Best compact smartphones: Samsung Galaxy S25, iPhone 16e, Pixel 9 and other phones that come with smaller screens
Compact smartphones with screens under 6.4 inches offer an alternative to the larger devices that dominate the market in 2026. These phones prioritise portability and one-handed usability while maintaining flagship-level performance and camera capabilities. Manufacturers, including Samsung , Apple , Google , OnePlus, Oppo, and Vivo , have released compact models featuring displays ranging from 6.1 to 6.3 inches, making them easier to operate with one hand and more comfortable to carry in pockets. These devices deliver performance comparable to their larger counterparts, with specifications including high-refresh-rate displays, advanced processors, multi-camera systems, and battery capacities optimised for the smaller form factor. Before selecting a compact smartphone, here is some guidance on what to consider:
What to look for in compact smartphones
When choosing a compact smartphone, several factors ensure the device meets daily requirements without compromising on features. Screen sizes between 6.1 and 6.35 inches strike a balance between portability and usability, enabling comfortable one-handed operation while maintaining a sufficient display area for content. High refresh rates (90Hz or 120Hz) and brightness levels ensure smooth scrolling and visibility in various lighting conditions. Processor performance remains important, as compact phones should handle multitasking, gaming, and photography without lag. Battery capacity and charging speed determine how frequently the device needs to be charged throughout the day. Camera systems with multiple lenses and computational photography features enable photos of comparable quality to those from larger phones. Build quality, including water- and dust-resistance ratings, affects durability. Here's a list of compact smartphones available in 2026:
Samsung Galaxy S25
Samsung has positioned the Galaxy S25 as its compact flagship smartphone, featuring a 6.2-inch display and powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The device runs Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7 interface.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 features a 6.2-inch FHD+ dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and adaptive colour tone, providing smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. The display adjusts refresh rates based on content to optimise battery life while maintaining visual fluidity.
The smartphone is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor paired with 12GB of RAM. Storage options include 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants, providing flexibility for different storage needs. The device is IP68 water- and dust-resistant.
The Galaxy S25 features a triple rear camera system comprising a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, a 10MP telephoto lens with an f/2.4 aperture offering 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. The 12MP front camera with f/2.2 aperture handles selfies and video calls.
Samsung has integrated AI features,s including upgraded Google Circle to Search for faster contextual results, actionable searches for workflow optimisation, and intuitive voice commands for hands-free device control. Additional AI capabilities include Call Transcript and Summary, Writing Assist, and Drawing Assist.
The smartphone houses a 4,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support. It also supports wireless charging and PowerShare to charge other compatible devices.
Key Specifications
iPhone 16e
Apple has expanded its iPhone 16 lineup with the iPhone 16e, positioning it as the most affordable model while maintaining core features from the series. The device is powered by the A18 chip and includes Apple Intelligence capabilities.
The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR Display with Ceramic Shield front cover, which Apple claims offers advanced durability compared to standard smartphone glass. The device features a tough back glass for added protection.
The smartphone is powered by Apple's A18 chip, featuring a 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU for handling everyday tasks and graphics-intensive applications. The 16-core Neural Engine is optimised for machine learning models and delivers up to 6x faster performance than the A13 Bionic chip.
C1, Apple's first custom-designed modem, provides power-efficient 5G cellular connectivity. Combined with the A18 chip and iOS 18's power management, the iPhone 16e offers up to six hours more battery life than the iPhone 11.
The camera system includes a 48MP Fusion camera with an integrated 2x telephoto lens, offering optical zoom capabilities. The device records 4K video with Dolby Vision up to 60 fps and captures Spatial Audio for immersive playback. Audio Mix provides additional options for editing video sound.
Apple Intelligence features include Clean Up in Photos for removing distractions, Image Playground for creative expression, Genmoji for custom emoji creation, and Writing Tools for text refinement. Siri offers more conversational interactions and includes integrated ChatGPT access.
The iPhone 16e includes satellite features for Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My functionality outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage areas. Additional features include Face ID, an Action Button for quick access to frequently used functions, IP68 water and dust resistance, and both wireless and USB-C wired charging.
