The definition of a small phone has changed over the course of the last 18 months as the smartphone industry has moved to taller displays. One way manufacturers have kept phone sizes small is by trimming the bezels, and that’s the direction Samsung took with the Galaxy S10e. It’s perfect for one-handed use but doesn’t skimp on the screen real estate.
Perfect size
Samsung Galaxy S10e
Staff Pick
The Galaxy S10e comes in vibrant colors and offers a 5.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED FHD+ display that’s perfect for one-handed use. The S10e has a flat display, and a fingerprint sensor on the left side. Samsung hasn’t compromised on the internal hardware, with the phone sporting the same Snapdragon 855 chipset as the S10 and S10+.
$750 at Amazon
Google’s best
Google Pixel 3
Google has done a stellar job retaining the same form factor as the Pixel 2 while introducing a larger 5.5-inch screen. The Pixel 3 doesn’t miss out on any features from its larger sibling — it has dual front cameras, and it also retains the stereo speakers. If you’re in the market for a small phone with excellent cameras, the Pixel 3 should be your go-to option.
$799 at Google Store
Pure Android
Nokia 7.1
The Nokia 7.1 is one of the best sub-$400 phones you can buy today. The phone has a vibrant 5.8-inch display that’s certified for HDR10, and the Snapdragon 636 ensures you don’t see any lag. Then there’s the software — the Nokia 7.1 runs Android One, guaranteeing a clean interface and timely security updates. Best of all, it’s available officially in the U.S.
$350 at Amazon
Mid-range marvel
Honor 10
The Honor 10 stretches the definition of a small phone as it comes in just shy of 150mm, but its narrow form factor makes it great to use one-handed. The design at the back is evocative, the phone offers excellent value for money, and the 3400mAh battery is more than adequate for all-day usage.
£279 at Amazon UK
Excellent for one-handed use
Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact
As the name suggests, the Xperia XZ2 Compact is ideal for one-handed use. The phone is diminutive at 135mm, and Sony didn’t compromise on the features. You get a Full HD panel, Snapdragon 845, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, and a 19MP camera along with a 2870mAh battery. If you need a high-end phone that’s primarily designed for one-handed use, the Xperia XZ2 Compact is an excellent choice.
$499 at Amazon
The entry-level option
Xiaomi Redmi 6
Like all other Xiaomi phones, the Redmi 6 delivers a laundry list of features while retaining a low price tag. The switch to MediaTek’s Helio P22 has resulted in better performance, and the phone also offers a newer 12MP imaging sensor. The 5.45-inch 720p display is one of the best you’ll find on a budget phone, and the 3000mAh battery ensures the device lasts all day on a full charge.
£109 at Amazon UK
The market for small phones is dwindling, but there are a few solid options still available. The Pixel 3 in particular stands out because of its form factor and the excellent camera on offer. The phone is great for one-handed use and not only does it not miss out on any features from the Pixel 3 XL, but it also doesn’t have a notch. But if you really need the best small phone, go for the Galaxy S10e, which has an incredible compact form factor but a much larger display than the Pixel 3. It’s fast, has a great camera, and much better battery life than Google’s offering. But most importantly, it’s just fun to use in one hand.
