The global smartphone market is highly competitive, with brands such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and other manufacturers competing to attract millions of users. Some smartphones become popular because of their premium features, while others succeed because of their affordable prices, reliable performance, and long-term software support.
If you are searching for the top 10 most selling phones in the world, understanding which models have achieved remarkable sales can help you learn about popular smartphone brands, consumer preferences, and the features people value most.
Apple’s iPhone lineup has produced several of the world’s best-selling individual smartphone models, while Samsung has achieved widespread success with its Galaxy series. However, a phone’s popularity can vary by country, price range, and release year.
In this article, we explore ten notable best-selling or historically high-selling smartphones, their key features, advantages, disadvantages, and reasons for their popularity.
Top 10 Most Selling Phones in the World
The following list highlights ten smartphones known for their sales success or popularity. It is not a verified ranking of the ten highest-selling individual models in the current year.
1. iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus were among Apple’s most successful smartphones. Released in 2014, they introduced larger displays to Apple’s mainstream iPhone lineup and attracted customers who preferred bigger screens.
Their slim designs, smooth performance for their time, and improved camera capabilities helped make the series extremely popular.
Key Features:
- Large Retina HD displays
- Apple A8 processor
- 8MP rear camera
- Touch ID fingerprint sensor
- iOS software ecosystem
Pros:
- Historically enormous sales success
- Slim and lightweight design
- Simple user interface
Cons:
- Outdated hardware by modern standards
- Limited current software support
- Not suitable for demanding modern applications
2. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus
The iPhone 6s series followed the iPhone 6 lineup with improved internal hardware and additional features. It introduced 3D Touch, a more capable camera, and a stronger aluminum body.
The phones remained popular among users who wanted a familiar Apple experience without immediately upgrading to a newer generation.
Key Features:
- Apple A9 processor
- 12MP rear camera
- 4K video recording
- Touch ID
- 3D Touch technology
Pros:
- Strong sales during its generation
- Improved camera compared with the iPhone 6
- Durable aluminum construction
Cons:
- Small battery by current standards
- Older design and display technology
- No modern iOS feature support
3. iPhone 11
The iPhone 11 was released in 2019 and became one of Apple’s most successful modern iPhone models. It offered a combination of performance, camera quality, battery life, and pricing that appealed to a broad audience.
Its dual-camera system, including an ultrawide lens, made photography more versatile. The A13 Bionic chip also provided strong performance for everyday applications and gaming.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display
- A13 Bionic processor
- Dual 12MP rear cameras
- Night mode photography
- Face ID security
Pros:
- Popular and well-established model
- Capable camera system
- Good performance for its generation
Cons:
- LCD rather than OLED display
- No 5G connectivity
- Older hardware compared with recent iPhones
4. iPhone XR
The iPhone XR was introduced in 2018 as a more affordable alternative to Apple’s premium models. It combined a modern-looking design, Face ID, and a powerful processor with a single rear camera.
Its wide range of colors and relatively accessible price helped it appeal to customers who wanted an iPhone without paying flagship-level prices.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch LCD display
- Apple A12 Bionic processor
- 12MP rear camera
- Face ID
- Multiple color options
Pros:
- Strong historical market performance
- Attractive color choices
- Good everyday performance for its time
Cons:
- Single rear camera
- No 5G support
- Older battery and software capabilities
5. iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 marked an important step for Apple’s mainstream smartphone lineup by bringing 5G connectivity and an OLED display to the standard model. Its flat-edge design also distinguished it from the rounded design of earlier generations.
The phone appealed to customers looking for a premium experience, improved display quality, and faster mobile network compatibility.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
- Apple A14 Bionic processor
- Dual 12MP rear cameras
- 5G connectivity
- Ceramic Shield front cover
Pros:
- Sharp OLED display
- Modern-looking design
- 5G network support
- Capable photography features
Cons:
- Battery life may be limited for heavy users
- No telephoto camera
- Older than current iPhone generations
6. iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 became a popular choice because it improved battery life and camera performance while retaining a familiar design. Its A15 Bionic processor delivered strong performance, and its camera system introduced features such as Cinematic mode.
