Ranking of the best music smartphones for 2020

Smartphones allow users not only to communicate with friends, family and solve work issues from a distance, but also to enjoy watching videos and listening to music. But to get good sound, it is not enough to buy high-quality headphones, the quality of the source itself, that is, the mobile phone, is also taken into account. Especially for music lovers, manufacturers produce music smartphones that are slightly different from ordinary ones.

Criterias of choice

Music smartphones are preferred by people who hear the difference between formats such as lossless, highrez and mp3. In order to fully experience the sound quality, owners, in addition to a music mobile phone, should also purchase headphones with a high impedance frequency. These include overhead devices and full-size ones with an impedance of 100 ohms.

So, when choosing a smartphone with musical capabilities, you should pay attention to:

• the presence of a special headphone amplifier with increased impedance;
• a special program should be installed - an equalizer, thanks to which it is possible to correct and adjust the high quality of music playback on smartphones;
• you need a sound card such as Wolfson or any other high-quality one;
• rechargeable battery with high power, for long-term operation;
• the presence of support for aptX HD codecs, they are necessary for wireless transmission of information, this is important if the user prefers to use wireless headphones;
• for those who prefer headphones with wires, it is important that a suitable jack (3.5mm) is present;
• you will need a capacious storage for information.

There are devices that work with special technology that can refine and enhance sounds, but these gadgets tend to only work with certain types of headphones.

Expensive devices

Expensive devices include those, the cost of which exceeds 35 thousand rubles, as a rule, devices that are distinguished by increased quality, performance and equipped with modern functions have such a price. Such devices are produced by the most famous brands.

Asus ZenFone 6

A powerful smartphone that has a conventional 3.5 mm jack for wired headphones. The increased performance of the device makes it one of the best premium phones. The Asus ZenFone 6 is equipped with a modern powerful processor and good RAM (6/8 GB), which allows owners to run the most modern toys that will run smoothly and use multiple programs at the same time. The mobile phone has a special feature, its camera is unique, it can rotate around the top of the body.The battery has a capacity of 5000 mAh, which means that it can be in working condition for a long time.

• high level of productivity;
• smartphone display without frame;
• works for a long time without recharging;
• there is a headphone jack;
• the lens rotates.

• price;
• not resistant to moisture.

OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition 12 / 256GB

The gadget of this brand is suitable for those users who prefer modern design and quality. The device combines plastic and metal, the edges of the case have rounded corners. The manufacturer is releasing the OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition 12 / 256GB in several color options, giving the buyer a choice of tastes. A 6.67-inch Fluid AMOLED display with high resolution (3120 × 1440 pixels) occupies the main part of the front panel of the smartphone, 12 GB of RAM and 256 internal memory, a graphics processor - all this makes it even more attractive. The device has two built-in speakers with excellent sound quality and power. The headphone jack is standard. 4085 mAh battery, charger, documents and case included.

• display;
• built-in speakers delivering clear sound;
• versatility in use;
• assembly;
• Memory;
• capacious battery.

• price;
• there is no 3.5 mm jack.

Samsung Galaxy S10 + Ceramic 12 / 1024GB

Samsung makes great smartphones. One of the latest models is the Samsung Galaxy S10 + Ceramic 12 / 1024GB, equipped with a 6.4 diagonal AMOLED display with a resolution of 3040x1440. The front is covered with scratch-resistant glass and the back is made of ceramic. The device is available in two colors, black and white. Another feature is a huge memory size (1TB), which allows you to download a huge amount of music, games, movies and much more. Also, the owners have the opportunity to increase the size of the data storage by 512 GB. The speakers provided provide a clear and powerful sound, which makes it possible to classify it as musical. The smartphone has five lenses, two front and three main. The device is compatible with wireless headphones, which, if necessary, can be charged from the back of the mobile phone. But the headphones themselves are not included in the kit, they are purchased separately.

• stylish appearance;
• the ability to recharge acoustic accessories from a cell phone cover;
• ample opportunities;
• huge amount of memory;
• fast charging function;
• high-quality shooting.

• apart from the high cost, none.

Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max 256GB

The model of the famous brand running on the iOS13 platform is popular with consumers. The smartphone has a water-repellent body, supports the operation of two SIM cards, a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, the back is equipped with three 12MP cameras. The memory capacity (256 GB) will allow you to place a large amount of different information, audio and video files in the phone. An autonomous non-removable and rather capacious battery will ensure a long operation of the device. There is also a fast and wireless charging function. In comparison with previous models, this manufacturer has increased the operating time by almost 5 hours. Speakers reproduce clear sound both when talking on the phone, and when listening to music and watching videos. The kit includes not only a charger and documents, but also Apple EarPods wireless headphones with Lightning-connector, to which you can optionally purchase an adapter, and they will become wired without degrading the sound.

• appearance of the device;
• high-quality assembly;
• great sound;
• good cameras;
• fast charging function;
• improved performance capabilities.

• high price.

Samsung Galaxy Flip Z 256GB

Another device developed by Samsung has a rather significant difference from others, it folds in half, like a clamshell, but when unfolded it looks like a regular smartphone. If we consider the technical side of the device, then it is equipped with all the best.The screen reaches 6.7 inches with a resolution of 2636x1080 pixels, a Snapdragon 855 Plus processor is installed, the performance of which is considered huge, and there is also an Adreno 640 graphics accelerator. The gadget does not have a slot for an additional card, but since the smartphone's memory is 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal , it is not required. Two built-in main 12 megapixel cameras allow you to take high-quality pictures, and for lovers of selfies there is a 10 megapixel front camera. The battery capacity is 3000 mAh, fast charging is provided, as for the sound capabilities, Dolby Atmos technology is used for their reproduction, which provides excellent, clear sound.

• one of the best processors is installed;
• unusual but stylish appearance;
• a large supply of RAM and built-in memory;
• great sound.

• the cost of the model exceeds 100,000 rubles.

Average cost

This category includes smartphones, the cost of which exceeds the amount of 20,000 rubles. Some models of the section will not be inferior in their capabilities and quality to smartphones from an expensive series.

HTC U12 Plus 128GB

Quite a decent device, but not the best of the musical. The speakers differ in sound power and produce good and clear sound, but there is no 3.5 mm headphone jack, but an excellent quality headset is included in the package, which automatically adjusts to the owner. Due to powerful speakers, the cell phone can perfectly work as a full-fledged speaker. Supports two SIM cards, 6 RAM, and the built-in memory can be 64 or 128 GB, there is a slot for an additional memory card. The 6-inch display is equipped with a front camera with two 8-megapixel modules, on the back are 16 and 12 megapixel main cameras with 2x zoom, and a Snapdragon 845 processor, 8 cores, 2.8 GHz.

• the speakers are very powerful;
• the presence of a headset;
• good technical capabilities and performance.

• lack of a connector;
• cost.

Honor 20 Pro 8 / 256GB

The beautiful model is popular, the back is made of multi-layer material, which gives it a voluminous appearance. This model does not differ in elegance, but for those who value reliability and quality, it is perfect. The 6.26-inch screen occupies most of the front panel, a sensitive fingerprint scanner is located on the back, a Kirin 980 processor (8 cores) is installed inside, memory of 8 and 256 GB, which cannot be expanded, but, as a rule, the one that is available is quite enough. Four main camera lenses located on the back and front on the front allow you to take high-quality, clear pictures. The phone runs on a 4000 mAh battery, supports the fast charging function, restores the charge up to 50% within half an hour.

• high-quality device, assembly, technical equipment (processor, memory, battery);
• sensitive sensor works at the slightest touch;
• great cameras;
• high performance;
• volumetric battery;
• good speakers.

• there is no 3.5 mm headphone jack;
• there is no possibility to install an additional memory card;
• no moisture protection.

Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro 8 / 256GB

The combination of quality and capabilities of the Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro 8 / 256GB model makes the smartphone popular among buyers. Display 6.4 inches, the body combines glass, aluminum making it sleek and stylish. Manufacturers release the model in several color options, the screen has an AMOLED matrix, thanks to which the color and details of the pictures become clearer and more vivid. The operative memory of the device is 8 GB, and the built-in memory is 256, there is a fingerprint scanner on the display, and the front camera of 20 megapixels is located in a special sliding niche, the main three are 48.8, and 13 megapixels each have autofocus and optical zoom. A 4000 mAh battery of this size is usually enough for a day.

• solid external design;
• parameters and equipment are one of the best;
• high quality sound;
• the volume of the battery is enough for a full day of work;
• quality cameras;
• acceptable price.

• weak protection against water;
• in low light, the photos are not very high quality.

