Searching for a smartphone that’s perfect for jotting down notes? Look no further than our top pick with a built-in stylus.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the ultimate smartphone for creative professionals, offering a powerful stylus, a stunning 200MP camera, and a large 6.8-inch display. Its advanced features, including low latency and high-pressure sensitivity, make it perfect for designers and architects. However, its high price and large size might deter budget-conscious buyers and those seeking portability.
- 200MP camera
- Impressive display
- Convenient built-in S Pen
- Android Auto issues
- Hard to use with one hand
Are you tired of juggling between your smartphone and a notepad? Do you wish you could take notes, sketch, and edit documents- all directly on your phone? Well, it’s nothing you can’t solve with a reliable smartphone with stylus.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best smartphones with a stylus that is sure to elevate your productivity and unleash your creativity. These handpicked devices don’t just offer the convenience of a smartphone but also the precision and accuracy of a pen and paper.
So whether you’re an artist, a student, or a busy professional, get ready to take your digital experience to the next level with our list of the best phones with a stylus pen.
And by the way, you might also want to check out our posts on the best tablet with stylus, the best stylus for Android, and the best large Android tablets
Top 8 Smartphones with Stylus in 2023 – Overview
Our list of the best smartphones with stylus is perfect for individuals seeking both productivity and creativity in their devices. Whether you’re a student, a creative, or a busy professional, these stylus-equipped smartphones are designed to elevate your digital experience.
- Samsung S23 Ultra — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)
- Samsung S22 Ultra — Best Runner Up
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 — Largest Display
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra — Largest Display in Non-Foldable Phones
- Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 — Most Durable
- LG Stylo 6 — Best Value
- Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite — Most Affordable from Samsung
- Microsoft Surface Duo — Best for Multitasking
What is the best smartphone with stylus in 2023?
After rigorous testing, we have found the Samsung S23 Ultra to be the best smartphone with stylus due to its exceptional stylus performance, processing power, stunning display, and generous workspace. Also, check out our top 3 stylus-equipped smartphone picks.
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- Advanced stylus with low latency and high-pressure sensitivity
- 200MP camera with 10X zoom for capturing razor-sharp images
- Colossal 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display for dazzling visuals
- Embedded S Pen offering Precise control
- 8K Super Steady Video and 108MP resolution
- Long-lasting battery and fast charging
- Compatible with S Pen Fold Edition giving authentic pen-on-paper experience
- Impressive camera with 10MP telephoto lens
- Flex Mode enables hands-free usage
Most Popular Smartphones with Stylus on Amazon
These are the three best-selling smartphones with a stylus on Amazon right now:
Top 8 Smartphones with Stylus in 2023
1. Samsung S23 Ultra — (Editor’s Choice)
The overall best smartphone with stylus in 2023
RAM: 12 GB | Storage: 512GB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Battery: Up to 26 hours
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a game-changer for graphic designers, architects, and creative professionals. This cutting-edge flagship smartphone from Samsung is designed to fuel your creativity with its array of unique features, such as an advanced stylus, a jaw-dropping 200MP camera, and a colossal 6.8-inch display.
Powered by the blazing-fast Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 processor, the S23 Ultra lets you breeze through intricate design projects without breaking a sweat. Its 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage make multitasking a dream, even when running resource-hungry apps like AutoCAD, Photoshop, or SketchUp.
Plus, you are sure to be captivated by the S23 Ultra’s 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which offers a generous workspace and dazzling visuals that make every pixel pop. So whether you’re sketching architectural masterpieces or crafting eye-catching graphics, this display is your canvas.
But the S23 Ultra’s stylus is what actually steals the show, as it lets you design, sketch, and create with unmatched precision, thanks to its low latency and high-pressure sensitivity. Need to snap the perfect shot for a presentation or visual reference? Well, here’s another innovative feature- The S Pen also doubles as a remote shutter for the camera.
Talking about photo-taking, the Samsung S23 Ultra’s 200MP main camera features a 10X zoom which empowers you to capture razor-sharp images of architectural wonders, design inspirations, or material samples so your work always shines.