Key Specifications
Google Pixel 9
Google has positioned the Pixel 9 as a compact smartphone with a 6.3-inch display, powered by the Tensor G4 chip and featuring computational photography capabilities. The device receives seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates.
The Google Pixel 9 sports a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,700 nits peak brightness, ensuring visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The full-HD (1080 x 2424 pixels at 422 PPI) OLED display has a 20:9 aspect ratio and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The smartphone is powered by the Google Tensor G4 processor, designed for AI and machine learning tasks. The device includes a Titan M2 security coprocessor, 12GB RAM, and storage options up to 256GB. The Tensor G4 handles on-device AI processing, including the Gemini Nano multimodal model.
The camera system features a 50MP Octa PD wide camera with ƒ/1.68 aperture and 82-degree field of view, paired with a 48MP Quad PD ultrawide camera offering ƒ/1.7 aperture and 123-degree field of view. The 10.5MP Dual PD front camera includes autofocus, ƒ/2.2 aperture, and 95-degree field of view.
AI-powered photography features include Super Res Zoom up to 8x, Add Me for group photos, Macro Focus, Night Sight, Astrophotography, Portrait Mode, Face Unblur, and Long Exposure. Editing capabilities include Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Best Take, and Photo Unblur.
The Pixel 9 includes a 4,700mAh battery and IP68 dust and water resistance. The device ships with Android 14 and receives seven years of software support. Google's suite of services and family-focused features enable photo sharing, calendar synchronisation, and location sharing.
Key Specifications
OnePlus 13s
OnePlus has released its first compact smartphone, the OnePlus 13s, featuring a 6.32-inch display and powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite platform. The device introduces a Plus Key replacing the traditional alert slider.
The OnePlus 13s features a 6.32-inch 120Hz ProXDR Display with LTPO technology, offering 2640x1216 FHD+ resolution, 460 ppi, and up to 1600 nits brightness. The display automatically adjusts refresh rates based on content for optimal battery efficiency.
The smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0. The device includes an S-structure design with a 4400mm² vapour chamber cooling system for thermal management during intensive tasks.
The camera system consists of a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto camera, and a 32MP front camera. AI camera features include AI Reframe for adjusting photo compositions and AI Best Face 2.0, which refines group photography for up to 20 people by fixing closed eyes or awkward poses. The rear camera supports 4K Dolby Vision recording.
The OnePlus 13s measures 8.15mm in thickness and weighs 185g, with 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling. The Plus Key allows users to assign shortcuts to functions such as screenshots, flashlight, camera, voice recording, and sound profile switching.
Plus Mind helps users manage saved content such as text, images, and links, accessible through a three-finger swipe or by pressing and holding the Plus Key. The system identifies calendar-related information and automatically suggests adding events.
The device houses a 5,850mAh single-cell graphite battery with 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging. AI features include AI Call Assistant and integration with Gemini for live camera and screen sharing conversations.
Key Specifications
Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini
Oppo released the Reno 15 Pro Mini as part of its Reno 15 series, featuring a 6.32-inch OLED display and a 200MP main camera. The device is rated IP66+IP68+IP69 for dust and water resistance.
The Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini features a 6.32-inch OLED display with a 1216x2640-pixel resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The display is protected by Oppo Crystal Shield glass. The screen provides adequate clarity for reading and content consumption in a compact form factor.
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8450 chipset with 12GB RAM. Storage options include 256GB and 512GB variants. The device runs Android 16 with ColorOS 16 interface.
The triple rear camera system includes a 200MP main sensor with f/1.8 aperture, a 50MP ultra-wide camera with ƒ/2.2 aperture, and a 50MP periscope camera with optical image stabilization and f/2.8 aperture. The 50MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture handles selfies and video calls.
The Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini is equipped with a 6,200mAh battery supporting 80W fast charging. The device comes in Crystal Pink, along with other color variants.
Key Specifications
Vivo X200 FE 5G
Vivo has launched the X200 FE 5G as a compact flagship smartphone featuring a 6.31-inch display and powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor. The device includes ZEISS-engineered camera optics.
