Picking the ideal smartphone in 2024 might feel overwhelming with the multitude of exceptional options available. Whether you’re a devoted iPhone enthusiast, an Android aficionado, or open to any smartphone, finding the perfect one might seem like an intimidating task. But fret not, we’re here to assist you! Here, we’ve curated a selection of our top recommendations for the finest smartphones currently on the market. We are confident that you’ll find a phone that aligns with your preferences from this list. If you have a strong inclination towards a specific operating system, check out our recommendations for the best Android phones and iPhones. Alternatively, continue reading to explore our picks for the best phones in 2024.
IPHONE 15 PRO
Apple iPhone 15
The best iPhone runner-up
Smartphone past, there wasn’t a significant difference between the regular iPhone models and the “Pro” variations. However, the new iPhone 15 Pro series, especially the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max, boasts amazing features that are exclusive to these higher-end models. The introduction of the titanium body is just the tip of the iceberg, and there are distinct camera features even between the Pro and Pro Max models.
Our beloved iOS phone, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, comes in Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium. Each option features a matte glass back and slimmer bezels around the always-on Super Retina XDR display, which now boasts a 120Hz refresh rate. These enhancements truly make the iPhone 15 Pro Max stand out.
The latest iPhone 15 Pro series has undergone major hardware changes compared to previous models, including a transition from stainless steel to titanium and the addition of a USB-C port, an Action button, an A17 Pro chip, and enhanced cameras. With the new USB-C port, you no longer need to use Lightning cables, making it more convenient if you have a recent iPad or any other electronic device that uses USB-C. This change also means faster file transfer speeds, although it doesn’t necessarily result in improvements on the charging side. Apple promises the same 50% charge in 35 minutes using a 20-watt adapter. These upgrades make the iPhone 15 Pro series a game-changer in the world of smartphones, offering users a seamless and efficient experience.
Upon initial inspection, it may appear that there have been no changes to the camera system of the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The phone still boasts a 48-megapixel (MP) main camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 12MP telephoto camera with apertures of f/1.78, f/2.2, and f/2.8, respectively, which aligns with the specifications of its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro Max. However, there are some noteworthy differences that significantly impact the user experience.
The main camera of the iPhone 15 Pro Max has been upgraded to capture 24MP shots by default, providing more detailed images compared to the previous 12MP standard. Apple’s latest Smart HDR 5 image processing technology enriches the colors in photos, enhancing the overall quality. Moreover, the telephoto camera now supports up to 5x optical zoom, a notable improvement over the previous maximum of 3x.
If you’re looking for the top-of-the-line smartphone running Apple’s iOS, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the one to go for. It may come with a hefty price tag, but its large size and premium features make it worth the investment.
Here’s the revised text IPHONE 15:
“With the iPhone 15, Apple offers a great alternative for those who don’t need all the advanced features of the pricier iPhone 15 Pro series. Available in pink, yellow, green, blue, and black, this flagship device boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display like its predecessor, along with some exciting new features to consider.
One standout is the Dynamic Island, which provides a fresh and enjoyable way to interact with notifications and Live Activities. If that doesn’t sway you, the new camera system is definitely worth a look.”
The iPhone 15 has really stepped up its camera game with a 48MP primary camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens that boasts a wide 120-degree field of view (FoV), allowing you to capture your memories in stunning detail. It’s worth noting that the ultrawide lens hasn’t changed from the previous generation and still lacks an autofocus feature. The selfie camera continues to deliver impressive results, remaining unchanged at 12MP.
The iPhone 15 takes things up a notch by defaulting to 24MP photos, compared to the iPhone 14 Pro models which defaulted to 12MP. While you can switch back to 12MP to save space, the 24MP photos are truly impressive and the slight increase in size is hardly noticeable. With its new camera features, you can capture every moment in breathtaking detail and cherish those memories for years to come.
The iPhone 15 now features USB-C instead of Lightning, allowing for faster data transfer between devices. However, there are no improvements in charging speed. Using a 20W adapter, the iPhone 15 can reach about 50% charge in 30 minutes, which remains unchanged from previous models.
The iPhone 15 disappointingly still sticks to a 60Hz refresh rate, which falls short for a smartphone in 2023. This limitation hampers the gaming and web-browsing experiences for users who are accustomed to swifter responses. It’s worth mentioning that the iPhone 15 is equipped with the older A16 Pro chip. While not subpar, it means you’re not getting Apple’s latest and greatest chip in a smartphone.
Apple iPhone 15
The best iPhone runner-up
OnePlus 12
The best Android phone
Why you should buy this: It’s a show-stopping premium flagship at the price of a regular flagship.
Who it’s for: Anyone looking for the best Android has to offer.