But, there’s a catch- the premium price tag of the S23 Ultra may give budget-conscious buyers pause. And the hefty 6.8-inch display and 8.3-ounce weight could be difficult to carry for some.
Still, the S23 Ultra is an exceptional choice if you’re willing to invest in a feature-rich device to elevate your work in graphic design or architecture. However, you might need to consider its premium price and size if you’re budget-conscious or portability-focused.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Advanced stylus tailored for design work | ➖ Premium price point |
➕ 200MP camera ideal for capturing high-quality images for projects | ➖ Only a slight upgrade from predecessor |
➕ Large 6.8-inch display suitable for intricate designs and detailed plans | ➖ Hard to use with one hand |
➕ Fastest mobile processor available for smooth performance in design apps | |
➕ Impressive 5000 mAh battery with fast and wireless charging options |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Samsung S23 Ultra Review
Check out this Samsung S23 Ultra review video to learn more:
Video Credit: Marques Brownlee / YouTube
2. Samsung S22 Ultra — (Best Runner Up)
The best smartphone with great stylus pen performance
RAM: 12 GB | Storage: 256 GB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Battery: Up to 8 hours
If you want a sleek and sophisticated smartphone that could revolutionize the way you work, then Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra might just be the end of your search. This impressive device seamlessly blends design, functionality, and performance, boasting an embedded S Pen, mesmerizing 8K Super Steady Video, and crystal-clear 108MP photo resolution. Let’s get to unpacking this little tech marvel.
Under the hood, the S22 Ultra packs a punch with its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 12GB of RAM, and spacious 256GB storage. For you, that basically means no more slow-loading applications- just effortless multitasking. Plus, the dazzling 6.8-inch WQHD+ Edge Screen with a 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate will deliver you buttery-smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals, perfect for scrutinizing intricate designs and blueprints.
But that’s not all. The embedded S Pen is a game-changer for architects and engineers, as it offers precise control for drawing, annotating, and editing with low latency and a natural pen-to-paper feel.
Not to mention the 8K Super Steady Video and 108MP photo resolution, you’ll capture stunning images and videos, even in challenging lighting conditions, thanks to Nightography and Portrait Mode.
On top of that, it rids you of battery-draining worries with its robust 5,000mAh battery you can power through your day. Even when you need to charge the phone you have the option to choose between the lightning-fast 45W charging or convenient 15W wireless charging, based on whatever’s convenient for you.
But, this feature-packed smartphone comes at a rather hefty price. So, if you invest in it, be ready to dig deep into your pockets. Apart from that, the sizable 6.8-inch screen could be a deal-breaker for those who crave a more compact device. So, weigh these factors before making your decision.
In short, the Samsung S22 Ultra is a remarkable choice if you’re seeking a high-performance smartphone with an embedded S Pen, impressive display, and powerful camera capabilities. However, its premium price and large screen size may not suit everyone’s preferences.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Stylish and waterproof design | ➖ Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers |
➕ Compatible with 5G network connectivity for fast browsing. | ➖ Large screen size might be less portable for some users |
➕ Adaptive Color Contrast for optimal display | ➖ Limited to 256GB of storage |
➕ Long-lasting battery with fast charging options | |
➕ Great zooming capability for capturing far-away shots |
Latest Price on Amazon:
3. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 — (Best Smartphone with Large Foldable Display)
The best large-screen foldable smartphone with a stylus
RAM: 12 GB | Storage: 256 GB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Battery: Up to 8 hours
If you have a passion for art and a penchant for creativity, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 might seem like a dream come true. This innovative foldable phone is designed to cater to an artist’s needs, thanks to its groundbreaking blend of features such as Flex Mode, multi-view window, and S Pen support. Intrigued? Let’s delve deeper into what makes this smartphone a true artistic companion.
To begin with, the Z Fold 4’s folding design is what sets it apart from other smartphones, allowing you to work on a larger canvas while still maintaining portability. With its top-notch performance, boasting 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the Z Fold 4 ensures you a silky-smooth experience even when tackling the most demanding applications.
One of the key selling points for artists is the Z Fold 4’s compatibility with S Pen Fold Edition. This Pen provides an authentic pen-on-paper experience, making it easy to sketch, draw, or take notes during virtual meetings.
