2024 has dawned upon us, and new smartphones are already being raining down left, right, and centre.
The smartphone market moves fast, and there seems to be almost no break between launches these days. So how can you decide on purchasing the best choice for you?
Your first decision will be between an iPhone or Android phone – both are included here. Then, how much are you willing to spend? Maybe a budget or mid-range phone will about to offer you all the features and specs of everything you’re seeking.
But if you’re seeking the absolute best of the best, you’ve reached the right place. It’s extremely complicated to whittle down the hundreds of phones we review yearly to just 10, but that’s exactly what we’ve done here.
We can easily recommend all the handsets below, but each is ranked ‘best’ for something. Whether you’re looking for great cameras, performance, design, or value for money, there’s something that will prove to be very appealing to you.
Google, Apple, Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, and OnePlus are all represented here. Nothing, Nokia, Realme, Asus, Huawei, Vivo, Honor, and Sony miss out on, but you will find them in other smartphone best picks blogs.
So, this blog is proven to be designed for you, and all the features, specs, pros, cons, price, and why it’s best are mentioned in this blog. And you’ll also come to know detailed buying advice. So, let’s go towards the best smartphones of 2024 details.
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best overall
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is coming in the list of the best smartphones currently available, offering a bunch of features and top-tier performance. Let’s break down its key aspects:
Features:
- Top-tier performance: The S24 Ultra is proud of its incredible performance indebted to its overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming experiences.
- Versatile cameras: it is endowed with five distinct camera lenses, and users are capable of capturing lively photos and videos in various lighting conditions and scenarios. The camera setup includes: ultra-wide, wide, telephoto, Periscope and depth sensors, permitting for creative flexibility.
- Very good battery life: Despite its robust features, the S24 Ultra offers impressive battery life, capable of lasting for up to two days on a single charge for many users.
- Clever AI features: Samsung has incorporated intelligent AI features into the S24 Ultra, improving the user experience and providing useful and valuable functionalities.
- Seven years of updates: Users can anticipate continuous software support with seven years of both OS and security updates, ensuring their device remains up-to-date and secure for a long period.
Specifications:
- Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED display with vibrant colors and crisp resolution.
- Processor: Overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor for top-notch performance.
- Camera: Five-camera setup with ultra-wide, wide, telephoto, periscope, and depth sensors for versatile photography.
- Battery: Long-lasting battery capable of providing up to two days of usage on a single charge.
- Operating System: Runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI skin for a smooth and intuitive user experience.
Other Main Points:
- Built-in S Pen for enhanced productivity and creativity.
- Gorgeous design with a large, immersive display.
- Advanced security features to protect user data and privacy.
- Water and dust resistance for added durability.
- Support for 5G connectivity for faster internet speeds and seamless streaming.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance for seamless multitasking and gaming.
- Versatile camera system for stunning photography.
- Impressive battery life for extended usage.
- Long-term software support with seven years of updates.
- Clever AI features to enhance user experience.
Cons:
- An expensive price tag may be prohibitive for some users.
- Large and bulky designs may not appeal to everyone.
- Charging speed is limited to 45W, slower compared to some competitors.
Price:
The price of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is about $1,225 on Amazon, making it one of the more expensive smartphones on the market. However, for those willing to invest, it provides unparalleled performance and features.
Why should you consider S24 Ultra?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is considered to be the best smartphone available because it combines top-tier performance, a versatile camera system, excellent battery life, clever AI features, and long-term software support. While it may come at a premium price and is equipped with a large design, its overall user experience and capabilities make it the best choice as an investment for those looking for the most complete smartphone on the market.
2. iPhone 15 Pro – Best iPhone
Features:
- Luxurious build quality: The iPhone 15 Pro boasts a durable titanium construction, ensuring longevity and premium aesthetics.
- Incredible cameras: Equipped with advanced camera technology, users can capture stunning photos and videos in various conditions.
- Useful software features: The iPhone 15 Pro offers a range of intuitive features, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Long-term software support: With seven years of updates, users can enjoy the latest features and security patches for an extended period.
- Versatile USB-C port: The introduction of a USB-C port enhances connectivity, allowing users to easily connect a variety of accessories.
Specifications:
- Display: High-resolution OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Processor: The A17 Pro chipset ensures top-notch performance for seamless multitasking and gaming experiences.
- Camera: Advanced camera system delivers exceptional photo and video quality, capturing moments with clarity and detail.
- Battery: Adequate battery life for everyday usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: iOS 16 offers a slick and intuitive user experience, with seamless integration of hardware and software.
Pros:
- Luxurious build quality with durable titanium construction.
