Best Smartphones

Best 5G smartphones you can buy today (US edition)

From budget to flagship devices

Published

April 27, 2021

Kenrick Buduan

5G is the future of cellular networks, and more manufacturers are jumping ship to the 5G bandwagon. In recent years, there had been an influx of affordable smartphones that tout 5G connectivity. Just a few years ago, this feature was relegated exclusively to flagships.

While the pace of adoption continues at a breakneck pace, a lot of places around the globe are still lacking support for the next-gen network. Still, it doesn’t hurt to have the latest 5G-enabled smartphone. After all, significant increase in network speeds and reduced latencies are benefits that one can enjoy in areas with 5G.

Right now, 5G-enabled smartphones are varied across different price points. Here are some of the best among the bunch:

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra (Starts at US$ 1,199)

Samsung’s Galaxy S21 Ultra stands out in more ways than one. First, it has a refined design that makes its camera bump less of an eyesore. Those bumps carry a whopping camera setup headlined by the 108MP wide-angle lens. Second, the Exynos 2100 processor improved leaps and bounds though it is still lacking in some aspects.

Unfortunately, buyers still have to do some researching as Samsung continues its tradition of bundling a Qualcomm Snapdragon (in this case, the 888) in some regions. The performance gap between these processors, though, is not that bad anymore. Finally, Samsung’s latest focus on software updates also means three years of OS and four years of security updates which is a far cry from Galaxy flagships of the yesteryear.

iPhone 12 Pro Max (Starts at US$ 1,099)

The iPhone 12 Pro Max has one big new feature: 5G connectivity. Seriously, it is a groundbreaking feature for those who want to future-proof their Apple flagship. However, there are other thoughtful additions. The flat edges, for example, enable a more comfortable holding experience and brings back memories of the iPhone 5s.

Wireless charging also receives an “upgrade” thanks to the introduction of MagSafe, which also brings potential accessories for the future. The iPhone 12 Pro Max also features a telephoto lens and a LiDAR scanner to differentiate it from the non-Pro models.

OnePlus 9 Pro (Starts at US$ 1,069)

This time around, OnePlus partnered with Hasselblad to improve its smartphone cameras. OnePlus 9 Pro is the first flagship to see the results of this collaboration, bringing with it other flagship-worthy features. Going back to the camera, the brand touts improved shots and revamped camera interface as a result of the collaboration.

Another feature worth discussing here is the improved display, which now uses LTPO technology. Thanks to Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, users can expect fast performance and 5G here.

Sony 1 II (Starts at US$ 1,049)

Sony has been delivering a great flagship in recent years, and the 1 II is a great example of that. Geared for professionals and content creators, there is a lot to love about its triple-camera setup which also includes a specialized lens for better shots. Complementing that superb camera hardware is the wealth of bundled professional apps for taking great photos and videos.

Even better, it comes with a headphone jack which is rare for a modern flagship. As a proper flagship, it comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865. Sony is known for bundling a 21:9 on its recent smartphones, so expect a tall-and-thin look on this one.

Motorola Edge+ (Starts at US$ 1,000)

Motorola Edge Plus marks the company’s return to making a proper premium flagship years after the Z2 Force. This time around, Motorola spared no expense in crafting its flagship. As such, the flagship goes head-to-head with established alternatives.

There is a gorgeous AMOLED curved display, an up-to-date Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, and a capable rear camera setup headlined by a humongous 108MP wide-angle lens. The 5,000 mAh battery is one of the best out there. Finally, a headphone jack that rounds out the positives for the flagship device.

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G (Starts at US$ 699)

Samsung originally launched the Galaxy S20 FE with an Exynos processor and without 5G connectivity. Later on, it added another version with 5G connectivity, which is possible thanks to the inclusion of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865. With that version, the Galaxy S20 FE becomes a more tempting device to get for those after flagship features at a lower price.