Additionally, the multi-view window feature lets you run multiple apps simultaneously, for seamless multitasking and content sharing between windows. Plus, with a 4,400mAh battery, the Z Fold 4 ensures you can work and play for hours without constantly worrying about charging.
The camera system on the Z Fold 4 is equally impressive, with a 50MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide rear camera setup, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This robust camera configuration allows you to capture high-quality images and videos to use in your projects or for inspiration.
However, it’s important to note that the compatible S Pen is not included in the box. So, you will need to purchase this stylus separately to really get the best of the Z Fold 4’s creative capabilities.
To sum up, if you’re searching for a versatile and powerful device with distinctive features, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a fantastic choice. With the added investment in the S Pen, this remarkable smartphone becomes an exceptional tool for creating artwork.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Unique folding design offers a larger display for immersive artistic experiences | ➖High prices, may not be affordable for everyone |
➕ Flex Mode enables hands-free usage for multitasking and creativity | ➖Front camera isn’t that great |
➕ Multi-view window allows running multiple apps side-by-side for enhanced productivity | ➖Folding design raises long-term durability concerns |
➕ Compatible with S Pen Fold Edition |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Review
Check out this Samsung Galaxy Z Fold review video to learn more:
Video Credit: The Tech Chap / YouTube
4. Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra — (Largest Display in Non-Foldable Phones)
The best large-screen smartphone with a stylus
RAM: 12 GB | Storage: 256 GB | Screen Size: 7.6 Inches | Battery: Up to 7 hours
Are you a busy medical professional or content creator who’s constantly on the go? Well, then the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra can be the ultimate companion for you. With its cutting-edge features like the ultra-responsive S Pen and Snapdragon 865 Plus processor, the Note 20 Ultra is undoubtedly one of the top picks in our list.
What truly sets the Note 20 Ultra apart is its seamless integration of the S Pen and Samsung Notes. It feels so natural, you’d swear you were using an actual pen! Just imagine effortlessly jotting down notes during a consultation or brainstorming your next creative project– that’s productivity and efficiency at its peak.
Additionally, Note 20 Ultra’s stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a high refresh rate will have you glued to the screen, whether you’re gaming or binge-watching your favorite show. And with the powerful Snapdragon 865 Plus processor under the hood, you’ll experience silky-smooth performance, even when multitasking.
With Note 20 Ultra, you can also forget your storage woes! The 8GB of RAM, 128GB of built-in storage, and the ability to expand up to a whopping 1TB with a MicroSD card (sold separately) give you plenty of room for all your vital documents, images, and videos.
Plus, the camera setup on the Note 20 Ultra is nothing short of spectacular. The 108MP main camera and 10MP front camera let you capture stunning photos and videos that will leave your audience in awe. And with a 4500mAh battery, you can power through your day without missing a beat. But still, if you ever need a quick charge, the super-fast charging feature has got you covered.
Although the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is an exceptional device, it does have some drawbacks worth considering. To name a few, its large size may be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, the powerful processor, high refresh rate display, and 5G connectivity may lead to quicker battery drain during heavy use. Though, investing in a reliable power bank can easily mitigate that issue.
Still, the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is the ideal Smartphone for medical professionals and content creators who demand a high-performance and feature-packed smartphone.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Unique folding design offers a larger display for immersive artistic experiences | ➖ High price, may not be affordable for everyone |
➕ Flex Mode enables hands-free usage for multitasking and creativity | ➖ Front camera isn’t that great |
➕ Multi-view window allows running multiple apps side-by-side for enhanced productivity | ➖ Folding design raises long-term durability concern |
➕ Compatible with S Pen Fold Edition |
Latest Price on Amazon:
5. Moto G Stylus 5G — (Best Build Quality)
Most durable smartphone with a stylus
RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 128 GB | Screen Size: 6.9 Inches | Battery: Up to 11 hours
Next on our list is the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 – a robust and versatile device that can take your creativity and productivity up a notch. Sketch your ideas, edit photos, jot down meeting notes, make lists, navigate through your phone effortlessly– and you can do so much more with this smartphone.
