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2016's top five best Android smartphones are listed below. They are ranked in terms of hardware and software specs as well as performance and price.

The best 2016 Android smartphones. A flagship phone is what usually gets on the top list. A high-end flagship phone would need to have the latest available Android OS, a large and high-definition display, the latest software features and functions, high-megapixel and high-performance cameras, fast memory and large storage capabilities, and an amazing battery life.

While most smartphone manufacturers work hard in giving equal attention to all features, functions, and aspects of their flagship, some do end up compromising depending on consumer demand and trend.

Undoubtedly, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge make it first on the list. Released in February of 2016, the S7 received generally positive reviews with its water-resistance, multitasking performance especially with graphically intensive apps and the return of the micro SD card slot which its predecessor, the Galaxy S6, had done away with.

Coming in second is LG's G5. The G5 is innovative, interesting, and has unique features that could easily beat out its rivals. What sets it apart is its modular design which is absent in other flagship smartphones at the moment.

The number 3 slot goes to the Xiaomi Mi5s. Everything about is as amazing as its rivals' but what sets it apart is how its price tag is half as cheap as a regular flagship smartphone.

Next on the list is Google's very own Pixel. Dubbed the best Android phone so far, it also received generally positive reviews for its performance just like the Galaxy S7 series. However, consumers were critical of its price tag and the lack of proper water-resistance

The Google Nexus 6P is the fifth on the list. The Nexus 6P stood out for being an excellent phone at a price that didn't hurt. Although not a direct alternative to a flagship smartphone, the Nexus 6P had the advantage of running stock Android OS and getting updates more quickly.

Special mention goes out to the OnePlus 3T, HTC 10 and the Huawei P9, all great Android smartphones that can hold their own against other high-end phones on the market. While 2016 is a great year full of amazing Android smartphones, 2017 is looking to be even greater.