- Incredible cameras for high-quality photography and videography.
- Useful software features enhance the overall user experience.
- Long-term software support with seven years of updates.
- Versatile USB-C port for enhanced connectivity.
Cons:
- So-so battery life may require frequent charging.
- Slow charging speed may inconvenience some users.
- The big and heavy design may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Price: The cost of this phone is $999 at Apple and $999.99 at Best Buy.
Why May You Want to Buy iPhone 15 Pro?
The iPhone 15 Pro offers luxury and performance, laced with its durable build, advanced cameras, useful software features, and long-term software support. Despite some disadvantages like so-so battery life and slow charging, its overall blend of features and performance makes it the better choice for iPhone enthusiasts.
3. Google Pixel 7a – Best value phone
Features:
- Phenomenal camera for its price range: The Pixel 7a is endowed with exceptional camera system, capturing stunning photos as per to higher-priced smartphones.
- Excellent Google software experience: With intuitive features and flawless integration with Google services, users can enjoy a smooth and intuitive user experience.
- Strong performance: Equipped by the Tensor G2 chipset, the Pixel 7a provides a reliable performance for everyday tasks and activities.
- Water-resistant design: The Pixel 7a features water resistance, delivering added durability and peace of mind for users.
Specifications:
- Display: Smooth 90Hz display enhances responsiveness and visual experience.
- Processor: Tensor G2 chipset ensures reliable performance for seamless multitasking and gaming.
- Camera: Exceptional camera performance for its price range, capturing detailed and vibrant photos in various conditions.
- Battery: is provides long battery life for everyday usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: Android with intuitive Google software features for a seamless user experience.
Pros:
- Phenomenal camera performance for its price range.
- Excellent Google software experience with intuitive features.
- Strong overall performance powered by Tensor G2 chipset.
- Water-resistant design for added durability.
Cons:
- Slow charging may inconvenience some users.
- Unreliable wireless charging functionality.
- Slightly slower compared to the Pixel 7.
- Limited to a 90Hz display refresh rate.
Price: $477 at Amazon.
Why Google Pixel 7a Stands out?
The Google Pixel 7a provides exceptional value for users looking for a smartphone with best camera performance, reliable software experience, and strong overall performance. Despite some minor issues like slow charging, its amalgam of features and affordability make it the top-notch value phone on the market.
4. OnePlus 12 – Great all-rounder
Features:
- Elegant and distinctive design: The OnePlus 12 features a sleek and distinctive design, standing out from the crowd with its aesthetic appeal.
- Superb screen: With a high-resolution AMOLED display and smooth 120Hz refresh rate, users can enjoy vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Fast wired and wireless charging capabilities: The OnePlus 12 supports fast charging, ensuring quick power replenishment for uninterrupted usage.
- Great main and telephoto cameras: Equipped with advanced camera technology, users can capture high-quality photos and videos with ease.
Specifications:
- Display: High-resolution AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset ensures top-notch performance for seamless multitasking and gaming experiences.
- Camera: Advanced camera system delivers exceptional photo and video quality, capturing moments with clarity and detail.
- Battery: Strong battery life with fast charging support for extended usage.
- Operating System: OxygenOS over Android 14 offers a customizable user experience with smooth navigation.
Pros:
- Elegant design with a distinctive aesthetic.
- Superb screen with smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Fast wired and wireless charging capabilities.
- Great main and telephoto cameras for photography enthusiasts.
Cons:
- Average wide-angle and selfie cameras may not meet expectations.
- More expensive compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 11.
- Limited water resistance compared to some competitors.
Price: (Price not provided, assumed to be competitive with other flagships.)
Why OnePlus 12 Is a Great Buy?
The OnePlus 12 phone delivers balanced combination of performance, design, and features, making it a comfortable choice for users looking for a better flagship experience. With its top-tier display, fast charging, and improved camera system, it provides everything most users are looking for in a smartphone.
5. iPhone 15 – Best value
Features:
- Versatile USB-C port: The iPhone 15 introduces a USB-C port, offering enhanced connectivity and compatibility with a variety of accessories.
- Useful Dynamic Island: With the Dynamic Island feature, users can display a variety of useful information, enhancing productivity and convenience.
- Great performance: Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the iPhone 15 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks and activities.
- Good value for money: The iPhone 15 offers great value compared to higher-end models, providing essential iPhone features at a more affordable price point.
Specifications:
- Display: High-resolution OLED display for vibrant visuals.
- Processor: The A16 Bionic chip ensures reliable performance for seamless multitasking and gaming.
- Camera: Advanced camera system captures high-quality photos and videos with clarity and detail.
