Yo, wanna know the best apps on Android? Look no further! This list has got you covered, with everything from the classics like YouTube for watching videos and Google Chrome for browsing the web to the essential Google Maps for navigating your way around. It's the ultimate guide to the apps that'll make your Android phone even better!
We've tested and ranked a bunch of apps based on their features, user-friendliness, and how much they rock. Whether you're into gaming, music, or just want the best tools for everyday life, this list has something for you. So, get ready to download some awesome apps and make your Android experience even more epic!
| App | Logo | Available On | Reviews | Downloads | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. YouTube |  | Android | 4.6/5 | 17B+ | Personalized recommendations, Content creation and sharing |
| 2. Google Chrome |  | Android | 4.5/5 | 16B+ | Schnelles Surfen, Weniger tippen, Privates Surfen |
| 3. Google Maps |  | Android | 4.6/5 | 16B+ | Real-time traffic updates, Public transit navigation |
| 4. Gmail |  | Android | 4.7/5 | 15B+ | Blocks spam and phishing, Undo send, High quality video calling |
| 5. Google |  | Android | 4.8/5 | 15B+ | Personalized news feed, Quick and easy search, Real-time updates |
| 6. Facebook |  | Android | 4.5/5 | 10B+ | Connect with friends, Join interest groups, Shop and sell items |
| 7. WhatsApp Messenger |  | Android | 4.7/5 | 9B+ | End-to-end encryption, High-quality calls, Cross-platform availability |
1. YouTube
Unlimited video streaming, Personalized recommendations, Content creation and sharing
Cost:
YouTube Free (Free), YouTube Premium ($11.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Video Players & Editors |
| Downloads | Over 16 Billion Downloads |
| Features | Watch and share millions of videos, subscribe to channels, create your own content, and enjoy personalized recommendations. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants to watch, share, or create videos on their Android device. |
- Tags:
- Personalized recommendations
- Vast video library
- Content creation tools
YouTube, a behemoth in the [app store], offers a vast library of content, making it a go-to destination for millions. While users rave about its diverse selection and ease of access, recent updates have introduced frustrating quirks. Many complain about the intrusive suggested video pop-ups, the unreliable background play feature for premium users, and the persistent Chromecast menu that obscures essential video controls. These issues, coupled with the removal of user-friendly features like the shuffle function, have left many feeling disappointed, questioning the app's user-friendliness despite its expansive content.
Pros & Cons
- Vast video library
- User-friendly interface
- Free to use
- Supports multiple devices
- Annoying suggested videos
- Limited control over playback
- Background play issues
Why we chose it?
YouTube is my go-to video app on Android, and it’s a no-brainer for anyone who loves watching videos. The app boasts a massive library of content from every genre imaginable, seamless streaming, and helpful recommendations that make it easy to discover new things I’ll love. I've always found the Android Play Store version to be super reliable and easy to use, making it a must-have on my phone!
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2. Google Chrome
Fast and secure browsing, Personalized search and content, Sync data across devices
Download:
Application information
| Category | Communication |
| Downloads | Over 15 billion downloads |
| Features | Google Chrome offers fast browsing, data saving, incognito mode, personalized search, and seamless syncing across devices. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants a reliable, fast, and secure web browsing experience on their Android device. |
- Tags:
- Fast and secure browsing
- Personalized news and shortcuts
- Incognito mode for privacy
Google Chrome, a mainstay in the app store, has historically been lauded for its speed, sleek design, and wealth of features. Users consistently praise its reliability and intuitive interface, making it a popular choice for mobile browsing. However, recent updates have sparked mixed reactions, with some users experiencing frustrating bugs that hinder usability. While issues like persistent page refreshing and broken password manager functionality have been reported, the app developers have shown responsiveness in addressing these concerns. Nevertheless, a persistent pain point for many remains the inability to directly modify search terms within the toolbar, leading to tedious workarounds and a less-than-ideal user experience.
