2024's top smartphones delivered impressive power, innovative features, and unexpected design breakthroughs. Manufacturers focused heavily on AI integration, professional-grade cameras, and distinctive aesthetics. This curated list highlights the best models, judged not only on specifications but also on 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
- Storage: Up to 1TB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a new standard for 2024 flagship phones, blending advanced AI with premium hardware. Its expansive 6.8-inch AMOLED display boasts 2,600 nits of brightness and Gorilla Armor anti-glare, ensuring readability in bright sunlight. The lightweight titanium body promises durability, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers exceptional performance. The 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom captures sharper, brighter images. AI-powered features, such as real-time call translation and smart photo editing, enhance both power and functionality. 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 stunning 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. Improvements include 4K video recording at 120fps and an enhanced Audio Mix for clearer sound. The extended battery provides up to 33 hours of video playback, and 25W wireless charging adds 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 images. A new 42MP wide-angle front camera is perfect for group selfies. The Tensor G4 chip and AI features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image processing. With accurate color reproduction and extensive editing tools, this phone is a photographer's dream.
CMF Phone 1 by Nothing
Image: uk.pcmag.com
- Processor: Dimensity 7300 5G
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED
- 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 card expansion. Despite its affordability, it offers a bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display, long battery life, and a clean Android experience. However, compromises include a processor better suited for basic tasks than heavy gaming, and less-than-ideal low-light camera performance. Network frequency limitations may also affect some users.
Google Pixel 8a
- Processor: Tensor G3
- Display: 6.1-inch Actua HD
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB
- Battery: 4,492mAh
The Pixel 8a provides excellent value. Its compact size and lower price point don't compromise on key features. The camera, with 13MP main and selfie sensors, benefits from Google's AI, producing bright, detailed images. AI-powered features enhance photos by removing unwanted elements or adjusting composition.
OnePlus 12
Image: zdnet.com
- 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 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple 50MP main camera system. Its standout feature is 80W wired charging (50% in 10 minutes), complemented by 50W wireless charging. 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
Aimed at professional photographers, the Xperia 1 VI emphasizes high-quality cameras and performance. Its elegant design is noteworthy. This iteration moves away from the 21:9 aspect ratio for a more versatile standard display. The 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, provides excellent image quality, enhanced by professional features and AI support.
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, featuring two 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its Hasselblad partnership enhances image quality, with "Natural Colour Calibration" technology delivering accurate colors, though some may find them slightly less vibrant than Google Pixel images. It boasts a 120Hz AMOLED display and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes). The 5,000mAh battery offers up to two days of moderate use.
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 an excellent foldable phone offering a tablet experience in a compact form. Its 7.8-inch inner screen enables multitasking with the "Open Canvas" feature (up to three apps simultaneously). Folded, it's comparable in size and weight to an iPhone. The triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) produces vivid photos, particularly in blue and orange tones. 65W fast charging outpaces competitors.
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
A stylish flip phone with modern features. It includes a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and an improved camera with a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. AI-powered Auto Zoom adjusts focus based on the number of people in the frame. The 4,000mAh battery benefits from improved cooling technology. The outer screen offers interactive wallpapers and real-time translation. It's lighter and thinner than its predecessor while retaining functionality and style.
This overview covers ten exceptional smartphones from 2024, each offering unique strengths. Whether prioritizing advanced cameras, long battery life, or budget-friendly options, this list provides a comprehensive selection to suit various needs and preferences. The continuous evolution of technology ensures that each new generation of smartphones brings further innovation, enhancing productivity, entertainment, and creative possibilities.
