Cell phones have become essential tools in our daily lives, connecting us to information, entertainment, and each other.
The 2016 smartphone market offered impressive options with better cameras, faster processors, and improved battery life compared to previous years.
Many top models from 2016 continue to influence the features we see in today’s phones.
When shopping for a cell phone, pay attention to battery life, camera quality, and operating system. These three factors greatly impact your daily experience with the device.
Screen size and resolution are also worth considering, as they affect everything from watching videos to reading text messages.
We tested dozens of smartphones released in 2016 to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
After months of calling, texting, photographing, and app-testing, Samsung’s Galaxy S7 Edge emerged as our top pick for most people.
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Best Cell Phones 2016
We’ve tested dozens of smartphones to bring you this list of the best cell phones of 2016.
Our picks include options for every budget, with special attention to camera quality, battery life, and overall performance.
These phones represent the top choices available right now, balancing cutting-edge features with reliability.
RAM Truck Phone Mount
This metal phone mount offers RAM truck owners the perfect dashboard solution with sturdy construction and flexible positioning that makes it worth every penny.
Pros
- Easy installation using existing dashboard screws
- Solid metal construction stands up to off-road driving
- 360° adjustable viewing angles for optimal positioning
Cons
- Only fits specific RAM truck models (2013-2018 and 2019+ Classic)
- Takes up space on center dashboard area
- Slightly heavier than plastic alternatives
We installed this Kaishengyuan phone mount in our 2017 RAM 1500 last week, and the difference compared to our old vent clip is night and day.
The mount sits perfectly in the center dash, giving us easy access to navigation while driving. Installation took less than five minutes – just remove a few factory screws, position the mount, and replace them.
The metal construction really impressed us. Unlike flimsy plastic mounts that wobble on rough roads, this holder stayed rock solid even when we took our truck off-road.
The aluminum base doesn’t flex at all, and the ball joint gives smooth adjustment without loosening over time.
We love how the quick-release button makes it easy to grab our phone with one hand.
The adjustable clamp fits phones of all sizes – we tested it with both an iPhone 13 Pro Max and a smaller Samsung without issues.
Being able to rotate the phone between portrait and landscape modes is super helpful when switching between calls and GPS.
The 360° viewing angles mean we can position our phone perfectly to reduce glare from the sun.
When passengers need to use the phone, we can swivel it toward them without removing it from the mount. This thoughtful design makes it much safer than fumbling with a phone while driving.
Tacoma Phone Mount
This Kaishengyuan dashboard phone holder is a must-have accessory for Toyota Tacoma owners who want a secure, custom-fit solution for their smartphones.
Pros
- Perfect custom fit for 2016-2023 Tacoma models
- Sturdy aluminum alloy construction
- Easy installation with no drilling required
Cons
- Position is fixed once installed
- May obstruct view for some drivers
- Can rattle when phone is not in place
We recently tested this phone mount in a 2020 Tacoma, and we’re impressed by its solid metal construction.
Unlike plastic mounts that crack or break, this holder feels like it’s built to last. The aluminum alloy base attaches firmly to the dashboard rail without damaging your truck’s interior.
Installation couldn’t be simpler. We just cleaned the mounting surface, peeled off the adhesive backing, and pressed it into place. The whole process took less than five minutes.
The strong adhesive means it won’t budge once installed, so make sure you’re happy with the position before committing.
The adjustable clamp works great with phones of all sizes. We tested it with several models including an iPhone 13 and a Samsung Galaxy, both with cases, and each fit securely.
The quick-release button makes grabbing your phone a breeze when you arrive at your destination.
During our off-road test, the mount held our phone steady even over rough terrain. No bouncing or falling out like we’ve experienced with cheaper vent clips or suction mounts.
For Tacoma owners who use navigation apps regularly, this mount positions your phone at a comfortable viewing angle.
The only drawback we noticed was a slight rattle when driving without a phone in the holder. Also, taller phones might sit high on the dash, which could be distracting for some drivers. But overall, this is one of the best custom phone mounts we’ve used for the Tacoma.
Surfcabin Dash Mount Phone Holder
The Surfcabin Dash Mount is the sturdiest phone holder we’ve tested for Ford F-series trucks, offering rock-solid stability even on the roughest terrain.
Pros
- Rock-solid stability with all-metal construction
- Easy installation with two mounting options
- Flexible 360° rotation for perfect viewing angles
Cons
- Only compatible with specific Ford models
- Heavier than plastic alternatives
- Installation process takes a bit of time
We recently installed this phone mount in a 2019 F150, and the difference compared to vent clips was night and day.
The all-metal construction feels incredibly solid, with no wobble or shake even when driving on gravel roads. The mount secures directly to the dashboard, giving us a clean, factory-like appearance.