The combination of a powerful processor with capable cameras, gorgeous AMOLED display, IP68 rating, and more only solidifies this device’s status as a “flagship killer”. Flagship devices now usually starts at US$ 900 and above, so this is indeed a welcome addition to the Galaxy lineup.

LG Velvet (Starts at US$ 600)

With the demise of LG, some may think twice before buying another smartphone from the brand. The LG Velvet, however, makes for a good exception. Launching just last year, it bundles the dual-screen case which is a noteworthy accessory that should give users more screen real estate. The device also tries to break from the ordinary with raindrop rear cameras that almost eliminate those unsightly camera bump.

A Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor powers the device, which should provide adequate performance and 5G connectivity for those who need it now. The cameras, by the way, are decent and the same goes for the battery life. It has a headphone jack too — a feature getting hard to find on this price segment.

Google Pixel 4a 5G (Starts at US$ 499)

Last year’s Pixel 4a 5G delivers solid features for the price that it offers, serving as a middle-ground between the budget 4a and the flagship 5. The keyword here is “middle ground”, since the device carries most of the features that make its siblings worth it. For one, consumers get a proper Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor which is the Pixel 5’s mainstay.

Consumers also get an extra telephoto camera, which is missing from the budget Pixel 4a. The biggest addition here though is of course, the added 5G connectivity. Overall, the device is the one to get for a clean, stock-like Android experience coupled with a competent camera experience.

Samsung Galaxy A52 5G (Starts at US$ 499)

Samsung is putting more focus on its midrange devices this year, and the Galaxy A52 5G is a clear example of this. Whereas its predecessor last year put on a flashy design, the Galaxy A52 5G is simple yet almost premium looking with a wonderful choice of colors to boot. The feature list is almost exhaustive, and would simply attract budget-conscious buyers. Get this: it has IP67 water and dust resistance which is too much to ask in the midrange segment.

There’s an AMOLED screen, quad-camera setup, a headphone jack, and most importantly, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G chipset with support for 5G connectivity. With that feature list and a budget-friendly price, the Galaxy A52 5G is too awesome to ignore.

Motorola One 5G Ace (Starts at US$ 399)

Motorola is known these days for making budget devices with a pretty decent set of features for the consumers. The Motorola One Ace 5G is an example of this, featuring the popular Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G that delivers excellent performance and 5G connectivity. It is also one of the cheaper device to offer this processor too, proving that one doesn’t have to break the bank when buying a 5G-capable device.

The FHD+ IPS display of this device even has HDR10 support, which would come in handy for Netflix and other video streaming apps. Cameras are decent, and should be fine for most scenarios. Battery life, on the other hand, is outstanding thanks to the battery’s rated capacity of 5,000 mAh.

Best Smartphones

Best smartphones above $600 you should consider

These are the top phones we’ve used and loved!

Published

July 8, 2025

GadgetMatch

So, you’re ready to splurge a little. Maybe you’ve had your current phone for a few years now or you just want the latest and greatest tech in your pocket.

This list is for those who don’t mind spending more, because they know what they want: top-tier cameras, stunning displays, and flagship-level performance that actually delivers.

These are the smartphones we’ve personally used and loved.

HONOR Magic7 Pro

The HONOR Magic7 Pro is a well-rounded flagship smartphone. It takes the best parts of its predecessors and learns from the other smartphones in HONOR’s lineup that came before it. What you get is a finely tuned companion that finally delivers on its AI promise while making remarkable improvements in mobile photography.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra feels like a perfect match finally arriving at the right time. It’s lighter, more refined, and easier to love. With reliable long-distance shooting, powerful AI tools like Gemini, and a design that just works, it’s the kind of phone that quietly becomes your favorite without needing to shout for attention.

vivo X200 Pro

The all-around flexibility the vivo X200 Pro offers offers with its powerful trio of cameras doesn’t limit any future user from using the phone past its limits of “just” great at taking concert photos.

