2024's Top 10 Smartphones: A Roundup of the Year's Best

2024 saw a surge of impressive smartphone releases, boasting powerful features and innovative designs. Manufacturers focused heavily on AI integration, professional-grade cameras, and unique form factors. This curated list highlights the best models, considering 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

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 flagships, blending cutting-edge AI with premium hardware. Its vibrant 6.8-inch AMOLED display (2,600 nits brightness, Gorilla Armor) offers exceptional visibility. The lightweight titanium build promises durability, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ensures blistering performance. The 50MP telephoto lens (5x optical zoom) captures stunning detail, and AI-powered features like real-time translation and smart photo editing enhance functionality. At $1,299, it delivers a premium 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 gorgeous 6.9-inch AMOLED display and the 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 enhanced Audio Mix feature further elevate its multimedia capabilities. The extended battery life (up to 33 hours of video playback) and 25W wireless charging add 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), coupled with Super Res Zoom (up to 30x), 8K upscaling, and the innovative "Add Me" feature, produces exceptional results. The 42MP wide-angle front camera is ideal for group selfies. The Tensor G4 chip and AI features like Magic Editor and Photo Unblur further enhance image quality. Its balanced color reproduction and extensive editing tools make it 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

A budget-friendly option with unique features, the CMF Phone 1 starts at $230. Its customizable back panel, accessory support, and microSD expansion offer flexibility. The bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display (2,000 nits) and long battery life (5,500mAh) are impressive. However, compromises include the Dimensity 7300 5G processor (suitable for basic tasks, not heavy gaming), a camera that struggles in low light, and limited network frequency support.

Google Pixel 8a

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

The Google Pixel 8a offers excellent value. Despite its compact size and budget-friendly price, it boasts a strong camera (13MP main, 13MP selfie) with AI-enhanced image processing, delivering bright and detailed photos. AI features like background removal and composition adjustment further improve image quality.

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 shines with its fast charging and high performance. Starting at $899, it offers a 6.8-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate), a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a triple camera system (50MP main). Its standout feature is its blazing-fast 80W wired charging (50% in 10 minutes), complemented by 50W wireless charging.

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

The Xperia 1 VI targets professional photographers with its high-quality camera system (48MP main, 12MP telephoto, 12MP ultra-wide) and powerful performance. It features a standard aspect ratio display, unlike its predecessor. Professional features like macro mode and bokeh are included, alongside AI-assisted everyday shooting modes.

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 performance with its dual 50MP main cameras and 32MP front camera. Its partnership with Hasselblad results in improved image quality, particularly with "Natural Colour Calibration." The AMOLED display (120Hz refresh rate) and fast charging (0-100% in 47 minutes) are additional highlights.

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 a compelling foldable phone, offering a tablet-like experience in a compact form. Its 7.8-inch inner screen and "Open Canvas" multitasking feature enhance productivity. The triple camera system (48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP telephoto) captures vibrant photos, and 65W fast charging surpasses 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

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 combines style and functionality. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and improved camera (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide with Auto Zoom) make it a strong contender. The upgraded 4,000mAh battery and interactive outer screen add to its appeal.

This overview showcases the diverse range of exceptional smartphones released in 2024. Whether prioritizing camera quality, battery life, performance, or affordability, there's a perfect device for every need. The constant evolution of technology ensures that each new generation offers exciting advancements in productivity, entertainment, and creativity.