Globally, mobile technology has spread quickly. By the end of 2018, 5.1 billion people, or 67 % of the worldwide population, had signed up for mobile services. After 2013, 1 billion new customers have been added, but the rate of growth is dropping. Between 2018 and 2025, a 1.9% yearly growth rate would increase the total number of mobile customers to 5.8 billion.
In the meantime, mobile continues to play an important role in global socioeconomic development. According to a research conducted by Global System for Mobile Communications, mobile technologies and services generated $3.9 in 2018, accounting for 4.6% of GDP globally. By 2023, this will have risen to $4.8 trillion (4.8% of GDP), as countries reap the benefits of growing mobile service adoption, which has resulted in increased productivity and efficiency.
Smartphones and Mobile Economy
The fact that so many people now own smartphones is one of the clearest evidences that they are a vital element of the mobile economy, and the economy in general. According to the Pew Research Center, 64% of American adults own a smartphone, and 90% own a cell phone of some sort.
Smartphones have become the industry’s standard design for mobile devices, and they currently constitute the telecoms industry’s fastest-growing market sector. In 2013, sales of internet-connected smartphones surpassed those of more basic handsets for the first time.
In the second quarter of 2013, global mobile phone sales increased by 3.6 percent to 435 million devices, making smartphones more than half of the market for the first time. Although telecommunications and computing devices were invented in the 1970s, the smartphone did not become a commercially successful product until the end of 2006, when Research in Motion (RIM) released the BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB) to the market. Before this, Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK) was the world’s most popular mobile phone. Its demand declined when, in 2007, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL) launched the first iPhone model, while Samsung followed suit in June 2008 with the Samsung Instinct, a direct competitor to the iPhone. In the smartphone saga besides Samsung, Apple and Google by Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG), Motorola and Sony by Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) are aiming to clinch maximum market share. The smartphone industry has been increasingly competitive.
According to preliminary statistics from International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, the international smartphone market expanded even faster than expected in the second quarter of 2021, coming in at 13.2%. A total of 313.2 million smartphones were sold in 2Q2021. Xiaomi and Oppo, both Chinese smartphone manufacturers, recorded the biggest year-over-year market share growth. Xiaomi’s shipments increased from 28.5 million in the second quarter of last year to over 53 million this quarter. Its rise propelled it into second place in the market for the first time, pushing Apple down to third. Oppo, on the other hand, was in fourth place, with shipments increasing from 24 million to 32.8 million in this quarter. According to IDC, Samsung maintains its position as the world’s leading smartphone manufacturer. Although its device volume increased from 54 million to 59 million, it nonetheless lost its market share, falling from 19.5% to 18.8%.
Our Methodology
We dug deep into reports provided by reliable android data providers like Consumer Reports. We also carried out a thorough research on the internet to take into account what android owners had to say about their cellphones. We also relied on owner reviews from popular websites like Reddit.
Specifications for Android phones, such as processor, RAM, storage, battery capacity, front and rear cameras, and warranties were obtained from official company websites
21. Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
Price: Starting from $309
Max Storage: Up to 128 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 108 MP Wide
8MP Ultra-wide
Missing the 5G feature but compensating for it in terms of price, Redmi Note 10 Pro is ranked at 21st on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. With a good battery life, and top-notch features of android it is quoted in reviews as ‘a fairly good phone’. The 120Hz OLED screen on the Redmi Note 10 Pro is rather attractive. It’s Snapdragon 732G processor delivers excellent gaming performance, and the phone has great speakers for the price it comes in.
With increasing mobile phone users, a diverse variety of smartphone manufacturing companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL), Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK), BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) are on the rise.
20. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE
Price: Starting from $349
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 32 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
For a very low price, the Galaxy S20 FE has a brilliant 120Hz display, superb cameras, and good performance. Samsung certainly targets younger customers with the Galaxy S20 FE. For starters, the 32MP selfie camera is sharper than the Galaxy S20’s front camera. The S20 FE is available in six different colors. It is 20th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
19. Samsung Galaxy Z-flip 3
Price: Starting from $349
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 12 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
A popular design released by Samsung in 2020, continues to perform well in 2021. Samsung strengthened the Flip 3’s frame with stronger aluminum, improved the hinge, and strengthened the screen with a new flexible PET protector. A major concern amongst buyers has been the sensitive flip screen but must reviews promise durability. Reddit communities have given the phone very positive reviews. The phone is ranked at 19th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
With increasing mobile phone users, a diverse variety of smartphone manufacturing companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL), Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK), BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) are on the rise.