The Vivo X200 FE features a 6.31-inch flat display using ZEISS Master Color Display technology, delivering 5000 nits peak brightness for visibility in direct sunlight. The screen offers 1.5K resolution with 460 PPI, supports 1.07 billion colours, and uses a P3-wide colour gamut. The display is protected by Schott Xensation Core glass.
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor and runs Funtouch OS. The customisable interface includes icon and wallpaper options, dual clocks, and a scheduling algorithm for smoother app transitions. The device weighs 186 g and is available in Amber Yellow, Luxe Grey, and Frost Blue colours.
The triple camera setup co-engineered with ZEISS consists of a 50MP ZEISS Telephoto Camera with up to 3x optical and 100x digital zoom, a 50MP ZEISS Main Camera, and an 8MP Ultra Wide-Angle Camera. The telephoto camera uses a Sony IMX882 sensor with an f/2.65 aperture for improved low-light performance.
Camera features include adjustable bokeh in Street Photography Mode, ZEISS Style Portraits, and ZEISS Multifocal Portraits across five focal lengths (23 mm to 100 mm). The system supports standard photography modes and computational enhancements.
The Vivo X200 FE includes a 6,500mAh battery with 90W FlashCharge support. The device is SGS Triple Protection Certified and operates at temperatures down to -20℃. AI tools include AI Screen Translation, AI Captions, Smart Call Assistant, and Live Text. Security features include anti-data leakage tools, screen-sharing protection, and online ID detection.
Key Specifications
What to look for in compact smartphones
When choosing a compact smartphone, several factors ensure the device meets daily requirements without compromising on features. Screen sizes between 6.1 and 6.35 inches strike a balance between portability and usability, enabling comfortable one-handed operation while maintaining a sufficient display area for content. High refresh rates (90Hz or 120Hz) and brightness levels ensure smooth scrolling and visibility in various lighting conditions. Processor performance remains important, as compact phones should handle multitasking, gaming, and photography without lag. Battery capacity and charging speed determine how frequently the device needs to be charged throughout the day. Camera systems with multiple lenses and computational photography features enable photos of comparable quality to those from larger phones. Build quality, including water- and dust-resistance ratings, affects durability. Here's a list of compact smartphones available in 2026:
Samsung Galaxy S25
Samsung has positioned the Galaxy S25 as its compact flagship smartphone, featuring a 6.2-inch display and powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The device runs Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7 interface.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 features a 6.2-inch FHD+ dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and adaptive colour tone, providing smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. The display adjusts refresh rates based on content to optimise battery life while maintaining visual fluidity.
The smartphone is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor paired with 12GB of RAM. Storage options include 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants, providing flexibility for different storage needs. The device is IP68 water- and dust-resistant.
The Galaxy S25 features a triple rear camera system comprising a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, a 10MP telephoto lens with an f/2.4 aperture offering 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. The 12MP front camera with f/2.2 aperture handles selfies and video calls.
Samsung has integrated AI features,s including upgraded Google Circle to Search for faster contextual results, actionable searches for workflow optimisation, and intuitive voice commands for hands-free device control. Additional AI capabilities include Call Transcript and Summary, Writing Assist, and Drawing Assist.
The smartphone houses a 4,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support. It also supports wireless charging and PowerShare to charge other compatible devices.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 12GB; 128GB, 256GB, 512GB storage
- Display: 6.2-inch FHD+ dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Rear Cameras: 50MP + 10MP telephoto (3x) + 12MP ultra-wide
- Front Camera: 12MP
- Battery: 4,000mAh, 25W charging
- 12GB+256GB - Rs 74,999
iPhone 16e
Apple has expanded its iPhone 16 lineup with the iPhone 16e, positioning it as the most affordable model while maintaining core features from the series. The device is powered by the A18 chip and includes Apple Intelligence capabilities.
The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR Display with Ceramic Shield front cover, which Apple claims offers advanced durability compared to standard smartphone glass. The device features a tough back glass for added protection.
