Skip the 2026 Smartphone: 5 Classic Android Models Worth Considering

The current RAM shortage is causing prices for many new Android smartphones to soar in 2026. However, some manufacturers are opting for minimal upgrades compared to previous models, and even in these cases, costs have risen.

In light of this, one might argue that this year is particularly favorable for purchasing last year’s devices rather than the latest versions. If you’re skeptical, here are five older smartphones that stand out as worthwhile alternatives to the newer offerings.

Which older smartphone would you choose in 2026?

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The Galaxy S25 emerges as one of the best older options available in 2026, especially when considering the price of the Galaxy S26. The newer model has increased its base storage from 128GB to 256GB, while also raising its price to $900. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 was initially priced at $800 for the 128GB version and $850 for the 256GB model. This means you would pay an additional $50 for the same storage capacity with the newer phone.

Opting for the S25 doesn’t mean you’re compromising much; it still houses a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, retains the triple rear camera setup found in the Galaxy S22, and uses the same 25W wired charging, which some may find slow. Additionally, the S25’s smaller size compared to the S26 may appeal to those preferring compact devices.

Currently, the Galaxy S25 can be found at a reasonable price. Though Samsung’s website lists the original price of $800, the global model can be acquired for about $700 on various platforms. This essentially allows users to gain 95% of the S26’s features for a savings of $200.

Launched at $500, the Moto G Stylus (2026) is $100 more expensive than the previous year’s model. For that extra cost, you mainly receive an active stylus, a brighter display, a slightly larger battery, and a somewhat dubious IP69 rating—nothing to write home about.

Beyond that, both versions share the same Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, as well as identical wired and wireless charging speeds and camera specs. They are also available in 8GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB configurations, with both models still featuring a microSD slot and headphone jack.

While finding the 128GB version of the Moto G Stylus 2025 can be a challenge, the 256GB model remains attractively priced at around $350. Although Motorola may not have the best reputation for long-term updates on budget devices, the Moto G Stylus serves as a solid no-frills choice for users wanting a stylus.

Despite the introduction of the $500 Pixel 10a, which defies the escalating prices driven by RAM constraints, it doesn’t bring many upgrades compared to the Pixel 9a.

The differences are subtle; both phones are equipped with a capable Tensor G4 processor, a 5,100mAh battery, a 6.3-inch OLED display, a dual rear camera system (48MP+13MP), IP68 water resistance, and wireless charging. The new model does offer slightly faster charging, upgraded Gorilla Glass, and a brighter screen, but the improvements are minimal.

What’s particularly appealing about the Pixel 9a is that it can often be found for around $440, allowing buyers to save some money for accessories or simply keep it in their pocket.

The recently reviewed Galaxy A57 5G received criticism for its lack of significant upgrades over the A56 5G. With the newer version beginning at $550, it does make the older model’s launch price of $500 seem quite advantageous. The A56 can also be found for approximately $400 on suppliers, especially suitable for T-Mobile customers.

The Galaxy A56 5G features a 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging, an IP67 rating, and promises six years of OS updates. While some aspects like the chipset and secondary cameras left room for improvement, the A57 fails to enhance those features as well, making the older model a sensible buy.

This recommendation stands out as the $699 Motorola Razr (2025) is priced $100 less than its successor, and it can even be found for around $599 on major platforms.

The 2026 Razr does come with some enhancements including a higher-resolution ultrawide camera and a larger battery but its core specifications remain largely the same. The advantage of 256GB of internal storage in the 2025 model compared to the new version’s 128GB also adds to the appeal of the older model.

Given the similar features, including the same IP48 rating and charging abilities, opting for the previous Razr model appears to be a wise decision.