HUAWEI Mate 30 Pro 8 / 256GB

One of the most popular models with a more affordable price and excellent technical capabilities is the HUAWEI Mate 30 Pro 8/256 GB. The smartphone has an OLED display with rounded edges that is shock resistant, and the body is made of glass. The main camera has four lenses, a 6.53-inch screen with an OLED matrix of 1176x2400 pixels, and is also protected not only from dust, but also from moisture. HUAWEI Mate 30 Pro 8 is available in several color options, which allows the buyer to choose the desired one. The Kirin 990 processor is installed, which maintains a high level of performance, powerful speakers are built in, delivering high-quality and surround sound, the memory capacity is 128 RAM and 256 GB built-in. The speaker is equipped with a noise suppressing function, thanks to which communication becomes more comfortable, an amplifier is additionally installed. A gorgeous 40 MP main camera with four lenses and optical stabilization, and a 32 MP front camera take high-quality pictures, and a 4500 mAh battery ensures a long battery life. The device can be recharged both in accelerated mode and wirelessly.

• stylish appearance;
• increased productivity;
• 40 and 32 megapixel cameras take clear photos and videos;
• high quality sound;
• it is possible to charge in two ways.

• there is no connector for wired headphones;
• heavy and slippery.

Meizu 16th 6 / 64GB

The Chinese brand produces good quality music smartphones, including the Meizu 16th 6 / 64GB model, with a 6-inch Super AMOLED display and a resolution of 2160x1080, the body combines metal parts and plastic. An 8-core Snapdragon 845 processor is installed. The main lens is 20 megapixels, and for selfies - 12 megapixels, the main emphasis is on acoustic capabilities. It has a powerful Qualcomm Aqstic DAC built in, and it also comes with a CS35L41 audio amplifier to enhance the quality of your music. Manufacturers have left the ability to connect wired headphones, keeping the standard connector for them.

• price;
• stylish look;
• increased productivity;
• cameras take clear pictures;
• advanced audio capabilities.

• no memory card slot.

OPPO Reno 2 8 / 256GB

One of the most advanced models, it is equipped with a 6.5-inch screen with AMOLED matrix. The body is made of glass, which gives the gadget an elegance. Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 processor with the latest technology. RAM and internal memory for 8 and 256 GB, a sensitive fingerprint sensor, speakers that support Dolby Atmos - all this makes the gadget popular among buyers. Also, the phone has a voluminous rechargeable battery (4000 mAh) providing a long period of operation, there is a quick recharge function. The kit includes not only documentation, an adapter with a cable, but also good earbuds.

• beautiful appearance;
• built-in retractable selfie camera;
• the functions of an artistic filter and beautification are provided;
• 48 MP main camera;
• the speakers produce great sound.

• absent.

Budget models

Budget music smartphones include those whose cost does not exceed 20,000 rubles, among them there are models of famous brands such as Nokia, LG and so on. The sound quality will certainly differ from the expensive and mid-range category, but still better than many other regular phones.

Meizu 15 Lite 4 / 32GB

An inexpensive smartphone from Meizu, but despite the cost, the device is of excellent quality and characteristics. A high-quality 5.6-inch screen, a quad-core Spreadtrum SC9832E processor, 1300MHz, 3GB of RAM and 32 built-in memory, supports recognition not only by fingerprint, but also by face. The main and front cameras are 13 MP, there is a headphone jack, the company focuses on the sound capabilities of the device and not only this model, the Cirrus Logic CS47L33 audio chip is installed in the headphones, and the Cirrus Logic CS35L35 amplifier is built into the speakers.

• low price;
• high-quality gadget;
• good cameras;
• good technical capabilities;
• built-in audio chip and sound amplifier.

• absent.

LG Q Stylus +

LG is a familiar company that produces many different products, cell phones are no exception. In recent years, the popularity of phones of this brand has dropped significantly, but nevertheless, there are quite successful options. LG Q Stylus + is a model with a casing made of high quality plastic and metal, protected from moisture and dust. The diagonal of the phone is 6.2 inches with a Fulll HD resolution, an eight-core MT6750S processor is installed with increased power, a slot for a card that expands data storage and a built-in graphic amplifier are provided. On the back side there is a 16 megapixel camera with optical stabilization, autofocus and a 77-degree viewing angle, the front one located on the front of the device has 8 megapixels. As for the memory, there is not a lot of it, the RAM is only 4 GB, and the built-in one is 64. The sound of this gadget is excellent, and the built-in DTS-X makes it spacious, there are wireless accessories. Battery 3300 mAh, fast charging function is provided.

