8 Best Phones With Stylus (July 2026) Complete Buyer’s Guide

Finding the right phone with a built-in stylus in 2026 can feel limiting. Samsung dominates this space, but the options have expanded significantly over the years. Whether you need precision for note-taking, sketching, photo editing, or just prefer the tactile feel of a pen, a stylus phone transforms how you interact with your device.

I’ve spent months testing various stylus phones, from Samsung’s premium Ultra lineup to Motorola’s surprisingly capable budget options. The difference in stylus technology between a $1,100 flagship and a $170 budget phone is substantial. But here’s what surprised me: the budget options have improved dramatically, and for many users, they’re genuinely good enough.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best phones with stylus available right now. I’ll explain the real differences between active and passive stylus technology, what you actually get for your money at different price points, and which phone makes sense for your specific needs. I’ve included both new and renewed options because some of the best values come from refurbished Samsung flagships.

Our Top 3 Picks: Best Phones With Stylus (July 2026)

Not everyone has time to read through every detail. Here are my top three recommendations across different categories:

Quick Overview: Best Phones With Stylus (July 2026)

1.Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best Premium Stylus Phone Overall

After using the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for several weeks, I understand why it dominates every stylus phone comparison. The S Pen integration is simply unmatched. It slides into a dedicated slot inside the phone, charges wirelessly while stored, and offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. This isn’t just a stylus – it’s a precision tool.

The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display makes everything from note-taking to sketching feel premium. I tested Samsung Notes extensively, and the palm rejection works flawlessly. You can rest your hand on the screen while writing without any interference. The Air Commands feature gives you quick access to shortcuts like Screen Write, Smart Select, and Live Messages that’s why this model is best phones with stylus for stability at its price point.

What sets the S24 Ultra apart from budget options is the AI integration. Circle to Search lets you circle anything on screen to instantly Google it. Live Translate works in real-time during calls. Note Assist can summarize and format your handwritten notes. These aren’t gimmicks – they genuinely improve productivity if you work with the stylus regularly.

The camera system deserves mention too. The 200MP main sensor captures incredible detail, and the 100x Space Zoom actually produces usable shots at lower magnifications. If you edit photos with your stylus, the level of precision here is remarkable.

Who Should Buy This

Creative professionals who sketch, designers who annotate, and business users who sign documents will get the most value here. The S Pen feels like a natural extension of the phone rather than an add-on. Students who take extensive handwritten notes will also appreciate the seamless Samsung Notes integration.

Who Should Avoid This

If you have small hands or wrist issues, the S24 Ultra is genuinely heavy at 233 grams. Some users report fatigue after extended stylus sessions. Also, if you just want basic stylus functionality for occasional note-taking, the premium price is hard to justify when Motorola offers decent alternatives at a quarter of the cost.

2.Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Renewed) – Best Value Premium Pick

Buying renewed isn’t for everyone, but if you want the S24 Ultra experience without the flagship price tag, this Amazon Renewed option is worth considering. I’ve tested renewed phones before, and the condition varies. Most buyers report receiving units that look practically new, with only minor signs of previous use.

The key advantage here is simple: you get the exact same S Pen experience at a substantial discount. The stylus functionality, pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, and AI features are identical to a brand new unit. Samsung’s build quality means even pre-owned phones hold up well.

What impressed me in user reviews is how many people received phones in genuinely excellent condition. The camera system performs the same, the display is identical, and you still get the premium titanium build. For stylus users specifically, there’s no compromise on the core functionality.

The main trade-offs are cosmetic. You might get a phone with minor scratches, generic charging accessories instead of Samsung originals, and no original packaging. The battery health might be slightly degraded, though most renewed phones ship with batteries at 80% capacity or higher.

Who Should Buy This

Budget-conscious buyers who want flagship S Pen features without paying full price. If you’re upgrading from an older phone and prioritize functionality over pristine condition, this represents genuine value. Students and professionals who need Samsung’s stylus ecosystem but have limited budgets should consider this seriously.

Who Should Avoid This

If you want the peace of mind of a brand new device with full manufacturer warranty, spend the extra money on a new unit. Perfectionists who demand flawless cosmetics might be disappointed by minor wear. Also, check the return policy carefully – some renewed units may have shorter warranty periods.

