Android smartphones

Android is an operating system for cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches developed by Google. It is currently the most popular platform in terms of market share and is used by many manufacturers, such as Samsung, OnePlus, and Xiaomi.

Help choosing: What type of phone are you looking for?

The selection of Android smartphones is enormous. To make your choice easier, we’ve divided the devices into four clear categories. See which profile suits you best:

1. The photographer & creator

Do you want to take the best photos and videos for social media or your personal collection? Then check out the “flagship” models. In 2026, it’s no longer just about megapixels, but about smart AI software and zoom lenses.

• What to look for: Optical image stabilization (OIS), night mode, and AI editing tools.
• Top Picks: Google Pixel Pro series and Galaxy S Ultra series

2. The Budget-Conscious Shopper (Best Buy)

You’re looking for a smooth-running phone with a good screen, but you don’t need the very latest model. In the €300 to €500 price range, you’ll often find the best value for your money.

• What to look for: Update policy (will it continue to receive updates for a long time?) and an AMOLED screen.
• Top Picks: Samsung Galaxy A series and Xiaomi Redmi series

3. The budget phone (up to €250)

Do you mainly use your phone for WhatsApp, calling, banking, and the news? Then a budget model is often more than enough. These days, even these phones have great cameras and large batteries.

• What to look for: Ample storage (at least 128GB is recommended) and battery life.
• Top Picks: Motorola Moto G series and Oppo A series

4. The Power User and Gamer

For you, only one thing matters: performance. You want to play demanding games, multitask, or watch movies on the very best display.

• What to look for: Processor (Snapdragon 8 Elite series), at least 12 GB of RAM, and fast charging (100W+).
• Recommended: OnePlus flagships and Asus ROG phones

Which Android brand is right for you?

Android offers freedom of choice. While Apple offers a one-size-fits-all approach, Android manufacturers each have their own specialty. These are the top brands right now:

Samsung Galaxy: The undisputed market leader. Samsung has a smartphone to suit everyone. From the affordable Galaxy A series to the high-end Galaxy S series and the foldable Z models.

• Features:: Often the best displays, very long software update support (up to 7 years), feature-rich One UI software, and a huge selection of accessories.
• Choose Samsung if: You’re looking for a reliable all-around device that works seamlessly with other devices like Windows PCs.
• View all Samsung Galaxy phones

Google Pixel: The smartest kid in the class. Smartphones made by the creators of Android. Pixel phones are known for their clean software, fast rollout of new Android versions, and unparalleled AI capabilities.

• Features: Unbeatable camera performance, smart AI features (including Magic Editor), and always the first to get the latest Android versions and updates.
• Choose Pixel if: You want the purest Android experience and take a lot of photos.
• View all Google Pixel phones

OnePlus: Speed above all else. It started out as a “flagship killer” but is now also active in the premium segment, still with a focus on performance.

• Features: Powerful performance, extremely fast charging, and high-end specs.
• Choose OnePlus if: You hate waiting and are looking for a fast, smooth phone.
• View all OnePlus phones

Xiaomi and Motorola: Best value for your money. These brands excel in the budget and mid-range segments.

• Features: Often better specs (such as more storage and a larger battery) for the same price as the major competitors. Motorola stands out here with its clean, uncluttered software and stylish design.
• Choose these if: Value for money is your deciding factor.
• View all Xiaomi phones
• View all Motorola phones

What should you look for when comparing?

Before making a final choice in our comparison tool, it’s a good idea to filter by the following technical specifications:

Battery life and fast charging: A 5000 mAh battery is the standard these days. The big difference lies in charging. Chinese brands (OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo) often charge extremely fast (up to 120W), giving you enough power for another day in just 15 minutes. Samsung and Google charge more slowly (25W–45W), but focus more on wireless charging.

A new trend to keep in mind is silicon-carbon batteries. These have a capacity ranging from over 6,000 mAh to as high as 10,000 mAh(!). Major brands aren’t using them (yet), but some Chinese brands are—and that gives them a competitive edge.

Software Policy: Who doesn’t want their phone to last a long time? Be sure to pay close attention to the promised update policy.

• Excellent: Fairphone, Samsung, and Google (7 to 8 years of updates)
• Good: Xiaomi (4 to 5 years)
• Average: Most other brands (2 to 4 years)

Switching from iPhone to Android

Are you hesitant to make the switch? It’s easier than ever. With the standard built-in migration tools, you can transfer all your photos, contacts, calendars, and even your WhatsApp history from iOS to Android during setup. All you need is a cable or a good Wi-Fi connection.

History of Android Versions

Since the release of Android in 2008, Google has released a new version practically every year. In the beginning, these versions were named after a sweet treat, but starting in 2019, Google has used only a number. Internally, a code name is still used.

About the Android mascot

Ever since the beginning, Google’s logo has been accompanied by a robot-like figure—also known as a mascot. It was named Bugdroid. Bugdroid was initially a complete figure with a head, torso, arms, and legs. Later, only the head was used. The color also changed somewhat.

The first version was black, but it soon turned green. In 2023, Bugdroid received an update and was given a 3D appearance. The name has also been different since 2024; it was then shortened to 'The Bot'.