• it is possible to use a memory card;
• dust and water protection;
• gorgeous surround sound;
• good main camera;
• high-quality assembly.

• the processor is weak;
• the volume of the battery is small;
• an outdated bluetooth model is installed.

Nokia 7.2 64GB

The model of a popular brand, with a 6.3-inch screen with scratch-resistant glass. The phone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor, which ensures its reliability and versatility. There are 6 GB of main and 64 built-in memory, it is possible to expand it, it supports the operation of two SIM cards. Three cameras, 45.5.8 megapixels each, are located on the back side, and for lovers of selfies 20 megapixels located on the front of the phone, there is also a flash and autofocus. Built-in speakers reproduce high-quality and clear sound, the battery has a capacity of 3500 mAh. This, of course, is not much, but allows the device to be in working order all day.

• external design;
• assembly;
• components are of high quality;
• clear sound;
• clear photos;
• it is possible to increase the size of the data storage with an additional card.

• absent.

Vivo V17 Neo 128GB

Vivo V17 Neo can also be attributed to music gadgets, which is not the last among the list of budget models. The 6.4-inch display takes up almost the entire front bezel, it also houses a camera and a responsive fingerprint sensor. The cell is equipped with a MediaTek Helio P65 processor, not the best option, but not the worst, also has an ARM Mali-G52 graphics accelerator. RAM - 6, and built-in - 128 GB, but there is an additional slot for a card that increases the size of the data storage. The two main cameras, 16 and 8 megapixels, take photos with high resolution (4608 x 3456), the front one - 32 megapixels, the peculiarity is that they are controlled by voice and gestures. The volume of the battery is 4500 mAh, which allows you to keep the gadget in working order throughout the day, without additional recharging. There is a 3.5 mm headphone jack, the speakers emit clear and loud sound.

• Beautiful design;
• display with a clear and bright picture;
• connector for an additional card;
• high-quality speakers;
• multi pixel camera;
• affordable cost.

• serious shortcomings are unnoticed.

Honor 8X Max

With its dimensions, the gadget is not inferior to a tablet; its diagonal is 7.1 with a resolution of 2244 × 1080. The model has no bezel, and the selfie camera is located in a special recess. Due to the size of the gadget, the power consumption is much higher than that of the models with standard sizes, so the battery power is only enough for half a day of continuous watching videos and games.This model is perfect for those who watch a lot of video and listen to music, it has built-in two stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos technology is provided, so the phone turns into a full-fledged small TV. The cell phone has an eight-core Snapdragon 660 processor, 8 GB of RAM and 128 internal memory, two main cameras at 16 and 2 megapixels, one front camera at 8 megapixels.

• nice design;
• large display;
• efficient processor and battery;
• stereo speakers;
• clear pictures are obtained.

• there is no fast charging function.

Moto g7

A reliable and affordable model with extensive technical capabilities. The 6.2-inch screen with a resolution of 2270 × 1080 produces a clear and contrasting image, there are two main lenses for 12 and 5, one front for 8 megapixels, 4 main and 64 internal memory, a slot for an additional storage card is provided. The speed of operation is ensured by the eight-core Snapdragon 632 processor, which shakes the sound capabilities, the feature can be called the presence of Dolby Audio technology, there is also a jack for wired headphones (3.5 mm). Battery - 3000 mAh, fast energy recovery is provided.

• performance;
• good display;
• there is a headphone jack;
• design;
• fast charging function

• in low light, the photos are not very high quality.

ZTE Blade V10 Vita 3 / 64GB

An affordable model with good musical potential. The phone is equipped with a bright 6.3-inch screen that can be adjusted to your liking. There are several ways to unlock the phone: either using fingerprinting or face scanning. The increased performance is provided by the eight-core Unisoc SC9863A processor, 3 GB of main and 64 built-in memory allow owners to download a considerable amount of information and music to the gadget. Battery 3200 mAh, allows you to use the phone for 14 hours, which changes the sound parameters, the device reproduces a clear and loud sound without extraneous noise and interference.

• low price;
• fashionable design;
• clear and loud sound.

• not identified.

Music smartphones are designed for music and video lovers. The cost of such phones can be different, so the sound quality will also differ. It is not difficult to choose a suitable gadget, it is enough to decide on the wishes and cost.