Pros & Cons
- Fast and reliable browser
- Awesome design and features
- Good performance and speed
- Widely used and popular
- Recent updates cause issues
- Password manager bug present
- Search bar click issue exists
Why we chose it?
I'd choose Google Chrome over any other browser on the Play Store because it's simply the best. It's fast, smooth, and secure, making browsing a breeze. Plus, the seamless syncing across my devices is a game-changer - I can pick up right where I left off, no matter what device I'm using.
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3. Google Maps
Real-time navigation with traffic, Explore local businesses and places
Download:
Application information
| Category | Navigation & Maps |
| Downloads | Over 10 billion downloads |
| Features | Get real-time GPS navigation, traffic, and transit information, explore local neighborhoods, find restaurants, events, and activities, and share your location with friends and family. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who needs help navigating the world, whether they're driving, walking, taking public transportation, or just exploring. |
- Tags:
- Real-time navigation
- Traffic and transit info
- Local business discovery
Google Maps, a cornerstone app in the mobile landscape, boasts millions of users who rely on its real-time navigation and comprehensive mapping. However, recent user reviews highlight some critical issues, including app crashes, inaccurate lane guidance, and unpredictable search results. While many praise the app's features like accurate maps and effortless navigation, others express frustration with recent updates, particularly the new navigation bar, which has introduced usability challenges. Despite these concerns, Google Maps remains a popular choice for its robust functionalities and seamless integration with other Google services, showcasing the app's enduring influence within the mobile app store.
Pros & Cons
- Accurate maps, real-time traffic
- Turn-by-turn directions, easy navigation
- Robust search, find businesses & more
- User-friendly interface, seamless integration
- Crashing, unreliable, janky search
- Incorrect lane information, unpredictable
- New navigation bar, exit app issues
Why we chose it?
Google Maps is a total game-changer! I can't imagine navigating without its real-time traffic updates and accurate directions, and discovering new spots based on my interests is so much fun. With its huge database of places and its intuitive interface, Google Maps easily beats out the competition on the Play Store.
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4. Gmail
Smart Compose for quick drafts, Powerful search across all emails
Download:
Application information
| Category | Communication |
| Downloads | Over 15 billion downloads |
| Features | Gmail offers email management, spam filtering, undo send, smart replies, Google Chat integration, Spaces for collaboration, Google Meet video calling, and more. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich email app. |
- Tags:
- Robust Security
- Real-time notifications
- Multiple account support
Gmail, the ubiquitous app store email client, boasts a simple interface and a clean, ad-free experience. While users praise its ease of use, recent updates have sparked some frustration. The addition of "cards" or "email summaries" at the top of emails, often displaying inaccurate information, has been met with mixed reviews. Furthermore, users have reported issues with notification delays, leading to missed emails. Although the app provides troubleshooting steps, these solutions haven't always worked as intended. While a recent user reported success after a phone reset and app reinstallation, it remains to be seen whether these fixes are a reliable solution for everyone.
Pros & Cons
- Simple and easy to use
- No ads or intrusive features
- Highly customizable with various settings
- Seamless integration with other Google services
- Recent updates caused performance issues
- Notifications may not always work reliably
- Email blending and app crashing reported
Why we chose it?
Gmail is my go-to email app because it’s reliable, secure, and incredibly easy to use. The app seamlessly integrates with other Google services, making it a breeze to manage my inbox, schedule events, and collaborate with others. I especially love the Smart Compose feature that helps me write emails faster, and the powerful search function that makes finding the right email a snap.
