The 10 best smartphones of 2024

2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Comprehensive Overview

The year 2024 brought a wave of impressive smartphones, showcasing advancements in AI, camera technology, and design. This curated list highlights the best models, considering 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 Samsung Galaxy 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 unparalleled 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 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 instant 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 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 with its exceptional triple camera system (50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x zoom). Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative Add Me feature 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. Its bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display and long battery life are noteworthy. However, compromises include a mid-range processor (Dimensity 7300 5G), less-than-ideal low-light camera performance, and limited network frequency support.

Google Pixel 8a

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

The Pixel 8a offers a compelling budget-friendly option. Despite its compact size and lower price, it delivers excellent camera performance (13MP main and selfie cameras) 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 prioritizes fast charging and high performance. Starting at $899, it features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate), Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple camera system (50MP main). Its standout feature is its 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 excellent performance. It features a 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses. Professional features like macro mode and bokeh are included, alongside AI support for everyday shooting.

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 capabilities with its dual 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its partnership with Hasselblad results in improved image quality and natural color calibration. Fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes) and a long-lasting battery add to its appeal.

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 enables excellent multitasking, while its folded size is comparable to an iPhone. The triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) delivers 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 stylish Z Flip 6 combines a flip-style design with modern features. It includes a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and an improved camera (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide) with AI-powered Auto Zoom. An upgraded battery and a functional outer screen complete the package.

This overview showcases the diverse range of smartphones available in 2024, catering to various needs and preferences. Technological innovation continues to push boundaries, providing users with increasingly powerful and versatile devices.