Best Phones for Ubuntu Touch in 2026 (Top Compatible Picks Only)

We have rounded up the best phones for Ubuntu Touch. Ubuntu Touch is a unique mobile operating system that prioritizes open-source principles, privacy, and a Linux-based experience. Developed and maintained by UBports, it offers an alternative to mainstream operating systems like Android and iOS, appealing to users who value security, customization, and a community-driven ecosystem.

However, finding a smartphone that fully supports Ubuntu Touch can be challenging. Unlike Android, which comes pre-installed on a vast range of devices, Ubuntu Touch relies on community-driven ports and official device support. The best experience comes from selecting a phone with solid hardware compatibility, regular software updates, and a stable Ubuntu Touch port.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best phones for Ubuntu Touch, focusing on officially supported devices, performance, hardware compatibility, and overall user experience. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or an experimental device to explore Linux on mobile, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

These are the best phones for Ubuntu Touch worth considering.

Best Phones for Ubuntu Touch

1. Fairphone 5 (Best Pick)

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Fairphone 5 Key Specifications

Pros

• Exceptionally repairable
• Sustainable and ethically sourced
• Good OLED display
• Very long software support
• Clean Android experience
• Replaceable battery

Cons

• Camera is decent, not class-leading
• Battery/charging are just okay

The best phone for Ubuntu Touch is the Fairphone 5. Fairphone 5 stands apart in a market obsessed with yearly upgrades and ever-thinner designs. Most smartphones ask what’s new; this one asks what lasts. That difference shapes everything about it, from the screws holding it together to the software support promised years into the future.

Pick it up and the first impression is solidity. There’s real weight in the hand, not just physically but philosophically. Nothing about it chases flashy trends. Edges are rounded but substantial, the body is thicker than many rivals, and the removable back gives it a look that feels refreshingly practical in an era of sealed glass slabs. Some reviewers describe it as chunky. Others call it purposeful. Both are right. Beauty here comes less from sleekness and more from honesty. Every line serves a function.

A 6.46-inch OLED display stretches across the front, sharp and vibrant with rich contrast and smooth 90Hz scrolling. Colors look lively without being overdone, blacks are deep, and everyday use—from reading articles to streaming video—feels polished. Brightness is strong enough for outdoor visibility, though not quite among the brightest in its class. What makes the screen memorable isn’t just the panel quality, but the fact that it can be replaced without turning a repair into a costly ordeal. That idea runs through the entire device.

Inside, performance is competent rather than aggressive. Apps open quickly enough, multitasking feels smooth most of the time, and daily tasks like messaging, maps, browsing, photography, and media playback are handled comfortably. Heavy gaming and demanding workloads reveal its limits sooner than flagship competitors, and several reviewers noted occasional stutters under pressure. Raw speed isn’t the headline feature here. Longevity is. Fairphone chose hardware with long-term software support in mind, prioritizing durability over benchmark dominance.

Camera quality is better than many expect. Photos from the 50MP main sensor are detailed and clean, with natural-looking contrast and pleasing dynamic range in daylight. The ultrawide adds flexibility without feeling like an afterthought, while the 50MP selfie camera produces sharp, flattering results. Low-light photography is respectable rather than exceptional, and image processing can sometimes feel inconsistent compared with top-tier camera phones. Yet across multiple reviews there’s a common theme: it’s a capable camera system that performs well in real life, even if it doesn’t dominate spec-sheet comparisons.

The battery comfortably gets through a normal day for most people, though not with the kind of effortless endurance that leads to forgetting where the charger is. Charging speeds are decent, and the replaceable battery changes the ownership experience entirely. Instead of worrying how much capacity will fade after a few years, you can simply swap in a new one. That single design decision makes the phone feel radically different from almost everything around it.

Software may be where the Fairphone 5 makes its boldest promise. Years of Android support—stretching far beyond what many manufacturers offer—turn it into less of a two-year gadget and more of a long-term companion. A five-year warranty reinforces that confidence. It’s a rare commitment in consumer electronics and one frequently praised by many as proof that phones do not have to be disposable.

Repairability remains its defining achievement. Battery, cameras, speakers, USB-C port, and display can be replaced with ordinary tools. No glue battles. No expensive service appointments for simple fixes. No treating a cracked component as the end of a product’s life. For many people, that alone makes the Fairphone 5 feel revolutionary.

Of course, it isn’t perfect. For the price, competitors can offer faster processors, slimmer bodies, stronger water resistance, brighter displays, or better camera tuning. That trade-off comes up repeatedly in reviews, and it’s real. Buying this phone means accepting that some of the money goes toward ethics, sustainability, repairability, and long-term ownership rather than chasing maximum specs per dollar.

Yet that’s also what makes it compelling.

