This piece is currently out of date. Please read Best Android Phones, Best iPhone, or Best Cheap Phones for more up-to-date guidance.

It's a great year to buy a smartphone. These days, even midrange phones are great, so it’s hard to go horribly awry if you’re browsing devices at your local retailer. Especially if you're looking at devices over $500, you're almost guaranteed to find good cameras, fast processors, and gorgeous screens. At the same time, phones have never been more expensive, and there are a lot of small pitfalls you can run into, especially if you’re trying to buy a phone that will last you two or three years.

No matter why you’re here, we hope this guide helps. We’ve picked the best smartphones for both major platforms and have a bunch of tips to help you make the best choice possible. Be sure to read our list of the best cheap phones and best tablets as well. Happy phone hunting!

Updated on Aug. 27, 2018: We've updated this list, adding and removing several devices.

1. The Best Overall

Google

(Works on all four networks)

There are a lot of good reasons people may choose iOS over Android, but Google’s Pixel 2 and larger Pixel 2 XL are our picks for best overall smartphone. Google has made it super easy to buy its flagship phones unlocked, and all Pixel phones get security and software updates like clockwork. We gave the phone a 9/10 and our WIRED Recommends seal of approval when we reviewed it. We believe it represents the absolute best that Google’s Android operating system has to offer, with the latest Android Pie features, no bloatware, and an industry-leading 12-megapixel camera that's a stunner.

The only major downsides are the lack of a MicroSD card for extra storage and no 3.5 mm headphone jack, though that is sadly absent from many top phones these days.

Note: The Pixel 3 is likely coming out in September or October, which will reduce the price of this model.

Buy Pixel 2 from the Google Store or Verizon

Accessories we like: durable case, clear case, fabric case

2. The iPhone To Buy