Best 5G phones Android Central 2021
Everyone must commit to new technology. 5G is no longer a marketing buzzword. To put it another way, you will need to search for the best 5G phones in order to ensure your future security. This year, 5G-capable smartphones will be available on the market thanks to a lot of support from both smartphone companies and carriers. Although 5G is not yet available everywhere, these 5G phones are among the most popular. However, if you live somewhere with a 5G network, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is our top choice.
Source: Hayato Huseman / Android Central
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is the 2021's first flagship. It will be very difficult for any company to replace the S21 Ultra as the best Android phone of the year. This is a great example of how Samsung has done it right. It all begins with the display. The S21 Ultra boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic MOLED panel with a maximum resolution of 3200x1440. The display can be run in Quad HD mode with a 120Hz refresh rate, unlike last year's S20 Ultra. The Galaxy S21 Ultra's display is one of the best available. Another big attraction of the S21 Ultra's camera system is its 108MP primary sensor, 12MP wide one, and two 10MP Telephoto cameras. One offers 3x optical zoom, the other allows you to zoom in 10x. The Galaxy S21 Ultra is a great example of Samsung's outstanding camera packages. It has stunning colors and excellent detail. The other specs are equally impressive. You can get amazing performance with the Snapdragon 888 and 12-16GB RAM. The 5,000 mAh battery means you won't have to suffer from battery anxiety. And you can use the S Pen to make the S21 Ultra a Galaxy Note. The Galaxy S21 Ultra supports 5G Sub-6 and mmWave. Pros: Elegant, sleek design
Quad HD Display at 120Hz
The Snapdragon 888 delivers exceptional performance
Top-of-the-line camera system
5G support available for all carriers
No MST for Samsung Pay
Best alternative: OnePlus 9 Pro 5G
Source: Apoorva Bhardwaj/ Android Central
The OnePlus 9 Pro is as stunning and elegant as any high-end smartphone. It doesn't change the OnePlus model, which is something you should know if you are familiar with OnePlus phones. It extends the OnePlus formula to its natural place in the 2021 world of flagships, with more features at a higher price. It's as good as any smartphone out there and features the best display OnePlus ever made. It is bright and colorful with a 120Hz refresh speed. The inside has exceptional specs. This leads to incredible performance due to the ultra-smooth OxygenOS Software. It's simply amazing. With a new main sensor, the 9 Pro brings the best camera experience to OnePlus phones. This is a result of the company's partnership to Hasselblad, a leading camera manufacturer. Although the camera experience is inferior to the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the 9 Pro's overall quality is still superior. It's also cheaper. This is where the 9 Pro comes in. The OnePlus 9 Pro is a flagship experience from top to bottom for a fraction of the price of traditional brands. Fortunately, the OnePlus 9 Pro compensates for the 8 Pro's greatest weakness, mmWave support. The 9 Pro supports both Sub-6 and 5G MMWave connectivity. This will work on T-Mobile and AT&T as well as Verizon. Pros: Large, beautiful 120Hz display
Hasselblad-tuned cameras
Battery life is excellent
OxygenOS is the best-in-class Android software
Wireless charging and IP68 rating
Cons of Sub-6 and mmWave support: Expensive
Sub-par battery life
Best alternative OnePlus 9 Pro5G - Morning Mist An excellent phone with better 5G compatibility, the OnePlus 9 Pro is a well-designed phone. It doesn't break new ground in any way. Amazon: $970
$970 on Best Buy
Best value flagship: Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
Source: Hayato Huseman / Android Central
There are many options available right now. But Samsung might have the best option with the Galaxy S20 FE. Samsung's Galaxy S20+ has all the top features and specs, but it finally offers a flat-screen device that many have been waiting for. Even though curved displays are beautiful, they have a hard time detecting palms and can result in more accidental touches than any other device. Samsung has also integrated the 120Hz refresh rate to make sure that everything on the S20FE is smooth. The S20FE's price is high so Samsung has to make some compromises. That's why the plastic material is important. This can reduce the risk of the back glass panel cracking if dropped accidentally and also gives you six different colors to choose. The Galaxy S20 FE has 5G connectivity that is sub-6 GHz. However, those who wish to use Verizon 5G will be disappointed. The standard unlocked version on Amazon and Best Buy will not have this feature because Verizon uses Ultra-Wideband (mmWave). To get the Samsung Galaxy S20FE 5G UW model, you will need to contact Verizon directly. We are still unsure why Samsung includes a 15W charger inside the box. You will need a compatible charger to charge the Galaxy S20 FE. However, it can charge at speeds of up to 25W. Although the 1080p resolution of this 6.5-inch screen may not be the best, the improved battery life and 120Hz refresh rate will compensate. Pros: 120Hz flat display
