2024's Top Smartphones: Unveiled!

2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Year of Innovation and Performance

2024 witnessed a surge in smartphone innovation, with manufacturers prioritizing AI, advanced cameras, and striking designs. 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 (2600 nits brightness, Gorilla Armor)
• Storage: Up to 1TB
• Battery: 5000mAh

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets the 2024 flagship standard, blending cutting-edge AI with premium hardware. Its expansive 6.8-inch AMOLED display, boasting 2600 nits of brightness and Gorilla Armor anti-glare, ensures vibrant visuals even in direct sunlight. The lightweight titanium chassis promises durability, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers exceptional performance. The 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom captures stunning detail, complemented by AI-powered features such as real-time call translation and intelligent photo editing. At $1299, it's a premium investment for the ultimate mobile 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 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. Improvements include 4K video recording at 120fps and enhanced audio clarity via Audio Mix. The extended battery provides up to 33 hours of video playback, further enhanced by 25W wireless charging.

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: 5060mAh

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, results in exceptional image quality. The 42MP front-facing wide-angle camera is ideal for group selfies. Tensor G4 and AI-powered features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image processing. The phone offers balanced color reproduction and extensive creative editing tools.

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: 5500mAh

A budget-friendly option starting at $230, the CMF Phone 1 offers unique customization: interchangeable back panels and expandable storage via microSD. Despite its affordability, it features a bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display, excellent battery life, and a clean Android experience. However, compromises include a Dimensity 7300 5G processor (suitable for basic tasks, not heavy gaming), and potentially limited network frequency support.

Google Pixel 8a

• Processor: Tensor G3
• Display: 6.1-inch Actual HD
• Storage: 128GB / 256GB
• Battery: 4492mAh

The Google Pixel 8a provides a compelling budget-friendly option. Its compact size belies its capabilities, particularly its impressive camera system (13MP main and 13MP selfie) enhanced by Google's AI for bright, detailed photos. AI-powered features further improve images by removing unwanted elements or 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: 5000mAh

The OnePlus 12 prioritizes fast charging and high performance. Starting at $899, it offers a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple camera system with a 50MP main sensor. Its standout feature is 80W wired charging (50% charge in 10 minutes), complemented by 50W wireless charging. While lacking generative AI features, it delivers 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: 5000mAh

The Xperia 1 VI caters to professional photographers, emphasizing high-quality cameras and performance. Its elegant design is a notable feature. This iteration features a standard aspect ratio display, unlike its predecessor. The 48MP main camera, along with 12MP telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, delivers exceptional image quality, enhanced by various 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: 5000mAh

The Oppo Find X5 Pro highlights its camera capabilities with two 50MP main cameras and a 32MP front camera. Its partnership with Hasselblad results in improved image quality, particularly with "Natural Colour Calibration." It boasts a 120Hz AMOLED display and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes). The 5000mAh battery provides extended usage.

OnePlus Open

Image: zdnet.com

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• Display: 6.3-inch (outer), 7.8-inch (inner)
• Storage: 512GB
• Battery: 5000mAh

The OnePlus Open excels as a foldable smartphone, offering a tablet-like experience in a compact form. Its 7.8-inch inner screen supports multitasking with "Open Canvas," allowing up to three apps simultaneously. When folded, it's comparable in size and weight to an iPhone. Its triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) captures 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: 4000mAh

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 combines style and functionality. It features 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. The AI-powered Auto Zoom feature automatically adjusts focus. The 4000mAh battery benefits from improved cooling technology, and the outer screen offers interactive wallpapers and real-time translation.

This overview showcases the diverse landscape of 2024 smartphones, catering to various needs and budgets. Technological advancements continue to redefine the mobile experience, offering enhanced productivity, entertainment, and creative possibilities.