The 10 best smartphones of 2024

2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Comprehensive Review

The year 2024 brought a wave of impressive smartphone releases, showcasing advancements in AI, camera technology, and design. This review highlights ten standout models, evaluating both 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 S24 Ultra sets a new standard, blending cutting-edge 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 images, enhanced by AI-powered features like real-time translation and smart photo editing. 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. Its 6.9-inch AMOLED display and A18 Pro chip are highlights, complemented by slimmer bezels 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 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-powered features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image quality.

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, the CMF Phone 1 allows for customizable back panels and expandable storage. Its bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display and long battery life are impressive. However, the Dimensity 7300 5G processor is better suited for everyday tasks than demanding games, and camera performance in low light is limited. Network frequency support may also be a consideration for some carriers.

Google Pixel 8a

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

The Pixel 8a offers excellent value. Despite its compact size and budget-friendly price, its camera (13MP main, 13MP selfie) delivers impressive results thanks to Google's AI enhancements. AI-powered features improve photo quality by removing unwanted elements and optimizing composition.

OnePlus 12

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

The OnePlus 12 shines with its fast charging capabilities. Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate), Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and triple-camera system (50MP main) are compelling. The standout feature is its 80W wired charging (50% in 10 minutes), along with 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

The Xperia 1 VI caters to professional photographers with its high-quality camera system (48MP main, 12MP telephoto, 12MP ultra-wide) and professional features like macro mode and bokeh. AI support simplifies everyday shooting. Its elegant design is another notable aspect.

Oppo Find X5 Pro

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

The Oppo Find X5 Pro prioritizes camera performance. Its dual 50MP main cameras and 32MP front camera, enhanced by Hasselblad's "Natural Colour Calibration," deliver stunning images. The AMOLED display (120Hz) and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes) are additional advantages.

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 efficient multitasking, while its folded size is compact. 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 a stylish flip design with modern features. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and improved camera system (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide) make it a strong contender. The upgraded battery and outer screen's interactive features enhance usability.

This review covers a range of options, from high-end flagships to more affordable choices. The best smartphone for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. The constant evolution of technology ensures that future releases will bring even more innovation to the mobile landscape.