All-Time Favorite Android Phones: Iconic Picks
Across a decade of Android history, a handful of models stand out as genuine all-time favorites: the Nexus 5, Samsung Galaxy S7/S7 Edge, OnePlus 3T, Google Pixel 2 XL, and the Galaxy Note 4. These phones earned their status through a mix of design, performance, camera quality, and software updates that defined their eras. Below, we explore why these devices remain beloved, what made them special, and how they shaped the Android landscape.
What Makes an Android Phone a “Favorite�?
A favorite Android phone is more than just a spec sheet. It’s the device that felt right in the hand, took photos that delighted, or introduced a feature that became standard. Common traits include:
- Timeless design – Materials and ergonomics that still look and feel good years later.
- Reliable performance – Smooth daily use without constant lag or crashes.
- Great camera – Photos that rivaled or beat the competition at launch.
- Software support – Timely updates and a clean, useful interface.
- Value – Offering flagship features at a more accessible price.
The Nexus Era: Pure Android and Developer Love
Google’s Nexus line was the original “pure Android� experience. The Nexus 5 (2013) is often cited as the pinnacle of the series. It combined a 4.95-inch 1080p display, a Snapdragon 800 processor, and 2GB of RAM in a soft-touch plastic body that weighed just 130 grams. It launched with Android 4.4 KitKat and received updates to Android 6.0 Marshmallow, a rarity for devices of that era. Its camera was mediocre, but its stock software, fast updates, and $349 starting price made it a developer and enthusiast favorite.
The Nexus 6P (2015), made by Huawei, was the last Nexus. It introduced a better camera and a metal body, but its battery and build issues have aged poorly. Still, it’s remembered for its front-facing speakers and the first fingerprint scanner on a Nexus.
Samsung’s Peak: Galaxy S7 and Note 4
Samsung’s Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge (2016) are frequently called the best phones Samsung ever made. They refined the S6’s glass-and-metal design, added a microSD card slot and IP68 water resistance, and introduced a brilliant 12MP camera with large 1.4µm pixels. The S7 Edge’s curved display was a showpiece, and the battery life was solid. The S7 series also received updates through Android 8.0 Oreo, and its camera remained competitive for two years.
The Galaxy Note 4 (2014) is a legend among stylus users. It offered a 5.7-inch QHD Super AMOLED display, a removable battery, and an improved S Pen with pressure sensitivity. Its camera was excellent for its time, and it was one of the last Note models with a removable battery. Many users kept it for years, and it became a symbol of productivity.
OnePlus: The Flagship Killer
OnePlus built its reputation on offering near-flagship specs at lower prices. The OnePlus 3T (2016) is often the favorite among the brand’s fans. It had a Snapdragon 821, 6GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and a 3400mAh battery with Dash Charge (fast charging). Its camera was improved over the OnePlus 3, and its near-stock OxygenOS was fast and clean. The 3T received updates to Android 9 Pie, which was generous for a phone that started on Android 6.0.
The OnePlus 7 Pro (2019) is another favorite, known for its notchless, 90Hz QHD display and pop-up camera. It was a bold design that many still praise, though its bulk and lack of wireless charging kept it from perfection.
Google Pixel: The Camera King
The Pixel 2 XL (2017) is arguably the most beloved Pixel. Its design was plain, but its camera was revolutionary. Using a single 12.2MP sensor and Google’s computational photography (HDR+ and Portrait Mode), it produced photos that beat dual-camera rivals. It also received three years of guaranteed updates and introduced the first “Active Edge� squeeze for Google Assistant. Its screen had issues (blue shift, burn-in), but the camera and software made it a favorite.
The Pixel 5 (2020) is also loved for its compact size, excellent battery life, and the return of a fingerprint sensor. It traded the flagship processor for a mid-range Snapdragon 765G, but that was fine for most users, and it offered a more affordable price.
How to Choose a Favorite Today
If you’re looking for a phone that might become your all-time favorite, consider what matters most to you:
- Camera – Look for large sensors, good low-light performance, and reliable processing. Google’s Pixel series and Samsung’s Ultra models are strong choices.
- Software updates – Pixel and Samsung offer 7 years of updates on recent flagships. Long-term support is key to a lasting favorite.
- Build quality – Metal and glass feel premium, but plastic can be lighter and more durable. Check for IP ratings if you need water resistance.
- Battery life – Look for a battery capacity above 4000mAh and efficient processors. Fast charging is a plus.
- Value – Mid-range phones like the Pixel 7a or Samsung Galaxy A54 offer great features without flagship prices.
Common Problems with Older Favorites
Even the best phones have issues. The Nexus 5’s camera was poor in low light. The Galaxy S7’s battery degraded over time, and the glass back was fragile. The Pixel 2 XL’s screen had color and burn-in issues. OnePlus 3T’s camera was inconsistent. If you buy an older favorite today, be prepared for:
- No more software updates – Security risks and app incompatibility.
- Battery replacement – Often necessary after 2-3 years.
- Slower performance – Newer apps may be heavy.
- Lack of 5G – Not a dealbreaker for many, but worth noting.
The Legacy of These Phones
These favorites didn’t just sell well; they pushed the industry forward. The Nexus 5 proved that stock Android could be fast and affordable. The Galaxy S7 showed that a great camera and water resistance could be mainstream. The OnePlus 3T demonstrated that “flagship killer� was a viable business model. The Pixel 2 XL proved that computational photography could beat hardware. And the Note 4 cemented the stylus as a productivity tool. Their influence is visible in today’s phones, from the focus on camera software to the promise of longer updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Android phone of all time?
There’s no single answer, but the Galaxy S7 and Pixel 2 XL are the most commonly cited in enthusiast forums. The S7 for its design and camera, the Pixel 2 XL for its software and camera. Both received multiple major updates and are still usable today.
Are old Android phones safe to use in 2025?
Not really. Without security updates, they’re vulnerable to known exploits. If you must use one, avoid banking apps and don’t install apps from unknown sources. Consider a newer budget phone for safety.
Which Android phone has the best camera ever?
In its time, the Pixel 2 XL was unbeatable. Today, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google Pixel 8 Pro are top contenders, but the Pixel 2 XL’s impact on computational photography is unmatched.
Is the OnePlus 3T still good in 2025?
It’s outdated. The Snapdragon 821 is slow for modern apps, and it’s stuck on Android 9. It’s only for nostalgic use, not daily driving.
Why do people love the Galaxy Note 4?
It had a removable battery, microSD slot, and an excellent S Pen. It was a productivity powerhouse that many users kept for years. Its design was also ahead of its time.
What should I look for in a modern “favorite� phone?
Prioritize software updates (7 years is ideal), a good camera with computational features, a long-lasting battery, and a design you enjoy. Don’t just chase specs; think about how you’ll use it daily.
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