10 best HTC smartphones in 2026 (12+ compared)

HTC smartphones are produced by HTC Corporation, a Taiwanese consumer electronics company headquartered in Taoyuan, Taiwan. The company originated in 1997—initially designing laptops and later transitioning into custom smartphone manufacturing and original design—eventually becoming one of the first major adopters of Android when it released the HTC Dream, the first commercially available Android.

Over time, although HTC’s prominence in the global smartphone market has significantly declined, it still develops and releases smartphones. Beyond its own branded devices, HTC has historically manufactured products for other leading tech firms (including Google’s early Pixel line) and has steadily shifted focus toward virtual reality offerings alongside its mobile products

What are the main HTC smartphone series?

The main HTC smartphone series are the following.

• One series: Flagship lineup that started in 2012 with models like HTC One X and evolved through devices such as HTC One M9 and HTC 10. It focused on premium design, high-end processors like Qualcomm Snapdragon, and features including dual cameras and BoomSound audio. HTC discontinued the branding after 2016, but it influenced later phones.
• Desire series: Mid-range Android phones that emphasize affordability and everyday performance, with examples like HTC Desire 626 and Desire 22 Pro. Models often include expandable storage via microSD, long battery life up to 4600 mAh, and cameras with AI enhancements. The series targets budget users and continues with 5G variants.
• U series: Modern high-end smartphones that replaced the One series, featuring devices like HTC U24 Pro and U23 Pro. They integrate advanced specs such as Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipsets, 120 Hz OLED displays, and triple 50 MP cameras with OIS. These phones support fast charging up to 60 W and IP67 resistance.
• Wildfire series: Entry-level budget options aimed at basic users, including models like Wildfire E5 Plus and Wildfire E3. They provide essential features like 4G connectivity, simple cameras, and compact designs. The series focuses on low-cost accessibility and has seen recent updates with lite versions.
• Butterfly series: Specialized lineup with large screens and high-resolution cameras, such as HTC Butterfly S and Butterfly 2. It emphasized multimedia with Full HD displays and water resistance in some models. HTC phased it out after 2014 in favor of other series.
• Evo series: Carrier-specific phones mainly for U.S. markets, like HTC Evo 4G and Evo 4G LTE. They pioneered LTE support and included extras like kickstands and MicroSD slots. The series ended around 2012 but set trends for fast connectivity.

HTC smartphone costs vary from about £170 for entry-level models to over £690 for premium devices. Prices depend on the series, release year, specifications, and market availability, as HTC no longer launches as many models as in its peak years. Older models can be found at reduced prices from resellers, while newer or flagship units like the HTC U series maintain higher price points.

The HTC Desire series usually targets the budget and mid-range segments with prices between £170 and £340, while the HTC U series focuses on higher-end specifications and design, with launch prices starting around £520 and going above £690 for the top variants.

HTC smartphones have an average price of £280 €, ranking #23 in price among smartphone brands (from cheapest to most expensive), and an average quality-price ratio score of 7.3, placing them in position #25.

(Note: Only brands with at least 6 smartphones in our database, released after 2020, were included.)

When choosing the best HTC smartphone for you, consider the following key specifications and features:

• Processor: The chipset determines your phone's performance and speed for daily tasks, gaming, and multitasking. Snapdragon processors handle intensive applications better, while MediaTek chips balance performance and battery efficiency. Higher-end models like the HTC U series feature flagship Snapdragon 8-series processors that deliver smooth performance across all applications.
• RAM: Memory capacity affects how many apps run simultaneously without slowdowns or crashes. 6GB RAM handles basic multitasking, while 8GB or 12GB supports heavy usage patterns and gaming. HTC flagship models typically include 8GB-12GB RAM configurations that maintain consistent performance throughout the day.
• Storage: Internal storage determines how many photos, videos, apps, and files you can store on your device. 128GB suits light users, but 256GB or 512GB accommodates extensive media libraries and large applications. Some HTC models support microSD expansion, which doubles your storage capacity for additional content.
• Camera: Camera systems vary significantly between models, with flagship devices featuring advanced sensors and computational photography. Multi-lens setups include ultra-wide, telephoto, and macro options that expand shooting versatility. HTC Edge series cameras excel in low-light photography and video stabilization for professional-quality results.
• Battery: Battery capacity and charging speeds impact daily usage patterns and convenience. 4,000-5,000mAh batteries support full-day usage, while fast charging reduces downtime between uses. HTC premium models include wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities that add flexibility to power management.
• Display: Screen size, resolution, and refresh rate affect visual experience and usability. OLED displays deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks, while higher refresh rates create smoother scrolling and gaming. HTC flagship phones feature 6.7-inch displays with 120Hz refresh rates that enhance media consumption and gaming performance.