The Most Popular Cell Phones By Year: Guides & Ranking 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G is the most convenient phone ever. With the high-speed Snapdragon 845 processor, this phone lets you multitask faster and easier than ever before. The graphic user interface is so intuitive that anyone can navigate easily, so you’ll never miss a beat on social media even when your phone is folded shut. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Moto G Power | 2021
The Moto G Power is the perfect device if you're looking for a phone that does it all. With 5.7 inches of Max Vision HD display, this phone has a generous battery and can take on games, movies and video chats with ease. The power button on the side is easy to reach and the fingerprint sensor lets you secure your data with one touch. Read Review
3. Best Camera: Google Pixel 6 – 5G Android Phone
With a 5G network that's twice as fast as 4G and twice as responsive, the Google Pixel 6 is the perfect phone for today’s wireless world. Loaded with features like Night Sight, Translate, and Duplex, this Android phone also comes with an unlocked design so you can pick your own carrier or data plan. Read Review
4. Best Interface: OnePlus Nord N200 | 5G Android Smartphone U.S Version
The OnePlus Nord N200 5G is the perfect smartphone for your next adventure. It's 5G enabled (5G service only available on T-Mobile and Google Fi) so you can download or stream your favorite TV shows, connect with social media, and play online multiplayer at blazing fast speeds. Read Review
Most people are concerned with features and cost when buying new cell phones. However, the most crucial factor may be which model is the most popular in that year or the preceding months. This top list of the most popular cell phones of any given year will help you decide which ones to get and which ones to avoid.
This list only covers phones that were released in the last five years and are still sold today. It will not be considered if a phone has been discontinued after a limited time. The top three smartphones by sales volume are also left out since they can skew results due to their high sell-through rates. Other factors like operating system popularity and app availability influence what phone is the Most Popular Cell Phones By Year over short periods; however, these elements are not considered for this article’s purpose alone.
After 19 hours of product research and analysis, We are able to identify the most popular cell phones by year is SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G. The performance of this product is of an excellent standard, and it offers a complete set of features that can satisfy your requirements.
RELATED: Discover the most advanced smartphone on the market - a device with incredible features and the latest technology designed to make your life easier.
Our Top Picks
ULTRA COMPACT, ULTRA COOL: Show off your style game without the tradeoffs; With a compact design that unfolds, you don’t have to compromise screen size for your favorite outfit
ONE SCREEN, TWO APPS: Launch two apps simultaneously, so you can take selfies while browsing Gallery, watch movies while texting friends, and shop multiple stores at once, on the go
A CAMERA THAT GOES STEADY: Thanks to Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3’s Super Steady feature, you can just set it down and strike a pose for picture perfect selfies
FAST CHARGING FOR FAST LIVING: Galaxy Z Flip3 smart phone charges fast so that all your moments last; There's a right time for downtime and a low battery signal, isn't it
FLEX YOUR BEST ANGLE: With Flex Mode, just unfold your mobile phone’s screen to your best angle for hands-free pics and video calls; Choose what you want to capture, set it down, stand back and shoot your best shot.Form_factor : Flip
ALL YOUR NOTIFICATIONS, FRONT AND CENTER: Control your cellphone, even when it's folded shut; Galaxy Z Flip3 notifies you on the external cover screen, so you can view notifications and check the weather
ARRAY OF COLORS: Whether you’re into sophisticated neutrals or vibrant tones, you’ll turn heads with every take; Complete your look with statement-making color choices of Phantom Black, Lavender, Green, or Cream
- My UX Your phone. Your experience. With My UX, your phone works the way you want. Control it with simple gestures, customize your entertainment settings, and create a look that’s one in a million. The new My UX. It’s all you.
- Carrier compatibility: AT&T: VoLTE, Verizon: VoLTE, T Mobile: VoLTE, WiFi Calling, Video Calling, Tracfone: GSM, CDMA. Does not support : Xfinity Wireless, Spectrum, Optimum Mobile. For all carrier compatibility details - please check the product images in detail.
- 6.6" Max Vision HD, display. Watch games, movies, and video chats come to life on an ultra-wide screen.
