Choosing a Samsung Galaxy phone can be a puzzle, but we've broken down the latest options to help you find the perfect fit, from top-tier foldables to budget-friendly picks.
For the ultimate foldable experience, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is the way to go if your wallet can handle the $2,100 price tag. It boasts an upgraded hinge and a less noticeable screen crease on its massive 8-inch tablet-style display, alongside a 6.5-inch cover screen that feels like a standard phone. Expect powerhouse performance, all-day battery, and Samsung's best folding phone cameras, including a 200MP main shooter.
If you're eyeing the Fan Edition, the Galaxy S26 FE at $700 offers a solid triple-camera system and a large display, but it's hard to recommend over the practically identical S25 FE. The minor processor bump doesn't justify the increased cost, especially since Samsung downgraded the USB-C port. If you can still find the S25 FE, it's likely a better value.
Samsung's older foldables, the Z Fold7 ($2,000) and Z Flip7 ($1,100), are worth considering if you can snag them on sale. While they have some trade-offs like a more prominent crease or slightly weaker cameras compared to their successors, the core experience remains impressive and much more affordable.
For those seeking a unique, ultra-slim device, the Galaxy S25 Edge, though a one-off from last year, offers a striking 5.8mm design. It packs premium features like a titanium frame and autofocus on all cameras, but be prepared for significant battery compromises with its 3,900mAh cell, which requires constant charging for mixed usage.
On the budget front, the Galaxy A17 5G at $249 looks appealing on paper with its six years of software support and AMOLED screen. However, the US model's limited 4GB RAM severely hampers its performance, making it unreliable for essential tasks. It might suffice for extremely minimal use, but proceed with caution.
Samsung offers a compelling ecosystem beyond phones, including smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets, with perks like automatic device switching and features exclusive to Samsung devices. Their Galaxy AI suite, powered by Google's Gemini, brings impressive features like real-time call translation, text summarization, and AI-generated images. DeX mode also allows you to turn your phone into a desktop-like experience when connected to an external monitor.
Sadly, the ambitious Galaxy Z TriFold, which unfolded into a 10-inch tablet, has been discontinued in the US due to high manufacturing costs. While a remarkable feat of engineering for productivity enthusiasts, its steep $2,800 price tag made it a niche luxury that didn't justify the cost over buying separate devices.