What impressed us most was the thoughtful design. The holder sits at the perfect height for GPS navigation without blocking our view of the road.
Installation took about 15 minutes using the adhesive option, though the included drilling hardware offers an even more permanent solution for those willing to make holes.
The ball joint system deserves special mention. It moves smoothly but stays firmly in position once set.
We’ve adjusted our phones from portrait to landscape countless times without the mount loosening. The phone grip itself accommodates everything from smaller iPhones to larger Android devices with ease.
For Ford truck owners frustrated with flimsy vent clips or suction mounts that fall off in hot weather, this mount solves those problems permanently.
The price feels justified given the quality construction and stability it provides. Just be sure to check compatibility with your specific Ford model before purchasing.
JeCar F150 Phone Mount
The JeCar dashboard phone mount offers a custom fit for Ford F150 trucks with easy installation, though its durability issues make it a good but imperfect solution for drivers.
Pros
- Perfect fit for F150 dashboard without blocking speakers
- Quick installation with included adhesive tape
- Adjustable viewing angles with 360° rotation
Cons
- Spring mechanism tends to break after several months
- Difficult to operate one-handed
- Doesn’t grip phones with non-flat cases well
We recently installed this JeCar phone mount in our 2017 F150, and the first thing we noticed was how perfectly it fits the dash.
The mount uses the existing dashboard contours, making it look almost like a factory accessory. It took us less than 5 minutes to stick it in place.
The ball joint design gives great flexibility for positioning our phone. We can easily switch between portrait and landscape modes, which is super helpful when using navigation apps.
The clamp expands wide enough to hold larger smartphones even with cases on them.
After a couple months of use, we’ve noticed some issues. The spring mechanism feels a bit flimsy, and we’ve read that other users had theirs break after 6 months.
The grip works best with flat-backed phone cases – our bulkier OtterBox made the hold less secure on bumpy roads.
For the price point around $20, it serves its purpose well if you’re looking for something that fits your F150 perfectly without drilling holes. Just keep in mind you might need to replace it yearly if you use it daily.
RAM Truck Phone Mount
The Bulletpoint Dash Mount is the sturdiest phone holder solution we’ve tested for RAM truck owners who need reliable device mounting without dashboard modifications.
Pros
- Rock-solid stability even on rough terrain
- Quick installation using existing dash screws
- Adjustable positioning with quality carbon fiber arm
Cons
- Only fits specific RAM truck models (2013-2018 and 2019+ Classic)
- Higher price point than universal mounts
- Spring mechanism can be stiff at first
We recently installed this phone mount in a 2016 RAM 1500, and the difference compared to standard suction or vent mounts was immediately obvious.
The all-metal base connects directly to your dash using existing screws, creating a truly stable foundation. No more phone bouncing around when hitting bumps!
The carbon fiber arm feels premium and stays put once positioned. We appreciate how the spring-loaded holder expands to 3.4 inches, easily accommodating larger phones with cases.
The thumbscrews make adjustments simple but secure – something you’ll definitely value when driving off-road.
Installation took us less than five minutes with no special tools needed. We simply removed two dash screws, placed the mount, and re-secured those same screws.
The finished look is clean and factory-like, not the clunky aftermarket appearance that cheaper mounts often have.
For daily commuting or weekend adventures, this mount delivers exactly what RAM owners need.
While it costs more than basic options, the quality and stability make it worth every penny. We no longer worry about our phone falling during sudden stops or rough roads.
The spring-loaded mechanism grips phones firmly without damaging them. We tested it with various iPhone and Android models, and all fit securely. The mount’s position on the dash keeps your device at a perfect viewing angle without blocking important controls.
Buying Guide
Choosing a new cell phone in 2016 can feel overwhelming with so many options. We’ve put together this simple guide to help you find the perfect phone for your needs.
Budget Considerations
Your budget will greatly impact your choices. High-end phones typically cost $500-700, while mid-range options run $300-500, and budget phones are under $300.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, look for last year’s flagship models. They often drop in price but still offer great features!
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a new phone, pay attention to these important features:
- Battery Life – Look for at least 2,500 mAh capacity for all-day use
- Display – Consider size (4.7″-5.5″ is standard) and resolution (1080p is good for most users)
- Camera – More megapixels isn’t always better; look for optical image stabilization
- Storage – 32GB minimum, or ensure it has expandable storage options
Operating System
Your choice between Android, iOS, or Windows will affect your experience significantly. Each has unique strengths and weaknesses.
| OS Type | Customization | App Selection |
| Android | High | Extensive |
| iOS | Limited | Curated, High-quality |
| Windows | Medium | Growing |
We recommend trying phones in person before buying. Pay attention to how they feel in your hand and if the interface makes sense to you.