Why we picked the OnePlus 12:
OnePlus has truly made a comeback, reclaiming its spotlight from Samsung and Google. The OnePlus 12 stands out as one of the top smartphones on the market, without a doubt.
Most current phones can’t compete with the unique design of the OnePlus 12. Its stunning green color, sleek sides, and distinctive camera system set it apart. The family resemblance with the OnePlus Pad is evident, and it’s undeniably appealing. The phone not only looks great but feels great too, although it’s quite slippery, so using a case is highly recommended.
The display on the OnePlus 12 truly exudes a premium quality. Boasting a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED screen with a sharp 1440p resolution (equating to a crisp 510 pixels per inch) and a 120Hz refresh rate, it offers an exceptional visual experience. What’s more, with a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, it’s even visible in direct sunlight. While this level of brightness may seem excessive compared to other flagships that typically reach around 2,000 nits, it’s clear that OnePlus aimed for overkill, evident in the phone’s overall specs that far exceed what’s necessary.
OnePlus isn’t messing around with its latest device. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor is incredibly fast and powerful, ensuring that any app or game runs smoothly on the big screen. The storage options start at 256GB and go up to 512GB, while the base model comes with 12GB of RAM, which is on par with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Plus, if you upgrade the storage, you’ll also get a boost in RAM, up to 16GB. This device is definitely a powerhouse.
The camera system is a little toned down, at least compared to the RAM specs, but not by too much. The rear camera system comprises a 50MP main lens, a 64MP periscope telephoto with a 3x optical zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide lens, and there’s a 32MP selfie camera around the front. It’s a solid suite, and it takes good photos with realistic colors. Portrait shots can be a little lacking, and it sometimes struggles with moving subjects in low-light photos, but these are relatively small negative points.
The OnePlus 12 operates on the Android 14 platform with the Oxygen OS 14 interface, providing a clean and uncluttered user experience. OnePlus has committed to providing five years of updates, which is a commendable, if not exceptional, pledge.
Moving on to battery life, it can be summed up in one word: outstanding. With moderate usage, the 5,400mAh battery delivers a solid two days of power, and thanks to its rapid recharging capabilities, it won’t be tethered to the charger for long. Wired charging supports speeds of up to 80W, while the 50W wireless charging outpaces the wired charging of most flagship phones. Additionally, it even features reverse wireless charging up to 10W.
The OnePlus 12 emerges as a top-tier flagship contender, even though it comes with a premium price tag starting from $800. This places it in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy S24, offering comparable specifications to the S24 Ultra. With its remarkable technology, it’s undeniably our top choice for the best Android phone available today.
OnePlus 12
The best Android phone
Google Pixel 8 Pro
The best Android phone runner-up
Why you should buy this: The Pixel 8 Pro has a lovely design, excellent cameras, and amazing AI features.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a top-tier Android phone that isn’t made by Samsung.
Why we picked the Google Pixel 8 Pro:
The Google Pixel 8 Pro has truly raised the bar for the Pixel series with its impressive design, enhanced camera system, and Google’s latest Tensor chip. It’s no surprise that it’s being celebrated as the finest Pixel version to date.
The Pixel 8 Pro shares a strong resemblance with its predecessor, the Google Pixel 7 Pro, but it’s the subtle tweaks that really stand out. The back glass features a smooth matte finish that feels fantastic to the touch, and the rounded corners enhance the phone’s grip. The dual camera cutouts from the previous model have been replaced by a single cutout that spans the entire length of the camera bar, giving the phone a sleek and modern look.
The Pixel 8 Pro’s display has undergone significant improvements. It now features a 120Hz refresh rate that can adjust down to 1Hz for enhanced energy efficiency. The display is notably brighter, reaching 1,600 nits for HDR content and 2,400 nits for peak brightness, ensuring an exceptional viewing experience for your favorite movies and shows.
Let’s discuss the cameras on the Pixel 8 Pro. The primary camera is truly impressive, boasting a resolution of 50 megapixels and an f/1.68 aperture, which makes it exceptionally light-sensitive. Additionally, it features a 2x optical zoom, giving you greater control over your photos. The new ultrawide camera has a 48MP resolution and an f/1.95 aperture, significantly enhancing its light sensitivity and macro mode. The telephoto camera, with its 48MP resolution, f/2.8 aperture, and 5x optical zoom, is perfect for capturing distant subjects. Lastly, the front-facing camera has an f/2.2 aperture and autofocus support, ensuring that your selfies always look fantastic.
The Pixel 8 Pro includes some exciting new camera software tools. One standout feature is Best Take, which automatically stitches together multiple photos to ensure that everyone in the shot looks their best. Another great feature is Magic Editor, which allows you to erase and move objects from existing photos, even those not taken with the Pixel 8 Pro.