The phone is power-packed with its ultra-rich 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display, more than sufficient 6000mAh Si/C battery, speedy 90W charging, and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 SoC based on a very efficient 3nm process. What more can you ever ask for?

OnePlus 13

While the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has better cameras, better sound, and an S-Pen, the OnePlus 13 has the same powerful processor, an even brighter display, and super-fast wired and wireless charging. It even has an ecosystem of accessories from power banks, to magnetic chargers.

At the end of the day, you’d be hard pressed to find a better deal than what the OnePlus 13 is offering.

OPPO Find N5

Foldable phone users all struggle with battery life problems. But the OPPO Find N5 has finally got it solved. The technology is so good that even in a slim and light form factor.

We have OPPO to thank for really innovating in this space. For pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

ROG Phone 9 Pro

The ROG Phone 9 Pro is one of the best gaming phones you can get today. From an amazing camera to a top-tier processor, there’s nothing that ROG’s latest flagship can’t do.

Plus, it has a bunch of quirky frills — like the AniMe Vision — that make it all the punchier. It’s not just your typical gaming phone with over-the-top specs; it actually has a personality.

vivo X200

Even without the “Pro” branding, the vivo X200 is still Pro-grade in most aspects. It deserves a spotlight of its own and shouldn’t just be hiding in the shadow of its bigger brother. It’s a beast that needs to be unleashed in the wild.

Xiaomi 15

Small but mighty, the Xiaomi 15 delivers flagship-level performance in a more compact body. It’s proof that great power doesn’t always need a big frame, though that also means the overall experience depends a lot on how the size feels in your hand.

If you prefer lighter, smaller phones, this one’s a pint-sized powerhouse. But don’t take our word for it: we always recommend trying it in-store first, especially if you’re coming from a larger device. For many, this might just be the perfect fit.

POCO F7 Ultra

With flagship power at a fraction of the price, the POCO F7 Ultra is one of the best-value phones you can buy. It’s fast, lightweight, and loaded with top-tier specs.

iPhone 16e

In the past, the iPhone SE did feel like a phone with plenty of compromises. However, the iPhone 16e definitely feels like a phone that delivers on all THE essentials.

It hits the sweet spot, everywhere it matters. And like they say in their launch video, “it brings the iPhone 16 experience to even more people.”

Honorable mentions

Huawei Mate XT

The tri-fold smartphone segment is still in its infancy, so we can’t really give a true recommendation yet. But we’d be remiss if we didn’t give the Huawei Mate XT its flowers for starting off the segment with a bang.

The Huawei Mate XT offers the most screen real estate in a smartphone today. It offers so many configurations for so many different uses.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra

With a massive 1-inch sensor, Leica-engineered optics, and a camera system built to impress, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has every right to wear the “Ultra” name.

It’s a true photography-first flagship that held its own–even against serious challengers like the vivo X200 Pro–especially in portraits, selfies, and low-light zoom.

While its overall tuning leans toward the cooler, more dramatic side, the hardware is undeniably top-tier. If mobile photography is your priority, the 15 Ultra is one of the best tools you can carry.

OPPO Find X8 Ultra (China-only)

The OPPO Find X8 Ultra got the best of everything you could want in a smartphone — including some of the best phone cameras ever made.

It stands as a testament to what companies outside of our western bubble have to offer. A showcase of how amazing a phone company OPPO is. And what it’s capable of.

It’s just a shame that most people, apart from real tech fans, won’t even know that it has one big caveat: it’s China-exclusive availability.

vivo X200 Ultra (China-only)

Built for serious mobile photography, the vivo X200 Ultra pairs ZEISS optics with dual imaging chips and pro-level features. It’s a powerhouse designed to replace your bulky camera gear.

Editor’s Note: Only smartphones we’ve reviewed and tested ourselves are included in this list to ensure accurate and experience-based recommendations.

Best Smartphones

Best midrange smartphones under $599 to buy right now

These midrange phones punch above their price!