Six colors to choose
Refreshing is possible with plastic construction
Triple camera system
5G connectivity available to all carriers. Cons: Ships with a 15W charging cable
1080p display
No headphone jack
Verizon is the only company that offers the mmWave version
Samsung Galaxy S20FE 5G is the best value flagship Samsung Galaxy S20+ - Cloud Navy Samsung has hit a home run with its Galaxy S20FE. With many of the same specs and features as the Galaxy S20+ the FE is an excellent option for anyone who doesn't have the budget. Amazon: $700
$700 on Best Buy
$700 on B&H Photo
Best cheap 5G phone: OnePlus Nord N10 5G
Source: OnePlus
OnePlus Nord N10 5G is OnePlus's latest flagship phone. It allows OnePlus to expand its reach into the affordable smartphone market. The N10 5G is not a perfect phone, but it is a great deal for those who want a 5G phone at a low price. OnePlus managed to provide some impressive specs for the N10 5G despite it being so affordable. The Snapdragon 690 processor is paired with 6GB RAM to provide solid performance for most tasks. The Snapdragon 690 can also support Sub-6 5G connectivity. However, you won't find any mmWave support. Other specifications include 128GB expandable storage, a 4,300mAh battery, and even an 3.5mm headphone socket. The N10 5G's quad camera system takes average pictures. However, the N10 5G's design is not going to win any design awards. This is all there are to it, which is impressive considering the Nord N105G's $300 price tag. The 90Hz refresh rate is smooth and buttery smooth
Excellent performance
Reliable 4,300 mAh battery
Headphone jack
Great price Cons: Average cameras
Cheap plastic design
The best 5G phone OnePlus Nord 5G - Midnight Ice 5G is affordable Amazon has the OnePlus Nord N105G, which is exactly what you are looking for.
Best Buy: $300
B&H: $300
Google Pixel 5a 5G is the best mid-range phone
Source: Ara Wagoner / Android Central
The Pixel 5a with 5G is worth looking at if you like the OnePlus Nord N10 5G and have a little more money. It might not be the most popular smartphone of 2021 but it is one of the best 5G phones available. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G powers the Pixel 5a with 5G. It has a truly outstanding performance, according to our tests. Although it may not be as powerful as the 865+ and 888, it is fast enough to handle almost any task. The Pixel 5a with 5G has 6GB RAM, 128GB storage and a huge 4,680 mAh battery, which is the most powerful ever for a Pixel phone. The Pixel 5a with 5G has a great camera system. It is identical to the Pixel 5. Although the 12.2MP primary camera is not very impressive, it produces stunning photos every time you press shutter. The 5G situation is a little clunky. Unlocked Pixel 5a with 5G speeds is limited to Sub-6 speeds and no plans for a variant with mmWave. The pros: Incredible cameras
Snapdragon 765G is reliable and fast
The AMOLED display is a great option
Battery life is excellent
IP67 Water and dust resistance
Three years of timely updates Cons : No mmWave Model
Display only 60Hz
Google Pixel 5a 5G is the best mid-range 5G phone. It's a cheaper option to flagship 5G phones. The Pixel 5a 5G is a great budget phone that works with 5G networks. Get your phone starting at $449 from the Google Store
Best small 5G phone: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Source: Hayato Huseman / Android Central
Although the Galaxy S21 Ultra is an amazing Android phone, some buyers may find it too expensive or large. We also have the standard Galaxy S21, which is a smaller and cheaper option. Although the Galaxy S21 is not the smallest phone available, it's still a refreshingly small device compared to other phones. The S21's 6.2-inch AMOLED screen gives you plenty of space for all your activities. Thanks to its small bezels, lightweight plastic design, and the large display, it is very comfortable to use in everyday life. The Snapdragon 888 processor is at the heart of the S21. It offers top-notch performance and support for Sub-6 as well as mmWave5G. The S21 also comes with 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and a 4,000mAh battery which allows for a good, but not great, battery life. The Galaxy S20 FE is still the most affordable phone, especially when on sale. However, the Galaxy S21 is a great choice for those who want a smaller phone with the 5G support and speed of the Snapdragon 888. Pros: New design looks great
Beautiful 120Hz display
Same processor as S21 Ultra
Excellent cameras
Average battery life for sub-6 and mmWave 5G Cons
Best 5G flip phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G
Source: Daniel Bader / Android Central
LG's exit from the smartphone market means that you have limited options for dual-screen smartphones. Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 3 foldable phone offers the best form factor and 5G connectivity. The Z Flip 3 may not seem like much, but the incremental improvements make it more useful. It has a hinge, outer glass, and display that have been redesigned to be stronger than ever. Also, it is now IPX8 waterproof for the first-ever time. The external display is larger and easier to use, with flagship-grade cameras and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor. You get Sub-6 and mmWave speeds on the 5G side. This means that no matter what network you are using, you will get the fastest speeds. This phone can be slippery so take care. Before you take your phone out in the real world, do yourself a favor by buying a good case. Pros: Gorgeous design
