Samsung has created many phones over the years, with some standing out as clear favorites among users. From the iconic design of the S7 to the well-rounded features of the S10, Samsung’s history includes both beloved classics and a few disappointments.
The Galaxy S series has dominated the Android market for nearly a decade and a half, offering innovations that changed how we use smartphones. Samsung’s flagship phones have evolved dramatically over time, with each generation bringing new features that either won over fans or occasionally missed the mark. Many Samsung enthusiasts have strong opinions about which model deserves the title of “best ever.”
1: Samsung Galaxy S II
The Samsung Galaxy S II stands as a landmark device in Samsung’s mobile history. Released in 2011, it quickly became Samsung’s best-selling phone at that time, with an impressive 10 million units sold in just five months.
What made the Galaxy S II special was its remarkable speed. Many reviewers considered it the fastest Android device available when it launched. The phone featured a powerful processor that handled tasks smoothly and quickly.
The display was another standout feature. The Galaxy S II boasted what many considered the best screen in the smartphone market at that time. Its vibrant colors and clarity made everything from photos to videos look impressive.
Camera quality was also exceptional for its era. The Galaxy S II came equipped with what reviewers called the best camera available on Android phones at launch. This helped users capture clearer, more detailed photos than competing devices.
Perhaps most impressive was how Samsung managed to make the Galaxy S II noticeably thinner than its predecessor. Despite the slimmer profile, the phone packed dramatically increased power and additional features.
The device ran the latest version of Android software at the time, giving users access to the newest features and improvements. This combination of cutting-edge hardware and software created a truly premium experience.
T-Mobile customers particularly benefited from the Galaxy S II. It was considered by many to be the best phone available on the carrier when it launched. The powerful specifications and excellent performance made it a top choice.
The Galaxy S II helped establish Samsung as a serious competitor in the high-end smartphone market. Its commercial success proved that consumers wanted what Samsung was offering: powerful, feature-rich devices with excellent displays.
Even years after its release, the Galaxy S II is still remembered as one of Samsung’s defining products. It helped set the stage for the company’s continued success in the smartphone industry and influenced the design of future Galaxy models.
2: Samsung Galaxy S III
The Samsung Galaxy S III was released in 2012 and quickly became one of the most popular smartphones of its time. It sold more than 80 million units worldwide, making it a massive commercial success for Samsung.
The Galaxy S III featured a sleek design with curved edges that fit comfortably in the hand. Its 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display was considered large for its time and provided vibrant colors and sharp images.
Under the hood, the phone packed impressive hardware for 2012 standards. It ran on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) with Samsung’s TouchWiz interface, offering a smooth user experience.
The device introduced several innovative features that would later become standard on many smartphones. Features like Smart Stay used the front camera to detect if users were looking at the screen to prevent it from turning off.
S Voice was Samsung’s early attempt at a voice assistant, competing with Apple’s Siri at the time. Though not perfect, it showed Samsung’s commitment to advancing smartphone technology.
Battery life was another strong point of the Galaxy S III. The removable 2100mAh battery lasted longer than many competitors, and users could carry spare batteries for extended use.
The phone’s 8-megapixel rear camera took quality photos for its era. It included features like Burst Shot and Best Photo, which helped users capture the perfect moment.
Storage options included 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB versions, with expandable storage through a microSD card slot. This flexibility was appreciated by users who needed extra space.
The Galaxy S III’s popularity helped cement Samsung’s position as a leading smartphone manufacturer. Many consider it the device that truly established the Galaxy S series as a serious competitor to the iPhone.
Its commercial success and technological innovations make the Galaxy S III one of the most significant Samsung phones ever released. Its influence can still be seen in modern Galaxy devices today.
3: Samsung Galaxy Note 7
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was one of the most beautiful and powerful phones ever created by the company when it launched in 2016. It featured a stunning design with a curved AMOLED display that wrapped around the edges, creating a sleek and premium look.
In terms of size, the Note 7 was slightly taller and thicker than its predecessor, the Note 5. However, Samsung managed to reduce the width from 76.1mm to 73.9mm, making it more comfortable to hold despite its large screen.
The device was initially praised as one of the best Android phones of its time. It came with excellent battery life, a powerful processor, and an improved S Pen stylus that added functionality not found in other smartphones.