- Water-repellent design3. Keep your phone safe from accidental spills and splashes.
- 48 MP triple camera system. Take stunning photos in any light, as well as beautifully blurred portraits and incredibly detailed closeups.
- In-box: Moto G Power (2021), 10W rapid Charger, USB Cable, Guides, SIM tool
- Up to three-day battery. Capture more of life without stopping to recharge thanks to a 5000 mAh battery.
- Has a 2020 Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor, updated from the 2019 Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 in the moto g power 2020. Lag-free performance. Get more done without slowing down thanks to a speedy Qualcomm Snapdragon processor.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot Ready: Moto G Power (2021) offers Wi-fi hotspot connectivity in 2.4 GHz , 5 GHz for the best experience.
- Operating System: Android 10
- Please refer to the product description section below for all applicable legal disclaimers denoted by the bracketed numbers in the preceding bullet points (e.g., [1], [2], etc.)
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[1]; Pixel 6 is fast, smart, and secure, and adapts to you
- Live Translate helps you translate live video captions, private chats and messages, and signs in up to 55 languages right on your cell phone[8]; no apps, internet, or language courses required[9]
- Pixel’s 50 megapixel rear camera captures 150% more light for photos with richer colors and more detail[2]
- Pixel’s fast charging[4] all day battery adapts to you and saves power for apps you use most[5]
- The powerful Google Tensor processor is the first processor designed by Google and made for Pixel; it keeps your phone fast, your games rich, and your personal info safe
- New 6.4 inch Smooth Display[10] is made with the toughest Gorilla Glass yet[11] to keep your smartphone protected; the high refresh rate means more responsive gaming and scrolling
- Professional tools like Magic Eraser[3], Motion Mode, and Portrait Mode keep your photos sharp, accurate, and focused
- New Pixel experience is more modern and intuitive, with colors that reflect your personal style; the At a Glance feature shows you the apps and info you need when you need it, like a boarding pass before a flight[7]
- Privacy and protection are built into your Pixel smartphone; backed by the Titan M2 security chip, 5 years of updates, and the security core[6]
- 5G Enabled (5G service only available on T-Mobile and Google Fi) - Powered by the latest Qualcomm 5G chipset, the OnePlus Nord N200 5G allows you to download or stream your favorite TV shows, connect with your social media, and play online multiplayer at blazing fast speeds.
- Single-SIM. If your device is not receiving text messages or experiencing error when making phone calls, you need to contact carriers' technical support to add CDMALess feature.
- 13MP Triple Camera System - It’s easy to capture every moment with clarity thanks to the 13MP main camera. Take up close and personal shots with the macro lens and add some definition to your black-and-white photos with the mono lens.
- 18W Fast Charging - The N200 5G’s 18W fast charging gets you refilled and back on your feet quickly.
- 6.49” Full HD+ LCD Display, 90Hz Smooth Display - Immerse yourself in all your favorite movies, TV shows, and video games with N200 5G’s 6.49” crystal clear Full HD+ display.
- 4GB RAM + 64GB built-in storage (expandable up to 256GB) - The OnePlus Nord N200 5G packs all the performance power and storage you’ll need to run and store your favorite content. 4GB of RAM ensures your applications and content run smoothly, making for a seamless, customizable, and enjoyable mobile experience. The 64GB of built-in storage ensures you can have all your favorite films, TV shows, games, and photos with you on the go. Need more storage Expand it by up to 256GB with a microSD card.
- 90Hz Smooth Display - The 90Hz refresh rate refreshes 50% faster than standard 60Hz displays, ensuring smooth navigation and scrolling across the home screen and your applications.
- Large 5000mAh battery - The OnePlus Nord N200 5G is powered by a massive 5000mAh battery, providing all the power required to get you through the day. Watch hours of TV, play graphically intense games, or browse the internet non-stop without fear of your device dying. Should the unthinkable happen and your battery die, no sweat.
- 48MP OIS Quad Camera: Capture sharp photos and videos with the 48MP Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) main camera. The 16MP ultra wide-angle, 5MP macro, and 2MP depth camera allow you to capture and explore more of the world around you. The 32MP front camera with dedicated RGB sensor accurately captures skin tone and natural lighting for stunning selfies.