The smartphone is powered by Apple's A18 chip, featuring a 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU for handling everyday tasks and graphics-intensive applications. The 16-core Neural Engine is optimised for machine learning models and delivers up to 6x faster performance than the A13 Bionic chip.
C1, Apple's first custom-designed modem, provides power-efficient 5G cellular connectivity. Combined with the A18 chip and iOS 18's power management, the iPhone 16e offers up to six hours more battery life than the iPhone 11.
The camera system includes a 48MP Fusion camera with an integrated 2x telephoto lens, offering optical zoom capabilities. The device records 4K video with Dolby Vision up to 60 fps and captures Spatial Audio for immersive playback. Audio Mix provides additional options for editing video sound.
Apple Intelligence features include Clean Up in Photos for removing distractions, Image Playground for creative expression, Genmoji for custom emoji creation, and Writing Tools for text refinement. Siri offers more conversational interactions and includes integrated ChatGPT access.
The iPhone 16e includes satellite features for Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My functionality outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage areas. Additional features include Face ID, an Action Button for quick access to frequently used functions, IP68 water and dust resistance, and both wireless and USB-C wired charging.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB storage
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR
- Processor: A18 chip
- Rear Camera: 48MP Fusion with 2x Telephoto
- Battery: Up to 6 hours longer than iPhone 11
- Operating System: iOS 18
- 128GB - Rs 59,900
- 256GB - Rs 69,900
- 512GB - Rs 89,900
Google Pixel 9
Google has positioned the Pixel 9 as a compact smartphone with a 6.3-inch display, powered by the Tensor G4 chip and featuring computational photography capabilities. The device receives seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates.
The Google Pixel 9 sports a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,700 nits peak brightness, ensuring visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The full-HD (1080 x 2424 pixels at 422 PPI) OLED display has a 20:9 aspect ratio and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The smartphone is powered by the Google Tensor G4 processor, designed for AI and machine learning tasks. The device includes a Titan M2 security coprocessor, 12GB RAM, and storage options up to 256GB. The Tensor G4 handles on-device AI processing, including the Gemini Nano multimodal model.
The camera system features a 50MP Octa PD wide camera with ƒ/1.68 aperture and 82-degree field of view, paired with a 48MP Quad PD ultrawide camera offering ƒ/1.7 aperture and 123-degree field of view. The 10.5MP Dual PD front camera includes autofocus, ƒ/2.2 aperture, and 95-degree field of view.
AI-powered photography features include Super Res Zoom up to 8x, Add Me for group photos, Macro Focus, Night Sight, Astrophotography, Portrait Mode, Face Unblur, and Long Exposure. Editing capabilities include Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Best Take, and Photo Unblur.
The Pixel 9 includes a 4,700mAh battery and IP68 dust and water resistance. The device ships with Android 14 and receives seven years of software support. Google's suite of services and family-focused features enable photo sharing, calendar synchronisation, and location sharing.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 12GB; 128GB, 256GB storage
- Display: 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 120Hz, 2,700 nits peak
- Processor: Google Tensor G4
- Rear Cameras: 50MP + 48MP ultrawide
- Front Camera: 10.5MP
- Battery: 4,700mAh
- 12GB+256GB - Rs 79,999
OnePlus 13s
OnePlus has released its first compact smartphone, the OnePlus 13s, featuring a 6.32-inch display and powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite platform. The device introduces a Plus Key replacing the traditional alert slider.
The OnePlus 13s features a 6.32-inch 120Hz ProXDR Display with LTPO technology, offering 2640x1216 FHD+ resolution, 460 ppi, and up to 1600 nits brightness. The display automatically adjusts refresh rates based on content for optimal battery efficiency.
The smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0. The device includes an S-structure design with a 4400mm² vapour chamber cooling system for thermal management during intensive tasks.
The camera system consists of a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto camera, and a 32MP front camera. AI camera features include AI Reframe for adjusting photo compositions and AI Best Face 2.0, which refines group photography for up to 20 people by fixing closed eyes or awkward poses. The rear camera supports 4K Dolby Vision recording.
The OnePlus 13s measures 8.15mm in thickness and weighs 185g, with 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling. The Plus Key allows users to assign shortcuts to functions such as screenshots, flashlight, camera, voice recording, and sound profile switching.