It’s like having a pen and paper in your pocket, ready to capture your ideas whenever inspiration strikes– minus the real papers and all the inconvenience! In fact, the stylus doesn’t just offer convenience but also precision that’s hard to achieve with our fingers.
And once you’re done? Slip that pen back in its slot on your mobile. Pretty handy right?
But it’s not just the stylus-compatibility that Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 has to offer. For starters, the 6.6″ 120Hz screen and Dolby Atmos make the Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 a multimedia powerhouse.
Whether you’re reviewing documents, editing photos, or catching up on the latest news, the large FHD+ display provides a crisp, clear viewing experience. At the same time, the multidimensional sound enhances video calls, presentations, and entertainment.
The 50MP camera system is another standout feature. It captures sharp, bright photos even in challenging light conditions, making it ideal for professionals who rely on high-quality images for their work.
Additionally, the 8MP ultrawide, Macro Vision, and Depth features allow you to fit more of the scene in your frame, get closer to your subject, and turn everyday photos into professional-looking portraits.
But on the flip side, while this phone has a good ol’ reliable stylus, that is really all to it. The stylus doesn’t have any advanced features as found in many other competitiors. Still, it’s good for most things, but if you want a better one, you can invest in a stylus separately.
Also, while the 50MP camera performs well in bright light, it may struggle in low light conditions. But these drawbacks are minor compared to the overall value and versatility of this smartphone.
In sum, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 is a robust, feature-packed smartphone that can help you be more productive and creative. Its durability, coupled with its impressive features, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable smartphone with a stylus.
PROS | CONS |
➕ Built-in stylus for precision tasks | ➖ Stylus lacks advanced features |
➕ Large, clear display with Dolby Atmos sound | ➖ Camera performance may be subpar in low light conditions |
➕ High-quality camera system | |
➕ Ample storage and impressive battery life |
Latest Price on Amazon:
6. LG Stylo 6 — (Most Affordable Price)
Best budget smartphone with stylus
RAM: 6 GB | Storage: 256 GB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Battery: Up to 20 hours
If you’re a beginner engineer or graphic designer and don’t want to spend a fortune on a smartphone with a pen stylus, the LG Stylo 6 might just be what you’re looking for. Featuring a stunning 6.8-inch FHD+ FullVision display, this budget-friendly device provides ample screen real estate for precision work with the built-in stylus pen.
On top of that, the LG Stylo 6 sports a versatile triple camera system, which includes a rear camera, ultra-wide lens, and rear depth sensor. This allows you to perfectly capture those inspiring moments or creative projects in all their colorful and vibrant glory.
Additionally, this LG smartphone comes equipped with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD card). This means you’ll have plenty of room for your projects, sketches, notes, photos, and more.
A common perception is that good, stylus-supported smartphones come expensive. Well, the LG Stylo 6 is a testament to how you can enjoy the benefits of a stylus-enabled device without breaking the bank. And while the Stylo 6 might not be the most powerful smartphone on the market out there, it doesn’t skimp on battery life. The 4,000mAh battery keeps you powered up throughout the day, so you can focus on your work without constantly searching for a charger.
To wrap things up, the LG Stylo 6 is an exceptional choice for engineers and graphic designers seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with a built-in stylus, large display, and solid performance.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Integrated pen stylus for precise creative work | ➖ Underpowered processor isn’t suitable for supporting demanding application |
➕ Flexible triple camera system for diverse photography | ➖ Camera app is also a bit slow |
➕ Long-lasting 4,000mAh battery for all-day productivity | |
➕ Expandable storage via microSD card support | |
➕ Easy on the budget |
Latest Price on Amazon:
LG Stylo 6 Review
Check out this LG Stylo 6 review video to learn more:
Video Credit: TechDaily / YouTube
7. Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite — (Most Affordable Option in Samsung)
Most affordable Samsung smartphone with stylus
RAM: 3 GB | Storage: 64 GB | Screen Size: 6.8 Inches | Battery: Up to 12 hours
Want a powerful, yet affordable smartphone with stylus support? Well, then you should definitely consider the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite– an invaluable tool for architects and educators on a budget. Boasting a stunning 6.7-inch Super AMOLED touchscreen display and a versatile triple camera setup, this gem from Samsung delivers a perfect harmony of features and functionality so you can design, create, and educate in style.