- Battery: comes with long battery life for everyday usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: iOS 16 offers a smooth and intuitive user experience, with seamless integration of hardware and software.
Pros:
- A versatile USB-C port enhances connectivity.
- Useful Dynamic Island feature for displaying useful information.
- Great performance powered by A16 Bionic chip.
- Good value for money compared to higher-end iPhone models.
Cons:
- Display limited to a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Slow charging speed may be a drawback for some users.
Price: $829 at Apple, $829.99 at Best Buy.
Why iPhone 15 is the Best?
The iPhone 15 provides excellent value for those iPhone users who are seeking for core iPhone features without the premium cost tag of higher-end models. With its versatile USB-C port, useful Dynamic Island feature, and reliable performance, it provides an appealing choice in Apple’s smartphone lineup.
Read more: Things You Need to Consider Before Buying the Best Smartphone
6. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra/Razr+ – Best foldable phone
Features:
- Great outer display: The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra features a large 3.6-inch outer display with a high refresh rate, providing a vibrant and responsive secondary screen.
- IP52 water resistance rating: With an IP52 rating, the Razr 40 Ultra offers protection against water and dust, ensuring durability and reliability.
- Good battery life: Equipped with a strong battery, the Razr 40 Ultra provides sufficient power for extended usage, enhancing the overall user experience.
Specifications:
- Display: Foldable OLED display with a high refresh rate for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Processor: Snapdragon chipset ensures reliable performance for everyday tasks and activities.
- Camera: Capable camera system captures moments with clarity and detail, despite being a step down from flagship models.
- Battery: Strong battery life for extended usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: Android with Motorola’s customizations for a smooth and intuitive user experience.
Pros:
- Elegantly designed outer display with a high refresh rate.
- IP52 water resistance rating for added durability.
- Good battery life for extended usage.
Cons:
- The older chipset may impact performance.
- Cameras may not meet the standards of high-end smartphones.
Price: The cost of this phone is $699.99 at Amazon.
Why It’s Best:
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra provides an impressive foldable experience with its mega outer display, durable design, and solid battery life. While it may not match the performance of some flagship smartphones, its unique form factor and features make it an appealing choice for those looking for phones laced with foldable technology.
7. Samsung Galaxy A14 – Best budget phone
Features:
- Premium design: The Samsung Galaxy A14 features a premium design inspired by Samsung’s flagship models, providing a sleek and stylish appearance.
- Great battery life: Equipped with a large battery, the Galaxy A14 offers excellent battery life for extended usage, ensuring reliability throughout the day.
- Intuitive One UI software: Running on Samsung’s One UI, the Galaxy A14 offers a smooth and intuitive user experience, with customizable features and settings.
Specifications:
- Display: Full HD display for clear visuals and vibrant colors.
- Processor: MediaTek chipset delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks and activities.
- Camera: Capable camera system captures photos with clarity and detail, despite being a budget device.
- Battery: Excellent battery life for extended usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: One UI over Android for a customizable user experience.
Pros:
- Comes with Premium design with sleek aesthetics.
- Great battery life for extended usage.
- Intuitive One UI software experience for smooth navigation.
Cons:
- Average performance may not meet the requirements of power users.
- Slow 15W charging may inconvenience some users.
- Camera performance may struggle in low-light conditions.
Price: $151.49 at Amazon.
Why It’s Best:
The Samsung Galaxy A14 suggests a premium design and reliable performance at an affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Despite some bounds and limitations in performance and camera capabilities, its intuitive software experience and long-lasting battery make it a solid top-notch choice for everyday use.
8. Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus – Goldilocks Android phone
Features:
- Bright and sharp display: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a bright and sharp display, providing an immersive viewing experience with vibrant colors and crisp resolution.
- Great battery life: Equipped with a long-lasting battery, the S23 Plus offers excellent battery life for extended usage, ensuring reliability throughout the day.
- Five years of software support: With five years of software support, users can enjoy the latest features and security updates for an extended period, enhancing the longevity of their device.
Specifications:
- Display: High-resolution AMOLED display for vibrant visuals and crisp details.
- Processor: Snapdragon chipset delivers reliable performance for seamless multitasking and gaming experiences.
- Camera: A versatile camera system captures high-quality photos and videos in various conditions, providing creative flexibility for users.
- Battery: Strong battery life for extended usage, supported by efficient power management.
- Operating System: One UI over Android for a customizable user experience.
Pros:
- Bright and sharp display for immersive viewing experiences.
- Great battery life for extended usage.
- Five years of software support for long-term usability.
- Versatile camera system for capturing high-quality photos and videos.
Cons:
- An expensive price tag may deter some buyers.