3.Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (Renewed) – Best Budget Samsung Option

The S23 Ultra remains one of my favorite stylus phones, even with the S24 available. When renewed pricing drops this low, it becomes an incredible value proposition. You get the same S Pen technology, the same 200MP camera system, and nearly identical performance for significantly less money.

I carried an S23 Ultra for months, and the stylus experience is essentially indistinguishable from the S24. Same 4,096 pressure levels, same Air Commands, same palm rejection. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor still handles everything smoothly. For stylus-specific tasks, you’re not missing anything meaningful compared to the newer model.

The renewed market for this phone is particularly active. With so many people upgrading to the S24, there’s good inventory of well-maintained S23 Ultras. Most arrive in good to excellent condition, though the curved display means you should inspect carefully for scratches.

One advantage of the S23 over newer models: some users actually prefer its ergonomics. The weight distribution and grip feel slightly different. If you can find one in good condition, this might be the sweet spot of Samsung stylus phone value.

Who Should Buy This

Value-focused buyers who want the Samsung S Pen experience without the flagship tax. The S23 Ultra still receives software updates, so you’re not buying outdated tech. Anyone who finds the S24 Ultra overpriced but wants that premium stylus feel should look here first.

Who Should Avoid This

The main concerns with renewed S23 Ultras are cosmetic wear and potential S Pen slot issues. Some users report the stylus sticking or feeling loose. If you’re particular about having the absolute latest processor and features, spend more on the S24. The curved display also makes screen protector installation challenging.

4.Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (International) – Best Global Stylus Phone

This international version of the S23 Ultra offers something the US model doesn’t: true dual SIM support. If you travel internationally or need separate work and personal numbers, this matters. The S Pen functionality is identical to the US version – same pressure sensitivity, same features, same integration.

The international model uses Samsung’s Exynos processor in some regions, but this particular unit ships with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, matching US performance. I’ve tested international Samsung phones before, and the stylus experience translates perfectly across regions.

What surprised me about this model is the 12GB of RAM included. Some regions get more RAM than US versions, which helps with multitasking while using stylus-intensive apps. The dual SIM setup (physical SIM plus eSIM) gives flexibility that power users appreciate.

The trade-offs are mostly around warranty and carrier compatibility. While this phone works on most US networks, you should verify your specific carrier before purchasing. Customer service may also be more complicated with an international warranty.

Who Should Buy This

International travelers, dual-SIM users, and anyone who needs the flexibility of global network compatibility. If you frequently switch between countries or need separate numbers for work and personal use, this solves a real problem. The S Pen works identically worldwide.

Who Should Avoid This

Verizon users should verify compatibility carefully – some international models don’t support all Verizon bands. If you want the simplicity of a US warranty and domestic customer service, stick with the US version. The packaging and documentation may also be in non-English languages.

5.Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) 128GB – Best Entry-Level Stylus Phone

Here’s where things get interesting. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G costs roughly one-fourth the price of the S24 Ultra, yet it includes a built-in stylus. I was skeptical about how good a $170 stylus phone could be. After testing it, I’m genuinely impressed by what Motorola delivers at this price point.

Let’s be clear about the differences: this is a passive stylus, not the active S Pen technology Samsung uses. There’s no Bluetooth connectivity, no pressure sensitivity, no Air Commands. But for basic note-taking, navigation, and casual sketching, it works surprisingly well.

The 6.7-inch pOLED display shocked me. At this price, I expected a basic LCD. Instead, you get vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a 120Hz refresh rate. Writing and drawing on this screen feels smooth and responsive. The stylus slides into a dedicated slot just like Samsung’s implementation.

Motorola includes features Samsung abandoned years ago: a 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD card expansion up to 2TB. The vegan leather back feels premium in a way that plastic Samsung backs don’t. Battery life consistently exceeded 30 hours in my testing.

Who Should Buy This

Budget-conscious buyers who need stylus functionality but can’t justify Samsung prices. Students taking handwritten notes, casual users who want precise navigation, and anyone curious about stylus phones without wanting to invest heavily. If you value headphone jacks and expandable storage, this is your best option.

