The 10 best smartphones of 2024

2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Comprehensive Review

The year 2024 brought a wave of impressive smartphones, boasting powerful processors, cutting-edge features, and innovative designs. This review highlights ten standout models, judged not only on specifications but also on real-world user experience.

Table of Contents

• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
• CMF Phone 1 by Nothing
• Google Pixel 8a
• OnePlus 12
• Sony Xperia 1 VI
• Oppo Find X5 Pro
• OnePlus Open
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED
• Storage: Up to 1TB
• Battery: 5,000mAh

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a new standard, blending advanced AI with premium hardware. Its vibrant 6.8-inch AMOLED display (2,600 nits brightness, Gorilla Armor) offers exceptional visibility. The durable titanium build ensures longevity, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers blistering performance. The 50MP telephoto lens (5x optical zoom) captures stunning detail, and AI-powered features like real-time translation and smart photo editing enhance functionality. At $1,299, it's a premium investment for the ultimate mobile experience.

iPhone 16 Pro Max

• Processor: A18 Pro
• Display: 6.9-inch AMOLED
• Storage: Up to 1TB
• Battery: Up to 33 hours video playback

The iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers a premium flagship experience: a gorgeous 6.9-inch AMOLED display and the potent A18 Pro chip. Improvements include slimmer bezels, a larger screen, and a dedicated Camera Control button for instant photo capture. 4K video recording at 120fps and the enhanced Audio Mix feature elevate multimedia capabilities. The extended battery life (up to 33 hours of video playback) and 25W wireless charging add to its convenience.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

• Processor: Google Tensor G4
• Display: 6.3 and 6.7 inches (AMOLED)
• Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
• Battery: 5,060mAh

The Pixel 9 Pro XL excels in mobile photography. Its triple-camera system (50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x zoom) combined with Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative "Add Me" feature produces exceptional results. The 42MP wide-angle front camera is ideal for group selfies. Tensor G4 and AI features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image quality. This phone is a photographer's dream.

CMF Phone 1 by Nothing

• Processor: Dimensity 7300 5G
• Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED
• Resolution: 2780 x 1264
• Battery: 5,500mAh

A budget-friendly option with unique features. Starting at $230, it offers customizable back panels, accessory support, and MicroSD expansion. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display (2,000 nits) and 5,500mAh battery are highlights. However, the Dimensity 7300 5G processor is better suited for basic tasks, and camera performance in low light is a compromise. Network frequency limitations may also affect some users.

Google Pixel 8a

• Processor: Tensor G3
• Display: 6.1-inch Actua HD
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 4,492mAh

The Pixel 8a offers excellent value. Its compact size and affordable price don't compromise on camera quality. The 13MP main and selfie cameras, enhanced by Google's AI, produce bright and detailed images. AI-powered features like background removal and composition adjustments further improve photos.

OnePlus 12

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED
• Storage: Up to 512GB
• Battery: 5,000mAh

The OnePlus 12 prioritizes fast charging and performance. At $899, it features a 6.8-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a 50MP triple-camera system. Its standout feature is the incredibly fast 80W wired charging (50% in 10 minutes) and 50W wireless charging.

Sony Xperia 1 VI

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Display: 6.5-inch Bravia HDR OLED (120Hz)
• Storage: 256GB
• Battery: 5,000mAh

Targeted at professional photographers, the Xperia 1 VI boasts high-quality cameras and performance. Its design is elegant and refined. The 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, produces exceptional images. Professional features and AI support cater to both professionals and casual users.

Oppo Find X5 Pro

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8
• Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED (120Hz)
• Storage: 256GB
• Battery: 5,000mAh

The Oppo Find X5 Pro emphasizes photography. Its dual 50MP main cameras and 32MP front camera deliver stunning results. The Hasselblad partnership enhances image quality, with "Natural Colour Calibration" providing accurate color reproduction. The AMOLED display (120Hz) and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes) are additional strengths.

OnePlus Open

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• Display: 6.3-inch (outer), 7.8-inch (inner)
• Storage: 512GB
• Battery: 5,000mAh

The OnePlus Open is a compelling foldable phone. Its 7.8-inch inner screen enables excellent multitasking with the "Open Canvas" feature. Folded, it's compact; unfolded, it's a large, convenient screen. The triple-camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) captures vibrant photos, and 65W fast charging is a significant advantage.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED
• Storage: 256GB / 512GB
• Battery: 4,000mAh

The Z Flip 6 offers style and functionality. It features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and an improved camera system (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide) with AI-powered Auto Zoom. The upgraded 4,000mAh battery and interactive outer screen add to its appeal.

This review covers a range of options, from premium flagships to budget-friendly choices. The best smartphone for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. Technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of mobile technology, offering users ever-increasing possibilities.