The camera on the Note 7 was outstanding for its time, capturing detailed photos even in challenging lighting conditions. This contributed to it being considered one of the best overall phone packages available when it first released.
Many users who owned the Note 7 developed a strong attachment to the device. Some even reported that their phones never experienced overheating issues and provided reliable performance throughout daily use.
Unfortunately, the Note 7’s legacy is defined by its infamous battery defect that caused some units to catch fire. This led to one of the most significant product recalls in smartphone history, with Samsung eventually discontinuing the model entirely.
Despite its short lifespan, the Note 7 represented Samsung’s ability to create truly innovative and beautiful devices. Many of its design elements and features would later influence future Samsung flagship phones.
4: Samsung Galaxy S10
The Samsung Galaxy S10 stands as one of the most beloved flagship phones in Samsung’s history. Released in March 2019, this device represented a perfect balance of innovative features and refined design that many users still appreciate today.
The Galaxy S10 featured a stunning 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with curved edges and minimal bezels. Its screen quality was exceptional for its time, offering vibrant colors and sharp detail that made everything from photos to videos look amazing.
Performance was another strong point for the S10. Equipped with the Snapdragon 855 processor (or Exynos 9820 in some regions) and generous RAM, it handled multitasking and demanding applications with ease.
The camera system on the S10 was quite impressive. It included a versatile triple-camera setup on the back, allowing users to capture everything from standard photos to ultra-wide landscapes and detailed close-ups.
Battery life on the S10 was generally solid. While not record-breaking, the 3,400mAh battery provided enough power for most users to get through a full day of typical use.
One of the S10’s most appreciated features was that it retained elements that were later removed from flagship phones. It included a 3.5mm headphone jack, expandable storage via microSD, and even a heart rate sensor.
The build quality of the Galaxy S10 was exceptional. With its glass and metal construction, it felt premium in the hand while still being comfortable to hold and use daily.
Many users who purchased the S10 when it launched have continued using it for years, a testament to its longevity and Samsung’s software support. Even in 2024, some people still use and enjoy their S10 phones.
The Galaxy S10 marked a high point in Samsung’s smartphone design philosophy. It offered cutting-edge technology while maintaining features that users valued, creating a balanced package that has stood the test of time.
5: Samsung Galaxy Note 9
The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 stands as one of the most feature-complete smartphones ever created. Released in 2018, this device continues to be praised by users even years after its launch.
The Note 9 packed an impressive array of features that many modern phones have since abandoned. It included a built-in S Pen stylus, headphone jack, microSD card slot, and supported both DeX mode and VR headsets.
Battery life was exceptional for its time, allowing users to go through a full day of heavy use without needing to recharge. This reliability helped cement its reputation as a productivity powerhouse.
The camera system was revolutionary, featuring a Dual Aperture lens that automatically adjusted between F/1.5 and F/2.4 depending on lighting conditions. This technology allowed for great photos regardless of the environment.
Storage was another strong point. The Note 9 offered twice the storage of its predecessor, the Note 8, providing ample space for music, videos, photos, and apps without constantly running into space limitations.
Durability wasn’t overlooked either. The phone was built to last, with many users continuing to use their Note 9 devices well beyond typical smartphone replacement cycles.
Consumer Reports even ranked the Galaxy Note 9 at the top of their smartphone ratings upon release, highlighting its excellent battery life, durability, and camera capabilities as key factors in earning the #1 position.
Many tech enthusiasts still consider the Note 9 the pinnacle of the Note series. Its comprehensive feature set and lack of compromises represent an approach to smartphone design that has become increasingly rare in recent years.
6: Samsung Galaxy S20
The Samsung Galaxy S20 stands as one of the most memorable devices in Samsung’s smartphone history. Released in early 2020, this phone struck an excellent balance between cutting-edge features and practical usability that resonated with many users.
The S20 featured a stunning 6.2-inch display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This made scrolling and animations appear incredibly fluid, providing a premium experience that was ahead of its time.
Performance was another strong point of the S20. Equipped with powerful processors and ample RAM, the phone handled everything from everyday tasks to demanding games with ease.
Battery life was impressive on the S20, allowing most users to get through a full day without needing to recharge. This reliability made it a trusted companion for busy professionals and power users alike.