Published

July 8, 2025

GadgetMatch

Midrange phones have been leveling up, and it’s honestly harder than ever to tell them apart from flagships, until you see the price tag.

If you want excellent performance, premium design, and a camera that won’t let you down (without shelling out), this is the sweet spot.

We picked these phones not just for what they promise, but for how they felt when we used them.

Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ 5G

The top variant under Infinix’s latest NOTE series feels like an embarrassment of riches. It’s mainly still a gaming phone but you get a lot of extra gravy as well. Everything feels premium about it, for a lot less.

There’s a complete suite of AI features, a capable camera system that lets you capture detail at up to 6X zoom, and everything else in between.

TECNO CAMON 40 Premier

With a competitive price of around US$ 395 (PhP 21,999 SRP in the Philippines), the TECNO CAMON 40 Premier is a true blue midranger. It’s hard to resist this marvelous midranger for all the compelling package it offers.

At this point, “flagship killer” is an overstatement. Other phone brands should fear that such a “midrange destroyer” exists.

Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro

There’s plenty to love about Nothing as a company — and a lot of it has to do with its brand ethos. Rooted in thoughtfulness and how it values good design, the Nothing Phone 3a Series is just that.

A well-rounded midranger that punches above its price point. Both in terms of looks and the overall experience.

realme 14 Pro+ 5G

The realme 14 Pro+ 5G is among the best mid-rangers you can get right now. It comes with impressive cameras with improved features, AI integration, and even triple IP ratings for dust and water resistance.

The phone has also been upgraded in other aspects like battery life, display, grip, and overall performance to make it a device you’d expect for 2025.

POCO X7 Pro

Though we reviewed the Iron Man Edition, the regular POCO X7 Pro is just as recommendable without the Marvel stylings. It’s a true midrange phone. It won’t wow you with impressive processing power, but its camera quality and hardy battery are stellar when compared to others in its price range.

Plus, if you shell out PhP 3,000 more (in markets where it’s available), you can get a fancier Iron Man Edition that helps you really stand out in a crowd.

Google Pixel 9a

In the US where the incredible Chinese midrangers are not available, the Google Pixel 9a is a run for its money.

In terms of the core experience, you’re actually getting a surprisingly similar phone. That’s compared to all the pricier US midrangers such as the iPhone 16e, OnePlus 13R, and Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.

vivo V50

vivo bringing the ZEISS treatment to the midrange class isn’t something we should brush off lightly. It’s a bold move to bring all the imaging mastery in such a midranger — which barely felt mid at all.

Pair that with its one of a kind Aura Light feature, it’s a smartphone you just cannot ignore. For all the special feats the vivo V50 possesses, it’s simply a unique phone.

HONOR 400

With emotional portrait AI, sleek design, and reliable all-day power, the HONOR 400 is a thoughtful midrange companion, making it perfect for everyday storytellers who shoot from the heart.

CMF Phone 2 Pro

Nothing’s sub-brand, CMF, proves that fashion isn’t exclusive to the flagship segment. It’s not the most powerful device (and it’s only a small step up from its predecessor), but it’s a worthy midrange device if you’re coming from older devices.

The phone offers decent camera work and an extra durable battery that can last for more than a day.

POCO F7

Fast, efficient, and priced just right, the POCO F7 delivers snappy performance that punches above its class. While the cameras are basic, everything else makes this an easy Swipe Right.

Editor’s Note: Only smartphones we’ve reviewed and tested ourselves are included in this list to ensure accurate and experience-based recommendations.

Best Smartphones

2023 GadgetMatch Approved Smartphones

2023 smartphones that deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

Published

December 19, 2023

Vincenz and GadgetMatch

It’s the time of the year again!

ICYMI, we haven’t reviewed all smartphones released this year. Despite that, there are still 23 smartphones from 2023 (not intentional, btw) that were able to make the cut and bagged GadgetMatch’s very own Seal of Approval.

