In an ever-evolving smartphone landscape, stock Android phones continue to be a popular choice for users seeking a clean, bloat-free, and user-friendly experience. These devices offer a pure Android experience, free from unnecessary customizations and third-party apps that often slow down smartphones.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be exploring the best stock Android phones of 2023. We’ve considered the unique features, specs, pros, cons, and price range of each phone to help you make an informed decision. So, sit back and delve into the world of stock Android smartphones and discover the perfect device for you.
For newcomers, it makes more sense to accept the stock Android platform rather than spend time and resources developing a custom interface. However, if you’re looking for a safe bet, you’ll want to stick with stock Android. Here is a couple to consider if you’re in the market for a low-cost, stock Android phone.
Best stock Android Phones 2023

Google Pixel 7
+ Google Assistant integration
+ Advanced AI-powered camera features
+ Titan M security chip
Google’s commitment to timely software updates and cutting-edge AI technology further sets the Pixel 7 apart from its competitors, making it the go-to choice for those who prioritize a clean, fluid, and optimized Android experience.
Specs
+ Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 895
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto)
+ Front Camera: 12MP
+ Battery: 5,000mAh with 30W fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging
Pros
Stunning display with smooth 120Hz refresh rate
Impressive camera performance
Fast and efficient performance
Long-lasting battery life
Water and dust resistant (IP68)
Cons
Expensive
No microSD card slot

Nothing Phone 2
+ Display 6.7-inch OLED 120Hz
+ RAM 8GB, 12GB
+ Storage 256GB, 512GB
+ Battery 4,700mAh
The Nothing Phone 2 is the latest marvel from the innovative minds at Nothing Technology, co-founded by Carl Pei of OnePlus fame. Echoing Pei’s penchant for building anticipation, the Phone 2 was meticulously teased throughout the summer, revealing exciting glimpses of the new phone’s capabilities.
Finally, on July 17, the smartphone made its grand debut in key markets including North America, the U.K., Ireland, India, and Hong Kong. With an upgraded camera system, this second iteration by Nothing Technology is ready to make waves in the smartphone industry, just like its predecessor. Be ready to embrace the future of technology with the Nothing Phone 2.
Specs
+ Ports USB-C
+ Operating System Android 13
+ Front camera 32MP
+ Rear cameras 50MP Sony IMX890 (main), 50MP JN1 (ultra-wide)
+ Dimensions 6.38 x 3 x 0.33 inches (162.1 x 76.4 x 8.6mm)
+ Colors White, Gray
+ Weight 7.09 ounces (201.2g)
+ Charging 45W
+ IP Rating IP54
Pros
Thoughtful transparent design
Impressive 6.7-inch display
Improved 50MP main camera
Cons
Not many changes from Phone 1
No zoom lens
Below-average video performance

OnePlus 10 Pro
+ Hasselblad camera partnership
+ Warp Charge 80W fast charging
+ Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
As part of the company’s commitment to offering a clean and efficient user interface, the OnePlus 10 Pro comes with OxygenOS, a close-to-stock Android skin with minimal customizations.
This powerful flagship phone boasts impressive specs, a stunning display, and an advanced camera system, making it one of the best stock Android phones in 2023 for users seeking a premium device without any unnecessary bloatware.
Specs
+ Display: 6.8-inch LTPO Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 895
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (48MP primary, 50MP ultrawide, 8MP telephoto)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 5,000mAh with Warp Charge 80W fast charging, 50W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging
Pros
Beautiful design with premium build quality
Superb display with 120Hz refresh rate
Excellent performance with 5G support
Impressive camera quality
Long-lasting battery life and fast charging
Cons
No microSD card slot
Slightly expensive

