Some want the best screen, and others want the best camera system. Many will value battery life, or something like processing power. But those who want the ultimate multi-tasking performance will want to get a phone with the most RAM possible. Right now, the race is mainly led by phones with 16GB of RAM (or more), and we’ve put together a list of the best ones available. Let’s learn more about RAM and explore options to find your next multi-tasking beast.
How much RAM do you really need?
First things first, you have to wonder if you even need a phone with 16GB of RAM or more. In all honesty, we feel like it might be a bit overkill to get that much RAM on a smartphone. Our internal tests found that 8-12GB is the current sweet spot. Anything above that should offer nothing more than bragging rights, at least for most users.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for one of the best phones with 16GB of RAM. It’s always a good idea to future-proof yourself, especially if you plan to keep a phone for years to come. Standards and resource needs evolve, so maybe 16GB of RAM won’t be considered much when apps ask for more memory resources, in the future. Not to mention, it can also help improve gaming performance, if you’re an avid mobile gamer.
We must also consider that a phone with 16GB of RAM is likely an excellent high-end device with great specs and features in other departments. We suppose that might be the best way to go about your decision. While having 16GB of RAM is fantastic, you probably shouldn’t buy a phone for that reason alone. Make sure the rest of the phone is also excellent. That’s why we’re here to help you find the best ones.
The best phones with 16GB of RAM
- Google Pixel 9 Pro series
- ASUS ZenFone 11 Ultra
- ASUS ROG Phone 8 series
- REDMAGIC 9S Pro
- Xiaomi 14 series
- OnePlus 12
Editor’s note: We will regularly update this list of the best phones with 16GB of RAM, as new devices launch and older ones are phased out.
Google Pixel 9 Pro series
Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
Google has finally entered the world of the best phones with 16GB of RAM, thanks to the Pixel 9 Pro series. The Google Pixel 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold all come with 16GB of RAM, making these our favorite on this list, at least for most users.
All of these devices are great. Performance will be no issue, as every model features the latest Tensor G4 processor and the aforementioned 16GB of RAM. They all also come with a gorgeous LTPO OLED display and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Of course, the resolution and size of the screen changes with each model, but all look amazing.
We loved the Gemini features, which the Pixel 9 series is all about. Not to mention the design and build quality are all worthy of a high-end 2024 smartphone. Not to mention there is also the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which has its unique foldable smartphone design we know many of you will enjoy.
Pixel cameras have been recognized as some of the best for years, and the Pixel 9 Pro series isn’t the exception. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have the best ones, though. And if you care for updates, Google is promising seven years of support here. Our only main complaint is that the Tensor G4 still runs hot. Otherwise, these are definitely among the best phones with 16GB of RAM.
To learn more, check out our Google Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold reviews.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Improved design
8-inch folding display
Seven years of software updates
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
The best specs in the Pixel 9 series
Gorgeous display
Seven years of software updates
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Impressive AI-powered features
Excellent build quality
Flexible, capable cameras
Reliable update commitment
Pixel 9 Pro specs:
- Display: 6.3-inch, 2,856 x 1,280
- SoC: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 128/256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 48, and 48MP
- Front camera: 42MP
- Battery: 4,700mAh
- Software: Android 14
Pixel 9 Pro XL specs:
- Display: 6.8-inch, 2,992 x 1,344
- SoC: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 128/256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 48, and 48MP
- Front camera: 42MP
- Battery: 5,060mAh
- Software: Android 14
Pixel 9 Pro Fold specs:
- Display: 8-inch internal, 6.3-inch external
- SoC: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 256/512GB
- Cameras: 48, 10.8, and 10.5MP
- Front camera: 10 and 1oMP
- Battery: 4,650mAh
- Software: Android 14
ASUS ZenFone 11 Ultra
Robert Triggs / Android Authority
The ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra really changed things up. Usually known for its quality smaller handsets, the latest iteration to the Zenfone line-up is pretty large with a 6.78-inch screen. It also goes head-to-head with the best in the industry, featuring a premium design, top-tier performance, great battery life, speedy charging speeds, and an IP68 rating. In our ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra review we mentioned it’s pretty much like a non-gaming version of the ASUS ROG Phone 8 series.
The only tricky part is that, while this is one of the best phones with 16GB of RAM, the version with 16GB of RAM isn’t available in the USA. We get the shorter end of the stick with 12GB of RAM. That said, many of you in other markets can get the 16GB version. If you’re in the USA, you can try to import the 16GB version.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
Nicely built • Universal fast charging • Good AI features
MSRP: $899.99
Bigger and better than ever.
The ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra is the successor to the compact Zenfone 10, but it's built in a completely different guise. With a much larger 6.78-inch form factor, triple camera array, and premium aesthetic, the phone brings Zenfone series favorites and new additions to a larger display.
See price at Amazon
Zenfone 11 Ultra
ZenFone 11 Ultra specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch, Full HD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16GB
- Storage: 256/512GB
- Cameras: 50, 32, and 13MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,500mAh
- Software: Android 14
ASUS ROG Phone 8 and 8 Pro
Robert Triggs / Android Authority
ASUS has established itself in the world of gaming smartphones, and these devices are known for offering amazing specs. It’s no surprise the ASUS ROG Phone 8 series offers some of the best phones with 16GB of RAM. Both the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro come in variants with 16GB of RAM. and if you go with the Pro model, you can get as much as 24GB!
Other specs are just as impressive. Both models feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, a very nice 6.78-inch display with a 165Hz refresh rate, and a 5,500mAh battery with 65W max charging. You’ll also get gaming optimizations like shoulder triggers, the Armoury Crate app, and very fun gaming aesthetics. Not to mention the optional accessories, such as the AeroActive Cooler X.
We had very little to complain about in our ASUS ROG Phone 8 review. Our only real complaint is that it is a bit expensive. Otherwise, it’s a very powerful device. And this time around it actually comes with an IP68 rating, as well as pretty decent cameras, both rare to find in gaming smartphones.
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro
Sleek design • Powerful processor • Ultra-Portable
MSRP: $1,199.00
ASUS ROG Phone 8
Zenfone-like design • IP68 rated, finally • Fast charging and excellent battery life
MSRP: $1,099.00
New look, same gaming greatness.
With a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, AI-centric gaming features, a sleeker aesthetic, and additions like IP68 water resistance and wireless charging, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 is a mighty leap for the gaming phone king.
ROG Phone 8 specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch, Full HD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16GB
- Storage: 256GB
- Cameras: 50, 32, and 13MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,500mAh
- Software: Android 14
ROG Phone 8 Pro specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch, Full HD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 16/24GB
- Storage: 512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 32, and 13MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,500mAh
- Software: Android 14
REDMAGIC 9S Pro
nubia REDMAGIC
Here’s another one of the best gaming smartphones. The REDMAGIC 9S Pro checks all the boxes to get into this list of the best phones with 16GB of RAM. You will have to get the higher-end version of this phone to get 16GB of RAM, which also comes with 512GB of storage.
This is one powerful smartphone, by the way. It features a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The large 6.8-inch AMOLED screen will make games look great thanks to the 1,116 x 2,480 resolution and the smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It has gaming-dedicated features, such as an integrated ICE 13.5 Magic Cooling System and pressure-sensitive shoulder triggers. Not to mention software upgrades, and optional accessories for further cooling the device during those intense gaming sessions.
By the way, if you want fantastic battery life, this phone also comes with a sizeable 6,500mAh battery. Also great is the addition of 80W charging. The best part? It’s actually very affordable for such a high-end phone. Pricing starts at only $649 for the 12GB RAM version. The version with 16GB of RAM start at $799, which is still very cheap for what you get.
REDMAGIC 9S Pro specs:
- Display: 6.8-inch, 1,116 x 2,480
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16GB
- Storage: 256/512GB
- Cameras: 50, 50, and 2MP
- Front camera: 16MP
- Battery: 6,500mAh
- Software: Android 14
Xiaomi 14, 14 Pro, and 14 Ultra
Harley Maranan / Android Authority
Let’s start with the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro, which are amazing phones; we couldn’t ignore them. There is one major downside, though. They are not officially available in the USA. There are ways to import them, though.
Both devices come with a maximum of 16GB of RAM. They are also the first phones with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. They also come with triple 50MP cameras. The main differences are in the screen sizes and battery sizes. And the Pro can charge at 120W, while the Xiaomi 14 can handle “only” 90W. By the way, wireless charging is super fast, too, at 50W.
These come in a variety of colors. The Xiaomi 14 is available in black, silver, pink, and green. The Xiaomi 14 Pro can be had in black, silver, titanium, and green.
If you’re looking for an upgrade, you can also get the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. This device also comes with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and either 12GB or 16GB of RAM. The main upgrade is that it comes with a fourth 50MP camera, as well as a ToF sensor for measuring depth. It also features a larger 5,000mAh battery, though we weren’t fans of the battery life when we tested it.