Despite being Samsung’s most budget-friendly Note, the Note 10 Lite, has a powerful Exynos 9810 processor, 6GB RAM, and 128GB internal storage (expandable up to 1TB via microSDXC). This powerhouse allows smooth multitasking and ample storage capacity for large files. The high-resolution display is the icing on the cake, providing a crystal-clear visual experience, perfect for architects and educators to review intricate plans with ease.
Now coming to its star feature- the S Pen steals the show with natural writing, low latency, and pressure sensitivity. It’s a game-changer for architects and educators, allowing them to effortlessly create sketches, annotate documents, and jot down notes in a flash. And, the S Pen also doubles as a remote control for the camera app, making it a breeze to capture group photos or document a project from afar.
Coming back to its triple camera system, it features a 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide lens, which ensures high-quality images in a variety of settings. The 32 MP front-facing camera is especially perfect for crisp, clear selfies and video calls.
While the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite is an excellent choice for architects and educators, it lacks high-end features found in more expensive Note models like wireless charging. Also software updates on it might be slower than newer models.
Despite these slight hiccups, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite is a fantastic affordable choice with a powerful processor, smart stylus, jaw-dropping display, and triple camera system.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Easy on the wallet compared to other Samsung Note models | ➖ Not quite as powerful as higher-end Note models |
➕ 4500 mAh powerful battery | ➖ No wireless charging or official water resistance rating |
➕ S Pen delivers a natural writing experience and remote camera control | ➖ Software updates are slower than newer models |
➕ Triple camera system for capturing memories and inspiration | |
➕ Expandable storage up to 1TB with microSDXC |
Latest Price on Amazon:
8. Microsoft Surface Duo — (Best for Multitasking)
Best Windows smartphone with stylus for multitasking
RAM: 6 GB | Storage: 128GB | Screen Size: 6.7 Inches | Battery: Up to 12+ hours
The Microsoft Surface Duo redefines the smartphone experience for architects, engineers, and graphic designers with its innovative dual-screen design. Boasting a state-of-the-art 360° hinge and twin PixelSense Fusion displays, this trailblazing device lets you interact with two apps at once or span a single app across both screens. This translates to super-efficient multitasking and unparalleled productivity.
With a 2.84 GHz Snapdragon processor and 6 GB RAM, the Surface Duo handles resource-intensive tasks seamlessly. Plus, its 256 GB storage provides ample space for essential files and projects. Additionally, the Surface Duo’s twin 5.6-inch displays boast a stunning maximum resolution of 2700 x 1800 pixels, making every visual detail pop.
It’s worth noting, that while the Surface Duo is stylus-supported, it doesn’t already come with a stylus. So, you’ll need to buy a compatible one, like the Surface Slim Pen, to unlock its creative potential. With that out of the way, it’s perfect for professionals, providing a comfortable design, flawless shading, natural feel, easy erasing, and device compatibility. And you can go all day long with its battery that lasts up to 23.3 hours.
But on the flip side, its camera setup is a bit underwhelming compared to other high-end smartphones. So, if photography is an important part of your work, you’d better want to consider a different device.
Despite its quirks, the Microsoft Surface Duo is an exceptional choice for architects, engineers, and graphic designers seeking a potent and adaptable smartphone to elevate their work. Just remember to factor in the cost of a compatible stylus like the Surface Slim Pen to fully harness the device’s creative capabilities.
And if you are interested, check out more flip phones here.
PROS |
CONS |
➕ Unique dual-screen design for enhanced multitasking | ➖ No stylus included; aftermarket purchase required |
➕ Powerful performance with 2.84 GHz | ➖ Camera setup not as advanced as other high-end smartphones |
➕ Snapdragon processor and 6 GB RAM | |
➕ Ample storage space (256 GB) | |
➕ Crisp, high-resolution displays (2700 x 1800 pixels) | |
➕ Impressive battery life (up to 23.3 hours) |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Our Selection and Testing Process for the Best Smartphones with Stylus
As graphic designers, architects, and other creative professionals, your needs for a smartphone with stylus support are unique. We understand that you require precise input control, powerful performance, and a high-quality display.
