Best Android Phone of 2023: Because screw Apple and Long Live Android
Android is known for its plethora of choice, it can be hard to find the best android phone of 2023. Unlike iPhone users who have limited options, Android users have the luxury of choosing from numerous devices each year, including foldable phones and phones with unique features like built-in styluses and eye-catching designs. However, with so many choices, it can be challenging to make a decision. In this article, I aim to provide some guidance by highlighting a few standout Android phones that I have personally tested.
Before diving into the recommendations, it’s important to note that the availability of Android phones can vary depending on your location. In the US, there are some limitations due to factors like capitalism and geopolitics, which means that certain brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, Honor, and Oppo may not be readily available. Consequently, the recommendations in this article are more focused on phones that are accessible in the US market.
Are you more interested in budget versions?
When choosing your next Android phone, you have the option of getting it through your wireless carrier, usually as part of a contract or installment plan. However, if you prefer more flexibility and freedom, purchasing an unlocked phone is a better choice, as it allows you to switch carriers more easily in the future. Many phone manufacturers also offer financing and trade-in deals to make the payment process more manageable. However, if your carrier offers a free phone that meets your requirements, and you’re satisfied with their service, there’s no harm in taking advantage of the offer.
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is a crowd-pleasing Android phone that offers a great balance of features and performance. It has a large 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and a capable triple-lens rear camera system. The battery life is also excellent, with the S23 Plus easily lasting a full day on a single charge.
One of the best things about the S23 Plus is its camera system. The main 50MP sensor takes great photos in a variety of conditions, and the ultrawide and telephoto lenses offer some useful versatility. The camera system also has a number of features that make it great for taking photos in low light, such as Nightography and Portrait Mode.
Another highlight of the S23 Plus is its design. It is made from premium materials, such as Gorilla Glass Victus+ and Armor Aluminum, and it has a sleek and stylish look. The phone is also IP68 water and dust resistant, so you can use it without worry in even the most demanding conditions.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a powerful and versatile Android phone. It has a great display, a powerful processor, a capable camera system, and excellent battery life. The price tag of $999 is a bit steep, but it is still a fair price for a phone with this level of features.
Here is a list for the people who just want some numbers:
- 6.6-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor
- 8GB of RAM
- 128GB or 256GB of storage
- Triple-lens rear camera system (50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto)
- 10MP front-facing camera
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- 4500mAh battery
- Android 13 operating system
If you are looking for a powerful and versatile Android phone with a great display and camera system, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is a great option. As of writing this article, there aren’t any phones directly available through my network, but if you’re in the market for a case for your Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, have at it!
Google Pixel 7
The Google Pixel 7 is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly flagship or a premium midrange phone. Priced at $599, it offers a high-quality build, IP68 rating for water resistance, and wireless charging. Powered by Google’s second-gen Tensor CPU, the Pixel 7 delivers excellent performance and runs a clean version of Android with regular software updates. While it lacks some high-end features like a telephoto camera and a 120Hz screen, it still provides a great user experience at a more affordable price.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
If you’re looking for the most powerful Android phone in the US market, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the one to consider. It boasts a massive 6.8-inch screen, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, support for the S Pen stylus, and a versatile camera system with two telephoto lenses. Priced at $1,199, it’s on the expensive side, but its unique features and top-notch performance make it a standout choice for those willing to invest in a premium device.
OnePlus 11 5G
The OnePlus 11 5G is a high-end smartphone that offers excellent performance and a long list of features at a relatively affordable price. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which is one of the most powerful mobile processors on the market. This chip allows the OnePlus 11 5G to handle even the most demanding tasks with ease, whether you are gaming, streaming videos, or editing photos.
The OnePlus 11 5G also has a stunning 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This means that the screen is very smooth and responsive, making it great for gaming and watching videos. The display is also HDR10+ certified, which means that it can display a wide range of colors and contrast levels.
In addition to its powerful performance and beautiful display, the OnePlus 11 5G also has a long list of other features. These include a triple-lens rear camera system, a 16-megapixel front-facing camera, 5000mAh battery, and 80W fast wired charging. The camera system is capable of taking great photos in a variety of conditions, and the battery will easily last you a full day on a single charge.
