📱 Best mid-range smartphones in 2026

The mid-range remains the most interesting segment in 2026: components that were flagship-tier two years ago, now at a far more contained price. Here's our 2026 pick.

🥇 1. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE — The most balanced

Samsung

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE carries over the essentials of the S25 lineup in a more accessible format, without sacrificing build quality or software smoothness.

Strengths

• 📸 Camera setup inherited from the S25 lineup
• 🖥️ Bright, smooth AMOLED screen
• 🔋 Comfortable all-day battery life
• 🧭 Full One UI interface, long update support

Our pick: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

👉 The most complete choice for anyone who wants the Samsung experience without paying Ultra pricing.

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🥈 2. Oppo Reno 17 5G — The most refined design

Oppo

The Oppo Reno 17 5G bets on particularly refined finishing for this price segment, with a textured back that feels pleasant in hand.

Strengths

• 🎨 Refined design, materials above the segment average
• 📸 Particularly well-controlled portrait photography
• ⚡ Fast charging, a real time-saver day to day
• 🖥️ Smooth, bright AMOLED screen

Our pick: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

👉 An excellent choice for anyone who cares particularly about design.

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🥉 3. Xiaomi 14 Civi — The most complete for selfies

Xiaomi

The Xiaomi 14 Civi emphasizes the front camera, with a sensor and image processing specifically built for front-facing portraits.

Strengths

• 🤳 Particularly refined front camera
• 📸 Image processing optimized for selfies and portraits
• 🖥️ Smooth AMOLED screen, pleasant day to day
• 🎨 Thin, light design, pleasant in hand

Our pick: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

👉 Ideal for anyone who prioritizes selfies and portraits.

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4. Vivo X90S — The most versatile for photography

Vivo

The Vivo X90S offers a well-balanced camera setup, capable of good results both in daylight and in low-light conditions.

Strengths

• 📸 Well-balanced camera setup in all conditions
• 🌙 Good low-light performance for this segment
• 🔋 Generous battery for comfortable battery life
• 🖥️ Smooth, responsive screen day to day

Our pick: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

👉 The logical choice for anyone who wants a good photography balance without going flagship.

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In summary

The Galaxy S25 FE remains the most balanced choice, the Oppo Reno 17 5G stands out for its design, the Xiaomi 14 Civi excels at selfies, and the Vivo X90S offers versatile photography. The right choice mostly depends on your main priority at this price level.