Best smartphones 2023: Our top picks for the best phones right now

Blog | 11th Jan 2023 | 5min read

If you’re anything like us, your smartphone probably acts like an extra limb — full of utility and always attached to you. But when you’re running up your screen time on a daily basis, you’ll need to replace your handset every so often to keep all your scrolling as smooth as can be.

Each year, our favourite brands put out devices that are chock-full of exciting new tech, but unfortunately, that pushes the prices up too. The average handset can set you back a pretty penny in 2023, but Zilch is here to help.

We offer buy now, pay later on mobile phones with no credit check so you can pay the first 25% of the cost upfront and split the remainder into three manageable instalments, spread over time.

So, whether you’ve suffered a nasty screen cracking accident or you’re a techhead looking for the hottest new handheld, we’ve got you covered. Here are our picks for the best new smartphones that are on the market in 2023.

Our top picks: Buy now, pay later on smartphones

iPhone 14

Apple lovers rejoice: the brand new iPhone is here. As usual, release day saw crowds flock to the famed stores around the world, and for good reason. The Californian company’s latest offering has the same A15 chip that made last year’s 13 Pro so smooth, with added cameras packed with features. Or, the Pro version trades in the camera notch for the exciting new Dynamic Island. All of this could be yours, but it comes at a pretty price — so it’s well worth considering spreading the cost.

Google Pixel 7

Is there anything that Google can’t do? The latest iteration of the Pixel flagship is powerful and convenient, optimised for the company’s suite of in-house applications and sporting a stunning 6.3in AMOLED display. Among its competitors, the Pixel is the more affordable option, too, even considering the larger 256GB storage model. However, there is a pricier Pro model available that’ll bag you better zooming features and a nippier refresh rate. If you’re looking to spread the cost, check out with Zilch and buy now, pay later with no interest.

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

Korean tech giant Samsung has been putting out consistently high-quality handsets for years, and its latest cosmic flagship is no exception. The Galaxy range is famed for its impossibly high specs, and the S22’s Ultra variant pushes this to new extremes with an 108MP rear camera and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. With a bumper spec list, however, comes a bumper price — but you can use Zilch Pay in 4 to spread the cost over six weeks.

OnePlus 10 Pro

OnePlus devices have been cropping up on year-end lists for some time now, but are stepping further into the mainstream than ever before with the 10 Pro. To compete with the best, you have to be the best — and the top-notch performance of this Android flagship wows in every department, from battery life to ergonomics. Throw in quick charging and a speedy Snapdragon processor and you can’t go wrong. Shop the range online with Amazon and use Zilch to buy now, pay later or Pay in 1 for Rewards.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4

Always keen to push the boundaries of what a smart device can be, Samsung has yet to phone it in when it comes to creating exciting new mobiles. Pop in to your nearest Currys PC World and see it to believe it — they’ve only gone and brought back the flip phone. Enjoy flawless performance and live out your Y2K fantasy with the Flip 4. Plus, you can check out with Zilch to pay just the first 25% of the cost today, then split the remainder into three equal instalments.

How buy now, pay later works

If all that tech sounds too good to be true, wait until you hear about Zilch.

To start shopping for phones the smart way, you’ll first need to download our app from the App Store or Google Play and make an account with us. Once you’re in, have a read of our credit agreement — and if you’re all happy to proceed, let’s get to work.

You can select whichever store you want to shop with from our homepage, and make your purchase with Zilch Pay in 4. You’ll pay just the upfront 25% of the value of your purchase today, and then split the cost that’s left over the next six weeks. We’ll automatically debit the remaining three instalments from your account, so that you don’t even have to think about it.

Or, you could choose to pay with Zilch Pay in 1. This will earn you up to 2% back of your purchase price in Zilch Rewards.

If you’re looking to go and try out some of these devices in person, we recommend activating your card in the app for shopping at your favourite high street store.For the majority of our retailers, you won’t pay an extra penny for shopping with Zilch. But if we aren’t working with your favourite shops yet, you can pay a small extra fee to use Zilch Anywhere, and buy now, pay later wherever Mastercard payments are accepted. Rest assured, we’ll always let you know if you’ll be charged any extra costs for using Zilch.

As always, payments are secure and refunds as straightforward as when you shop with a debit card.

* Spend responsibly, spending more than you can afford could seriously affect your financial status. Credit subject to status, 18+, UK residents only. Representative APR 18.1% (fixed). Rep Example: based on total spend: £240 (+ £2.50 transaction fee). Total repayable: £242.50 paid over 6 weeks, 1st payment £62.50, then 3 payments of £60.00 every 2 weeks. T&Cs apply.