One of the best things about the OnePlus 11 5G is its price. It is currently available for $699, which is a great value for all the features that it offers. If you are looking for a high-end smartphone that does not break the bank, the OnePlus 11 5G is a great option.
However, there are a few downsides to the OnePlus 11 5G. First, it does not have wireless charging. This is a feature that is becoming increasingly common on high-end smartphones, so it is a bit disappointing that it is not included on the OnePlus 11 5G. Second, the OnePlus 11 5G does not have robust water resistance. It is only water-resistant to IP53, which means that it can withstand splashes and rain, but it cannot be submerged in water.
Overall, the OnePlus 11 5G is a great smartphone that offers excellent performance, a long list of features, and a relatively affordable price. However, it does lack a few features that are becoming increasingly common on high-end smartphones, such as wireless charging and robust water resistance. If these features are not a priority for you, the OnePlus 11 5G provides great value for the money.
Here are some down and dirty specs of the OnePlus 11 5G:
- Dimensions: 163.1 x 74.1 x 8.53 mm
- Weight: 200 g
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM: 8GB or 12GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Rear cameras: 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide camera, 32MP monochrome camera
- Front camera: 16MP
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Charging: 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging
- Operating system: OxygenOS 13 based on Android 13
The OnePlus 11 5G is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a high-end smartphone with excellent performance and a long list of features.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 stands out as the ultimate multitasking companion, offering the functionality of both a tablet and a smartphone. With a hefty price tag, it caters to the tech-savvy crowd seeking cutting-edge features.
Equipped with a 7.6-inch 2176p 120Hz OLED inner screen and a 6.2-inch 2316p 120Hz OLED cover screen, the Z Fold 4 provides unmatched versatility. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 processor ensures seamless performance. The device boasts a 50-megapixel F/1.8 main camera with OIS, a 10-megapixel 3x telephoto lens with OIS, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, a 10-megapixel selfie camera for the cover screen, and a four-megapixel under-display selfie camera for the inner screen. The 4,400mAh battery supports 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, and it is IPX8 water-resistant.
While the Z Fold 4’s durability among foldable devices is commendable, concerns about dust intrusion and long-term robustness persist. Additionally, the Android tablet app ecosystem falls short, often failing to utilize the inner screen effectively. Nonetheless, Samsung’s user interface facilitates multitasking by allowing multiple app windows on the expansive canvas.
Considering its potential longevity and the need for two-handed operation, the Z Fold 4 appeals mainly to tech enthusiasts who appreciate hardware innovation. It serves as a testament to what can be achieved beyond conventional slab-style smartphones. If you possess the financial means and curiosity, the Z Fold 4 offers a gratifying experience.
Apple vs Android
In conclusion, there are several compelling reasons why someone might choose an Android phone over an Apple device. Android phones offer a level of customization and flexibility that is unmatched by Apple devices. With Android, users have the freedom to personalize their device’s interface, install third-party apps from various sources, and tweak system settings to suit their preferences. This openness and adaptability allow users to truly make their Android phone their own.
Additionally, Android phones come in a wide range of models, catering to different budgets and needs. From budget-friendly options to flagship devices with cutting-edge technology, Android offers a diverse selection that can accommodate various price points. This allows users to find the perfect device that fits their requirements without breaking the bank.
Another significant advantage of Android is its integration with Google services. Android seamlessly integrates with Google’s ecosystem, including Gmail, Google Drive, Google Photos, and Google Assistant. For individuals heavily reliant on Google’s suite of applications, an Android phone provides a seamless experience with effortless synchronization across devices.
Furthermore, Android boasts a larger selection of hardware options compared to Apple (even though Apple does do some silly stuff sometimes). This means that users have more choices when it comes to design, form factor, screen size, and camera capabilities. Whether someone prioritizes a sleek design, a large display, or advanced camera features, Android phones offer a diverse range of options to suit different preferences.
In conclusion, while Apple devices have their own merits, the allure of Android lies in its customization, affordability, compatibility with Google services, and a wide range of hardware choices. Android phones provide users with the freedom to tailor their devices to their liking, ensuring a personalized and versatile experience that caters to their individual needs and preferences.