CNET Adds 3 Phones to Best Phones 2026 List as iPhone 17 Keeps Top Spot

3 articles · Updated · CNET · Aug 29

CNET added three devices to its Best Phones 2026 rankings in August: Google’s $899 Pixel 11, the $1,899 Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Samsung’s $1,900 Galaxy Z Fold 8.
The new picks target distinct niches rather than the overall crown: the Pixel 11 as an iPhone-to-Android bridge, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold for durability with IP68 protection, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 for content viewing on a 7.6-inch inner screen.
CNET still names the $829 iPhone 17 the best phone for most people, citing Pro-level features at a lower price, including a 1-120Hz display, 48-megapixel ultrawide camera and longer battery life.
The broader list spans premium and budget options from Apple, Samsung and Google, with prices running from the $499 Pixel 10A to the $1,300 Galaxy S26 Ultra and foldables near $1,900.
The update comes as foldables remain a niche segment, though CNET notes Apple is expected to unveil a foldable iPhone that could widen interest in the category.