Keeping these requirements in mind, we’ve carefully crafted a selection and testing process to ensure we only recommend the best smartphones with stylus support for you.
Selection Process
1. We began the process for the best smartphones with stylus with extensive market research, exploring the latest smartphones with stylus support from established manufacturers like Samsung, Apple, and others. Our team gathered information from reliable sources, including tech blogs, forums, and expert reviews.
2. Then, we created a comprehensive list of smartphones with stylus support and compared their specifications. This allowed us to consider features and capabilities such as high-performance processors, RAM, storage, screen quality, battery life, and camera quality, all of which are essential for your professional tasks.
3. After creating a broad list, we filtered our list based on the unique needs of graphic designers, architects, and other professionals. This included considering devices with specialized software, unique features, and strong support for popular professional apps like Evernote, OneNote, Adobe Creative Suite, and Autodesk apps.
4. Lastly, we analyzed user reviews from reliable sources to gauge real-world performance, durability, and user satisfaction. This allowed us to gain insight into each device from the perspective of professionals within our target demographic.
Testing Process
Our testing process is designed to rigorously assess each smartphone with stylus support, ensuring it meets the unique needs of graphic designers, architects, and other professionals. This process is divided into several steps, each targeting a specific aspect of the device to provide a comprehensive evaluation.
1. Stylus Performance: We tested the stylus performance on each device, focusing on accuracy, pressure sensitivity, and responsiveness. For this, we used popular professional apps to assess stylus support and overall user experience.
2. Performance Benchmarking: We ran performance benchmarks on each device, measuring processing power, graphics performance, and multitasking capabilities. This helped us ensure that the devices met the requirements of professionals.
4. Display Quality: We assessed the display quality of each device, testing color accuracy, brightness, contrast, and viewing angles. This ensured that the devices were suitable for precise input and detailed work in image editing and digital drawing applications.
5. Battery Life: We conducted real-world battery life tests, using the devices for a full day of typical professional tasks. This allowed us to determine if the devices could last all day without frequent charging and assess their fast charging capabilities.
6. Camera Performance: We evaluated the camera quality of each device, focusing on its usefulness for professional purposes. This included testing optical image stabilization and high-resolution video recording capabilities in different lighting conditions.
7. Connectivity Options: We tested the connectivity options of each device, connecting them to various peripherals and other devices. This allowed us to assess the ease of connection and reliability of features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, and NFC.
8. Build Quality and Durability: We inspected the build quality and durability of each device, considering their resistance to wear and tear after normal use and any protective measures included, such as water and dust resistance.
9. Security Features: We tested the security features of each device, assessing the ease of use and reliability of features like fingerprint reader, facial recognition, and encryption capabilities in protecting sensitive data and applications.
By combining the results of our selection and testing processes, we’ve created a comprehensive and well-researched list of the best smartphones with stylus support tailored specifically to the needs of graphic designers, architects, and other professionals. Our recommendations offer a balance of features, performance, and cost, ensuring you get the best device for your professional tasks.
Best Smartphones with Stylus Buying Guide
If you’re still confused about which stylus-supported smartphone is the best fit for you, check out the buying guide below and make an informed decision.
✅ Pen-to-Paper Stylus Experience
Ensure the smartphone you choose comes with a high-quality stylus that offers excellent precision, pressure sensitivity, and responsiveness like the stylus of the Samsung S23 Ultra.
The stylus should allow you to take detailed notes, create intricate designs, and work seamlessly with various apps, such as Evernote, OneNote, Adobe Creative Suite, and Autodesk apps. A well-integrated stylus with built-in storage or attachment options is a bonus, as it ensures the stylus is always with you when you need it.
✅ Make Sure The Display Is High Quality
A high-resolution display with accurate color reproduction is crucial for professionals. We recommend a screen size of at least 5 inches for comfortable note-taking and sketching. However, you may prefer a larger screen (6 inches or more) for more detailed work or multitasking like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Microsoft Surface Duo. Look for smartphones with OLED or AMOLED displays, as they offer better color accuracy and contrast.