Samsung Galaxy S22 FE
+ High-quality display with a high refresh rate
+ Samsung DeX support
+ S Pen compatibility
This Fan Edition (FE) model provides users with the Samsung flagship experience, including powerful performance, an impressive display, and advanced camera capabilities, at a more budget-friendly price point.
Running on Samsung’s One UI, which is based on stock Android, the Galaxy S22 FE offers a refined and user-friendly experience with regular updates. If you’re looking for a flagship-like device with a close-to-stock Android experience, the Samsung Galaxy S22 FE is an excellent choice.
Specs
+ Display: 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Exynos 2200 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 895 (depending on the region)
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 6GB/8GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 8MP telephoto)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 4,500mAh with 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging
Pros
Flagship features at a more affordable price
Impressive camera performance
Smooth and efficient performance
Close-to-stock Android experience with One UI
Solid battery life with fast charging
Cons
No microSD card slot
Plastic back instead of glass

Nothing Phone 1
+ Stock Android experience with regular updates
+ Transparent elements for a unique aesthetic
+ Advanced cooling system
As the first smartphone from the company founded by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, the Nothing Phone 1 delivers a clean and efficient Android experience with a minimalist design philosophy.
This device provides users with powerful performance, a stunning display, and a camera system that captures excellent photos. If you’re looking for a distinctive and feature-packed device with a stock Android experience, the Nothing Phone 1 is a fantastic choice.
Specs
+ Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 895
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (108MP primary, 13MP ultrawide, 5MP macro)
+ Front Camera: 20MP
+ Battery: 4,500mAh with 65W fast charging + Wireless
Pros
Unique and stylish design
Powerful performance with 5G support
Impressive camera capabilities
Stock Android experience with timely updates
Smooth display with a high refresh rate
Cons
No IP rating for water and dust resistance

Google Pixel 6a
+ Google Assistant integration
+ AI-powered camera features
+ Titan M security chip
The Pixel 6a is designed for users seeking a clean and optimized Android experience, complete with timely updates and the renowned Pixel camera capabilities.
This mid-range smartphone delivers impressive performance, a vibrant display, and Google’s advanced AI features, making it one of the best stock Android phones in 2023 for those on a budget.
Specs
+ Display: 6.2-inch OLED, 90Hz refresh rate, HDR10
+ Processor: Google Tensor
+ Storage: 128GB
+ RAM: 6GB
+ Rear Camera: Dual-lens setup (50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide)
+ Front Camera: 8MP
+ Battery: 4,500mAh with 18W fast charging, wireless charging
Pros
Affordable price with flagship-like features
Impressive camera performance
Smooth and efficient performance
Stock Android experience with timely updates
Solid battery life
Cons
No microSD card slot
No telephoto lens

Motorola Edge 30 Ultra
+ Ready For platform compatibility
+ Dynamic refresh rate display
+ TurboPower fast charging
Building on Motorola’s long-standing reputation for delivering clean and user-friendly Android experiences, the Edge 30 Ultra offers exceptional performance, a stunning display, and a versatile camera system.
This premium device is perfect for users who desire a high-performance smartphone with a near-stock Android experience and a beautiful design. The Motorola Edge 30 Ultra stands out as one of the best stock Android phones in 2023, offering a complete package for demanding users.
Specs
+ Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (108MP primary, 16MP ultrawide, 8MP periscope telephoto)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 5,000mAh with 68W TurboPower fast charging
Pros
Exceptional performance with 5G support
Stunning display with a high refresh rate
Versatile camera features
Near-stock Android experience
Long-lasting battery life with fast charging
Cons
No official IP rating

Asus Zenfone 9
+ Flip Camera module for versatile photography
+ High-quality stereo speakers
+ GameGenie for enhanced gaming experience
Stripping away most of the unnecessary customizations and bloatware, the Zenfone 9 caters to users who appreciate a clean and efficient Android experience without sacrificing performance or features.
With its top-of-the-line specs, an impressive camera system, and a stunning display, the Asus Zenfone 9 is undoubtedly one of the best stock Android phones in 2023 for users seeking a premium device with a near-stock Android experience.
Specs
+ Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 895
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (64MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 8MP telephoto)
+ Front Camera: Same as rear camera (Flip Camera)
+ Battery: 5,000mAh with 65W fast charging
Pros
Innovative Flip Camera design
Powerful performance with 5G support
Stunning display with a high refresh rate
Near-stock Android experience
Solid battery life with fast charging
Cons
No wireless charging support
No official IP rating

