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. Manufacturers prioritized AI integration, professional-grade cameras, and unique aesthetics. This curated list highlights the best models, considering both technical specifications and 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 for 2024 flagship phones, blending advanced AI with premium hardware. Its vibrant 6.8-inch AMOLED display (2,600 nits brightness, Gorilla Armor) ensures readability in bright sunlight. The durable titanium body is surprisingly lightweight, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers exceptional performance. The 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom captures sharper, brighter images. AI-powered features like real-time call translation and smart photo editing enhance functionality. At $1,299, it's a premium investment for an unparalleled 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 the expected premium experience: a stunning 6.9-inch AMOLED display and the powerful A18 Pro chip. Key improvements include slimmer bezels, a larger screen, and a dedicated Camera Control button for quick 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 enhance 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), coupled with Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative "Add Me" feature, produces exceptional images. The new 42MP wide-angle front camera is perfect for group selfies. The Tensor G4 chip and AI features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image quality. Its balanced color reproduction and creative editing tools make it 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

An excellent budget-friendly option starting at $230. Unique features include a swappable back panel, accessory support, and microSD card expansion. Despite its affordability, it boasts a bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display (2,000 nits), long battery life, and a clean Android experience. However, the Dimensity 7300 5G processor may struggle with demanding games, and low-light camera performance is a compromise. Network frequency limitations might affect certain carriers.

Google Pixel 8a

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

The Pixel 8a offers excellent value. Its compact size and lower price point don't compromise on key features. The camera, with a 13MP main and 13MP selfie sensor, benefits from Google's AI, producing bright, detailed images. AI-powered enhancements, like background removal and composition adjustments, further improve photo quality.

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 high performance. Starting at $899, it offers a 6.8-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate), a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple camera system with a 50MP main sensor. Its standout feature is its 80W wired charging, achieving 50% charge in 10 minutes. It also supports 50W wireless charging. While lacking generative AI features, it provides a balanced Android experience and impressive performance at a competitive price.

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 emphasizes high-quality cameras and performance. Its elegant design is a standout feature. It features a 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses. Professional features like macro mode and bokeh, combined with 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 highlights its camera capabilities with two 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its Hasselblad partnership enhances image quality, with "Natural Colour Calibration" technology delivering accurate colors. It features a 120Hz AMOLED display and impressive charging speeds (0-100% in 47 minutes). The 5,000mAh battery provides extended usage.

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 an ideal foldable phone, offering a tablet experience in a compact form. Its 7.8-inch inner screen enables excellent multitasking with the "Open Canvas" feature. When folded, it's comparable in size and weight to an iPhone. Its triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) delivers vibrant photos. 65W fast charging surpasses competitors.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

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

A stylish flip phone with modern features. It includes a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and an improved camera with a 50MP main sensor and 12MP ultra-wide lens. The AI-powered Auto Zoom feature automatically adjusts focus. The upgraded 4,000mAh battery benefits from improved cooling technology. The outer screen offers interactive wallpapers and real-time translation.

This review covers ten of 2024's top smartphones, each with unique strengths. Whether you prioritize camera quality, battery life, affordability, or innovative design, this selection offers a diverse range of options to suit individual needs. The ever-evolving technology landscape promises even more exciting advancements in the future.