Reviewed by different members of the team with varying preferences and personalities, smartphones in this list weren’t limited to the premium line as it also tackles the budget and midrange segment, as well as foldables and flippables.

This list is in descending order from most recently published.

OPPO Find N3 / OnePlus Open

OPPO Find N3

“Some things are meant to be, but perhaps they aren’t meant to last. That’s how I view my time with the OPPO Find N3 – fleeting but filled to the brim with moments that will stick with me. It happened. It was great. But then, it was over.

I’ll likely find myself staring into empty space just reliving all of it every now and then. If I’d be given a chance to experience it all over again, I would say yes in a heartbeat.” — Rodneil

“Well the reviews are in, and overwhelmingly the consensus is clear — the OnePlus Open is the best foldable in the market today.

And after one month of having this phone in my pocket and in my bag, I can wholeheartedly say that I agree. It deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” — Michael Josh

OPPO Find N3 Flip

“A flip smartphone like the Find N3 Flip has a certain allure that you can only imagine. It’s time to flip your life around and open yourself to an array of experiences. There’s something special about it, and I can’t help but gush over a smartphone worthy of being in my pocket.” — MJ

vivo V29 5G

“Overall, the vivo V29 5G is a great gadget for those who love content creation, and those with the habit of using multiple apps in a single time. It’s a great choice as well for people who loves using their phone as accessory to match their OOTD.” — Martynne

Apple iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max

“Seriously, there is a lot to love with the new iPhone 15 series. That new Titanium build is sexy — it’s light and it’s definitely what I’ve been waiting for. That Action Button I believe is going to be a game-changer — and soon they’re opening it up to third-party app developers also. That USB-C port is going to open it up to a whole bunch of possibilities as well as compatibility.

And that new camera has set the bar for everybody else to beat. Plus, if you’re a Pro user, if you’re a content creator, a professional video creator, then you’re definitely going to want to leverage all of its new features as well. There’s no beating around the bush, the iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max is the best smartphone that you can get today.” — Michael Josh

Xiaomi 13T Pro

“The main draw of the Xiaomi 13T Pro, without a doubt, is how it lets you experience a Leica camera without it costing you an arm and a leg.

Elsewhere, the Xiaomi 13T Pro is also a winner. The silky smooth display catches your attention immediately, and its general size and overall build makes you feel secure. You just have this peace of mind that what you’re holding is made with care and won’t break easily. There’s also something about it that’s hard to describe or quantify. You just know, you’re using a device that’s better than most.” — Rodneil

OPPO A98 5G

“The OPPO A98 5G has certainly made a mark in the midrange smartphone segment. With its eye-catching design, impressive display, and powerful battery life, it offers a well-rounded experience for a lot of users.

The device’s ability to deliver smooth performance and handle gaming well are really worth considering. And with its competitive pricing, I can say that the OPPO A98 5G is a strong contender in its category, earning an A+ for its overall offering and total upgrade from its predecessor.” — Tom

realme 11 Pro+ 5G

“It certainly has one of the best smartphones in its bracket. If dazzling cameras, design, and really quick charging are all you’re up for, the realme 11 Pro+ 5G is definitely your GadgetMatch. Having a flagship-like experience trumps all the imperfections and flaws you’ll encounter with this smartphone, especially the lack of IP rating.” — MJ

Nothing Phone (2)

“On its second iteration, has managed to build something special. A well-priced phone that delivers on all the right things.

Nothing says that their goal is to build something “fun”. And while I’m not sure if this phone is “fun” enough, I think it’s a great phone that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval” — Michael Josh

motorola razr+

“At just under a $1000, which is a fair price for a foldable, I definitely consider the motorola razr+.” — Michael Josh

TECNO Camon 20 Pro

“The TECNO Camon 20 Pro retails for PhP 9,999. A 5G version sells for PhP 12,999. Based on those prices, the series is a great example of getting a bit more than what you pay for. It’s not the best smartphone in the market in its price range.