- 45W charging may be slower compared to some competitors.
- Software may require tweaking to suit user preferences.
Price: (Its price is $658, assumed to be competitive with other flagships.)
Why It’s Best:
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus maintains a balance between size, performance, and features, making it the best choice for users seeking a premium Android experience without the bulk of mega flagship models. It offers a compelling option in the smartphone market, with its excellent display, long battery life, and solid camera capabilities.
9. Xiaomi 13 Pro – Most versatile cameras
Features:
- Class-leading performance: The Xiaomi 13 Pro is equipped by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, delivering class-leading performance for flawless multitasking and gaming.
- Excellent cameras: With a cutting-edge camera system, including a 1-inch camera sensor, the Xiaomi 13 Pro offers exceptional low-light photography and detailed images.
- Impressive 120W charging: The 120W charging capability ensures quick power replenishment, keeping users connected and productive throughout the day.
- Solid battery life: Despite its powerful features, the Xiaomi 13 Pro provides reliable battery life for extended usage, catering to the requirements of demanding users.
Specifications:
- Display: High-resolution AMOLED display for vibrant visuals and immersive viewing experiences.
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset ensures top-notch performance for seamless multitasking and gaming.
- Camera: Advanced camera system with a 1-inch sensor for exceptional low-light photography and detailed images.
- Battery: Strong battery life with impressive 120W charging support for quick power replenishment.
- Operating System: MIUI over Android for a customizable user experience.
Pros:
- Class-leading performance powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.
- Excellent camera system with a 1-inch sensor for exceptional low-light photography.
- Impressive 120W charging for quick power replenishment.
- Solid battery life for extended usage.
Cons:
- Unintuitive MIUI software experience may not appeal to all users.
- A large rear camera module may affect aesthetics and handling.
- Higher price tag compared to some competitors.
Price: (Price starts from $1053, assumed to be competitive with other flagships.)
Why It’s Best:
The Xiaomi 13 Pro positions itself at the top for its elegant hardware, including top-tier performance and an extraordinary camera system with a large sensor for superior low-light photography. While its software experience may need some adjustment, its overall capabilities make it an appealing choice for users who prefers and looking for better camera performance and fast charging.
FAQs
What makes the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stand out as the best smartphone?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers the BEST performance with:
- an overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor
- Ann elegant camera system with five lenses
- a battery life of up to two days
- AI features that improve user experience and seven years of continuous software support for OS and security updates.
How does the iPhone 15 Pro differ from other iPhone models?
The iPhone 15 Pro presents:
- A durable titanium builds
- advanced camera technology
- useful software features
- and up to seven years of software support, all powered by the A17 Pro chipset for dependable performance.
Why is the Google Pixel 7a considered the best-value phone in its category?
The Google Pixel 7a is equipped with:
- A great camera system
- seamless Google software experience
- powerful performance powered by the Tensor G2 processor
- and water-resistant build, making it an appealing choice for customers looking for quality features at a cheap price.
What sets the OnePlus 12 apart as a great all-rounder smartphone?
The OnePlus 12 has a:
- sleek design
- a high-resolution AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- fast charging, and a great camera system for photography enthusiasts.
How does the iPhone 15 offer the best value compared to other iPhone models?
The iPhone 15 offers core iPhone features at a lower price point, including a USB-C port, Dynamic Island, A16 Bionic chip, and sleek design, making it a great option for budget-conscious users.
What makes the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra the best foldable phone option?
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra is endowed with:
- large 3.6-inch display with a high refresh rate
- Ann IP52 water resistance rating
- A long battery life
- and a foldable OLED display for a premium experience.
Why is the Samsung Galaxy A14 considered the best budget phone choice?
The Samsung Galaxy A14 comes with a luxury design, long-lasting battery life, intuitive One UI software, and consistent performance from a MediaTek CPU, all at an affordable price range.
What makes the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus the “Goldilocks” Android phone?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus neutralizes size, performance, and features, with a bright and sharp display, long-lasting battery life span, five years of software support, and a versatile camera system for high-quality lively photos and videos.
What sets the Xiaomi 13 Pro apart from other smartphones on the market?
The Xiaomi 13 Pro delivers high-quality performance with:
- The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset
- a 1-inch sensor for low-light photography
- fast 120W charging
- and a long battery life for demanding users.
Why should users consider investing in the OnePlus 13?
The OnePlus 13 combines premium features and performance at a competitive price. It is equipped with:
- elegant design
- bright display
- fast charging capabilities
- and dependable performance
the OnePlus 13 has proved to be an appealing choice for customers looking for a flagship experience without breaking the budget.