Larger cover display
Amazing cameras
Support for sub-6 and mmWave
Water resistance IPX8
Pros: Telephoto cameras are more durable than ever
Super slippery
Best foldable 5G phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G
Source: Nick Sutrich / Android Central
When it comes to the Galaxy Z Fold 3, where do you begin? The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is almost like the original Galaxy Fold or the Fold 2 were from a different lineup. It's amazing from all angles. You can use the Cover Screen to fill almost all of the front, and by unfolding it you get a 7.6 inch tablet that's far more useful than you might think. It now supports the S Pen, which makes it an excellent note-taking and doodling device. Although the camera system is not as good as the Galaxy S21 Ultra's, it is still superior to many other smartphones. Samsung has made some tweaks to its software to allow you to take full advantage, even though Google is still working out how foldable devices should be handled. This smartphone is the Ferrari of smartphones, with the Snapdragon 888, 12GB RAM, 256GB, or 512GB onboard storage, all-day battery and 5G connectivity. With an improved hinge, display and stronger glass, the Z Fold 3 is the strongest fold yet. It also has IPX8 water resistance. The phone has 512GB of storage onboard, which may not be sufficient for some users, but it's still "too bad" because you won't have the ability to use the best microSD card with this device. The phone is durable and water resistant to IPX8.
S Pen compatibility
Amazing cameras and great performance
The best thing about Flex mode is the lack of built-in storage to store your S Pen
It is still evident that the folding crease is present
There is no microSD card slot
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G Phone - Phantom Black Best 5G Smartphone for People Who Want to Live in the Future Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G Phone makes it feel like you're living in the future. It has incredible specs and a great design. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G - Phantom Black - Starting at $1,800
Amazon: Starting at $1,600
Best Buy: Starting at $1,500
Verizon's best: Motorola Edge 2021
Source: Nick Sutrich / Android Central
Motorola has seen its fair share in the past when it comes down to making the best Android phones. The company's latest Edge model, the Motorola Edge 2021 is offering a premium 5G experience for a low price. The Edge 2021 is more value-oriented than the Edge+ in 2020, but it still offers a lot of value. It comes with the Qualcomm Snapdragon778G chipset. This means that it can be used on both Sub-6 networks and mmWave networks such as Verizon and T-Mobile. The main camera sensor is 108MP and it can be paired with macro or ultra-wide lenses. The selfie camera is 32MP. It has a 6.8 inch LCD screen with a refresh rate of 144Hz and, thankfully, a flat panel. Motorola claims that the phone is IP52-certified as water repellent. The Edge ships with Android 11, but will receive at least two major OS updates as well as bi-monthly security upgrades for at least two more years. Motorola phones are so enjoyable to use that you get little extras. Pros: A beautiful display with a 144Hz refresh rate
32 MP primary and 108 MP selfie cameras
Great battery life.
LCD over OLED
No wireless charging support
Verizon Motorola Edge 2021 Best Buy The Motorola Edge 2-21 is a great choice for Verizon customers. It features both 5G spectrums and beautiful design. Amazon: $700
$700 on Best Buy
For Pixel lovers, this is the best option
Source: Hayato Huseman / Android Central
After being lambasted for the poor battery life of the Pixel 4, 2020 was a strange year for Google. The 4 and 4 XL's only salvation was the amazing camera system. This allows you to point your phone at the night sky and take pictures of the constellations. Google's Pixel 5 is the result of this miraculous camera system. The handset comes with all the specifications you would expect for a smartphone costing less than $1,000. The Snapdragon 765G offers great performance and 5G connectivity. Google's brilliant decision to use aluminum unibody while still allowing wireless charging is amazing. The Pixel 5 has an ultra-wide secondary camera, instead of the telephoto lens on the Pixel 4 XL and 4 XL. A Pixel gives you three years of platform upgrades and the latest version Android as soon it becomes available. Google has learned from its mistakes and included a larger battery in the Pixel 5 to support smooth scrolling and gaming. The Pixel 5 is a joy to use. The Pixel 5 is smaller than other flagships. Google's unique take on Android is packed with useful features. Its $700 price tag makes it more affordable than the S21 Ultra. Pros: Aluminum unibody
Qi wireless charging
90Hz refresh rate
Pixel 4 has the same great camera
3 years of software updates
Limited global availability
Google Pixel 5 – Just Black - Best choice for Pixel lovers Google Pixel 5 – The 2020 flagship of Google is a stunning handset that boasts Google's software, camera and hardware prowess. Amazon: $699