The camera system on the Galaxy S20 delivered versatile shooting capabilities. Its multi-lens setup enabled everything from ultra-wide landscape shots to detailed zoom photography, making it a solid option for photo enthusiasts.
Many fans consider the S20 series to represent Samsung at its best. The rounded edges and overall design language struck a perfect balance that some users still prefer over newer models.
The S20 FE (Fan Edition) deserves special mention as a particularly successful variant. It offered most of the flagship features at a more accessible price point, making it one of Samsung’s most value-oriented devices.
Despite its $1,000 launch price, many users felt the S20 offered good value compared to other premium phones of its era. The complete package of features justified the investment for those seeking a high-end experience.
Even years after its release, many S20 owners remain loyal to their devices. The expandable memory option, which has disappeared from newer models, is frequently cited as a reason some users haven’t upgraded.
7: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G stands as a landmark device in Samsung’s smartphone lineup. Released in early 2022, this phone marked a significant evolution by merging the Galaxy S and Note series features into one premium device.
A standout feature is the built-in S Pen, previously exclusive to the Note series. The precise tip and low latency make writing feel natural, like putting pen to paper. This integration eliminated the need for a separate Note line.
The phone boasts what Samsung calls “Nightography” camera capabilities. These advanced camera features excel in low-light situations, allowing users to capture clear photos even in challenging lighting conditions.
Battery life extends well beyond a full day for most users. Many report getting over 24 hours of use with approximately six hours of screen time. This includes typical activities like messaging, browsing, light gaming, and music streaming.
The display received particular praise from users and reviewers alike. Its class-leading screen performs excellently for various tasks from reading to watching videos to taking notes with the S Pen.
Not all experiences have been perfect, however. Some users with the Exynos 2200 variant have reported lag and battery issues after extended use. These problems have somewhat diminished what could have been an even better long-term experience.
Despite these occasional issues, customers generally appreciate the phone’s functionality, quality, and value. The device successfully delivers a premium experience that caters to productivity users and multimedia enthusiasts alike.
The Galaxy S22 Ultra represents Samsung’s philosophy of creating “everything phones” – devices that aim to excel in every category without significant compromises. It’s a philosophy that has helped define Samsung’s approach to high-end smartphones.
8: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra represents one of the most advanced smartphones in Samsung’s lineup. Released in early 2024, this device combines cutting-edge technology with premium design elements that appeal to power users.
Many reviewers consider it the best phone available for those outside Apple’s ecosystem. The S24 Ultra features a superior display that offers exceptional brightness and clarity for both everyday use and media consumption.
Performance is another standout aspect of this device. The phone delivers best-in-class processing power, handling everything from intensive gaming to multitasking with ease.
The camera system on the S24 Ultra receives high praise from technology critics. Its multi-camera setup provides versatility for different photography situations, from ultra-wide landscapes to impressive zoom capabilities.
Battery life shows significant improvement compared to previous generations. Samsung made notable enhancements in this area, allowing users to go longer between charges even with heavy usage.
The S24 Ultra also introduces advanced AI features. Circle to Search stands out as particularly useful, allowing users to quickly look up information about anything visible on screen with a simple gesture.
While the device offers premium features, it does come with some bloatware. This pre-installed software may be unnecessary for users who prefer a cleaner experience.
Despite this minor drawback, the S24 Ultra maintains high ratings among users. Many consider it the best phone on the market, appreciating its combination of hardware excellence and software innovation.
The S24 Ultra continues Samsung’s tradition of pushing technological boundaries. It represents what the company does best: creating feature-rich devices that appeal to those seeking cutting-edge mobile technology.
9: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE represents Samsung’s commitment to delivering premium features at a more accessible price point. Released as part of the Fan Edition line, this device strikes an impressive balance between performance and value.
The phone features a vibrant Super AMOLED display that offers rich colors and deep contrasts. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions, making everyday use feel fluid and premium.
Design-wise, the S24 FE maintains Samsung’s classic aesthetic with a dual-glass construction. The device is also IP68-rated, providing solid protection against water and dust for added durability.
Performance is a highlight of the S24 FE, powered by a capable chipset that handles everyday tasks with ease. Whether browsing the web, switching between apps, or playing games, the phone delivers reliable speed.