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5. Google
Discover new apps and games, Manage installed applications easily
Download:
Application information
| Category | Tools |
| Downloads | Over 5 billion downloads |
| Features | The Google app provides quick answers, explores your interests, keeps you updated with Discover, and helps you find information on a variety of topics including nearby places, news, sports, and entertainment. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants to easily access information and stay up-to-date on their interests. |
- Tags:
- Personalized search results
- Real-time updates on topics of interest
- Hands-free voice control
The Google app is a powerful and versatile mobile app store that serves as a central hub for information and productivity. While praised for its comprehensive search capabilities, users express concerns about its tendency to prioritize video content, potentially hindering access for those with parental controls in place. The voice-to-text function, despite recent improvements, has been a point of contention, with users lamenting its inconsistency and occasional glitches. Additionally, the app's data usage and persistent listening have sparked privacy concerns, as users report unintended activations and a perceived "nosiness" from the app. Despite these issues, Google remains a leading app store, offering a vast library of applications and a user-friendly interface for navigating the digital landscape.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent search engine
- Voice-to-text improvements
- Many helpful features
- Good overall app
- Voice-to-text issues
- Privacy concerns
- Data usage concerns
Why we chose it?
Google is a must-have on any Android device! It’s super versatile – search the web, find nearby places, get news updates, and even play games, all from one app. Plus, it’s incredibly user-friendly with its simple design and intuitive navigation, making it a breeze to find what you need. And with constant updates adding new features and improving performance, Google is always getting better!
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6. Facebook
Connect with friends and family, Discover and share interests
Cost:
Free (Free), Facebook Premium (US) (Unavailable)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Social |
| Downloads | Over 9.6 Billion Downloads |
| Features | Connect with friends and family, share photos and videos, join groups, discover new interests, and stay up-to-date on current events. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone looking to connect with friends and family, share their life experiences, and stay informed about the world. |
- Tags:
- Social Networking
- Community Building
- Interest Exploration
Facebook, the ubiquitous social media platform, has found a home on your mobile device, offering a vast network for connecting with friends and family. However, as this app store entry reveals, user experience has become a growing concern. Recent updates have introduced AI-driven features that some users find intrusive, hindering search functionality and making simple tasks feel cumbersome. Frustration mounts with persistent notification issues, unresponsive features, and a lack of intuitive design that many consider outdated. While the app boasts a massive user base, a growing number of users are questioning whether Facebook’s mobile experience lives up to its global reach and potential.
Pros & Cons
- Connect with friends
- Share photos and videos
- Join groups and events
- Discover new interests
- Annoying pop-up notifications
- Limited creative freedom
- Outdated features and interface
Why we chose it?
Facebook is a must-have for me on the Google Play Store! I love how it keeps me connected with friends and family, and I can always find something interesting to read, watch, or share. Plus, I can explore groups and pages dedicated to my favorite hobbies, and even find local events or deals in my area. Facebook is definitely my go-to for staying in the loop and having fun!
7. WhatsApp Messenger
End-to-end encrypted messaging, Free voice and video calls, Works across mobile and desktop
Download:
Application information
| Category | Communication |
| Downloads | Over 5 billion downloads |
| Features | WhatsApp offers instant messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, photo and video sharing, document sharing, and end-to-end encryption for secure communication. |
| Who It’s For | Individuals and groups who want to communicate with friends, family, and colleagues through a reliable and feature-rich messaging platform. |
- Tags:
- End-to-end encryption
- Free voice and video calls
- Cross-platform messaging
WhatsApp Messenger is a highly popular communication app on the app store, boasting a user base of over 2 billion people worldwide. While its ease of use and reliable performance are lauded, users express frustration over the lack of a built-in translator, forcing them to constantly switch between apps to decipher messages. The app's biometric security can be inconsistent, sometimes failing to recognize fingerprints or pins, raising concerns about security. Additionally, users find the new search bar intrusive and prefer the previous, more compact design. These issues, alongside the unnecessary "bells and whistles" like the underutilized channel feature and the forced Meta AI integration, contribute to a less than perfect experience for some users, despite the app's widespread appeal.
Pros & Cons
- Simple and easy to use
- Reliable messaging platform
- Secure and private communication
- Widely used globally
- Lacks built-in translation
- Biometric security issues
- Unnecessary features clutter app
Why we chose it?
WhatsApp is hands down my go-to messaging app on Android! It's super reliable, even on slower connections, and I love that it's free with end-to-end encryption to keep my chats private. Plus, being able to seamlessly chat with friends and family across the globe, even with voice and video calls, makes it a total winner in my book!
