In today’s world, smartphones have seamlessly integrated themselves into our lives, becoming a vital component of our daily existence. As Elon Musk famously remarked, we’re essentially modern-day cyborgs, albeit without the formal interface. Whether it elevates our social status or acts as a literal lifeline, the smartphone holds immense importance in our personal spheres.Stepping into 2024, the landscape of smartphones maintains its dynamic and constantly shifting character. The rapid evolution suggests that a flagship device from merely a year ago could now occupy the space of a typical mid-range choice. Amidst a plethora of choices, selecting the perfect smartphone tailored to your unique requirements can indeed seem like a daunting task. However, fret not, as we are here to assist you in navigating this journey and streamlining the selection process! Here are the 8 best smartphones of 2024.
8. Motorola Razr Plus (Razr 40 Ultra)
The Motorola Razr Plus (known as the Razr 40 Ultra internationally) transcends the realm of foldable phones; it represents an entirely novel category of smartphones, surpassing its predecessors in every aspect. When closed, it transforms into a compact communication device, a convenient pocket mirror, and a palm-sized navigation tool. It’s the device that truly validates the concept of folding a display in half, leaving one to ponder when other leading phone manufacturers will match its innovation. While the Razr Plus may come with a hefty price tag, it stands out as the premier clamshell foldable phone that we endorse wholeheartedly for a broad audience. This recommendation extends beyond mere enthusiasts of flip phones or those seeking novelty; it appeals to anyone in search of a top-tier mobile experience.
Release date: June 2023
Weight: 184.5g
Dimensions: 170.8 x 74 x 7mm open; 88.4 x 74 x 15.1mm closed
OS: Android 13Main
screen size: 6.9 inches
Resolution: 1080 x 2640 pixels
Cover display
size: 3.6 inches
Resolution: 1056 x 1066
CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1
RAM: 8GB / 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB
Battery: 3,800mAh
Rear camera: 12MP (wide) + 13MP (ultrawide)
Front camera: 32MP
7. OnePlus 11
The OnePlus 11 revisits its origins, boasting top-tier performance and noteworthy specs, all while sacrificing certain features to offer a more affordable alternative compared to its heavyweight rivals. This translates to a price advantage over flagship models from Samsung and Apple, with OnePlus steering clear of complicating its product range with Pro or Plus variants. In essence, it encapsulates all of OnePlus’s strengths and functions seamlessly.Much like its illustrious predecessors, the OnePlus 11 delivers exceptional performance at a compelling price point. While not the most economical flagship in its category, its expansive display, distinctive camera setup, and array of standout features make it a compelling choice, offering unparalleled value that sets it apart from the competition.
Release date: June 2023
Weight: 184.5g
Dimensions: 170.8 x 74 x 7mm open; 88.4 x 74 x 15.1mm closed
OS: Android 13Main
screen size: 6.9 inches
Resolution: 1080 x 2640 pixelsCover display
size: 3.6 inches
Resolution: 1056 x 1066
CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1
RAM: 8GB / 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB
Battery: 3,800mAh
Rear camera: 12MP (wide) + 13MP (ultrawide)
See Also: 10 Biggest Gaming Companies in the World
6. Apple iPhone 13
Historically, iPhones weren’t renowned for their enduring battery life. However, throughout our extensive testing, the iPhone 13 consistently impressed us by holding its charge day after day. Apple seems to have finally cracked the code on battery longevity, marking a significant improvement over past iPhone models. Yet, this doesn’t mean the iPhone 13 compromises on performance. With its potent A15 Bionic chip and 4GB of RAM, it effortlessly tackles modern games and multitasking with aplomb.The iPhone 13 stands as the most affordable iPhone model devoid of the traditional Home button, yet it remains a formidable and versatile device. Boasting exceptional power management, it sets a new standard for iPhone battery life. While it may not come with a modest price tag, there are certainly cheaper options available in the Android market. Nonetheless, Apple’s commitment to providing top-notch software update features ensures that every iPhone, regardless of model, receives the same level of excellence and support.
Release date: September 2021
Weight: 174g
Dimensions: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.7mm
OS: iOS 17Screen
size: 6.1 inches
Resolution: 1170 x 2532
CPU: Apple A15 Bionic
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Battery: 3,240 mAh
Rear camera: 12MP (main) +12MP (ultrawide)
Front camera: 12MP
View at Amazon (256GB)
View at Amazon (512GB)
5. Google Pixel 7
While the Pixel 7a might seem like the obvious choice for budget-conscious consumers, Google’s consistent discounts on the Pixel 7 over the past year have made it a compelling option even at a slightly higher price point. Despite the Pixel 6a still being available at an enticingly low cost, the Pixel 7 offers superior durability, wireless charging capability, and significantly improved photography. This makes it well worth considering, even if it means stretching your budget just a bit further.