- The Power of 5G: Experience revolutionary speeds, faster streaming, quicker downloads, as well as enhanced AI features and hyper-accurate GPS with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G Mobile processor. And 6GB of RAM provide effortlessly smooth performance. More sharing, more gaming, more experiences, never miss a beat.This Model is made for the US with a one-year US warranty.
- Keep More: 256GB ROM storage gives you enough space to keep all your apps, picture, videos, music and files without feeling the pinch. You can also expand up to 1TB with a microSD card (sold separately). the in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock provide for fast and secure access.
- Unlocked Smartphone: Compatible with Verizon 5G and LTE network, T-Mobile 5G and LTE network, AT&T LTE networks (without AT&T 5G). If your device doesn't work with Verizon, please restart the phone. If your device experiences an error when making calls on Verizon, your account may need to be provisioned to support “CDMA-less” devices with the assistance of Verizon’s technical support team or your account’s business representative. This device isn't compatible with CDMA networks-such as Sprint, Spectrum, Xfinity,etc.
- NXTVISION 2.0 Intelligent Display: Discover seamless visuals that go beyond the edge with the TCL 20 Pro 5G smartphone's 6.67-inch FHD+ NXTVISION AMOLED Dotch Display. Immerse yourself in a vivid, true-to-life visual world. The phone's AI visual enhancement intelligently detects your environment's lighting and automatically enhances brightness, color, clarity, and contrast for the best visuals.
- Unlimited Talk, Text and Data plans starting as low as dollar 20/month
- 6.5" HD plus FullVision Notch Display; 2.0GHz Octa-Core Processor; 4,000mAh Non Removable Battery; Triple Rear Cameras 13MP plus 5MP plus 2MP/13MP Front-Facing Camera; Internal memory 32GB Supports Micro SD memory card up to 2TB (not included); 3GB RAM
- Android 9 Pie; 4G LTE; Wi-Fi 802 11 b/g/n/ac; Bluetooth 5.0
- To the value seekers and great deal getters. You’re in the market for a smartphone that accomplishes the essentials, one that looks and feels great. And you also love to make and share memories, so you need a camera that’s sharp and quick.
- CARRIER: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network.
- 48MP quad camera system: Showcase your creativity from every perspective, from ultra-wide angle shots to detailed close-ups and everything in between.
- Unlimited Talk, Text and Data plans starting as low as dollars20/month
- Go longer on a single charge with a 4000 mAh battery.
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network.
- 128GB of storage and up to 1TB expandable with microSD, Qualcomm Snapdragon 678 processor, and 4GB of RAM; 6.8” FHD plus Max Vision Display
- 8K SUPER STEADY VIDEO: Shoot videos that rival how epic your life is with stunning 8K recording, the highest recording resolution available on a smartphone; Video captured is effortlessly smooth, thanks to Auto Focus Video Stabilization on Galaxy S22 Ultra
- ADAPTIVE COLOR CONTRAST: Streaming on the go, working from your patio or binge-watching late into the night. The Galaxy S22 Ultra adaptive screen automatically optimizes color and brightness, outdoors and indoors
- Included components: usb cable
- NIGHTOGRAPHY plus PORTAIT MODE: Capture the night with crystal clear, bright pics and videos, no matter the lighting with Night Mode; Portrait Mode auto-detects and adjusts to what you want front and center, making all your photos worthy of a frame
- EMBEDDED S PEN: New phone, new S Pen; Now you can unleash your creativity on Galaxy S22 Ultra with an embedded S Pen; Edit photos and videos with pinpoint accuracy, and do it all with that pen-to-paper feel
- 108MP PHOTO RESOLUTION plus BRIGHT DISPLAY: Capture premium detail with 108MP resolution— the highest available on a cell phone; Your favorite content will look even more epic on our brightest display ever with Vision Booster
- PREMIUM DESIGN & CRAFTMANSHIP: With a classy, eye-catching glass-metal-glass design, we’re setting a standard for smart phones; With our strongest aluminum frame and the latest Gorilla Glass, this phone is lightweight and durable to help endure scratches and dings
- LONG LASTING BATTERY plus FAST CHARGING: Power every scroll, click, tap and stream all day long and then some with an intelligent, long-lasting battery; Dive back into action at a moment’s notice with 45W Super-Fast Charging
- Unlocked Smartphone - The TCL 30XL works with most major U.S. carriers, including Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile (Sprint not included). This android phone is also compatible with Metro PCS, Simple Mobile, Cricket, Ultra Mobile, H2O, Visible, Tello, Consumer Cellular, RedPocket (Only GSMA network), Pure talk, Viya, etc. For Straight Talk and TracFone, this model only supports T-Mobile and AT&T compatible Sim cards but does not support Verizon compatible sim card. This cell phone isn't compatible with CDMA networks, such as Sprint, Assurance wireless, Spectrum, Xfinity, Boost Mobile, etc.