18. Asus Zenfone 8
Price: Starting from $734
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 64 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
In comparison to the rest of the Android market, its 5.9-inch display is rather small, and its 120Hz refresh rate and Snapdragon 888 CPU make it seem fast and responsive to operate. The phone offers a good sleek design and decent storage however the battery life of the phone is not great. According to consumer reports and Reddit reviews, we have ranked the phone at 18th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
17. Xiaomi Poco F3
Price: Starting from $499
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 6 GB
Camera: 50 MP Wide
13 MP Ultra-wide
Starting with its gorgeous glass shell with a strong plastic frame, the Poco F3 is jam-packed with top-notch features. The Poco F3 is one of the first phones to use the improved Snapdragon 865 from last year. That’s the new Snapdragon 870, which is expected to be 10% quicker. When paired with the 1080p screen, the hardware should perform admirably in graphics-intensive applications as well. The phone is ranked at 17th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
16. Vivo X60 Pro
Price: Starting from $806
Max Storage: Upto 512 GB
RAM: 16 GB
Camera: 50 MP Wide
13 MP Ultra-wide
Vivo’s X60 Pro is a confident flagship that capitalises on its strengths: a gorgeous, lightweight design and a powerful primary camera. Wireless charging, an IP certification, and a top-tier processor aren’t included, but for many people, those are worthwhile trade-offs. It is ranked at 16th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
15. Sony Xperia 5III
Price: Starting from $586
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 12 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
Sony’s distinctive square shape, as seen on prior Xperia phones, is carried over to the Xperia 5 III. The Snapdragon 888 SoC in the Xperia 5 III allows for 5G connectivity. It a portable design sleek design that offers good battery life. It is 15th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
With increasing mobile phone users, a diverse variety of smartphone manufacturing companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL), Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK), BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) are on the rise.
14. Realme GT
Price: Starting from $586
Max Storage: Upto 128 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 108 MP Wide
13 MP Ultra-wide
The phone has the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, 65W wired charging, and a 120Hz Super AMOLED display. For the price, the phone offers latest android features but lacks top-notch camera that other android may have. It is ranked at 14th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
15. Xiaomi Mi 11
Price: Starting from $586
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8 GB
Camera: 108 MP Wide
13 MP Ultra-wide
The Xiaomi Mi 11 has a fantastic 6.81-inch 1440 x 3200 AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a quick wired and wireless charging battery. According to most reviwes however the batter life of the phone is less than ideal. The phone is ranked at 13th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
12. Oppo Find X3 Pro
Price: Starting from $1,177
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 12GB
Camera: 50 MP Wide
50 MP Ultra-wide
The high price of the phone has affected the ranking on consumer forums. It has all of the features you’d expect from a high-end phone, including a large, high-resolution, 120Hz screen, a top-of-the-line chipset. Oppo Find X3 Pro has plenty of RAM and a large battery that charges quickly (at 65W wired or 30W wireless). It is water resistance, and a premium build with a slightly more eye-catching camera block design than most. The phone is ranked 12th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
11. OnePlus Nord N200 5G
Price: Starting from $250
Max Storage: Upto 64 GB
RAM: 8GB
Camera: 13 MP Wide
16 MP Ultra-wide
The OnePlus Nord N200 5G is a budget friendly phone that features a large 90Hz display, 5G connectivity, and a long-lasting battery. It is 11th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021 based on reviews on multiple sites like Reddit and CNET.
Despite its large size, it’s thin and light enough to be held in one hand for long periods of time. The phone is waterproof which adds to the safety element. It is definitely a popular choice amongst budget friendly phones based on consumer reports.
10. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
Price: Starting from $1728
Max Storage: Upto 512 GB
RAM: 12GB
Camera: 12 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is a one-of-a-kind device. It’s the only big-screen folding phone in the United States. It can do things no other phone can, including play games, read PDFs, and create content in new ways. In 2019, the notion of large-screen folding phones was all the rage, but Samsung is the only manufacturer in the United States that continues to produce these designs. The phone had really positive reviews. The phone ranks at 10th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
9. Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
Price: Starting from $204
Max Storage: Upto 64 GB
RAM: 4GB
Camera: 48 MP Wide
8 MP Ultra-wide
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G with its handsome design, 5G C band technology, and long battery life is 9th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. This low-cost phone should keep you pleased for a long time thanks to Android updates and security patches. With the exception of the low-resolution display, the Galaxy A32 5G is a great bargain and a winner for budget-friendly 5G phones.
With increasing mobile phone users, a diverse variety of smartphone manufacturing companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL), Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK), BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB) and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) are on the rise.