8. Google Messages
Secure end-to-end encrypted messaging, Rich Communication Services (RCS) support
Download:
Application information
| Category | Communication |
| Downloads | Over 6 billion downloads |
| Features | Google Messages offers secure and reliable messaging with features like end-to-end encryption, high-resolution image and video sharing, group chats, read receipts, and typing indicators. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants a modern, feature-rich messaging app with strong security and cross-platform compatibility. |
- Tags:
- End-to-end encryption
- Emoji replies
- Rich Communication Services (RCS)
Google Messages is a popular communication app that has earned its place in the app store, offering a range of features to streamline your messaging experience. Users rave about its powerful search function that allows for quick retrieval of information within your entire text history, a boon for those managing a small business or seeking to quickly find past conversations. However, recent updates have introduced some frustrating bugs, including difficulties sending messages and a loss of the ability to pin unsent drafts, leaving some users feeling disappointed. While features like pinned message threads and starred messages are praised, many users feel the opening screen design is clunky and wastes precious screen space, making it difficult to access their messages quickly.
Pros & Cons
- Search feature for finding texts
- Pinned message threads and starred
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Offers basic messaging features reliably
- Search function is unreliable now
- Issues with sending messages and groups
- Opening screen design wastes screen space
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Google Messages! It's my go-to messaging app on Android because it's super reliable, secure, and packed with features I actually use. It's rock-solid with fast, seamless texting and group messaging, and the end-to-end encryption really gives me peace of mind. Plus, the RCS integration is fantastic for sharing high-quality photos and videos, and it's a breeze to keep track of who's read my messages.
9. Instagram
Share photos and videos, Connect with friends and family, Explore trending content
Cost:
Free (Free), Instagram Creator Subscription (US) ($11.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Social |
| Downloads | Over 5 Billion Downloads |
| Features | Instagram lets you share photos and videos, connect with friends and family, discover new content, and explore your interests. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants to connect with friends, family, and the world around them. |
- Tags:
- Ephemeral Stories
- Customizable Posts
- Interest Exploration
Instagram, the popular app store for sharing photos and short videos, boasts a vast community and a wide array of features, but user reviews reveal a mixed experience. While lauded for its visual appeal and ease of connection, users express frustration over a steep learning curve, the constant pressure to link with Facebook, and a lack of clear insights into user engagement. Additionally, bugs and glitches, such as stories disappearing or notifications failing, are frequent complaints. Although the app's core functionalities remain strong, these persistent issues highlight the need for improved usability and a more responsive approach to user feedback.
Pros & Cons
- Share photos and videos
- Connect with friends and family
- Explore trending content
- Discover new interests
- High learning curve
- Frequent bugs and glitches
- Notification issues and delays
Why we chose it?
Instagram is hands down my favorite social media app on Android! It's got everything I need to stay connected with friends and family, discover new things I love, and even create fun content to share. I especially appreciate the amazing Reels feature, which lets me tap into a world of short videos, and the super smooth interface that makes it a breeze to navigate on my phone.
10. Google Play Games
Discover and play games, Save progress across devices, Track achievements and levels
Download:
Application information
| Category | Entertainment |
| Downloads | Over 5 billion downloads |
| Features | The Google Play Games app lets you instantly play games, save progress, earn achievements, and discover new games with 'Instant play' feature, all while enjoying built-in games even when offline. |
| Who It’s For | Gamers who want to discover new games, play instantly, save progress, and track achievements across devices on the Google Play [app store]. |
- Tags:
- Instant play
- Progress Tracking
- Gamer profile
Google Play Games, a central hub for mobile gaming, promises an experience that's as smooth as a well-oiled machine. While boasting a library of games and achievements, recent user reports paint a different picture. A common complaint revolves around app instability, with users experiencing frequent freezes and game launch failures. While some issues have been resolved, the app's consistent performance remains questionable. The lack of developer responsiveness further amplifies the frustration, leaving some players feeling neglected and frustrated. Despite the hiccups, Google Play Games remains a crucial platform for many mobile gamers, but it's clear that improvements are needed to regain user trust and deliver a seamless experience.