Battery life is another strong point. The S24 FE offers all-day endurance for typical use, and its fast charging capability means less time tethered to an outlet when power runs low.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the versatile camera system. While not as advanced as the Ultra models, the S24 FE’s cameras capture detailed images in various lighting conditions.
The phone’s hybrid stereo speakers provide an excellent audio experience, making it suitable for media consumption without headphones. Sound quality is clear and well-balanced.
Samsung’s commitment to software support gives the S24 FE added value. Extended update periods mean this phone will stay current with new features and security patches longer than many competitors.
The S24 FE is notably larger than some alternatives, which may be a plus for those who prefer a more substantial device for media consumption and productivity tasks.
Among Samsung’s lineup, the S24 FE stands out for prioritizing value and longevity rather than cutting-edge features. This focus makes it an excellent option for those seeking a reliable Samsung experience without flagship pricing.
10: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 represents a pinnacle in foldable phone technology. This innovative device has earned its place among Samsung’s best phones with its versatile design and powerful features.
The Z Fold6 offers users the perfect blend of smartphone and tablet. When folded, it works as a regular phone. When unfolded, it transforms into a mini tablet with a spacious display.
Samsung has improved the durability of the Z Fold6 compared to earlier models. This addresses a common concern with foldable phones, making it more practical for everyday use.
Battery life is another strong point for the Z Fold6. Samsung has extended the battery capacity, allowing users to enjoy the device’s features for longer periods without recharging.
The multitasking capabilities of the Z Fold6 are particularly impressive. Users can run multiple apps simultaneously on the large unfolded screen, creating a PC-like experience on a mobile device.
The Z Fold6 features advanced Galaxy AI, enhancing the user experience across various applications. These AI features help with everything from photo editing to text translation.
For readers and digital content consumers, the Z Fold6 offers an exceptional experience. The larger screen makes reading books, articles, and browsing websites much more comfortable than on standard smartphones.
The design of the Z Fold6 is slimmer than previous models. This makes it more pocket-friendly while maintaining the durability needed for a folding device.
Price remains a consideration with the Z Fold6. While still premium-priced, it offers strong value for those who want both a phone and tablet in one device without carrying two separate gadgets.
The Z Fold6 also maintains compatibility with the S Pen, allowing for precise note-taking and drawing. This feature appeals particularly to creative professionals and students.
Evolution of Samsung Phones
Samsung’s journey in the mobile phone industry shows how they’ve grown from basic devices to cutting-edge smartphones. Their evolution reveals a pattern of innovation and design improvements that helped them become a global technology leader.
Early Innovations
Samsung’s phone evolution began with simpler devices before the smartphone era. When they launched the Galaxy S in 2010, it marked their serious entry into the smartphone market competing with Apple’s iPhone.
The Galaxy S II, released in 2011, was a breakthrough moment for Samsung. This device became a runaway success and established Samsung as a major player in smartphones. It offered significant performance improvements over its predecessor.
In the same year, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Note, creating the “phablet” category with its larger screen. This bold move showed Samsung’s willingness to try new concepts and expand the definition of what a smartphone could be.
Design Milestones
Samsung’s design philosophy evolved dramatically over the years. The Galaxy S7, released in 2015, is often cited as having an iconic design with its glass and metal construction that many fans still appreciate.
The Galaxy S10 represents another design peak for Samsung. Many consider it “the best phone ever by Samsung” with its excellent balance of design, battery life, camera quality, and value. The S10 featured the innovative hole-punch display that maximized screen space.
Samsung’s design evolution also includes the introduction of curved edge displays, which became a signature look for their premium devices. These innovations helped Samsung phones stand out visually in the competitive smartphone market.
Technological Advancements
Samsung has consistently pushed the boundaries of smartphone technology with innovations that have redefined user experience. These advancements have helped establish Samsung as a pioneer in both display quality and camera capabilities.
Display Technologies
Samsung’s Super AMOLED technology has revolutionized smartphone displays. This technology, first prominently featured in devices like the Galaxy Nexus, delivers richer colors and deeper blacks than LCD screens.
The company’s curved edge displays, introduced with the Galaxy S8, transformed smartphone design by eliminating bezels and creating an immersive viewing experience. This infinity display concept has since become a signature element of premium smartphones.
