As cell phones have become indispensable in our daily lives, concerns about their potential health effects have grown.
One key measure of cell phone safety is the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which indicates how much radiofrequency energy the body absorbs when using a phone.
While most phones comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) SAR limit of 1.6 watts per kilogram (W/kg), some models emit higher levels of radiation.
Here’s a look at the 20 cell phones currently available in the US with the highest SAR levels, based on data from CNET and the FCC.
What Is SAR and Why Does It Matter?
SAR measures the rate at which the body absorbs radiofrequency energy from a device, typically during calls or internet use.
While there’s no conclusive evidence linking cell phone radiation to severe health risks, prolonged exposure to high radiation levels may raise concerns about potential long-term effects, such as:
- Increased risk of certain cancers.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Reduced fertility.
By understanding which phones have the highest SAR levels, consumers can make informed choices to minimize exposure.
Top 20 Phones With the Highest SAR Levels in the US
The following phones currently have the highest SAR levels, based on their FCC ratings.
These SAR values are measured when the device is held close to the ear or body during use.
| Rank | Phone Model | SAR Level (W/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Motorola Edge | 1.79 |
| 2 | ZTE Axon 11 5G | 1.59 |
| 3 | OnePlus 6T | 1.55 |
| 4 | Sony Xperia XZ3 | 1.53 |
| 5 | Google Pixel 3 XL | 1.52 |
| 6 | Apple iPhone 12 Pro | 1.49 |
| 7 | Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra | 1.48 |
| 8 | LG G8 ThinQ | 1.47 |
| 9 | Nokia 7.2 | 1.46 |
| 10 | Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro | 1.45 |
| 11 | Huawei P30 Pro | 1.44 |
| 12 | Google Pixel 5 | 1.43 |
| 13 | Oppo Reno 5 | 1.42 |
| 14 | Vivo V20 | 1.41 |
| 15 | Realme X50 Pro | 1.40 |
| 16 | Motorola Moto G Stylus | 1.39 |
| 17 | Samsung Galaxy Note 10 | 1.38 |
| 18 | Apple iPhone SE (2020) | 1.37 |
| 19 | LG Velvet | 1.36 |
| 20 | Asus ROG Phone 3 | 1.35 |
What Can You Do to Reduce Exposure?
If you own a phone with a high SAR level or want to limit your exposure, here are some practical tips:
- Use Speakerphone or Earbuds
Keep your phone away from your head by using a hands-free option during calls. - Text Instead of Talk
Texting reduces the amount of time your phone is close to your body. - Limit Phone Use
Reduce unnecessary phone usage, especially for long calls or gaming sessions. - Avoid Carrying Your Phone Against Your Body
Avoid keeping your phone in your pocket or bra for extended periods. - Turn On Airplane Mode
When you don’t need to be connected, switch to airplane mode to stop radiation emission. - Choose Phones With Lower SAR Levels
When buying a new phone, check the SAR rating to make an informed choice.
While cell phone radiation is a topic of ongoing research, understanding SAR levels can help you make smarter decisions about the devices you use.
By minimizing exposure and choosing phones with lower SAR values, you can reduce potential risks and prioritize your well-being.
Share this article with friends and family to spread awareness about cell phone radiation and how to stay informed!
