Top 10 Smartphones of 2024: A Comprehensive Review
2024 delivered a stellar lineup of smartphones, boasting impressive power, cutting-edge features, and innovative designs. Manufacturers prioritized AI integration, professional-grade cameras, and unique aesthetics. This review highlights the best models, focusing on 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
Image: zdnet.com
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED (2600 nits brightness, Gorilla Armor)
- Storage: Up to 1TB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a new standard for 2024 flagship phones, seamlessly blending advanced AI with top-tier hardware. Its expansive 6.8-inch AMOLED display, boasting 2600 nits of brightness and Gorilla Armor anti-glare, offers exceptional visibility. The lightweight titanium build ensures durability, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset delivers exceptional performance. The 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom captures stunning images, enhanced further by AI-powered features like real-time call translation and smart photo editing. At $1,299, it's a premium investment for the ultimate smartphone experience.
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Image: zdnet.com
- 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 flagship experience: a breathtaking 6.9-inch AMOLED display and the potent A18 Pro chip. This iteration boasts slimmer bezels, a larger screen, and a unique Camera Control button for instant photo capture. Key improvements include 4K video recording at 120fps and the Audio Mix feature for enhanced sound clarity. The extended battery life (up to 33 hours of video playback) and 25W wireless charging add to its convenience.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Image: zdnet.com
- 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 perfect for group selfies. Tensor G4 and AI-powered features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image quality. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is a photographer's dream.
CMF Phone 1 by Nothing
Image: uk.pcmag.com
- Processor: Dimensity 7300 5G
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED (2000 nits brightness)
- 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 expansion. Despite its affordability, it offers a bright AMOLED display, long battery life, and a clean Android experience. However, performance compromises exist with the Dimensity 7300 5G processor and low-light camera capabilities. Network frequency limitations may affect some carriers.
Google Pixel 8a
- Processor: Tensor G3
- Display: 6.1-inch (Actua HD)
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB
- Battery: 4,492mAh
The Pixel 8a is a compelling budget-friendly choice. Despite its compact size and lower price point, it delivers exceptional camera performance thanks to its 13MP main and selfie cameras and Google's AI enhancements. AI-powered features improve photo quality by removing unwanted elements and adjusting composition.
OnePlus 12
Image: zdnet.com
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED (120Hz refresh rate)
- Storage: Up to 512GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
The OnePlus 12 prioritizes fast charging and high performance. Starting at $899, it features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple camera system. Its standout feature is its 80W wired charging, enabling a 50% charge in 10 minutes. 50W wireless charging is also included. While lacking generative AI, it offers a balanced Android experience and impressive performance at a competitive price.
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Image: sony.de
- 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, emphasizing high-quality cameras and performance. Its refined design adds to its appeal. It features a 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, supporting various professional features and AI-assisted shooting modes.
Oppo Find X5 Pro
Image: allround-pc.com
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED (120Hz)
- Storage: 256GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
The Oppo Find X5 Pro prioritizes camera capabilities with its dual 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its partnership with Hasselblad enhances image quality, delivering natural color calibration. It also boasts a 120Hz AMOLED display and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes).
OnePlus Open
Image: zdnet.com
- 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 excels at multitasking with its "Open Canvas" feature. When folded, it's comparable in size and weight to an iPhone. Its triple camera system produces vibrant photos, and it supports 65W fast charging.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Image: zdnet.com
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED
- Storage: 256GB / 512GB
- Battery: 4,000mAh
The stylish Z Flip 6 combines a modern flip design with advanced features. It includes a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and an improved camera system with AI-powered Auto Zoom. Its upgraded battery and lighter design make it a compelling option.
This review covers ten exceptional smartphones from 2024. Each device offers unique strengths, catering to diverse needs and preferences. The constant evolution of technology ensures that future smartphones will continue to push boundaries, offering even more exciting possibilities.
