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 cameras, and innovative designs. This review highlights ten standout 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

• 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 advanced 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 blazing performance. The 50MP telephoto lens (5x optical zoom) captures stunning images, enhanced further 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 powerful A18 Pro chip are 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. A long-lasting battery (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. Its triple camera system (50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x zoom) and features like Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative Add Me feature produce exceptional results. A new 42MP wide-angle front camera is perfect for group selfies. The Tensor G4 chip and AI-powered tools 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 for its price point. However, performance may be limited for demanding tasks, and low-light camera performance and network frequency support are areas for improvement.

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, it boasts a capable camera system and AI-enhanced photo processing, resulting in bright, detailed images. AI features like background removal and composition adjustment further enhance its photographic capabilities.

OnePlus 12

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

The OnePlus 12 prioritizes speed and performance. Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate), Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and triple camera system (50MP main sensor) deliver a powerful experience. Its exceptional 80W wired charging (50% in 10 minutes) and 50W wireless charging are standout features.

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. Its high-quality camera system (48MP main, 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide) and professional features like macro mode and bokeh, combined with AI assistance, make it a compelling choice. The move to a standard aspect ratio display enhances everyday usability.

Oppo Find X5 Pro

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

The Oppo Find X5 Pro boasts impressive camera capabilities, featuring two 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its Hasselblad partnership enhances image quality, particularly with its "Natural Colour Calibration" technology. 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 excels as a foldable smartphone. Its 7.8-inch inner screen facilitates multitasking with its "Open Canvas" feature. Its compact folded form and impressive triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) make it a versatile device. 65W fast charging is significantly faster than competitors.

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 style and functionality. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and improved camera system (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide) offer a compelling package. The Auto Zoom feature with AI enhances ease of use. An upgraded battery and a refined design complete the package.

This review showcases the diverse offerings of 2024's smartphone market. Whether prioritizing camera quality, performance, battery life, or affordability, there's a device to meet individual needs and preferences. The continuous evolution of technology promises even more exciting advancements in the years to come.