By
Chris Holmes Staff Writer
Updated

iPhones are tops, but they're not for everyone. If you refuse to touch any device emblazoned with the words "designed by Apple in California" or just want to see what else is out there, we've handpicked some of the best iPhone alternatives.

The best iPhone alternatives for photos: Google Pixel


It may be a year old, but the Google Pixel's camera still more than punches its weight compared to heavy hitters like the Samsung Galaxy S8, LG G6, and the current version of the iPhone

The Google Pixel produces pictures that are bright, warm and detailed. Further, the device's software makes taking pictures a cinch--and tweaking them--a cinch. 

It will be interesting to see if the next iteration of the Pixel, slated for release around October--will be able to improve on the current generation's camera. In the meantime, barring any next-level camera features in the iPhone 8, rest assured that the Pixel's camera is a great choice. 

Runner Up: Samsung Galaxy S8

Our runner up for iPhone alternative with a great camera is Samsung's Galaxy S8. The S8's camera isn't vastly different to last year's S7, but it's still one of the best smartphone photography options around.

The best "flagship" iPhone alternative: Samsung Galaxy S8


Samsung Galaxy S8

Samsung's Galaxy S8 made a pretty good case upon its April release as the rightful occupant of the "Best Smartphone" throne. It excels in so many areas--camera, battery, software, display--that it will likely be the iPhone 8's main competition as well. 

Apple's historically borrowed from Samsung in the design of their phones--see the entire line of iPhone Pluses--and looks to have done so again with the bezel-less display in the iPhone 8, among other things. In other words, you don't have to wait around for the iPhone 8 to experience the future--you can do so now by picking up a Samsung Galaxy S8. 

Runner-Up: LG G6

Another great all-around performing flagship alternative to the iPhone 8 is LG's G6. Much like the S8, the G6 has an extra-tall display which gives you more screen in a smaller package. The G6 also sports excellent dual rear-facing cameras, solid battery life, water resistance, and a generally gorgeous design. 

The best money-saving iPhone alternative: Moto G5 Plus


A phone that retails for less than $300 has no right to be this good. Released in March of this year, the Motorola G5 Plus sports an all-metal design, good camera, good battery life, and snappy processor. It's also got a fingerprint sensor that doubles as a shortcut touchpad. It outperforms many of its pricier competitors, making it a great inexpensive alternative to the (likely) $1,000-plus iPhone 8. 

Runner-Up: iPhone SE

So you want a phone that looks like the iPhone 8 but costs a lot less. Why not stay in the same family? Go for the iPhone SE

I've written about the SE before, and what makes it a great budget phone. This includes compatibility with the latest iOS software versions, a dual-core A9 processor, and excellent camera. 


Nothing catch your eye? Check out all of the phones we compare plans for here

Chris Holmes

Staff Writer

Chris Holmes
Chris Holmes is a Contributing Writer for WhistleOut, where he covers the cell phone and internet industries. His work has been cited in publications like The Verge, The New York Times, and WIRED.

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