8. Asus ROG Phone 5
Price: Starting from $99
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8GB
Camera: 12 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
Asus ROG Phone 5, often referred as the ultimate gaming phone is 8th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. With up to 16GB of RAM and the greatest Android CPU ever, the Snapdragon 888, the ROG Phone 5 provides uncompromising power. Everything about this phone, from the SoC location to the split battery for quicker 65W charging, is optimized for gaming. Based on Reddit reviews, the android phone stands out in the market.
7. Samsung Galaxy S21
Price: Starting from $99
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 8GB
Camera: 12 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is the phone for you if you’re tempted by some of the features Samsung has included in its Galaxy S21 series but turned off by the notion of $1,000 phones. With a slightly smaller design this is also a terrific phone to purchase if you want outstanding photographs and videos, thanks to an incredible zoom lens and wonderful software improvements.
From our research of Reddit communities and rating of consumer reports Samsung Galaxy S21 is ranked 7th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
6. Moto G power
Price: Starting from $219
Max storage: Upto 64 GB
RAM: 4GB
Camera: 16 MP Wide
118 MP Ultra-wide
The Moto G Power has been the phone you turn to in recent years if you want the very greatest battery life for an Android phone. On battery tests the Moto G Power (2021) has lasted more than 14 hours, which is almost 4 hours more than the typical smartphone. The Moto G power is the star in Motorola’s otherwise lack luster 2021 G-series lineup, with zippy performance, 5G connectivity, and a top-notch pen. In our research of an in-depth reviews on various forums like Reddit communities and CNET reviews the Moto G power is ranked at 6th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
With increasing mobile phone users, a diverse variety of smartphone manufacturing companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL), Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK), BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) are on the rise.
5. OnePlus 9
Price: Starting from $664.4
Max Storage: Upto 256 GB
RAM: 12GB
Camera: 48 MP Wide
50 MP Ultra-wide
OnePlus 9, although not as fancy as the Pro is still an excellent choice for the price it comes in. The OnePlus 9’s battery life is also impressive, lasting 10 hours and 51 minutes. The cameras are far better than those on the OnePlus 8T and previous OnePlus phones. With OnePlus 9 you can shoot more vibrant images with more accurate colors and dynamic range. The phone was very popular on Reddit forums and is 5th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
4. Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
Price: Starting from $619
Max Storage: Upto 512 GB
RAM: 12GB
Camera: 108 MP Wide
12 MP Ultra-wide
For those willing to buy an expensive phone, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is an excellent choice. It is 4th on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. Often used by users as a note taking device, Samsung has introduced the new note design with numerous S pen upgrades. The phone has a phenomenal camera and a mini game console for streaming Xbox games.
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra got great reviews on numerous Reddit communities.
3. Google Pixel 5a
Price: Starting from $699
Max Storage: 128 GB
RAM: 6GB
Camera: 12.2 MP Wide
16 MP Ultra-wide
With an excellent software experience, fair price and beautiful camera results, Google Pixel 5a is 3rd on our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. With the 5a, Google really nailed it by providing the largest battery yet in a Pixel. The Google Pixel 5a is one of the best Android phone under $500, with longer battery life, greater horsepower, and a second ultra-wide camera.
2. OnePlus 9 Pro
Price: Starting from $787
Max Storage: 256 GB
RAM: 8GB, 12GB
Camera: 48 MP Wide
50 MP Ultra-wide
OnePlus 9 Pro (ticker) is second at the top of our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021. The model has secured numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers on a number of different forums like Reddit, Tech Radar and CNET. Mostly popular for its fast processor and excellent camera quality. The 48MP primary camera produces stunning images with realistic color tones and a wide dynamic range. The 50MP ultra-wide sensor is massive and captures just as much information as the 35MP sensor.
The OnePlus 9 Pro received three highly recommended accolades as well as the quickest charging phone award.
1. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Price: Starting from $449
Max Storage: 256 GB
Processor: 2.9 GHz max. CPU speed Octa-Core
Camera: 108MP Wide
12MP Ultra-wide
If you don’t mind paying more than $1,000 on your next phone, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is the one to grab. Samsung (ticker) has packed an unbelievable number of luxury features into its newest flagship, the S21 Ultra. With a 6.8 inch display Samsung’s new model brings incredibly fast processing power in the market. The refresh rate ranges automatically scales between 10Hz to 120Hz. The S21 Ultra has two telephoto lenses that let you capture an incredible level of information when you zoom in, as well as additional software-driven photo capabilities.
Based on the consumer review reports and an in-depth analysis of reddit reviews, Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is at the top of our list of 21 Best Android Phones for 2021.
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