Realme GT 2 Pro Pure Edition
+ Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support
+ Vapor cooling system for enhanced performance
+ Ultra-fast 120W charging
This special edition of the GT 2 Pro features a near-stock Android experience with minimal customizations, ensuring a smooth and user-friendly interface.
With its powerful specs, a vibrant display, and an advanced camera system, the Realme GT 2 Pro Pure Edition is undoubtedly one of the best stock Android phones in 2023 for those seeking a high-performance device without unnecessary bloatware.
Specs
+ Display: 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 895
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (50MP primary, 50MP ultrawide, 2MP macro)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 5,000mAh with 120W fast charging
Pros
Cutting-edge performance with 5G support
Gorgeous display with adaptive refresh rate
Impressive camera capabilities
Near-stock Android experience
Extremely fast charging
Cons
No wireless charging support
No IP rating for water and dust resistance

Vivo X80 Pro
+ Gimbal camera system for stable photography and videography
+ Ultra-slim design
+ 120W FlashCharge fast charging technology
With its impressive performance, cutting-edge camera technology, and a smooth display, the Vivo X80 Pro is designed for users who want a high-end smartphone experience with a close-to-stock Android feel.
The device is available in India, making it an attractive option for users who are seeking a powerful and well-rounded smartphone with a near-stock Android experience.
Specs
+ Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (50MP primary, 48MP ultrawide with gimbal stabilization, 12MP telephoto)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 4,500mAh with 120W FlashCharge fast charging
Pros
Sleek and elegant design
Powerful performance with 5G support
Impressive gimbal camera system
Near-stock Android experience through Funtouch OS
Smooth display with a high refresh rate
Cons
No wireless charging support
No official IP rating for water and dust resistance

OnePlus 10R
+ Fast and smooth display with a high refresh rate
+ Hasselblad-tuned camera system
+ Warp Charge fast charging technology
With its impressive performance, advanced camera system, and smooth display, the OnePlus 10R is designed for users who want a high-end smartphone experience without breaking the bank.
Available in India, the OnePlus 10R offers a fantastic combination of performance, design, and user-friendly interface, making it an attractive option for users who value a near-stock Android experience.
Specs
+ Display: 6.6-inch Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
+ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870
+ Storage: 128GB/256GB
+ RAM: 8GB/12GB
+ Rear Camera: Triple-lens setup (64MP primary, 16MP ultrawide, 5MP macro)
+ Front Camera: 32MP
+ Battery: 4,500mAh with 65W Warp Charge fast charging
Pros
Premium design and build quality
Powerful performance with 5G support
Impressive camera capabilities
Near-stock Android experience through OxygenOS
Smooth display with a high refresh rate
Cons
No wireless charging support
No official IP rating for water and dust resistance
The Pros and Cons of using stock Android
- Faster updates
- Clean interface
- Google integration
- Good security
- Minimal bloatware
- Longer lifespan
- Developer-friendly
- Consistent experience
- Limited customization
- No extra features
- Hardware limitations
- No additional apps
As a result of the lack of modification choices, extra features, adverts, and pre-installed apps, the stock Android OS is popular because it is lighter and faster. In addition, instead of being bombarded with adverts and recommendations in your notification panel, you’ll be in control of what apps you retain on your phone, which is a welcome change.
As a result, it’s a more secure option for consumers. However, if you’re unsure if a particular app will meet your needs, it’s best to stick with Google’s view of Android or “stock.”
The pure Android experience, on the other hand, may be crippling and painfully dull at times. Android is a compromise. A few things are lacking from the stock Android experience that may be a genuine pain. For example, consumers frequently complain about the absence of call recording or a dedicated gallery app.

Rajat Singh, a versatile author with a decade of experience, explores every niche with unique insights, from tech and health to lifestyle and business.