It’s a battle royale in the smartphone arena, with the biggest names in tech vying for your attention (and your hard-earned cash). But which phone reigns supreme in 2016? We’re putting the top contenders head-to-head to help you decide which device deserves a place in your pocket.
The Heavyweight Champions:
- iPhone 7 Plus: Apple’s latest flagship boasts a dual-lens camera, water resistance, and a powerful new processor.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Samsung’s curved-screen beauty offers a stunning display, expandable storage, and a top-notch camera.
- Google Pixel XL: Google’s first foray into phone hardware delivers a pure Android experience, a stellar camera, and Google Assistant integration.
Round 1: Design and Display
- iPhone 7 Plus: Sleek and stylish with a premium feel, but the lack of a headphone jack is controversial.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: The curved display is a head-turner, and the water-resistant design is a plus.
- Google Pixel XL: A minimalist design with a premium build, but it lacks the “wow” factor of the S7 Edge.
Round 2: Camera
- iPhone 7 Plus: The dual-lens camera with optical zoom and Portrait mode is a game-changer for mobile photography.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Excellent low-light performance and fast autofocus make it a strong contender.
- Google Pixel XL: Delivers stunning image quality and boasts the highest DxOMark score yet.
Round 3: Performance
- iPhone 7 Plus: The A10 Fusion chip is blazing fast, making multitasking and gaming a breeze.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Powerful performance with the Snapdragon 820 processor (or Exynos in some regions).
- Google Pixel XL: Smooth and responsive with the Snapdragon 821 processor.
Round 4: Software
- iPhone 7 Plus: iOS 10 is user-friendly and intuitive, with a focus on simplicity and security.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Android Marshmallow with Samsung’s TouchWiz overlay offers more customization but can feel a bit bloated.
- Google Pixel XL: Pure Android Nougat experience with timely updates and Google Assistant integration.
The Verdict:
It’s a close call, but each phone has its strengths.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Best for those who want a top-notch camera and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: A great all-rounder with a stunning design and powerful features.
- Google Pixel XL: The choice for Android purists who want the best camera and Google Assistant experience.
Ultimately, the best phone for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, preferred operating system, and most important features before making your decision.