THE RIVALS

iphone 7 Plus

Apple’s big phone is due an imminent refresh, but if you can’t wait for the 7s Plus then this remains a fine phablet with a brilliant duallens camera.

Pixel XL

No need to hold out for Google’s prechristmas upgrade: as it’s first in line for Android updates, the original remains a great choice.

Galaxy S8+

Sorry to break it to you, but the Note 8 ain’t going to come cheap. If you’ll struggle to cook up around £700, then you could go for the still sizeable S8+.