The 10 best smartphones of 2024

2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Comprehensive Review

The year 2024 brought a wave of impressive smartphones, showcasing advancements in AI, camera technology, and design. This review highlights ten standout models, focusing on both specifications and 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 exceptional 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 experience with its stunning 6.9-inch AMOLED display and 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 Audio Mix feature enhance 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 with its exceptional triple camera system (50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x zoom). Features like Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative "Add Me" function elevate image quality. A new 42MP wide-angle front camera is perfect for group selfies. Tensor G4 and AI-powered features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image processing.

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 starting at $230, the CMF Phone 1 offers unique features like customizable back panels and expandable storage. It boasts a bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display and excellent battery life. However, compromises include a mid-range processor (Dimensity 7300 5G) and potentially limited camera performance in low light.

Google Pixel 8a

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

The Pixel 8a provides a compelling budget-friendly option. Despite its compact size, it delivers excellent camera performance (13MP main, 13MP selfie) thanks to Google's AI enhancements. AI-powered features improve photo quality, removing unwanted elements and adjusting 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 exceptional fast charging capabilities. 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 (50MP main). Its 80W wired charging can reach 50% in 10 minutes, and 50W wireless charging is also supported.

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 and ultra-wide). It features professional modes and AI assistance for everyday use. The design is elegant and refined, and the display is a standard aspect ratio.

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 with its dual 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. The Hasselblad partnership enhances image quality, with "Natural Colour Calibration" technology delivering accurate colors. It also features a fast-charging AMOLED display and a long-lasting battery.

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 offering a tablet-like experience in a compact form. Its 7.8-inch inner screen supports multitasking, while the folded size is comparable to an iPhone. The triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) produces 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 combines stylish flip design with modern features. 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 battery and outer screen with interactive features add to its appeal.

This review showcases the diverse offerings in the 2024 smartphone market. Each device caters to different needs and preferences, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every user. The constant evolution of technology promises even more exciting innovations in the years to come.