Tech giants Apple, Samsung, and Google have introduced a range of smartphones this year, but a notable trend is emerging: budget models are becoming pricier due to increased production costs. While good smartphones are still available under $500, flagship devices now start at $1,000 and can exceed $2,000. With half the year gone, here's a look at the five best smartphones of 2026 so far.

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**Best Flagship: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra**

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out as the best flagship phone of 2026, boasting a 6.9-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a robust camera setup, and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery. Packed with the latest AI capabilities, it also includes an S Pen for note-taking, priced at $1,199.

**Best iPhone: Apple iPhone 17e**

The Apple iPhone 17e offers solid features at a $599 price point. This budget-friendly phone has been upgraded with MagSafe support, an A19 chip, and a starting storage capacity of 256GB. It performs well with AI applications and provides respectable battery life. However, it has a single camera and a 60Hz display, which may not compete with other budget models.

**Best Budget Android Phone: Google Pixel 10a**

For $499, the Google Pixel 10a delivers excellent value. While it lacks some high-end features and updates compared to the flagship, its flat design prevents wobbling and it retains Google’s renowned camera quality. Additional charging options and a brighter display enhance its appeal as a budget Android phone.

**Best Foldable: Motorola Razr Ultra**

The Motorola Razr Ultra claims the title of the best foldable phone of the year, despite its $1,499 price tag. It features a nostalgic clamshell design, two AMOLED displays, a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and boasts a 36-hour battery life, attracting attention for its unique design.

**Most Ambitious: Samsung Galaxy TriFold**

Though it is no longer available, the Samsung Galaxy TriFold was a groundbreaking device that showcased a foldable display with two creases for an expansive viewing experience. Launched for a limited time earlier this year, it represents an ambitious experiment in smartphone design, making it a noteworthy mention.

Alex Perry is a tech reporter at Mashable, specializing in video games and consumer technology.