It also offered a practical balance between premium functionality and the cost of newer iPhone models.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
- Apple A15 Bionic processor
- Dual 12MP cameras
- Sensor-shift optical image stabilization
- 5G connectivity
Pros:
- Strong everyday performance
- Good battery life for its generation
- High-quality OLED display
- Capable video recording
Cons:
- Standard model has a 60Hz display
- No dedicated telephoto camera
- Older charging and connectivity standards than newer models
7. iPhone 14
The iPhone 14 continued Apple’s successful mainstream formula with improved safety features, camera enhancements, and reliable performance. It retained the familiar design of the iPhone 13 while introducing features such as Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite in supported regions.
Its popularity was supported by Apple’s brand recognition and established ecosystem.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch OLED display
- Apple A15 Bionic processor
- Dual 12MP rear cameras
- Crash Detection
- 5G connectivity
Pros:
- Reliable performance
- Good camera quality
- Useful safety features in supported regions
- Access to Apple’s app ecosystem
Cons:
- Standard display is limited to 60Hz
- Design changes from the previous generation were modest
- Some safety features are region-dependent
8. Samsung Galaxy A13
Samsung’s Galaxy A series has helped the company reach consumers seeking practical smartphones at affordable prices. The Galaxy A13 offered a large display, a high-resolution main camera, and a substantial battery, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers in various markets.
It illustrates how affordable Android devices can achieve broad appeal without premium flagship pricing.
Key Features:
- 6.6-inch PLS LCD display
- 50MP main rear camera
- 5,000mAh battery
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor
- Android-based One UI experience
Pros:
- Affordable positioning at launch
- Large screen
- Long-lasting battery for many users
- Expandable storage on supported configurations
Cons:
- Performance is limited compared with modern midrange phones
- LCD display rather than OLED
- Camera results vary in low light
9. Samsung Galaxy A14
The Samsung Galaxy A14 family continued the popularity of budget-friendly Galaxy smartphones. Depending on the version and market, the device offered 4G or 5G connectivity, a large display, and a battery designed to last through a typical day.
Its accessible price and Samsung’s broad retail presence helped make the series relevant to users who wanted a practical Android phone.
Key Features:
- Large 6.6-inch display
- 50MP main camera
- 5,000mAh battery
- Android with Samsung’s One UI
- 4G or 5G options, depending on the model
Pros:
- Budget-friendly product category
- Large display for videos and browsing
- Good battery capacity
- Choice of network versions
Cons:
- Entry-level performance
- No premium display features
- Camera quality is not comparable to flagship models
10. Samsung Galaxy S4
The Samsung Galaxy S4 was one of Samsung’s most successful flagship smartphones. Released in 2013, it gained widespread attention for its large Full HD display, powerful hardware for its era, and numerous software features.
Its success helped establish Samsung as a leading competitor in the premium Android market.
Key Features:
- 5-inch Full HD Super AMOLED display
- 13MP rear camera
- Expandable storage in supported versions
- Removable battery
- Android software ecosystem
Pros:
- Major historical sales success
- Excellent display technology for its time
- Expandable storage
- Removable battery
Cons:
- Very outdated hardware
- No current security support
- Not recommended as a primary smartphone today
Comparison of the Top 10 Best-Selling Phones
| Smartphone | Brand | Main Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 6 series | Apple | Large-screen design | Historical sales interest |
| iPhone 6s series | Apple | Camera and performance upgrades | Historical sales interest |
| iPhone 11 | Apple | Camera and everyday performance | Budget-conscious iPhone buyers |
| iPhone XR | Apple | Value-focused iPhone design | Basic everyday use |
| iPhone 12 | Apple | OLED display and 5G | Users wanting 5G |
| iPhone 13 | Apple | Battery and performance balance | Everyday use |
| iPhone 14 | Apple | Safety features and camera | Mainstream iPhone users |
| Galaxy A13 | Samsung | Affordable Android experience | Budget buyers |
| Galaxy A14 | Samsung | Large screen and battery | Everyday Android use |
| Galaxy S4 | Samsung | Historical flagship success | Smartphone history |
Note: These phones are selected examples, not a strict sales ranking. Specifications and available features can vary by model variant and market.