Pros & Cons
- Seamless game access
- Convenient achievements tracking
- Saves game progress
- Large game library
- Frequent app crashes
- Synchronization issues
- Slow update releases
Why we chose it?
Google Play Games is my go-to app for finding new games and enjoying old favorites! It's the official Android app store, so you know you're getting quality games, and the "Instant Play" feature lets me dive right in without waiting for downloads. Plus, I love that it automatically saves my progress across all my devices, so I can pick up where I left off no matter where I am.
11. Snapchat
Ephemeral content for privacy, Creative filters and lenses, Interactive Stories and Chats
Cost:
Free (Free), Snapchat+ (US) ($3.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Social Networking |
| Downloads | Over 3 billion downloads |
| Features | Snapchat lets you share photos and videos that disappear after a short time, chat with friends, create Stories, watch live content, and use augmented reality filters and Lenses. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone looking for a fun and fast way to share moments with friends and family. |
- Tags:
- Ephemeral Messaging
- Augmented Reality Lenses
- Live Video Chat
Snapchat is a popular app store fixture, known for its playful filters and effects, which many users find irresistible. While praised for features like private and public posting, a dedicated map, and consistent video calling, the app isn't without its quirks. Some users lament the lack of a dark mode and the annoying double notifications, while others have encountered more serious issues like the app randomly redirecting to a webpage, preventing access to their accounts. Despite these flaws, Snapchat's core functionality remains solid, and its unique blend of ephemeral messaging and creative expression continues to attract a large and active user base.
Pros & Cons
- Fun filters and effects
- Downloadable pics and videos
- Private and public posting
- Consistent messaging and calling
- Terrible interface, no dark mode
- Double notifications are annoying
- Randomly stopped working, web page issue
Why we chose it?
Snapchat is my go-to app for staying connected with friends and having fun! I love its unique features like disappearing messages, creative filters, and engaging Stories. It's also super easy to use on Android, making it a breeze to capture and share my daily moments.
12. Netflix
Vast library of content, Personalized recommendations, Offline viewing
Download:
Application information
| Category | Entertainment |
| Downloads | Over 2.6 billion downloads |
| Features | Stream thousands of movies and TV shows, including Netflix originals, with personalized recommendations and offline viewing. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who enjoys watching movies and TV shows on their mobile device. |
- Tags:
- Personalized recommendations
- Vast content library
- Offline viewing
The Netflix app, a mainstay in the app store, offers a vast library of movies and TV shows, but recent user feedback paints a mixed picture. While praised for its convenience and selection, users are increasingly vocal about persistent streaming issues, with many reporting frequent freezes and limited availability of desired content. This has led to frustration among subscribers who expect reliable, high-quality service, especially considering the cost of the subscription. While some users have found workarounds for brightness issues, the overall user experience remains a point of contention, with users demanding more consistent performance and a wider selection of content.
Pros & Cons
- Vast library of content
- User-friendly interface
- Offline viewing option
- Multiple profile support
- Streaming issues reported
- Limited program availability
- Price can be expensive
Why we chose it?
Netflix is a must-have for any Android user! It has an amazing library of movies and shows, constantly updated with new releases and classics. The intuitive interface makes finding what you want to watch easy, and the download feature lets me enjoy my favorite shows even without Wi-Fi.
13. PlayStation App
Connect with friends, voice chat, Discover deals, pre-order games
Download:
Application information
| Category | Entertainment |
| Downloads | Over 140 million downloads |
| Features | The PlayStation App connects you to your PlayStation console, friends, and games, allowing you to manage your library, chat, browse the PS Store, and remote play. |
| Who It’s For | PlayStation App is for gamers who want to stay connected to their console and friends, even when they're not at home. |
- Tags:
- Remote Play
- Social Connectivity
- Game Management
The PlayStation App is your mobile portal to the world of PlayStation, promising a seamless experience for managing your games, connecting with friends, and exploring the latest releases. While users praise its features for making purchases, managing PS5 games, and receiving timely notifications about friends coming online, the app has drawn criticism for its clunky interface and frustrating bugs. Navigating the app can feel cumbersome, especially when searching for free games or browsing trailers, which often encounter technical glitches. Despite these shortcomings, the app remains a useful tool for staying connected to the PlayStation ecosystem, though many users find themselves resorting to their consoles for simpler tasks.
