Experts agree, the Samsung Galaxy S6 is the very best smartphone you can buy right now. Users — at least those that can forgive Samsung for ditching a memory card slot and removable battery — largely second that opinion. This smartphone is powerful, beautiful, well made and runs the latest version of Android. The rear and front cameras are among the best found on any smartphone. The quad HD display is stunning. The base version of the Galaxy S6 has 32 GB of memory built in — enough for many typical users — and there are options to upgrade to 64 GB and 128 GB. Versions for all major carriers are available. Color options include black, white, gold and blue.

It might lose the specs race to some of its Android competitors, but reviewers say that the Apple iPhone 6 delivers the smoothest, most intuitive user experience of any smartphone. The iPhone 6 ups the screen size to 4.7 inches — a welcome upgrade from the old 4-inch display. That and Apple’s typical small refinements in design and functionality make the iPhone 6 the best in the series to date. Critics agree that the iPhone 6’s build quality is impeccable, the display looks great, the camera captures terrific photos, and that with its tight integration with the massive iTunes app store, everything on this smartphone simply works … period. Available colors are silver, gold and space gray. The iPhone 6 can be used on most major carriers.

The Motorola-made Google Nexus 6 is a fabulous phablet for smartphone enthusiasts. It runs a pure vanilla version of Android Lollipop, is usually first in line for new Android updates, and is the easiest smartphone to work with for those who like to customize their user experience via loadable third-party firmware that alters the interface and adds or changes features. It’s a nearly universal phone, with radios for all U.S. cellular frequencies and all U.S. carriers built-in. A price cut has improved value. The large, near 6-inch screen is a pleasure to see and use — except when you try to use it one-handed, and this big phone is a tight fit in some pants pockets.

The Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 is well made, more powerful than most smartphones in its price range, and packed with surprising extras. The camera and full HD display hold their own against even more expensive cameras, as do the built-in dual JBL speakers. Its user interface actually adds some useful enhancements to Android Lollipop, such as flipping the interface around to match the phone’s orientation — no more fumbling with the phone when it’s time to make a call. The battery isn’t removable, but battery life is pretty good, and you can expand the built-in 16 GB of memory via microSD cards. Dark grey with metallic accents, the Idol 3 is sold unlocked (not through carriers) and works only with AT&T, T-Mobile and prepaid carriers that use those networks.

Est. $250Estimated Price

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At $100, or even less if bought through some carriers, the second generation Motorola Moto E is a terrific choice for a child, a senior, or anyone that wants to get their feet wet with a solid smartphone without breaking the bank. Some obvious corners are cut when it comes to the display and, especially, the camera, but performance is quite good for everyday tasks — even light duty gaming is a go. LTE speeds are the big add-on in the latest model. Build quality is good — including scratch resistant Corning Gorilla Glass on the display — and the basic black or white cases can be spiffed up by adding optional color bands around the edges. Versions for all major carriers and networks are available.