The best smartphones for beginners — ranking July 2026
We selected 5 smartphones to compare around one clear goal: simple, predictable results. List price is not enough; daily use, ownership costs and features that genuinely change the experience matter more.
ⓘ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices may change — the price shown on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Re-sort the ranking
Xiaomi
Redmi Note 14 Pro+
The most complete pick in this shortlist
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋High score for prestazioni
- ＋Balanced result for compatibilità
- ＋Competitive indicative price for qualità-prezzo
✗ Cons
- －Check dimensions and included accessories before buying
- －Price and availability can change quickly
⚖ Verdict
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro+ deserves attention when your priorities match the criteria where it performs best. Compare it with the top pick before paying a premium.
Samsung
Galaxy A56
The smartest compromise
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋High score for prestazioni
- ＋Balanced result for compatibilità
- ＋Competitive indicative price for qualità-prezzo
✗ Cons
- －Check dimensions and included accessories before buying
- －Price and availability can change quickly
⚖ Verdict
Samsung Galaxy A56 deserves attention when your priorities match the criteria where it performs best. Compare it with the top pick before paying a premium.
Pixel 9a
An alternative worth matching to your needs
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋High score for prestazioni
- ＋Balanced result for compatibilità
- ＋Competitive indicative price for qualità-prezzo
✗ Cons
- －Check dimensions and included accessories before buying
- －Price and availability can change quickly
⚖ Verdict
Google Pixel 9a deserves attention when your priorities match the criteria where it performs best. Compare it with the top pick before paying a premium.
Motorola
Edge 60 Pro
An alternative worth matching to your needs
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋High score for prestazioni
- ＋Balanced result for compatibilità
- ＋Competitive indicative price for qualità-prezzo
✗ Cons
- －Check dimensions and included accessories before buying
- －Price and availability can change quickly
⚖ Verdict
Motorola Edge 60 Pro deserves attention when your priorities match the criteria where it performs best. Compare it with the top pick before paying a premium.
Nothing
Phone (3)
An alternative worth matching to your needs
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋High score for prestazioni
- ＋Balanced result for compatibilità
- ＋Competitive indicative price for qualità-prezzo
✗ Cons
- －Check dimensions and included accessories before buying
- －Price and availability can change quickly
⚖ Verdict
Nothing Phone (3) deserves attention when your priorities match the criteria where it performs best. Compare it with the top pick before paying a premium.
📖 PREXO · 1 min read
Buying guide
What to compare first
To choose smartphones for simple, predictable results, start with real use rather than the longest spec sheet. We weigh performance, practical use, running costs, maintenance and value. The winner is not automatically the most expensive model; it is the one that does the important jobs well every week.
Check what an offer headline leaves out: included accessories, warranty, footprint and wear-part costs. They only look like small details before you buy.
Mistakes that waste money
- Buying the highest single specification without knowing whether you will use it.
- Picking the cheapest model and discovering essential extras later.
- Ignoring size, noise or compatibility with equipment you already own.
- Mistaking lots of features for one feature that actually improves your day.
Choose two priorities before shopping, then use the rest as tie-breakers.
Common questions
How many options should I compare?
Five is enough for a focused purchase. We show ten when the market has genuinely good options across several price bands.
Is it worth waiting for a deal?
Yes, when you do not need the item immediately. Watch price history and ignore discounts built on an inflated list price.
How should I read PREXO scores?
Every score is split by criterion. An average can hide the trade-off, so open the bars and choose the product that is strongest at what matters to you.