Plus Mind helps users manage saved content such as text, images, and links, accessible through a three-finger swipe or by pressing and holding the Plus Key. The system identifies calendar-related information and automatically suggests adding events.
The device houses a 5,850mAh single-cell graphite battery with 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging. AI features include AI Call Assistant and integration with Gemini for live camera and screen sharing conversations.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 12GB; 256GB, 512GB storage
- Display: 6.32-inch ProXDR, 120Hz LTPO, 1600 nits
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Rear Cameras: 50MP + 50MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,850mAh, 80W charging
- 12GB+256GB - Rs 50,999
- 12GB+512GB - Rs 55,999
Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini
Oppo released the Reno 15 Pro Mini as part of its Reno 15 series, featuring a 6.32-inch OLED display and a 200MP main camera. The device is rated IP66+IP68+IP69 for dust and water resistance.
The Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini features a 6.32-inch OLED display with a 1216x2640-pixel resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The display is protected by Oppo Crystal Shield glass. The screen provides adequate clarity for reading and content consumption in a compact form factor.
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8450 chipset with 12GB RAM. Storage options include 256GB and 512GB variants. The device runs Android 16 with ColorOS 16 interface.
The triple rear camera system includes a 200MP main sensor with f/1.8 aperture, a 50MP ultra-wide camera with ƒ/2.2 aperture, and a 50MP periscope camera with optical image stabilization and f/2.8 aperture. The 50MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture handles selfies and video calls.
The Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini is equipped with a 6,200mAh battery supporting 80W fast charging. The device comes in Crystal Pink, along with other color variants.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 12GB; 256GB, 512GB storage
- Display: 6.32-inch OLED, 120Hz, 1216x2640 pixels
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8450
- Rear Cameras: 200MP + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP periscope
- Front Camera: 50MP
- Battery: 6,200mAh, 80W charging
- 12GB+256GB - Rs 59,999
- 12GB+512GB - Rs 64,999
Vivo X200 FE 5G
Vivo has launched the X200 FE 5G as a compact flagship smartphone featuring a 6.31-inch display and powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor. The device includes ZEISS-engineered camera optics.
The Vivo X200 FE features a 6.31-inch flat display using ZEISS Master Color Display technology, delivering 5000 nits peak brightness for visibility in direct sunlight. The screen offers 1.5K resolution with 460 PPI, supports 1.07 billion colours, and uses a P3-wide colour gamut. The display is protected by Schott Xensation Core glass.
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor and runs Funtouch OS. The customisable interface includes icon and wallpaper options, dual clocks, and a scheduling algorithm for smoother app transitions. The device weighs 186 g and is available in Amber Yellow, Luxe Grey, and Frost Blue colours.
The triple camera setup co-engineered with ZEISS consists of a 50MP ZEISS Telephoto Camera with up to 3x optical and 100x digital zoom, a 50MP ZEISS Main Camera, and an 8MP Ultra Wide-Angle Camera. The telephoto camera uses a Sony IMX882 sensor with an f/2.65 aperture for improved low-light performance.
Camera features include adjustable bokeh in Street Photography Mode, ZEISS Style Portraits, and ZEISS Multifocal Portraits across five focal lengths (23 mm to 100 mm). The system supports standard photography modes and computational enhancements.
The Vivo X200 FE includes a 6,500mAh battery with 90W FlashCharge support. The device is SGS Triple Protection Certified and operates at temperatures down to -20℃. AI tools include AI Screen Translation, AI Captions, Smart Call Assistant, and Live Text. Security features include anti-data leakage tools, screen-sharing protection, and online ID detection.
Key Specifications
- RAM and Storage: 12GB/16GB; 256GB, 512GB storage
- Display: 6.31-inch, 1.5K resolution, 5000 nits peak
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+
- Rear Cameras: 50MP telephoto + 50MP main + 8MP ultrawide
- Battery: 6,500mAh, 90W charging
- 12GB+256GB - Rs 54,999
- 16GB+512GB - Rs 59,999
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