Almost everyone has a smartphone because, let’s face it, they make life easier. With the ability to have information at our fingertips, work and school projects become a breeze. Studying for tests or researching a business report is no problem with all the applications available. Students and professionals benefit from these devices. Using the calendar to organize work meetings, and dates for important deadlines keeps us on track at the office.

Needing to send an important message to colleagues is simple with email. Communicating with friends and family across the world is now a simple task with smartphone features like video chatting, and texting. Suddenly, everyone doesn’t feel so far away. Perhaps the most important aspect, these devices keep people connected, in-touch, and safe. Having the ability to access a phone at any moment is essential in times of emergency:

1. Samsung Galaxy S10e
This phone has been completely redesigned using laser cutting. The camera is no longer notched, but rather tucked in the display. The fingerprint security scanner has been moved from the back to the front. Users can place their fingerprint on the 3D scanner, and not only open up the phone, but also go directly to the application they want. The display is also brighter. An affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice on quality at $649.99.

2. Google Pixel 3a
An Android phone known for its excellent battery life, The Google Pixel 3a packs a punch for only $399. The phone features a vivid OLED display, and a 12.2MP camera. It uses the Android 9 operating system with an available upgrade to the 10.

3. Apple IPhone XR
Boasting a diagonal 6.1 inch Liquid Retina HD display, this waterproof phone is priced at $599.00. Not skimping on the typical iPhone features, this cell has fingerprint identification, and a 6-element camera lens. It’s available in both 64GB and 128GB.

4. OnePlus 6T
OnePlus claims that its “Screen Unlock” is the smartest on the market, opening the phone faster than any other competitor. The phone also upgraded its headphone jack to a USB-C dongle port. The phone has improved its night photography features so that the camera takes clear pictures in low-light situations. Available on most networks, this starts at only $349.

5. Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro
Released last August, this aluminum framed phone features a Gorilla glass front. It has a front, and triple rear camera. The phone features a 6.39 inch AMOLED screen, and a fast charging battery. It is competitively priced with the base-level starting at $399. The price climbs from there, depending on storage size.