Best phone in the US for 2019: the top 15 smartphones we've tested

The best phone of 2019 in the US is an expensive investment, whether it comes from Samsung, Apple or Google. A lot of these smartphone prices start at $1,000, so you'll want to take your decision seriously. That's why we're here to help guide you.

Today's best phone has a big screen, yet is easy to handle, a camera capable enough to replace a point-and-shoot, and enough horsepower and battery to get work done while you're mobile. You won't find smartphones with slowdown and anything less than all-day battery life on this list.

Tomorrow's top smartphone? That'll probably be a 5G phone, like the Galaxy S10 5G, and then, eventually, a foldable phone with 5G, starting with the Huawei Mate X and Samsung Galaxy Fold. But foldable phones are unproven and 5G in the US isn't in enough cities around the country to recommend. Our list will remain practical.

Why we have more than a No. 1 pick: We have a top pick, but not everyone looks for the same smartphone features. Some will demand iOS 13 and cling to Apple's iMessage, while others will want customizations and Google Assistant tools available in Android Q beta. Our phone reviews and best phone list reflect that diversity. 

Likewise, your contract with AT&T, Verizon, Sprint or T-Mobile is a preference. The best phone for AT&T may not be available on-contract on Verizon, and vice-versa. While we've seen more unlocked phones in the US in 2019, not all are available for every carrier. We have to take that into account when recommending phones, and we favor those that are completely unlocked or available on the four major carriers.

Our pick for best phone isn't just crowning the newest iPhone and calling it a day, though our list does have a lot of familiar names: Apple, Samsung, Google and LG, all in the top 15. Newer companies in the US like Huawei and OnePlus make the list, too, though their limited availability is noted.

The best phone on our list on sale right now

Before we get to our official best phone list below, we mentioned that phones are expensive, so we're updating our list of the best prices for each of the top phones mentioned among the 15 – when they're lower than usual. The iPhone sits at a constant price, typically. Here's how you can save on your purchase.

1. Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus

A big phone with a few new features

Release date: March 2019 | Weight: 175g / 198g (ceramic) | Dimensions: 157.6 x 74.1 x 7.8mm | OS: Android Pie | Screen size: 6.4-inch | Resolution: 3040×1440 | CPU: Snapdragon 855 | RAM: 8/12GB | Storage: 128/512GB/1TB (up to 1.5TB with card) | Battery: 4,100mAh | Rear camera: 12MP + 12MP + 16MP | Front camera: 10MP + 8MP