As specialists in Android devices, we don’t always recommend rushing to buy the latest flagship model. Instead, we’ve consistently believed that opting for a generation or two older can often provide the best value. This notion feels particularly pertinent as we enter 2026, where escalating smartphone prices make older Android models—often closely resembling their newer versions—a wise choice. Thus, we sought to discover which previous-generation phone our readers would choose.
In a recent survey, we asked our audience to pick the best older Android phones worth considering over a new model for 2026. My colleague Hadlee compiled a list that included the Samsung Galaxy S25, Motorola Moto G Stylus 2025, Google Pixel 9a, Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, and the Motorola Razr 2025. Each of these devices suggests that it’s possible to find a great phone without springing for the latest version. So, which phone came out on top?
According to the results, the Samsung Galaxy S25 emerged victorious, securing 28.8% of the votes from over 2,000 respondents. However, it wasn’t a landslide victory, with the Google Pixel 9a trailing closely at 25.6%. Following them, the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G garnered 15.7%, while the Motorola Moto G Stylus 2025 received 14.6%, and the Motorola Razr 2025 accounted for 9.2% of the votes. The remaining 6% featured other suggestions that we will discuss shortly.
The top two picks have clear and distinct reasons for their popularity. The Galaxy S25 serves as a direct alternative for those loyal to the Samsung brand, providing a remarkably similar experience to the Galaxy S26 without the added cost. On the other hand, the Pixel 9a represents a more budget-friendly option, coming in about $200 cheaper than the S26 on various platforms. Notably, it remains competitively priced compared to the upcoming Pixel 10a, presenting users with several appealing options from Google.
We found it surprising that the Razr 2025 received significantly less attention, despite our enthusiastic reviews of the device. It appears that even when foldable phones become more financially appealing, many consumers still prefer the traditional smartphone design.
During the poll, we also invited readers to suggest alternatives, leading to various recommendations beyond the latest Android models. One user, Aidanleon99, noted that the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra “fulfills the average user’s needs for around 500 euros,” emphasizing that it delivers 95% of the S26’s functionality at a fraction of the price. Other users contributed unique finds, such as one who scored a well-preserved HONOR Magic 6 Pro for roughly 350 (presumably USD) and another who purchased a new Sony Xperia 5 IV from China for £323.
Some respondents also voiced skepticism about the need for frequent upgrades. Rusty Harris bluntly remarked, “If your old phone isn’t damaged, there’s no need to upgrade every year.” A few others questioned the options presented in the poll, proposing alternatives like the OnePlus 13 and arguing that the Galaxy S25 series still feels relatively new. This point is valid but underscores Hadlee’s assertion that a 2026 model is not an absolute necessity.
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