- Seize the Beauty of Life - Explore the allure of highly detailed shots and broad landscape with the 50MP AI quad camera of this android phone. The AI camera system can optimize your picture according to different lighting conditions, and clear any unnecessary object that you select in the background, allowing you to be the protagonist all the time. The 13MP front-facing selfie camera of this stylish smartphone can capture you in a unique way.
- Cinematic Viewing Experience - Featuring a 6.82 inch expansive screen with 20.5:9 aspect ratio and dual speakers design, the TCL 30XL android phone allows you to enjoy the thrill of cinematic viewing. The unique TCL NXTVISION Technology is able to boost color, clarity and contrast of visuals while protecting your eyes from harmful blue light. This TCL phone can work as a decent gaming phone, and is also perfect for streaming video and making video calls.
- Large Battery, Fun for All Day - The 5000mAh mighty battery of this unlocked android smartphone can power up your entertainment for up to 3 days on one charge (estimated data based on internal lab test). With 18W fast-charging and an on-the-go reverse charging (OTG cable not included) option you can fuel and refuel your mobile phone in an instant.
- Powerful, Smooth and Safe - With the 6GB Ram storage and Octa-Core processor, this unlocked cell phone provides you with an instant response time. Keep all of your precious memories with the 64GB built-in storage, and even more with a Micro SD card (sold separately) that lets you add up to 512GB memory. You can also multitask smoothly thanks to the Android 12 operating system and the floating window mode. The phone’s face unlock technology brings a carefree experience with abundant joy.
- 6.43” Display - Immerse yourself into your favorite content with a large FHD+ AMOLED Display, delivering sharp detail and deep colors.
- Triple Camera System - Capture photos and videos with the 64MP primary sensor or stunning selfies with a 16MP front-facing camera.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 - With 6GB of powerful RAM & a 5G Snapdragon processor, the N20 5G can handle anything from your favorite content to streaming online games.
- 6GB RAM - Download your favorite games and apps & switch seamlessly between them.
- In-Display Fingerprint - Secure your phone with an in-display fingerprint sensor.
- 128GB Storage - Store photos and videos without worry with large expandable storage, up to 512GB.
- 5G Enabled - The OnePlus Nord N20 is the perfect entry-level 5G phone, featuring premium specs and an affordable price. *5G compatible with T-mobile, Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Metro by TMO, Simple Mobile. 5G available in selected areas, please check with your carrier.
- Appealing Design - The N20 5G features a flat edge design & quality materials, delivering a premium look & feel.
- Large 4500mAh Battery - Spend less time plugged in with an extra large battery.
- 33W Fast Charging - Get a day’s power in half an hour with 33W Fast Charging.
What to Look For in a most popular cell phones by year?
Actually, when you decide to invest in most popular cell phones by year for yourself, lots of things to consider! It's harder to choose since the product comes with many types, functions, and features from different manufacturers. That’s why you should find a reliable space to acquire knowledge related to the item.
We’ve highlighted the essential features of the most popular cell phones by year below. Along with checking out the list of best models in the list, you should also carefully read the buying guide here:
Network Support
Further complicating matters, there are many types of 5G networks. Sub-6 networks are slower, but they can go further. There are also mmWave network that can travel further distances but are not as reliable.
