Skip to content

Independent site. Some links are affiliate links and we may earn a commission at no cost to you. How it works

NiceTwiceTech
Comparison

iPhone 18 Pro vs Galaxy S26 vs Pixel 11: which to buy in 2026?

We compare the three big 2026 releases: display, chip, cameras, battery, updates and price, and tell you who each one is for.

NiceTwiceTech editorial team 2 min read

Contents
  1. Quick comparison
  2. iPhone 18 Pro: the best of Apple
  3. Galaxy S26: the complete compact
  4. Pixel 11: the best zoom camera for the money
  5. Which should you choose?
  6. Rather save money?

The three big releases of 2026 are now on sale: the iPhone 18 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy S26 and the Google Pixel 11. All three are excellent, so the real question is which one suits you.

Quick comparison

iPhone 18 ProGalaxy S26Pixel 11
ReleasedSeptember 2026March 2026August 2026
Display6.3" OLED, 120 Hz6.3" AMOLED, 120 Hz6.3" OLED, 120 Hz
ChipApple A20 Pro (2 nm)Exynos 2600 (UK/Europe)Google Tensor G6
Rear cameras48 + 48 (4x) + 48 MP50 + 10 (3x) + 12 MP48 + 10.8 (5x) + 13 MP
BatteryApple doesn't publish mAh4,300 mAh, 25 W4,985 mAh, 30 W
UpdatesMany years (Apple)Up to 7 Android upgradesUp to 7 Android upgrades
UK launch price£1,199£879£879

iPhone 18 Pro: the best of Apple

Three 48 MP cameras, a 4x telephoto and Apple's first 2 nm chip. If you already use an iPhone, Mac or Apple Watch, it's the most complete choice.

Galaxy S26: the complete compact

An excellent display, a comfortable size and up to seven Android upgrades. The most balanced option if you prefer Android and want a manageable phone.

Pixel 11: the best zoom camera for the money

A 5x telephoto on the base model, a battery of almost 5,000 mAh and the cleanest Android, with Google AI.

Which should you choose?

  • iPhone 18 Pro: if you use an iPhone and want the best, without worrying too much about price.
  • Galaxy S26: if you want a compact, balanced Android phone with many years of support.
  • Pixel 11: if you take lots of zoom photos and want the cleanest Android.

Rather save money?

Last year's models are still excellent and much cheaper refurbished: the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25 or Pixel 9. We help you decide in new or refurbished phone?.

Frequently asked questions

Is the standard iPhone 18 out yet?

No. In September 2026 Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. The standard iPhone 18 is expected in spring 2027.

Which has the best zoom?

The Pixel 11 has a 5x telephoto even on the base model, and the iPhone 18 Pro a 48 MP 4x telephoto. The Galaxy S26 tops out at 3x.

Is it worth waiting for prices to drop?

If you're not in a hurry, yes: they usually drop on Black Friday and in the following months. If you want to save a lot, last year's model bought refurbished is much cheaper.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you; it doesn't influence our recommendations. How affiliate links work