While the American love for the more expensive and exclusive iPhone and iPad has not waned off, more U.S. residents are also appreciating Android gadgets. A compilation of data by Handset Detection, reported by CNET, pointed to the Samsung Galaxy S3 as the number one on the top 10 Android devices that Americans love.

Among the criteria that Android devices have to make it to the top 10 list are popularity, good reviews and two-year contracts that often go with the unit. Also important are the price tag and the device being a first, such as the first to offer 4G services, eye control or bendable screens.

Another survey by BuyVia, an app and Web site for gadget shopping, identified three features that consumer want when they make their next smartphone buying decision. These are faster processor, larger screen and lower price.

The BuyVia study showed a stronger loyalty among Apple consumers with 46 per cent of current iPhone owners having no intent to change to an Android, while 42 per cent of Android users also plan to stick with their OS and won't shift to Apple gadgets.

When it comes to upgrades, 41 per cent favour the iPhone 5S, while 19 per cent desire to own the Samsung Galaxy S4, which will be out in stores on April 27.

"Our survey finds that people still want the iPhone, but it's clear their popularity is somewhat eroding. Consumers are more discriminating about features and pricing, no matter what platform they buy. Whether it's a cheaper iPhone, or potential products like the rumored iWatch, no position is safe and everyone has to continue to step up their game," BuyVia CEO and co-founder Norman Fong said in a statement.

Here are the 10 favourite Android devices of Americans on the CNET list.

1. Samsung Galaxy S3 - Considered the first phone to threaten iPhone's popularity.

2. Motorola Droid Razr (Verizon) - This thin, fast and efficient smartphone continues to be popular 18 months after its release. Part of its popularity, however, is the 24-month contract that goes with the device.

3. Amazon Kindle Fire - Its lack of specs may not impress techies, but its low price explains why this gadget is the most popular Android-based tablet in the U.S.

4. Samsung Galaxy S2 (T-Mobile) - Considered once the hottest device on T-Mobile, the HSPA+ version of the unit got a recent Android Jelly Bean update.

5. Samsung Galaxy S2 (Sprint) - The device was originally name Samsung Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch, which was responsible for the strong market performance of the South Korean tech giant.

6. Generic Androids - Handset Detection found that in the U.S. alone there are 1,360 unique generic Android devices.

7. HTC Evo 4G - Was released in 2010, but continues to be a favourite among Sprint subscribers, especially early 4G fans. One reason they are hanging on to the units it its expensive price tag at the time of purchase.

8. Samsung Galaxy Note 2 LTE - Despite its relatively recent release, comprises 2 per cent of all Android devices owned by Americans.

9. Motorola Droid X - Still around and a favourite after 3 years of release, indicating America's continuing love affair with Motorola.

10. Google Nexus 7 - It is the 2nd most popular Android tablet and comprises 1.5 per cent of all devices in the U.S. running Android at its core.

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