartphone, and arguably the best device Samsung has ever released. The biggest challenge is that you have to pay for the experience. With an RRP starting at $2,899, it won't be for everybody.
Nick Broughall
Cheaper flagship: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Samsung's 2024 flagship was indisputably the best phone the Korean company had ever made. It sat at the top of this list for a long time..
I'm not going to lie: you will certainly get better performance from the Galaxy S26 version of this smartphone. That's just the way of annual product updates!
But Samsung's S24 Ultra was better than the average phone. It had impressive battery life, a gorgeous screen and the camera takes really beautiful shots. Samsung launched the phone with the promise of seven years of Android core updates too, so it's designed to last you a long time.
But the reason I pick this phone here is because it's older, and therefore cheaper. You will need to shop around a bit, but I have seen the 256GB version of the S24 Ultra for under $1,250.
That is an absolute bargain for one of 2024's best phones. It's a great way to get flagship performance at a bargain price.
Nick Broughall
Easy on the wallet: Samsung Galaxy A37
The Galaxy A37 has an RRP of $599, which is a $50 premium on last year's model, the A36. For that asking price, you get a phone that will last you until the 2030s, thanks to six years of OS and security updates.
You also get an impressively bright and vibrant screen, and an improved IP68 rating, making it well protected against accidental spills.
The camera processing also got an upgrade this year, with much better low-light performance.
The processor is back to an Exynos chipset this year, which is a solid performer for the price point, though doesn't really compete with the power of the S-series chipsets.
It's a really solid device that you can pick up for under $500. It's a great option for your teenager's first smartphone, or a more affordable replacement if you smash your flagship model's screen.
Nick Broughall
Latest Samsung Galaxy deals
How I chose the best Samsung phone in Australia
I've reviewed hundreds of phones over my career, and more than 40 in the two years since I launched BTTR. In that time I learned that review sites - including this one - are subjective by nature. Everybody has a different opinion of what is best.
So for this guide, I’ve recommended my top Samsung smartphone choices only from the models I have tested.
As I continue to test more Samsung devices, I’ll update this guide to ensure it is regularly up to date.
Samsung phones I've reviewed at BTTR for this guide
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy A54
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S24
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy A55
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
- Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
- Samsung A36
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy A37
What to look for when choosing the best Samsung phone
Whether you're after one of the models listed above or something completely different, the decision factors you need to consider when buying a new Samsung phone is the same.
Design
If you've already decided that you want to buy a Samsung phone, then the first question you need to answer is: "what style do you want to buy?"
Samsung is currently one of the only manufacturers offering foldable smartphones. If you want a foldable device, then your options are limited to a couple of key products.
If you want a more traditional device, then you can exclude the Fold and Flip styles and move on.
Price
Whether you opt for a foldable phone or not, the next decision factor has to be price. Decide how much you are willing to spend on your new Samsung phone. Then you can find the right model in that price bracket.
Features and Functions
The amount you spend will impact on the features available - more expensive devices can do more.
But think about the features you need. If you want a stylus, for example, you will need to choose an "Ultra" phone.
AI features are mostly exclusive to the more premium S and Z series devices as well, though some less intensive features do appear on A-series devices.
Camera requirements
One of the biggest differentiators between smartphones today is the camera.
Samsung typically offers high quality cameras as part of their phones. That means you won't have to make too many decisions here. But if you want something in particular, like special night photography modes, this is the time to consider that.
Consider showing your support with a donation.
