The top 20 best smartphones you can buy

So what is the best smartphone around? Always a tricky question. In terms of hardware, it should be a compelling mix of the latest connectivity, impressive battery life, a great digital camera and a high quality screen. There’s also screen size to consider, the storage capacity, even the size, weight and design.

Finally, there’s the software aspect. Some people can’t bear to be apart from their iPhones or their Blackberries. Even for a moment. Others have embraced Android and are frantically waving that little robot flag.

Our list below (now expanded to 20) represents what we think are the best smartphones you can buy. It is constantly updated as we see and evaluate new handsets. Click on a phone to find out more information about it.

Date Title Rating
Tips: Shift+Click to sort multiple columnsPowered by Star Rating for Reviews
2011 Samsung Galaxy S2 ★★★★★
2011 Apple iPhone 4S ★★★★½
2011 Motorola Atrix 4G ★★★★½
2011 HTC Sensation ★★★★½
2011 HTC EVO 3D ★★★★½
2011 LG Optimus 3D ★★★★½
2010 LG Optimus 2X ★★★★½
2011 Samsung DROID Charge ★★★★☆
2010 Google Nexus S ★★★★☆
2010 Apple iPhone 4 ★★★★☆
2011 Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S ★★★★☆
2011 Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc ★★★★☆
2011 Nokia N9 ★★★★☆
2011 HTC Thunderbolt 4G ★★★★☆
2010 Nokia N8 ★★★★☆
2010 Samsung Galaxy S ★★★★☆
2010 HTC Desire HD ★★★★☆
2011 HTC DROID Incredible 2 ★★★★☆
2010 Motorola Droid X ★★★★☆
2010 Motorola Droid 2 ★★★★☆


Can’t find your favourite phone in this top 20 list? See if it appears in our extended listing of the best (and worst) smartphones…

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