Samsung also pioneered high refresh rate displays in mainstream phones, with 120Hz screens that make scrolling and animations appear smoother. Their Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology offers improved brightness for outdoor visibility and reduced blue light emission to protect users’ eyes.
The evolution of screen resolution has been remarkable too, moving from HD to Quad HD+ and beyond, with the latest flagships featuring pixel densities that exceed what the human eye can distinguish.
Camera Improvements
Samsung’s camera technology has evolved dramatically over the years. Early innovations included introducing higher megapixel counts when competitors were still using lower-resolution sensors.
The company pioneered ultra-wide angle lenses in mainstream smartphones, allowing users to capture more of a scene without stepping back. Their Space Zoom technology, refined in recent models like the S25 Ultra, offers impressive zoom capabilities that rival dedicated cameras.
Night mode photography has seen significant improvements, with advanced computational photography allowing users to take clear pictures in near-darkness. This technology combines multiple exposures to create brighter, sharper images with less noise.
Samsung has also led in video recording capabilities, being among the first to offer 8K video recording on smartphones. Their Super Steady mode uses advanced stabilization to create smooth footage even when the user is moving.
Multi-camera systems with dedicated lenses for different scenarios have become standard on Galaxy flagships, offering versatility that photographers appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Samsung fans often have specific questions about the company’s smartphone lineup. The following FAQ addresses some common inquiries about Samsung’s most memorable and highest-performing devices.
What are the top-rated Samsung smartphones released until now?
The Samsung Galaxy S10 is widely considered one of the best Samsung phones ever made. It featured an iconic design, excellent battery life, impressive cameras, and came at a competitive price point.
The Galaxy S III marked a significant turning point for Samsung, establishing the company as a serious competitor in the premium smartphone market. The Galaxy Note 9 also ranks highly for its refined features and performance.
Many experts include the Galaxy S II on their all-time lists for its revolutionary impact on Samsung’s design language and market position.
How do the various Samsung Galaxy S series phones compare in terms of performance?
The Galaxy S series has shown consistent performance improvements with each generation. The S10 represented a high point with its balanced performance, while earlier models like the S III broke new ground with processing power for its time.
The S8 series marked another leap in performance capabilities alongside its stunning design. Each successive S model typically offers approximately 15-20% better processing performance than its predecessor.
Battery efficiency and thermal management have also improved dramatically from the early S models to current offerings.
Which models in the Samsung A series have received the highest ratings?
The flagship S and Note series get more attention, but some A series phones have also been highly rated for their value. The Galaxy A50 and A70 models have been particularly well-received for bringing premium features to mid-range price points.
The A80 gained recognition for its innovative rotating camera design. More recent A series phones continue to blend features from flagship models with more accessible pricing.
What features do the best-reviewed Samsung phones have in common?
The most praised Samsung phones typically feature exceptional display quality, with vibrant colors and high resolution. Camera innovation has been another consistent strength, particularly in flagship models like the S10 and Note 9.
Battery life is frequently cited as important in highly-rated models. The best Samsung phones also tend to include useful software features that enhance the user experience.
Expandable storage via microSD has been a valued feature in many top Samsung models, though this has become less common in newer releases.
Considering durability and user satisfaction, which Samsung phones have the best track record?
The Galaxy S7 series demonstrated excellent durability and water resistance, earning high satisfaction scores. The Note 9 has also proven remarkably reliable over time, with many users reporting years of trouble-free use.
It’s worth noting that the Note 7 had significant battery safety issues that led to a full recall, despite its initial positive reception. Samsung’s quality control improved significantly following this incident.
The Galaxy S10 has also maintained a strong reputation for durability among users who have kept their devices for multiple years.
What are the expert opinions on the most reliable Samsung phones available today?
Experts generally rate Samsung’s flagship devices highly for reliability. Many professionals point to the Galaxy S10 as representing a high point in Samsung’s balance of innovation and reliability.
Industry reviewers often note that Samsung’s premium phones typically receive longer software support than competitors in the Android space. This extended update cycle contributes to phones remaining usable and secure for longer periods.
Recent models have improved on heat management and battery longevity, two factors that significantly impact long-term reliability.