Pros & Cons
- Easy game purchases and management
- Friend activity notifications and chat
- Remotely control PlayStation console
- Convenient for managing game library
- Frequent app loading issues
- Complex and difficult navigation
- Slow performance and buggy features
Why we chose it?
The PlayStation App is a must-have for any Android gamer! It lets me chat with friends, buy games, and even remotely control my PS4, all from my phone. It's the ultimate companion app for my PlayStation experience, and it’s super easy to use – I love how seamlessly it integrates with the PS4 and makes everything so much smoother!
14. Walmart
Easy grocery shopping, Convenient pickup and delivery, Fast two-day shipping
Download:
Application information
| Category | Shopping |
| Downloads | Over 100 million downloads |
| Features | Shop groceries, household essentials, electronics, and more, with convenient pickup, delivery, and shipping options. |
| Who It’s For | Anyone who wants to shop for a wide variety of products online and get their items delivered or picked up quickly. |
- Tags:
- Easy online grocery ordering
- Fast and convenient pickup
- Two-day shipping on eligible orders
The Walmart app, a titan in the [app store], promises a convenient and affordable shopping experience. While users praise the app's wide selection and competitive prices, recent updates have introduced some frustrations. Some users lament the loss of convenient filters, a feature that streamlined in-store shopping, while others grapple with persistent glitches that cause scrolling issues. Despite these hiccups, the app remains a popular choice for many shoppers, particularly those seeking quick and easy access to everyday essentials.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use interface
- Good for store navigation
- Affordable prices on items
- Multiple delivery options
- Missing filters in update
- Page jumps back to top
- Shipping origin unclear
Why we chose it?
Walmart is my go-to app for everything! I love how easy it is to browse and find what I need, and I can even schedule pick-up or delivery for when it's convenient for me. The app is super user-friendly, and the wide selection of products at amazing prices makes it a real winner! You can't beat the convenience of Walmart on your Android phone.
15. ESPN
Live sports streaming, Scores and news updates, Personalized content discovery
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), ESPN+ ($9.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Sports |
| Downloads | Over 88 million downloads |
| Features | The ESPN app provides live scores, news, highlights, expert analysis, and access to ESPN+ streaming service for exclusive live sports and originals. |
| Who It’s For | Sports fans who want to stay up-to-date on their favorite teams and leagues. |
- Tags:
- Live Sports Streaming
- Exclusive ESPN+ Originals
- Scores and highlights
The ESPN app is a mixed bag in the app store. While it delivers on its core functionality of providing scores for your favorite teams, it often falls short in other areas. Users have reported frustration with unreliable notifications, a lack of control over what sports they receive alerts for, and persistent issues with video playback quality and freezing. Additionally, some users have found the app's integration with the Disney Bundle to be glitchy, requiring multiple app restarts to recognize the subscription. Despite these issues, the app's ability to provide scores and basic information makes it a valuable tool for sports fans, though it's clear that some aspects of the app experience need improvement.
Pros & Cons
- Provides accurate sports scores
- Offers comprehensive sports news
- Allows live streaming of events
- Personalized alerts for favorite teams
- Frequent app crashes and freezes
- Push notifications can be unreliable
- Video playback quality is inconsistent
- Ads can be intrusive and disruptive
Why we chose it?
ESPN is my go-to sports app because it's packed with everything I need to stay up-to-date. I love how I can watch live games, get instant scores, and read insightful articles all in one place. It's also super user-friendly and keeps me entertained with highlights and analysis from the best sports experts.