Living with the Fairphone 5 means buying into a different relationship with technology. It doesn’t try to impress through brute power or luxury materials. Instead, it wins through thoughtfulness—through the rare feeling that the device was designed to stay with you rather than be replaced by next year’s model.

For someone who values repairability, ethical sourcing, long software support, and the freedom to actually own their phone, the Fairphone 5 is one of the most distinctive smartphones available today. Not the fastest. Not the flashiest. But arguably one of the most meaningful.

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2. OnePlus Nord N100

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OnePlus Nord N100 Key Specifications

Display: 6.52-inch IPS LCD, 90Hz | Processor: Qualcomm SM4250 Snapdragon 460 (11 nm) | RAM: 4GB  | Storage: 64GB | OS: Android 10, OxygenOS 10.5.9 | Camera: 13MP, 2MP, 2MP | Front camera: 8MP | Battery: 5000 mAh

Pros

• Smooth visuals with 90Hz refresh rate
• Excellent battery life
• Expandable storage
• Clean OS experience
• Retains a 3.5mm headphone jack

Cons

• Average image quality, particularly in low-light conditions
• No NFC and 5G

The OnePlus Nord N100 marked OnePlus’s entry into the budget smartphone market. It offers a blend of essential features tailored for cost-conscious consumers.

The Nord N100 features a 6.5-inch display with a resolution of 1,620 by 720 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. While the screen provides vivid colors and good viewing angles, the 720p resolution is modest, though it surpasses some competitors in clarity. The device’s build includes a metallic plastic backplate with a slight texture, aiding grip but prone to smudges. The plastic construction feels thin, producing a hollow sound when tapped.

Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 460 processor paired with 4GB of RAM, the Nord N100 delivers basic performance suitable for everyday tasks. However, users may experience noticeable delays and occasional lag during multitasking or when loading apps and web pages. The device handles casual games adequately but struggles with more demanding titles. It comes with 64GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card, though this requires sacrificing one of the SIM slots. Notably, the Nord N100 lacks 5G support, a feature present in its slightly higher-priced sibling, the Nord N10 5G.

The Nord N100 is equipped with a triple rear camera setup: a 13MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. In well-lit conditions, the main camera captures decent images with satisfactory color reproduction. However, in low-light scenarios, image quality diminishes, exhibiting increased noise and reduced detail. The macro and depth sensors offer limited utility, often producing subpar results. The 8MP front-facing camera is adequate for selfies and video calls but doesn’t stand out in terms of quality.

One of the standout features of the Nord N100 is its robust 5,000mAh battery, which provides extended usage, often lasting through a full day and beyond under moderate use. The device supports 18W fast charging, allowing for relatively quick top-ups. This substantial battery capacity ensures that users can rely on the phone for prolonged periods without frequent recharging.

Running on Android 10 with OnePlus’s OxygenOS 10.5, the Nord N100 offers a user-friendly interface with customization options. The software experience is smooth, aligning with OnePlus’s reputation for delivering a clean Android experience. The device includes a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to traditional audio preferences. However, it lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, so users should exercise caution in environments where exposure is possible.

The OnePlus Nord N100 presents a compelling option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with essential features. While it makes concessions in areas like camera performance and build quality, it excels in battery life and offers a smooth software experience. For budget-conscious consumers prioritizing basic functionality and longevity over high-end specifications, the Nord N100 is a worthy consideration.

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3. Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC

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Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC Key Specifications

Display: 6.67-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz, HDR10 | Processor: Qualcomm SM7150-AC Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | RAM: 6GB/8GB  | Storage: 64GB/128GB | OS: Android 10, upgradable to Android 12 | Camera: 64MP, 13MP, 2MP, 2MP | Front camera: 20MP | Battery: 5160 mAh

Pros

• High refresh rate display
• Robust performance
• Long-lasting battery
• High-quality stereo speakers
• Affordable pricing

Cons

• Bulky design
• No wireless charging

This mid-range smartphone offers a blend of performance, display quality, and battery life that rivals higher-priced competitors.

The Poco X3 NFC features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals for everyday use and gaming. The display supports HDR10 and offers a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, ensuring vibrant and sharp images. However, the device’s design has received mixed reviews; while it boasts a sturdy build with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass 5 protection, its weight of 215 grams and thickness of 9.4 mm make it heftier than some competitors. Additionally, the large “Poco” branding on the back and the distinctive camera module design may not appeal to everyone’s taste.

Under the hood, the Poco X3 NFC is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G chipset, delivering robust performance for daily tasks and gaming. The device comes with 6GB of RAM and offers storage options of 64GB or 128GB, expandable via microSDXC. Reviewers have praised its strong gaming capabilities and overall smooth performance, especially considering its price point.

The smartphone is equipped with a quad-camera setup on the rear, featuring a 64MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The 64MP main camera utilizes the Sony IMX682 sensor, known for capturing detailed and vibrant images. The 13MP ultra-wide camera offers a broader field of view, while the macro and depth sensors add versatility to close-up and portrait shots. On the front, a 20MP selfie camera ensures clear and sharp self-portraits.

