Smartphone shopping usually focuses on cameras, speed, battery life, and price. One factor that often gets overlooked is radiofrequency (RF) radiation, commonly measured as Specific Absorption Rate (SAR).
All cell phones emit RF radiation, but not all phones emit the same amount. Some models consistently test far lower than others, making them a preferred choice for users who want to reduce everyday exposure where possible.
Below, we break down which phones emit the least radiation, why SAR matters, and how to check your own phone.
What Is SAR and Why Does It Matter?
SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) measures how much RF energy your body absorbs when using a phone.
It is expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg).
The FCC limit in the U.S. is 1.6 W/kg
The German Blue Angel certification requires ≤ 0.60 W/kg
Many modern phones fall well below both thresholds
Lower SAR does not mean zero radiation, but it does indicate lower maximum exposure under standardized testing conditions.
1. Overall Winner for Lowest Radiation Smartphone: Samsung Galaxy Note 8 DUOS (SM-N950 / DS)
Among all smartphones tested and still usable on U.S. networks, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 DUOS remains one of the lowest-radiation phones ever released, with a SAR value of just 0.17 W/kg. This dual-SIM variant of the Galaxy Note 8 has held the top position for multiple years. Despite being discontinued, it is still widely available through refurbished markets and remains compatible with many carriers. Beyond its low radiation output, it offers a large edge-to-edge display, a built-in S Pen, strong camera performance, expandable storage, and water and dust resistance. For users who prioritize minimal RF exposure above all else, this phone continues to stand out.
2.Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus
For those who want a more modern balance of performance and low radiation, the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus remains an excellent option. With a SAR of approximately 0.26 W/kg, it offers one of the lowest radiation levels among flagship-class smartphones. The S10 Plus is well known for its excellent display, strong battery management, advanced camera system, and reliable connectivity. It also performs well for media creation and sharing, making it a practical choice for users who want strong features without higher RF output.
3. Samsung Galaxy A20s (SM-A207F/DS)
Another Samsung model that performs well in this category is the Galaxy A20s. With a SAR around 0.35 W/kg, it delivers low radiation exposure alongside impressive battery life. This phone is more budget-oriented, but it offers a large display, multiple rear cameras, expandable storage, and solid everyday performance. For users who do not need flagship specs but still want a newer-feeling phone with relatively low radiation, it remains a strong candidate.
The reason Samsung phones appear so frequently in low-radiation rankings likely comes down to antenna design. After regulatory changes in the early 2000s allowed manufacturers more flexibility, Samsung adopted antenna configurations that direct more RF energy away from the user’s head. This design approach consistently results in lower measured SAR values under standardized testing. That said, real-world exposure still depends on factors such as signal strength, network conditions, and how the phone is carried or used.
4. LG V60 ThinQ 5G
Outside of Samsung, one of the best-performing low-radiation phones available is the LG V60 ThinQ 5G. With a SAR of roughly 0.35 W/kg, it stands out as one of the lowest-emitting 5G-capable phones ever produced. LG has exited the smartphone market, but refurbished units are still available and compatible with several North American networks. The V60 is known for its excellent battery life, audio quality, and overall build, making it a solid alternative for users who prefer not to use Samsung devices.
Makes and Models of the Best Low Radiation Phones
Finding the SAR rating for your own phone is simple. Most smartphones allow users to access RF exposure information directly through the dial pad or system settings. On many devices, entering *#07# into the dialer will redirect you to the manufacturer’s RF exposure page. On iPhones, the same information can also be found under Settings, General, Legal and Regulatory, and then RF Exposure. This documentation lists SAR values specific to your model.
While scientific evidence has not conclusively linked cellphone radiation to disease, many people choose to reduce exposure as a precaution. Simple habits such as using speakerphone, texting instead of calling, avoiding carrying the phone directly against the body, and enabling airplane mode when a signal is not needed can significantly reduce exposure. Choosing a phone with a lower SAR rating is another practical step for those who are concerned.
The reality is that smartphones are replaced frequently, often every two to three years. Because of this, device choice matters not only for performance and longevity, but also for sustainability and cumulative exposure. Some manufacturers are beginning to design phones that last longer, are easier to repair, and emit less radiation than earlier generations.
For users who are interested in going beyond phone choice and addressing broader EMF and power-quality concerns in the home, solutions such as whole-home power conditioning and EMF mitigation tools are often explored as complementary strategies.
Ultimately, while no smartphone is radiation-free, choosing a lower-SAR model and using it thoughtfully can meaningfully reduce everyday exposure. If this is a factor you care about, it deserves a place alongside battery life, durability, and overall design when choosing your next phone.
Once again, for 2023, the BfS rankings show that the lowest SAR scores are associated with a range of satellite phones and smartphones only available in Europe. There are, however, quite a few Samsung phones too, along with a few LG, Motorola, Sony Mobile, Nokia, and even Google phones, all of which can be bought and used in North America.
Looking specifically at radiation measured when the phone is held to the ear (rather than the body), the following phones emit the least radiation and were available in North A
Sadly, many of the smartphones that emit the least radiation are only available in Europe or Asia, with some of the best Samsung models now discontinued in North America. Note, too, that Fairphone doesn’t currently work in North America, even if you do find one to buy here. Similarly, several of the models above only work with certain networks in the U.S. Several of the phones above are a great choice unless you want them to work with Verizon/Sprint, for example.
Also check out the Perfect Power Box to remedy dirty energy and EMFs in your home.
Why Should You Care About Smartphone Radiation?
All cell phones emit radiofrequency radiation. How much radiation you are exposed to depends on the specific phone model, network conditions, and how you use the device. While cellphone radiation has not been conclusively proven to cause cancer or other diseases, the absence of definitive proof does not automatically mean there is no biological impact. For many people, this uncertainty alone is reason enough to pay attention.
If you want a general overview of the current scientific consensus, a reasonable starting point is the radiation FAQ maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Food and Drug Administration also publishes information on cellphone radiation and health. These sources reflect the mainstream position that evidence of harm is inconclusive, while acknowledging that research is ongoing.
Rather than trying to resolve the health debate, this discussion assumes a simpler motivation. If you are reading this, you are likely interested in understanding how much radiation your phone emits and whether choosing a lower-radiation device is a reasonable option.
The Bottom Line
Scientific evidence on cellphone radiation remains unsettled, but many people choose to limit exposure from all sources where practical. Using a phone with a lower SAR rating is one way to do that, alongside mindful usage habits.
It is also worth remembering that smartphones are replaced frequently, often every two to three years. As a result, purchasing decisions have implications beyond performance and price. Some manufacturers are beginning to design phones that last longer, are easier to repair, and emit less radiation than earlier generations.
For those who are less focused on radiation and more concerned with environmental impact, there are also smartphones designed with energy efficiency, repairability, and sustainability in mind.