iPhone, Nokia, Samsung or BlackBerry? List of top 7 best-selling mobile phones of all time

Before smartphones ruled our lives, mobile phones came in all shapes, sizes, and keypads. Over the past four decades, mobile technology has undergone a dramatic transformation — from rugged feature phones with snake games to sleek, touch-based devices powered by high-speed internet. But which phones truly defined global mobile culture in terms of sheer numbers? This list ranks the top 7 best-selling mobile phones of all time according to Yahoo Finance and reveals how a few iconic models changed the way the world communicates.

Nokia 1100 tops the chart as the best-selling mobile phone ever. Designed with durability, long battery life, and affordability in mind, it became a staple across developing nations. With a simple monochrome screen, flashlight, and legendary resilience, it was especially popular among first-time users in rural and emerging markets.

Following the success of the 1100, the Nokia 1110 offered similar utility with slight upgrades. It maintained a low price point, offered user-friendly features, and delivered the same robustness Nokia was known for. It became the go-to choice for millions entering the mobile world for the first time.

Apple’s iPhone 6 series marked a major design overhaul — larger screens, a slimmer body, and improved performance. It resonated with both developed and emerging markets, becoming Apple’s highest-selling model. The iPhone 6 was so popular that Apple reintroduced it in select markets like India and China in 2017.

Building on the momentum of the iPhone 6, the 6S series added 3D Touch and camera improvements. It retained the same design but packed a performance upgrade, securing its place among the best-selling smartphones globally.

The iPhone 5S introduced the world to Touch ID and became the first smartphone to run on a 64-bit processor. Compact and powerful, it became especially popular in regions where smaller form factors were still in demand.

The iPhone 7 series made headlines by removing the headphone jack — a controversial move at the time. But its water resistance, improved camera, and performance ensured high sales volumes globally. It further entrenched Apple’s dominance in the high-end smartphone segment.

A true classic, the Nokia 3210 brought innovation with its internal antenna, swappable covers, and SMS-friendly interface. Popular among youth and first-time users, its game lineup (especially Snake) became a cultural touchstone in mobile gaming.