Release date: October 2022
Weight: 197g
Dimensions: 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7mm
OS: Android 13
Screen size: 6.3 inches
Resolution: 1080 x 2400
CPU: Google Tensor G2
RAM: 8GBS
torage: 128GB
Battery: 4,355 mAh
Rear camera: 50MP (main) +12MP (ultrawide)
Front camera: 10.8MP
View at Amazon (128GB)
View at Google Store EMEA (256GB)
4. Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google’s Pixel 8 Pro emerges as the pinnacle of the Pixel lineup, showcasing the company’s most ambitious features to date. Boasting substantial camera enhancements tailored to meet the demands of professional photographers, along with a bespoke Tensor G3 chipset optimized for Google’s advanced machine learning capabilities, this device sets a new standard for smartphone innovation. Google’s confidence in the Pixel 8 Pro is evident in its promise of an unparalleled seven years of major software updates, a commitment that surpasses the support offered by any other smartphone manufacturer in the market today. Google tends to be generous with discounts, particularly during sales seasons. When contemplating a Pixel phone purchase, I highly recommend exercising patience and waiting for a deal. While the phone may already offer impressive features and performance, snagging it at a reduced price feels like an even more enticing proposition. Saving a few hundred dollars or pounds can significantly enhance the value proposition of the Pixel phone, making it a savvy investment for budget-conscious consumers.
Release date: October 2023
Weight: 213g
Dimensions: 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8mm
OS: Android 14
Screen size: 6.7-inch
Resolution: 1344 x 2992
CPU: Google Tensor G3
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
Battery: 5,050mAh
Rear camera: 50MP (wide) + 48MP (ultra-wide) + 48MP (telephoto)
Front camera: 10.5MP
View at Amazon (128GB)
View at Google Store EMEA
3. iPhone 15 Pro Max
Undoubtedly, the iPhone 15 Pro Max reigns supreme as the ultimate iPhone currently available on the market. Catering to Apple aficionados with deep pockets, this device stands as the pinnacle of excellence. While the smaller iPhone 15 Pro is no slouch and deserves consideration, especially for those favoring its more manageable 6.1-inch size, the iPhone 15 Pro Max emerges as the unequivocal winner. Its inclusion of a 5x periscope zoom lens elevates it to an objectively superior status, further solidifying its position as the top-tier choice among Apple’s offerings.As with the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is an exceptionally expensive handset that can never truly be considered good value for money. That said, you’re still getting a whole lot of phone for the price.
Release date: September 2023
Weight: 221g
Dimensions: 159.9 x 76.7 x 8.25mm
OS: iOS 17
Screen size: 6.7 inches
Resolution: 2796 x 1290 pixels
CPU: A17 Pro
RAM: 8GB (unofficial)
Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
Battery: 4,422mAh (unofficial)
Rear camera: 48MP (wide) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 12MP (telephoto with 5x optical zoom)
Front camera: 12MP
2. iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 represents a notable leap forward for Apple’s base iPhone lineup, securing its position as the premier value-oriented smartphone in today’s market. Unlike recent iterations, which often felt like incremental upgrades overshadowed by their Pro-level counterparts, the iPhone 15 breaks free from this pattern by offering a genuinely compelling value proposition. With a host of impressive features and capabilities, it stands as a testament to Apple’s commitment to delivering exceptional products that cater to a wide range of consumers.
Weight: 171g
Dimensions: 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.80mm
OS: iOS 17
Screen size: 6.1-inch
Resolution: 2556 x 1179
CPU: A16 Bionic
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
Battery: 3,349mAh (unofficial)
Rear camera: 48MP (wide) +12MP (ultra-wide)
Front camera: 12MP
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra pushes the boundaries of smartphone innovation to unprecedented levels and then surpasses them. Positioned as a top-tier performer, it emerges as the pinnacle of smartphone excellence across various metrics. With superior battery life and performance outstripping its iPhone counterparts, coupled with the most versatile camera setup among Android devices, it leaves its competitors trailing in its wake. Furthermore, it incorporates unique features such as the Samsung DeX desktop environment, setting it apart as a truly standout device in today’s crowded smartphone landscape. While the Galaxy S24 Ultra commands a higher price tag compared to its predecessor, the incremental increase in cost doesn’t necessarily translate to a wealth of additional features. However, what you do receive is undeniably significant. Samsung’s commitment to providing seven years of software updates, including major Android OS updates, is a game-changer. This promise elevates the value proposition of the Galaxy S24 Ultra to unprecedented heights, making it a more compelling investment than any previous Samsung Galaxy Ultra model.
Release date: January 2024
Weight: 232g
Dimensions: 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6mm
OS: Expected Upgrades: Android 14 / One UI 6; 7 years of upgrades
Screen size: 6.8-inch
Resolution: QHD+
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy
RAM: 12GBStorage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Battery: 5,000mAh
Rear camera: 200MP (wide) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 10MP (telephoto with 3x optical zoom) + 50MP (telephoto with 5x optical zoom)
Front camera: 12MP