You will need to make sure your phone can connect to multiple networks if you are interested in connecting.
RAM
RAM, which is an extremely fast storage option for your smartphone, can be used to store data faster than what's in the main memory. However, the amount of RAM your phone can handle is a major determinant as to whether it has more or less.
Storage
As time passes, devices generally have more storage. Some people do not necessarily require a lot of storage. Cloud services have made it possible to store less. Apps are the only things I store on my phone. My music, videos and files can be accessed in the cloud. I only download them to my device when I view or stream them.
Display Size
Phone displays are now ranging from approximately 5 to 6.8 inches.
Operating System
In general, iOS works a bit more consistently than Android, but Android can be customized more. Android, for example, allows you to install apps from third party sources. iOS does not.
You will need to make other choices if you choose the Android route. Android can be modified by Android manufacturers to make it work on their devices. Samsung is known for heavily altering Android in order to make it look and function differently.
Camera
Battery
FAQs
Why Are Security Updates Important?
It can be easy to overlook a notification on your smartphone that a new update has been released. These updates contain not just patches to improve user experience, but also fixes bugs that could be exploited or exploited by malware. These updates are not available forever by phone manufacturers. Some only offer them for two years from the date of launch. Your phone may become unsecure without this critical security support. In the worst scenario, hackers could have access to your data.
What Should I Look For In A Smartphone Display?
The display size and quality are important because smartphones can be controlled completely using their touchscreens. Larger screens are better for reading and web surfing, while larger displays can make it more difficult to transport.
The screen's pixel density (measured in pixels per inch, ppi) will tell you how sharp and clear text will look on the screen. A smaller amount of pixels across large screens, such as a big one, can lead to jagged edges. The screen technology is also important. AMOLED and IPS are the main technologies. Each has its pros and cons.
Should I Buy A Phone Outright Or Through A Plan?
Are you going to buy your phone upfront or do you plan on paying it over time? It all depends on the product you are looking for. Compare both and choose the one that's best for you.
It may save you a lot in the end, so it is worth looking into if it is possible.
If you don't want to pay upfront, there are many post-paid options.
The amount that you pay for the phone plan will depend on which contract you choose and the use of your phone.
How Much Do Senior Cell Phones Cost?
Prices for cell phones vary depending on which provider they are from and what features it has. Both brick-style and flip phones can be purchased at a reasonable price. Smartphones can be the most costly of all the phones, depending on their features and model. You can choose a smartphone that suits your lifestyle and budget with all these options.
What About Performance And Battery Life?
These days, most smartphones run on octacore processors. The clock speed (measured by GHz) is a measure of the processor's performance. It will also give an indication of the fluidity of the operating system and how it handles running applications and games.
Long battery life, however, is something you should be looking for in a phone. The battery test helps you decide the best handset for you. However, the larger the battery capacity of the phone (measured as mAh) the more it can last without needing to be charged.
How Much Smartphone Storage Do I Need?
A minimum 64GB onboard storage should be sufficient if the microSD slot is available. However, you will soon notice that your internal storage starts to fill up fast. In recent years there has been more emphasis on smartphones cameras. It's probable that Instagram photos will take up the majority of your internal storage. We recommend 64GB at minimum to get you going.
Do Cell Phones Give Off (emit) Radiation?
Yes, cell phones as well as cordless phones transmit radiofrequency radiation (RF). Radiofrequency radiation is not like other forms of radiation, such as x-rays. We know that RF can cause cancer. It is not known if radiofrequency radiation (RF) from mobile phones could cause long-term health issues. International Agency for Research on Cancer has designated RF radiation as possible human carcinogen. (A carcinogen refers to an agent that can cause cancer.
After knowing the suitable kinds of most popular cell phones by year and the features you wish, it’s high time for you to start your shopping. Note that you shouldn’t run out to a particular store or start scrolling through online sales just yet. With the development of technology, especially the expansion of sale sites, you can easily find your buddy.
Remember to check out our site weekly round-up to ensure that the current sales on most popular cell phones by year perform well in our tests. So you can catch up with them as soon as possible. Would you please give us your feedback for better service? Many thanks!
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