Why Are These Phones So Popular?
Several factors help explain why certain smartphones sell millions of units worldwide.
1. Affordable Pricing
Price is one of the biggest factors influencing smartphone purchases. Budget phones can attract a large number of customers because they offer essential features without requiring a premium budget.
2. Brand Reputation
Well-known brands such as Apple and Samsung benefit from customer trust, established retail networks, and recognizable product designs. This familiarity can influence purchasing decisions.
3. Camera Quality
Many consumers choose phones based on photography and video recording. Features such as night photography, optical image stabilization, and ultrawide cameras can make a smartphone more appealing.
4. Battery Life
A large battery and efficient processor help users browse the internet, watch videos, communicate, and play games without frequent charging.
5. Software Updates and Reliability
Long-term software support, security updates, and reliable performance can increase a phone’s appeal. Buyers often consider how long a device will remain useful before replacing it.
6. Global Availability
Phones sold through many countries, carriers, retailers, and online stores have more opportunities to reach customers. Availability can be as important as technical specifications.
Are the Most-Selling Phones Always the Best Phones?
No. A smartphone’s sales success does not automatically make it the best choice for every user. Sales figures are influenced by pricing, marketing, availability, and the timing of a phone’s release.
For example, a budget Samsung phone may be a practical choice for someone who needs a large display and long battery life. An iPhone may be more suitable for someone who values Apple’s ecosystem, video recording, and long-term integration with other Apple devices.
Before buying a phone, compare its current price, software support, battery condition if it is used, camera quality, storage, and network compatibility.
How to Choose the Right Smartphone
Consider these factors before purchasing a new mobile phone:
- Budget: Decide how much you can comfortably spend.
- Performance: Look for a suitable processor and sufficient RAM.
- Storage: Choose enough internal storage for your applications, photos, and videos.
- Camera: Compare real-world photography rather than relying only on megapixel counts.
- Battery: Consider capacity, charging speed, and battery efficiency.
- Software support: Check the manufacturer’s update policy.
- Network compatibility: Confirm that the device supports the mobile networks available in your country.
If you are buying in Bangladesh, compare official and unofficial prices carefully and check the phone’s warranty, network compatibility, and current availability before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most sold phone in the world?
The Nokia 1100 is widely reported as the best-selling individual mobile phone model of all time, with approximately 250 million units sold. Among smartphones, the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are commonly cited among the most successful individual models. Exact comparisons depend on the source and the sales measurement used.
2. Which company sells the most smartphones worldwide?
Apple and Samsung are consistently among the world’s leading smartphone vendors. Their positions can change by year and quarter depending on global shipments, retail sales, and market research methodology.
3. Are iPhones more popular than Samsung phones?
Both brands have enormous global customer bases. Apple is particularly strong in the premium segment, while Samsung competes across budget, midrange, and flagship categories. The answer depends on whether popularity means unit sales, revenue, shipments, or market share.
4. Which phones are best for everyday use?
A good everyday phone should offer dependable battery life, sufficient performance, a usable camera, adequate storage, and ongoing security updates. The best model depends on your budget and local availability.
5. Should I buy an older best-selling phone?
Older models can be inexpensive, but they may lack current security updates, modern network support, and reliable battery performance. Before buying one, check its software support status, battery health, repair availability, and compatibility with your mobile network.
Conclusion
The top 10 most selling phones in the world reflect the success of smartphone brands that have combined attractive designs, useful features, competitive pricing, and strong customer recognition. Apple has achieved remarkable sales with several iPhone generations, while Samsung has reached a broad audience through its Galaxy A and Galaxy S series.
However, historical sales success should not be confused with a current recommendation. Some older best-selling phones are no longer suitable for everyday use because of outdated software and hardware.
If you are planning to purchase a smartphone, focus on your budget, performance requirements, battery life, camera quality, and software support. Choosing a phone that meets your needs is more important than simply buying one that has sold the most units.