✅ Don’t Forget To Prioritize Performance
To smoothly run resource-intensive applications like Adobe Creative Suite or Autodesk apps, your smartphone should have at least 3 GB of RAM and a decent processor. This will ensure you can multitask and run multiple apps simultaneously without experiencing lag or slowdowns.
✅ Go For At Least 64 GB Of Storage
A minimum of 64 GB of internal storage is recommended for storing large files, projects, and applications. However, having 128 GB or more like in the Samsung S22 Ultra or Samsung S23 Ultra can provide extra peace of mind, especially if your profession involves working with large media files. Expandable storage options, such as a microSD card slot, can also be helpful for additional storage flexibility.
✅ Long Lasting Battery Life is Essential
Battery life is essential for professionals who need their smartphones to last throughout the day. Look for smartphones that offer at least 7 hours of battery life like the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite. Fast charging technologies can also be beneficial, as they allow you to quickly recharge your device during breaks or in-between tasks.
✅ High-Quality Camera for Pictures and Recordings
A high-quality camera with optical image stabilization and high-resolution video recording capabilities can be great for capturing visuals or scanning documents for professional purposes. Look for smartphones with decent rear cameras like the Samsung S23 Ultra. Features like HDR and low-light performance for better image quality are a plus.
✅ Durability and Build Quality for a Lasting Performance
Choose a smartphone with a durable build that can withstand daily wear and tear. Look for devices with sturdy materials, such as metal or glass, and features like water and dust resistance to ensure your smartphone can handle the demands of your profession.
✅ Connectivity Options to Connect Peripherals
Your smartphone should offer a range of connectivity options, including an Audio jack, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C, for seamless connections with peripherals and other devices. This is particularly important for professionals who need to transfer files, connect to external displays, or sync with accessories like keyboards and drawing tablets.
✅ Price and Value
Finally, consider your budget and the value you will get. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, investing in a device with the right balance of features and performance tailored to your profession is crucial.
Look for smartphones that offer the best combination of stylus support, display quality, performance, storage, battery life, camera capabilities, build quality, and security features within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the best stylus phones.
Is a stylus better than fingers?
When it comes to digital sketching and note-taking, then yes, a stylus is better than fingers. But whether a stylus is better than fingers for you depends on your specific requirements and preferences. For tasks that demand precision and control, a stylus is the better choice. However, for general, everyday use, fingers provide a more natural and convenient experience.
How can I write neatly with a stylus?
To write neatly with a stylus hold it comfortably, maintaining a relaxed grip and positioning it at a slight angle. This will help you achieve better control and fluidity. Also, when writing, focus on maintaining consistent letter size, spacing, and alignment. Use your arm and wrist for movement, rather than just your fingers, as this will provide greater stability and control.
Is a stylus worth it on a phone?
The usefulness of a stylus largely depends on the tasks and the level of precision or comfort you require. For those who frequently take handwritten notes, sketch or draw, edit photos, or need precision in navigating their phone, a stylus can be a valuable tool. It can also be beneficial for individuals with larger hands who might find it difficult to accurately tap small buttons or links on a touchscreen.
However, if you primarily use your phone for tasks such as texting, browsing, or consuming media, a stylus may not provide enough added value to justify the investment.
The Best Smartphones with Stylus for Enhanced Productivity and Creativity Summary
Smartphones with stylus support offer a unique and versatile experience, catering to users seeking increased precision, creativity, and productivity in their mobile devices. Throughout this article, we have explored the top models on the market, each boasting advanced features and specifications that set them apart.
However, the Samsung S23 Ultra stands out as the best stylus phone offering top-notch features tailored for creative professionals. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and advanced stylus make it a remarkable companion for any graphic designer, architect, or artist. While its premium price and size might be a concern for some, the S23 Ultra’s cutting-edge technology is well worth the investment for those seeking to elevate their productivity.
If you’d like to explore more options, check out our article on the best smartphones. We’re excited to know your take on the smartphones with stylus that made it to our list! Share your experiences, opinions, or questions with us in the comments section below. Let’s get creative!