When it comes to cell phones in the U.S., there are really only a few choices. These are the 14 coolest Android phones you can’t buy in the United States.
When it comes to cell phones in the United States, there are really only a few choices. The primary decision revolves around whether to go with an Android device or an iPhone. For iPhone enthusiasts, there is only one line of phones available, while Android users have a bit more flexibility, typically choosing between Samsung and Google Pixel.
However, what many people in the U.S. may not realize is that the rest of the world enjoys a vast array of diverse cell phone options that never make it to American shores (unless you decide to venture abroad). These options range from high-end but reasonably priced mid-tier phones to excellent budget options, and everything in between. There are also top-of-the-line models with every feature and upgrade imaginable.
Here are the 14 coolest Android phones you can’t buy in the United States, showcasing an impressive range of options that haven’t made it to the American market. While it’s disappointing that these devices aren’t readily available Stateside, it’s still fascinating to see the innovation and variety that exists in the global cell phone market.Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro
If you’re on the hunt for a cutting-edge mobile gaming phone, the Black Shark 5 Pro by Xiaomi should be on your radar. While it may not be available at your local wireless store, this powerhouse of a phone has some remarkable features designed specifically for mobile gamers.
Equipped with significantly upgraded memory storage and two internal cooling chambers, the Black Shark 5 Pro keeps temperatures low even during intense gaming sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the phone does heat up to some extent during rigorous testing. Driving its performance is the Gen 1 Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 processor, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. Moreover, its 4650mAh battery charges rapidly, allowing players to enjoy extended gaming sessions without interruption.
What truly sets the Black Shark apart is its unique design, with a back casing that resembles the sleek and futuristic aesthetics of an “Evangelion” unit. Additionally, catering to the needs of gamers, the phone features two extendable triggers, ideal for enhancing gameplay in shooting games like “PUBG.”
While the Black Shark 5 Pro shines as a top-notch gaming phone, not much else about it is stellar. The camera performance, for instance, is mediocre at best. However, that’s to be expected when everything about the phone has been geared toward gaming.Nothing Phone 1
Since its initial unveiling in 2022, the Nothing Phone 1 has been making waves with its impressive features and affordability. This solid budget smartphone offers a wide range of capabilities that are typically associated with top-of-the-line flagship devices. Powered by the latest Android 13 operating system, customized specifically for this phone, users can expect a seamless and cutting-edge experience.
Under the hood, the Nothing Phone 1 is powered by a Snapdragon 778G chip and either 8 or 12GB of memory. This combination ensures smooth performance, meeting the expectations of next-gen smartphones. Additionally, the phone includes premium features such as wireless charging and in-house optimizations of the Android OS, enhancing the overall user experience.
What truly sets the Nothing Phone apart is its unique Glyph lighting system. The transparent back cover of the phone is adorned with an array of lights, each of which can be programmed to display specific notifications or messages. Users have the freedom to customize flashing patterns for different purposes, such as receiving messages, charging alerts, or pairing notifications. However, it’s worth noting that users will need to keep their phone face down in order to fully appreciate the Glyph lighting system.
While the glowing Glyph system may be seen as a gimmick, the Nothing Phone 1 itself stands as a reliable mid-tier smartphone available at an incredibly reasonable price of around $500. It offers a solid performance, packed with features that elevate the user experience.iQOO 11
A subsidiary of the prominent Vivo brand, the iQOO 11 has earned its reputation as one of the most sought-after gaming phones in India. At the heart of the iQOO 11 lies its impressive hardware and an array of features that make it a gaming powerhouse.
The standout feature is the inclusion of the new Gen 2 Snapdragon 8 chipset, which brings excellent performance to the table. Paired with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM, the iQOO 11 delivers smooth framerates for even the most demanding mobile games available today.
While the iQOO 11 does come equipped with a decent 50MP camera, like the Black Shark, it is a gaming phone at heart. Sporting a large 6.78-inch display, it exceeds the size of the current iPhone, providing gamers with an immersive visual experience. However, it is worth noting that the iQOO 11 lacks certain convenient features such as wireless charging, focusing on delivering gaming proficiency instead.
The iQOO 11 offers this impressive package at a remarkably reasonable price point, approximately $650. It’s important to mention that although it may be tempting to import the phone, it may not work well with U.S. cell networks. Its design is primarily optimized for networks in India and Southeast Asia. Nevertheless, if you’re a gaming enthusiast planning to travel to these regions, the iQOO 11 is a fantastic gaming phone choice.Oppo Find N2 Flip
The Oppo Find N2 Flip takes us back to the nostalgic era of cell phones and combines it with modern technology. As the name suggests, this clamshell-designed flip phone combines the best of both worlds by featuring a fully functioning touchscreen when unfolded.
The Find N2 Flip embraces the realm of science fiction, giving us a glimpse into the potential future of cell phone design (until we’re inevitably implanted with ocular cameras like in “Black Mirror”).
This folding phone isn’t just a throwback gimmick. Below the fold, the Find N2 Flip has a surprisingly impressive set of specs. The hardware is top-of-the-line, ensuring exceptional performance and functionality. While the battery is slightly smaller due to space constraints, it still offers reliable usage throughout the day.
Dealing with foldable screens presents a unique challenge, but Oppo, like Samsung, has ingeniously addressed this issue.