However, if you’re shopping for a decent daily driver with a limited budget, the Camon 20 Pro deserves some attention.” — Luigi

ROG Phone 7 Ultimate

“If your smartphone priorities align with that of the ROG Phone, then it is an excellent product. It’s certainly a mobile gamer’s GadgetMatch. Is it newsworthy? In the general sense, not really. Not anymore. But is it a goddamn good product? Hell yeah it is. One that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” — Rodneil

Xiaomi 13 Pro

“The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a great smartphone meant for photographers, casual shooters, and aspirers alike. It’s a smartphone that isn’t gimmicky and actually offers the real deal compared to other smartphone photography contenders.

The Xiaomi 13 Pro (or any existing 1-inch-equipped smartphones around) can’t and won’t “replace” any professional cameras anytime soon. However, I can confidently say that the Xiaomi 13 Pro lives up to its professional photography promises.” — Vincenz

POCO F5 Pro

“The POCO F5 Pro does a lot of things right. Though the smartphone doesn’t offer one thing for users to exclusively focus on, it shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.” — Luigi

Redmi Note 12

“It’s a cheap phone that’s good but it also comes with its drawbacks. Yet, despite the sometimes inconsistent camera performance and inevitable bloatware, the Redmi Note 12 still impressed enough.

It’s a good smartphone, whether you’re trying to save up on a couple of bucks, or you’re just about to purchase your first device. It’s a good First Dance to have; a smartphone you’d be proud to call your GadgetMatch.” — Karlo

HONOR Magic5 Pro

“The HONOR Magic5 Pro is easily one of the Top 5 standard slate flagship smartphones of 2023. The specs, design, and overall feel of the phone is undeniably flagship.” — Rodneil

Samsung Galaxy A34

“If you’re someone who doesn’t have any special needs with their smartphone usage and you simply want an all-around smartphone that you can trust, then the Galaxy A34 is for you.

This phone won’t be a purchase of betrayal for you. This is something that can feel like family; a mid-range smartphone you can trust.” — Karlo

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G

“The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G is an upper midrange smartphone that can keep up and live up to its promises. It is a very recommendable midrange smartphone considering it has a less heavy price tag despite being heavy with features.

You’ll get that rich audiovisual experience, a not-so-typical Redmi design and premium-like build quality, satisfying performance, more than sufficient battery life, rapid charging speeds, and cameras that are enough for your needs day and night.” — Vincenz

OPPO Find N2 Flip

“The OPPO Find N2 Flip is certainly my GadgetMatch, and it could be yours, too. It has flagship experience, exceptional imaging capabilities, flexibility in use cases, and versatility as a travel camera.

There’s something remarkable about this smartphone that will make you want to have it. For me, it has an appeal that only you would experience if you have your hands on it. That certain allure can keep you hooked, just like how I can’t keep it off my hands.” — MJ

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

“The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a fantastic device. But there are certain things about it that may not be your cup of tea. The devil, after all, is in the details. It has a fantastic set of cameras. Easily one of the best today.” — Rodneil

WATCH: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: One Week Later

HONOR Magic Vs

“What HONOR has with the Magic Vs is a challenger-in-the-making. They only need to stay the course and work out the software issues in order to truly stand against the reigning champion of foldables.” — Rodneil

realme 10 Pro 5G

“It’s safe to say that realme has one-upped themselves yet again. Even if their number series phones are technically mid-rangers, they thrive in the perception of being realme’s de facto “flagships”.

With the realme 10 Pro 5G, users will get an ultra-reliable phone with numerous enhancements for shelling out just a little extra.” — GadgetMatch

POCO X5 Pro 5G

“At first glance it won’t impress, but its value as a smartphone is all about what’s under the hood. It’s a powerful device that gets the job done. The POCO X5 Pro 5G is a great choice to have if you’re looking for a weapon that will bring you victory in whatever battles you’ll face.” — Karlo