European alternatives > Phones
Best European phones
Smartphones are the center of your digital life. They hold your messages, photos, location history, payment apps, contacts, passwords, health data, and daily habits. Choosing a phone is about who controls the hardware, software, updates, repair options, and data ecosystem around it.
European phones offer alternatives to Apple, Samsung, Google, and Chinese smartphone brands, with a focus on repairability, sustainability, privacy, ethical sourcing, and reduced reliance on Big Tech ecosystems. It’s also a great way to support the European tech ecosystem.
Murena
Based: Paris, France
A deGoogled ecosystem of smartphones and services
- Powered by /e/OS, which removes all Google tracking and services
- Supports Android apps without requiring a Google account
- Available on various hardware, including modular and sustainable devices(nova janela)
- Cloud services hosted in Europe for better data protection
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NitroPhone
Based: Berlin, Germany
Claims to be the world's most secure Android smartphone
- Runs GrapheneOS, with no Google services or tracking
- Hardware-based verification system
- Protection against over-the-air exploits and physical tampering
- Zero bloatware and minimal system footprint
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shiftphone
Based: Falkenberg, Germany
A sustainable smartphone that prioritizes repairability and privacy
- Modular design allows you to easily replace batteries, screens, and components
- Hardware kill switches for the camera and microphone on the SHIFTphone 8
- Supports privacy-focused operating systems like /e/OS
- No unnecessary data collection or preinstalled tracking apps
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Volla Phone
Based: Remscheid, Germany
A privacy-oriented smartphone seeking independence from Google
- Ships with Volla OS or Ubuntu Touch, which can run without Google services
- Minimal data collection
- A security mode designed to block surveillance, malware, and data thieves
- Long-term software support
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Fairphone
Based: Amsterdam, Netherlands
A sustainable and repairable smartphone designed around user control
- Modular design so you can easily replace parts (battery, screen, camera)
- Long-term software support
- Transparent and ethical supply chain
- Can run alternative operating systems like /e/OS
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Nothing Phone
Based: London, United Kingdom
An Android-based phone focused on design and user experience
- Distinctive transparent hardware design
- Runs Nothing OS, a closed-source, customized version of Android
- Limited preinstalled third-party apps
- Compatible with alternative Android privacy tools
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Why choose European phone providers?
Stronger data protection expectations
European phone brands operate in a market shaped by GDPR and strong consumer privacy expectations. This does not make every device private by default, but it creates a better environment for products built around transparency, user rights, and responsible data handling.
That means more control over your data, less profiling, and a search experience that is not solely shaped by the incentives of Big Tech.
More privacy-focused software choices
Some European phones support privacy-focused versions of Android or alternative operating systems that reduce dependence on Google services. Using fewer default Google components can limit background data collection and give you more control over apps, permissions, sensors, and location access.
Ethical and sustainable design
Many European phone brands focus on longevity, repairability, fairer sourcing, and reduced electronic waste. Devices that are easier to repair and keep updated can reduce the pressure to replace your phone every few years.
Hardware-level security
Some privacy-focused European phones include physical controls such as camera, microphone, or connectivity switches. These features create an extra layer of protection by letting you disconnect sensitive hardware directly, rather than relying only on software settings.
Which European phone is best for you?
The right phone depends on whether you want a familiar Android experience, a completely open-source system, or a device that is easy to repair.
Maximum privacy: NitroPhone and Murena remove Google services and tracking for a more secure experience.
Repairability and sustainability: Fairphone and Shiftphone focus on modular design and long-term hardware support.
DeGoogled experience: Murena and NitroPhone offer operating systems that avoid Google services by default.
Everyday usability: Nothing Phone provides a familiar Android experience with a clean interface.
Custom operating systems: Volla Phone and Murena support alternative operating systems for more control.
High-security use: NitroPhone includes advanced protections for users who need stronger device security.
Tips for switching to a European phone
Transitioning to a privacy-focused phone involves changing how you manage your apps and data. These tips help you move to a new mobile environment without losing your important information.
Back up your data manually
Use a secure cloud provider or a local hard drive to save your photos and contacts before you make the switch.
Explore alternative app stores
Get familiar with alternatives like F-Droid or the Aurora Store. These platforms provide access to millions of apps without requiring a Google account.
Check network compatibility
Most European phones work globally, but it’s always best to verify support for 5G or specific 4G bands in your region.
Review app permissions
Limiting permissions reduces background data collection and gives you more control over your device.
Use both phones for a while
Keep your old phone active while setting up your new device. Running both side by side helps you move accounts and test new features.
Not European, but still not Big Tech phones
If you are open to options outside Europe, these devices offer stronger privacy protections than standard mainstream smartphones. Keep in mind that these companies are subject to the laws of their respective countries.
Librem 5*
Based: California, United States
A high-security smartphone with hardware kill switches, focused on user sovereignty
- Includes physical switches to disconnect the camera, microphone, and WiFi
- Runs PureOS, a fully open-source operating system
- Does not track your location or collect data for ads
- Designed with a security-first architecture and full user control
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PinePhone
Based: Hong Kong / International
An affordable Linux-based smartphone for developers and privacy enthusiasts
- Runs various open-source Linux operating systems instead of Android or iOS
- Features hardware kill switches for the modem, WiFi, microphone, and cameras
- Gives you total control over all software
- Community-driven development with frequent updates
Proton privacy score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Librem 5 is made by Purism. Purism's privacy credentials and hardware kill switches are genuine, but the company has a well-documented history of significant delivery delays. Customers who ordered in 2021 reported still waiting in late 2025, and Purism holds a low rating on Trustpilot with recurring complaints about delays and refund denials.
Frequently asked questions
about European phones
- What is a European phone provider?
- Are European phone providers better for privacy than Apple, Samsung, or Google?
- Are European phones secure by default?
- Can I use my current SIM card in a European phone?
- Do European phones run Android?
- Is it hard to use a phone without Google services?
- Can I still use apps like WhatsApp or Instagram?
Explore more European alternatives
Looking beyond phones? Find European alternatives for email, browsers, messaging, maps, search engines, social media, and more.