One of the standout features of the Poco X3 NFC is its substantial 5,160mAh battery, which provides excellent endurance for heavy usage. The device supports 33W fast charging, capable of reaching a full charge in approximately 65 minutes. This combination of battery capacity and fast charging ensures users can rely on the phone throughout the day without frequent recharging concerns.

As the name suggests, the Poco X3 NFC includes NFC support, allowing for contactless payments and data transfer. The device also features stereo speakers, enhancing the audio experience for media consumption and gaming. Running on MIUI 12 based on Android 10, the phone offers a user-friendly interface with various customization options. However, some users have noted that MIUI 12 may not appeal to everyone’s preferences, and there have been reports of occasional software glitches affecting performance.

The Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC stands out as a compelling choice in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a high-refresh-rate display, strong performance, versatile camera system, and long-lasting battery life at an accessible price. While its design and software experience may not suit all users, the overall value proposition makes it a noteworthy option for those seeking premium features without a premium price tag.

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4. Google Pixel 3a

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Google Pixel 3a Key Specifications

Display: 5.6-inch OLED | Processor: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 | RAM: 4GB  | Storage: 64GB | OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12 | Camera: 12.2MP | Front camera: 8MP | Weight: 147g

Pros

• Good camera
• Clean software experience
• Decent performance
• Affordable price point
• Has a headphone jack

Cons

• Limited storage options
• Lack of wireless charging and water resistance

The Google Pixel 3a is a mid-range smartphone designed to offer premium features at a more accessible price point. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 chipset (10nm process) with an octa-core CPU (2×2.0 GHz + 6×1.7 GHz) and Adreno 615 GPU, it delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks. It includes 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB of non-expandable storage, running Android 9.0 out of the box upgradable to Android 12. 

A standout feature is its 12.2MP rear camera (f/1.8, OIS, dual-pixel PDAF), praised for its computational photography capabilities, including Night Sight and HDR+. The front-facing 8MP camera supports 1080p video, and the rear camera records 4K@30fps.

The 3000mAh battery supports 18W fast charging via USB-C, though wireless charging is absent. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and a 3.5mm headphone jack—a rarity in modern smartphones 1611.

Overall, the Google Pixel 3a offers a compelling package for users seeking a balance between performance, camera quality, and affordability. Its introduction marked a strategic move by Google to make the Pixel experience accessible to a broader audience, setting a precedent for future mid-range smartphones in the Pixel lineup.

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5. Google Pixel 3a XL

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Google Pixel 3a XL Key Specifications

Display: 6.0-inch OLED | Processor: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) | RAM: 4GB  | Storage: 64GB | OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12 | Camera: 12.2MP | Front camera: 8MP | Weight: 167g

Pros

• Great camera
• Vivid OLED display
• Long battery life
• Guaranteed software updates
• Affordable

Cons

• Limited storage options
• No water or dust resistance

Another outstanding phone for Ubuntu Touch worth mentioning is the Google Pixel 3a XL. Like the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 3a XL is a mid-range smartphone that offers a premium experience without the flagship price tag. It features a 6-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2160 x 1080 pixels, delivering vibrant and sharp visuals. The design includes noticeable bezels at the top and bottom, which some users may find less modern compared to edge-to-edge displays.

Under the hood, the Pixel 3a XL is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 670 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM. While this combination doesn’t match the performance of high-end devices, it handles everyday tasks smoothly and efficiently. However, users might experience occasional slowdowns during intensive multitasking or gaming sessions.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 3a XL is its camera. Equipped with a 12.2-megapixel rear sensor, it delivers exceptional photo quality, rivaling even some flagship smartphones. The device excels in low-light conditions, thanks to Google’s Night Sight mode, producing clear and detailed images without the need for a flash.

In terms of build, the Pixel 3a XL opts for a polycarbonate (plastic) body instead of the glass found on more premium models. This choice contributes to its lightweight feel and adds durability, reducing the risk of shattering from drops. Additionally, Google has reintroduced the 3.5mm headphone jack in this model, catering to users who prefer wired audio connections.

The battery life is commendable, with a 3,700mAh capacity that comfortably lasts through a full day of moderate use. The device supports fast charging via its USB-C port, allowing users to quickly top up the battery when needed.

On the software front, the Pixel 3a XL offers a pure Android experience, free from bloatware, and benefits from timely updates directly from Google. This ensures users have access to the latest features and security patches promptly.

However, there are some trade-offs. The device lacks wireless charging and doesn’t have an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, features commonly found in higher-end smartphones. Additionally, there’s no expandable storage option, with the phone offering 64GB of internal storage.

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Best Phones for Ubuntu Touch