The new Tensor G3 chip in the Pixel 8 Pro is a complete game-changer. It effortlessly handles various tasks like gaming, live video streaming over a 5G connection, and capturing photos without any risk of overheating, unlike its predecessors.
In summary, the Google Pixel 8 Pro stands out as an exceptional Android phone that’s worth considering for its stunning design, outstanding camera system, and incredibly fast processor. It’s a true workhorse that can easily meet the needs of even the most demanding users, whether you’re a professional photographer or simply seeking a reliable and powerful smartphone.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
The best Android phone runner-up
Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
The best cheap phone
Why you should buy this: The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G looks good and packs a punch for a budget price.
Who it’s for: Buyers on a budget looking for a safe, sensible choice that won’t disappoint.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G:
Looking for a great deal without breaking the bank? Samsung’s A-Series phones offer excellent value for the price, and the Galaxy A14 5G is a standout choice.
The Galaxy A14 5G boasts a spacious 6.6-inch LCD display with a sharp 1080p resolution and a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate. While there are some bezels around the display, the screen itself delivers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling thanks to the 90Hz refresh rate. The phone’s design is sleek and minimalistic, and the unique texture of the plastic back provides better grip compared to the glass backs found on most phones.
The A14 5G boasts 4GB of RAM and a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chip, offering decent performance for its price point, even though it doesn’t feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Some minor stutter may be noticed when navigating the phone’s interface or opening apps, but this is to be expected from a $200 phone. It comes with 64GB of storage, expandable to 1TB with a microSD card. Samsung ships the A14 5G with Android 13 and OneUI 5, with the promise of two major Android upgrades and four years of security updates, providing good longevity for its price, especially given its 5G capabilities. The camera is also impressive, featuring a 50MP main shooter, along with 2MP macro and 2MP depth sensors. The MediaTek chip ensures fast photo capture and good results for a phone in this price range. In-motion shots taken with the phone produced favorable results, and the colors are bright and vibrant, similar to Samsung’s higher-end phones.
The Galaxy A14 5G may not support wireless charging, but it boasts an impressive 5,000mAh battery that easily lasts for two days with regular use. The only downside is the capped 15W wired charging, which is a bit slow. Nonetheless, considering the extended battery life, you won’t find yourself needing to plug it in every night.
Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
The best cheap phone
$130 Wall Mart
Why you should buy this: The Samsung Galaxy A35 has the flagship looks and features without the flagship price.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a phone that looks like Samsung’s flagship S24 and has good performance — but for half the price.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy A35:
The Samsung Galaxy A35 brings top-tier features at a more accessible price point. It closely resembles the Galaxy S24 in both appearance and feel, with only minor adjustments such as the raised section for the volume and power buttons. At first glance, the camera module mirrors that of the S24, creating a high-end impression from a distance.
In terms of size, the Galaxy A35 surpasses the S24 with its 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, which boasts a 120Hz refresh rate. This results in a seamless experience when navigating through the system, using apps, and playing games. The display’s vibrant colors and deep blacks further enhance the overall visual appeal.
The phone’s chassis is constructed from plastic, but the screen boasts Gorilla Glass Victus Plus, ensuring impressive durability, and it’s also backed by an IP67 rating. The phone feels comfortable in hand, and the enhanced brightness of up to 1,000 nits makes it effortless to view the screen outdoors.
Equipped with a 50MP main camera featuring optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP wide-angle camera, and a 5MP macro lens, the A35 delivers impressive photography capabilities. The 13MP front-facing selfie camera captures bright and vibrant photos. However, it’s worth noting that photos taken with the A35 may appear slightly oversaturated at times due to Samsung’s color processing, especially with the primary colors. Additionally, images taken with the ultrawide lens may appear somewhat washed out due to the lower megapixel count. Nevertheless, the photo-editing suite offers a variety of tools for adjusting and enhancing your images. The selfie camera performs adequately for capturing quick self-portraits.
Samsung has equipped the Galaxy A35 with its Exynos 1380 processor, offering a base configuration of 6GB RAM and the option to expand up to 12GB. Storage options include 128GB and 256GB, with the added flexibility of a microSD card slot. While the Exynos 1380 chipset may not match the speed of the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the S24 series, it still delivers impressive performance for its price point. Operating on Android 14 and One UI 6.1, the Galaxy A35 guarantees software updates for the next four years and security updates for five years, aligning with the S24.
The device houses a 5,000mAh battery, offering decent longevity for a day’s use but may struggle to last through two consecutive days without overnight charging. The maximum charging speed is 25W, and unfortunately, wireless charging is not supported.