I haven’t used a Samsung since they cracked down on using aftermarket ROMs to extend the lifetime of the phone.
If you are interested in recommendations I would suggest, in this order:
A Pixel 7a or 8a. This has the best aftermarket ROM support so you can use either GrapheneOS or CalyxOS. These have very good low-level security and privacy controls. For example, disabling network access for apps by default and not having Google services back-end creeping on you.
A refurbished OnePlus from the last few years. Usually pretty good ROM support, especially Calyx.
A Xiaomi or Huawei. Less good ROM support but your hardware threat model is decreased, particularly with newer Huawei’s. Good quality to price ratio, too.
I haven’t used a Samsung since they cracked down on using aftermarket ROMs to extend the lifetime of the phone.
If you are interested in recommendations I would suggest, in this order:
A Pixel 7a or 8a. This has the best aftermarket ROM support so you can use either GrapheneOS or CalyxOS. These have very good low-level security and privacy controls. For example, disabling network access for apps by default and not having Google services back-end creeping on you.
A refurbished OnePlus from the last few years. Usually pretty good ROM support, especially Calyx.
A Xiaomi or Huawei. Less good ROM support but your hardware threat model is decreased, particularly with newer Huawei’s. Good quality to price ratio, too.