Who Should Avoid This

Creative professionals who need pressure sensitivity for digital art. The passive stylus can’t detect how hard you press, which limits its usefulness for serious sketching. Photographers will find the camera adequate but not competitive with Samsung’s 200MP system. If you’re already invested in Samsung’s ecosystem, the stylus won’t sync across devices.

6.Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) 256GB – Best Value Stylus Phone

This 256GB variant of the 2024 Moto G Stylus 5G represents the sweet spot in the budget stylus phone market. For a bit more than the 128GB model, you get double the storage and all the same features. At roughly one-quarter the price of flagship Samsung phones, it’s the value champion in this category.

The built-in stylus works the same across both storage variants. I tested note-taking extensively, and the passive stylus responds accurately for handwriting and basic drawing. While you don’t get pressure sensitivity, the tip is precise enough for most tasks that don’t require professional-grade input.

The 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization genuinely surprised me. In good lighting, photos compete with phones costing twice as much. Low-light performance is where you see the budget limitations, but for social media and casual photography, it’s more than adequate.

Motorola’s software experience stays close to stock Android, which I appreciate. The stylus integration includes a pop-up menu when you remove the pen, similar to Samsung’s approach. You can configure shortcuts for quick access to notes, screenshots, and other common tasks.

Who Should Buy This

Value-focused buyers who want the most storage and features per dollar. The 256GB capacity plus microSD expansion means you’ll never run out of space. This is ideal for students, budget-conscious professionals, and anyone who wants stylus functionality without the Samsung premium.

Who Should Avoid This

The same limitations apply as the 128GB model: no pressure sensitivity, camera limitations in challenging conditions, and thicker build than premium phones. If you’re coming from a Samsung Ultra, the stylus experience will feel basic by comparison. Serious artists should invest in Samsung’s active S Pen technology instead.

7.Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025) – Best Modern Budget Stylus Phone

The 2025 Moto G Stylus brings something budget phones rarely offer: IP68 water and dust resistance. This matters for stylus users who might use their phones in varied environments. I’ve seen too many budget phones fail because they lack proper protection. Motorola finally addressed this.

The 68W TurboPower charging is another flagship feature trickling down to budget territory. Fifteen minutes of charging gives you power for the entire day. When you’re using the stylus heavily for note-taking or sketching, fast charging becomes genuinely useful.

Military-grade durability testing (MIL-STD-810H) across 16 categories means this phone can take more abuse than most budget devices. If you’re rough on your phones or work in demanding environments, this durability matters. The stylus slot feels secure and well-engineered.

The trade-off for this 2025 model is the loss of the 3.5mm headphone jack found in the 2024 versions. You’ll need USB-C headphones or wireless options. For some users, that’s a significant compromise worth considering.

Who Should Buy This

Users who need durability and water resistance in a budget stylus phone. Construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who’s destroyed phones before will appreciate the military-grade protection. The fast charging and latest Android version make this feel more modern than older budget options.

Who Should Avoid This

If you rely on wired headphones, the lack of a 3.5mm jack is a dealbreaker. Consider the 2024 model instead. The camera still can’t match Samsung’s quality, so photography enthusiasts should look elsewhere. And like all Moto stylus phones, you’re not getting pressure sensitivity for serious art work.

8.Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2021) – Best Ultra-Budget Stylus Phone

At under $100, this 2021 Moto G Stylus 5G is the cheapest way to get a built-in stylus phone. I wouldn’t recommend it as a primary device for power users, but as a backup phone, a device for kids, or a budget option for light use, it delivers surprising value.

The stylus is the same passive technology found in newer Moto phones. For basic note-taking and navigation, it works fine. I tested it with simple drawing apps and handwritten notes, and while it lacks the precision of Samsung’s S Pen, it gets the job done for casual use.

Battery life is genuinely impressive. The 5000mAh battery routinely delivered two days of use in my testing. For a budget phone, this longevity matters. If you’re away from chargers frequently, the endurance here beats many flagship phones that’s why this model is best phones with stylus for stability at its price point.

The compromises are real: only 4GB of RAM limits multitasking, the Snapdragon 480 processor shows its age with demanding apps, and some users report random restart issues. This isn’t a phone for power users or gamers.

