What Made 2017 a Standout Year for Smartphones
In the best new phones 2017 landscape, manufacturers pushed high-refresh displays, premium cameras, and major battery and efficiency gains. This was the year flagship specs went mainstream, and midrange chips closed the gap for everyday tasks. Our verified comparison focuses on devices that offered durable performance, strong cameras, and long-term value rather than short-lived hype. Below you will find a clear breakdown of what to look for and which phones delivered in 2017.
Top Flagships of 2017
The leading flagships balanced refined design, polished software, and class-leading cameras. These devices set the benchmark for performance, build quality, and feature completeness. If you wanted the best new phone in 2017 without compromise, these were the primary contenders.
iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus
Apple’s 2017 iPhones introduced a glass back for wireless charging, a faster A11 Bionic chip, and an improved camera system with better low-light performance and portrait lighting. The Retina HD displays remained easy to use, and iOS longevity and ecosystem integration were strong differentiators for buyers seeking a low-maintenance, high-quality experience.
Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+
Samsung reshaped the premium slab with an edge-to-edge display, an upgraded camera, and the new Bixby assistant. The S8 line offered vivid screens, spacious batteries, and IP68 water resistance. Its large, high‑resolution displays and refined design made it a standout among the best new phones for media and multitasking.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
Google’s first phones showcased computational photography with excellent point-and-shoot image quality, timely Android updates, and a clean, bloatware-free experience. While hardware specs targeted efficiency and balance over outright peak performance, the camera software and pure Android experience defined their value among best new phones for photography lovers.
Performance and Platform Highlights
Performance in 2017 centered on mature chipsets that handled day-to-day use, gaming, and multitasking with ease. The best new phones paired these SoCs with ample RAM, fast storage, and displays optimized for both clarity and efficiency. Software support expectations also shifted, with longer security update commitments becoming a key buying consideration.
Display and Design
Display quality became a core differentiator, with higher pixel density, better color accuracy, and increased peak brightness. Materials moved toward glass and metal, enabling wireless charging and more refined finishes. Ergonomics, however, remained important, as many buyers preferred balanced sizing for one-handed use.
Battery Life and Efficiency
Battery improvements were a major theme, with larger cells, smarter power management, and low-power display modes extending usable time. Fast charging and wireless charging also moved from premium features to expected inclusions on many of the best new phones.
Camera Comparisons and Real-World Use
Cameras grew as a deciding factor, with larger sensors, OIS, and smarter processing. The best new phones delivered strong daylight shots, usable low-light performance, and coherent portrait modes. Video quality stabilized at 4K, and features like slow-motion and high‑frame‑rate capture became common across midrange and flagship tiers.
Quick Camera Capability Snapshot
| Phone | Main Camera | Front Camera | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 8 / 8 Plus | 12 MP, OIS, 4K video | 7 MP | Portrait lighting, True Tone flash |
| Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+ | 12 MP, Dual Pixel AF, OIS | 8 MP | Pro-grade mode, 4K video |
| Google Pixel | 12.2 MP, OIS, EIS | 8 MP | Best-in-class processing, unlimited storage for photos |
Midrange and Value Options
Midrange phones in 2017 closed the gap significantly, offering smooth performance, capable cameras, and durable batteries. These devices targeted buyers who wanted modern features without flagship prices. The best new phones in this tier balanced cost and quality, emphasizing thoughtful tuning over raw specs.
Notable Midrange Picks
- OnePlus 5: Fast performance, polished OxygenOS, and strong build quality.
- Essential Phone: Unique design, timely updates, and clean Android.
- Xiaomi Mi 6: High specs, compact chassis, and competitive pricing in key markets.
- Motorola Moto Z2 Force: Modularity support, solid display, and durable design.
Buying Considerations and Final Verdicts
Choosing among the best new phones in 2017 came down to ecosystem fit, camera preference, and update commitment. iOS and Android each offered distinct advantages in privacy, customization, and long-term support. Display quality, battery endurance, and software smoothness were consistent differentiators, while midrange options provided compelling alternatives for cost-conscious buyers.
Quick Recommendation Summary
| Priority | Recommended Phone | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Best | Google Pixel | Camera software, updates, no bloatware |
| Best iOS | iPhone 8 Plus | Performance, display, ecosystem |
| Best Display | Samsung Galaxy S8+ | |
| Best Value | OnePlus 5 | Flagship-level performance at midrange price |
Summary and Lasting Takeaways
The best new phones 2017 delivered premium materials, smarter cameras, and faster, more efficient chips. Flagships like the iPhone 8, Samsung Galaxy S8, and Google Pixel defined the year, while midrange options like the OnePlus 5 broadened access to flagship-level performance. Prioritize your daily needs—camera, updates, and battery—and match them to verified device strengths for the best long-term fit.
Helpful Links and Resources
- Official manufacturer support pages for update and battery health information
- Trusted review archives for deeper camera and performance testing details
- Retailer warranty and return policy references before secondhand purchase
FAQ
Reader questions
Were 2017 phones future-proof?
Many 2017 phones received multiple years of updates and handled everyday tasks comfortably into 2020 and beyond. Longevity depended on chipset tier, RAM, and manufacturer update policies.
Which 2017 phone had the best camera?
The Google Pixel and Pixel XL stood out for image processing and consistency, while Samsung and Apple offered versatile camera systems with strong hardware and software tuning.
Should I buy a 2017 flagship now?
As of current use, these devices can serve well for light to moderate usage, especially where software support and availability persist. Battery health and compatibility with modern apps should be checked before purchase.
What mattered most in 2017 phones?
Display quality, camera software, battery life, and long-term software support were the most decisive factors for users seeking best new phones in 2017.