39%off
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Powerful, flexible camera setup
Incredible portrait photos
Top-tier performance
See price at Giztop
Save $642.00
See price at Amazon
Save £217.00
Xiaomi 14 specs:
- Display: 6.36-inch, 1,200 x 2,670
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 8/12/16GB
- Storage: 256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 50, and 50MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 4,610mAh
- Software: Android 14
Xiaomi 14 Pro specs:
- Display: 6.73-inch, QHD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16GB
- Storage: 256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 50, and 50MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 4,880mAh
- Software: Android 14
Xiaomi 14 Ultra specs:
- Display: 6.73-inch, QHD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16GB
- Storage: 256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 50, 50, and 50MP + ToF
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Software: Android 14
OnePlus 12
Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
The OnePlus 12 is for those looking for a premium experience without paying over a grand for a phone. We’ve previously mentioned that it’s a great gaming phone in disguise. Additionally, there is a version with 16GB of RAM.
Performance is amazing, as the unit comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. You can find other high-end specs in the device, including a great 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a QHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It also features a large 5,400mAh battery with 80W fast charging and an impressive 50W wireless charging.
And if you really want to go all out, the device isn’t limited to 16GB of RAM. The higher-end version has 24GB.
OnePlus 12
Bright, sharp display • Blistering-fast charging • Approachable price
MSRP: $799.00
The flagship killer returns.
The OnePlus 12 is an important update for the brand that never settles. The phone offers the latest and best technology, including a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, 50W wireless and 80W wired charging, next-gen Hasselblad cameras, and more.
See price at OnePlus
See price at OnePlus
Glacial White - India
OnePlus 12 specs:
- Display: 6.82-inch, QHD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12/16/24GB
- Storage: 256/512/1,024GB
- Cameras: 50, 48, and 64MP
- Front camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5,400mAh
- Software: Android 14
Honorable mentions
We tend to focus on devices readily available in the US for these lists, but there are other great phones with 16GB of RAM in different markets. Let’s talk about some of them.
- OnePlus Open ($1699.99 at Amazon): We only really removed the OnePlus Open from the main list because we feel the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a better option for most users. That said, the OnePlus Open is a gorgeous foldable smartphone with a great design, great specifications, and cameras that actually pushed the standards for folding phones, which were never great in the camera department.
- HONOR Magic 6 Pro (£1099.99 at Amazon): The HONOR Magic 6 Pro is a great-looking phone with high-end specs, including versions with 16GB of RAM. Other highlights include a great camera system with a 150MP periscope shooter, 80W wired charging, and a 5,600mAh battery.
- OPPO Find X7 Ultra ($979 at Giztop): This phone is powerful, gorgeously designed, and offers a premium experience. One of its most unique features is that it has two periscope lenses.
- OPPO Find N3 ($1399 at Giztop): If you’re really digging the foldable phones and want 16GB of RAM, your next best bet after the OnePlus Open is to get an OPPO Find N3. This flagship handset has impressive specs, a gorgeous design, and a great overall experience. It also has a nearly invisible crease.
FAQs
RAM stands for random access memory. It is the memory a processor is using actively. It’s faster than a regular hard drive or SSD, which makes it ideal for quick read/write tasks for open apps.
As mentioned earlier in the article, RAM mainly affects multi-tasking performance. It can also be important when performing resource-intensive tasks, like gaming. That said, having too much RAM likely won’t make a noticeable difference for most common users. You’ll only notice a difference when giving your smartphone heavy use, or using too many apps simultaneously.
So far, the phone with the most RAM we’ve seen is the DOOGEE V Max Plus, with a stunning amount of 36GB of RAM. 20GB is extended RAM, though, which means the phone borrows 20GB from the internal storage when needed. The dedicated RAM is 16GB. This was an issue before, as internal storage was slower than RAM. Modern SSD storage is super fast, though.
How much RAM you need on a smartphone depends on your needs, but most experts agree that 12GB is the sweet spot. You won’t notice much of a difference above that.
It’s actually pretty simple to check how much RAM you have. You can also check its RAM usage, and learn how to free up some RAM. We have a full guide for checking RAM, if you’re interested.
Have you realized that 16GB of RAM is too much? We also have listed our favorite smartphones with 12GB of RAM. Check them out if you want to get something a bit more reasonable. Additionally, you should probably stop worrying so much about RAM and look at our list of the very best Android phones. All of them will have enough for most users.
You might like
Best products
AndroidRAMSmartphones