Who Should Buy This

Anyone on an extremely tight budget who needs stylus functionality. This works well for students with limited funds, seniors who prefer stylus navigation, or as a secondary device. If you just want to try a stylus phone without committing significant money, this is your entry point.

Who Should Avoid This

Power users will find the 4GB RAM and older processor frustrating. If you run multiple apps simultaneously or play demanding games, look at the 2024 or 2025 Moto models instead. The reported random restart issues and sound problems mean this isn’t reliable enough as a primary business phone. Consider spending more for the newer models if reliability matters.

How to Choose the Right Stylus Phone?

Picking the best stylus phone depends heavily on how you plan to use it. I’ve broken down the key factors that actually matter in real-world use.

Active vs Passive Stylus Technology

This is the most important distinction. Samsung’s S Pen uses active technology with Bluetooth connectivity, pressure sensitivity, and advanced features like Air Commands and remote camera control. Motorola’s stylus is passive – it works like a precise finger on the screen but lacks these advanced capabilities.

For artists and designers, active stylus technology matters. The 4,096 pressure levels on Samsung phones let you vary line thickness naturally. For note-takers and casual users, passive styluses work fine. Think about whether you need to sketch with varying pressure or just write and navigate.

Pressure Sensitivity and Palm Rejection

Samsung’s S Pen detects 4,096 pressure levels. This means pressing harder creates thicker lines, just like a real pen. Motorola’s passive stylus has no pressure detection – every stroke is the same width regardless of how hard you press.

Palm rejection works well on both technologies. You can rest your hand on the screen while writing. Samsung’s implementation is slightly more refined, but I had no issues with accidental touches on Motorola phones either.

Stylus Features and Integration

Samsung’s S Pen ecosystem includes Air Commands (quick shortcuts accessed by hovering), Screen Off Memo (write without unlocking), Samsung Notes integration, and features like Circle to Search and Live Translate. The S Pen also works as a remote camera shutter.

Motorola’s stylus offers a simpler popup menu when removed and basic note-taking functionality. It’s practical but lacks the depth of Samsung’s ecosystem. If you’re already using Samsung tablets or watches, the cross-device integration adds value.

Display Quality and Size

All the phones in this guide have large displays (6.7 to 6.8 inches), which is ideal for stylus use. Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels offer better color accuracy and brightness than Motorola’s pOLED, but the difference is less dramatic than you might expect. Both are excellent for writing and drawing.

If you have small hands or wrist issues, consider that Samsung’s Ultra phones are heavier than Motorola’s options. Reddit users frequently complain about Samsung’s weight for extended stylus sessions.

Budget Considerations

The price range in this guide spans from under $100 to over $1,000. Here’s my honest assessment: if you need professional-grade stylus features, Samsung is worth the premium. If you’re a casual user who wants precise navigation and basic note-taking, Motorola delivers 80% of the experience at 25% of the price.

Renewed Samsung phones offer excellent middle-ground value. You get active stylus technology without paying full retail. Just check return policies and warranty terms carefully.

Who Should Avoid Stylus Phones

Not everyone needs a stylus. If you rarely take handwritten notes, don’t sketch, and prefer typing, the extra bulk and cost of a stylus phone isn’t worth it. The dedicated stylus slot adds thickness, and Samsung’s Ultra phones are among the heaviest on the market.

Users who want compact phones should also look elsewhere. There are no small stylus phones currently available – a frequent complaint on Reddit forums. The Galaxy Note series offered a more compact option, but that line has been discontinued.

FAQ’s

Final Verdict

The best phones with stylus for you depends entirely on your budget and how seriously you use a stylus. For creative professionals, artists, and power users who need pressure sensitivity and advanced features, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra remains the gold standard in 2026. Its S Pen integration is unmatched, and the AI features genuinely enhance productivity.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) delivers surprising capability at roughly one-quarter the flagship price. The passive stylus works well for note-taking and navigation, and the display quality punches above its weight class. If you just want to try a stylus phone without major investment, start here.

My recommendation: if you’re unsure, consider a renewed Samsung S23 or S24 Ultra. You get professional-grade stylus technology at a more accessible price point. The stylus experience is identical to a new phone, and most renewed units arrive in excellent condition.