Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming with so many options available. Whether you're looking for a powerful camera, long battery life, or a big screen, there's a phone out there that fits your needs. This guide will walk you through some of the best phones on the market, helping you make an informed decision for your next purchase.
Key Takeaways
- The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers top-notch performance and an incredible camera system, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max combines excellent performance with a sleek design and strong security features, ideal for Apple fans.
- Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out with its advanced AI capabilities and impressive camera features, perfect for tech-savvy users.
- The OnePlus Open provides a unique foldable design with a large screen, catering to those who want a tablet-like experience in a phone.
- The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) offers great value for money with its stylus feature and solid performance, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers.
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a powerhouse in the smartphone world, boasting a titanium frame and an integrated S Pen. This model features the largest display in the S24 lineup, measuring 6.8 inches with a 1440p, 120Hz OLED screen. The anti-glare treatment on the display makes it comfortable to use outdoors, cutting down on reflections significantly.
Under the hood, the S24 Ultra is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring smooth performance for heavy tasks. It also comes with 12GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage, making it a top choice for power users.
Camera System
The camera suite is impressive, featuring a 200-megapixel main camera with OIS, a 50-megapixel 5x telephoto lens, a 10-megapixel 3x telephoto lens, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 12-megapixel shooter, perfect for selfies. The new 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom delivers sharper and less noisy images, pulling in more light than ever before.
Battery and Charging
The S24 Ultra is powered by a 5,000mAh battery, supporting 45W wired and 15W wireless charging. This ensures that the phone can last through a day of heavy use without any issues.
AI Features
Samsung's latest Galaxy AI model brings a host of generative capabilities, including real-time phone call translations and AI-assisted photo editing. These features add new value to an already feature-packed device.
Pricing
The starting price for the Galaxy S24 Ultra is $1,299, making it one of the more expensive options on the market. However, the combination of its advanced features and robust build quality justifies the cost for those seeking the best Android phone available.
If you're looking for the very best Android phone, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is hard to beat. Its combination of a large, vibrant display, powerful internals, and advanced camera system makes it a top contender in the smartphone market.
2. iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is Apple's latest flagship, offering a premium experience with its brilliant 6.7-inch AMOLED display. This model stands out with its new titanium build, making it significantly lighter and more comfortable to hold compared to previous versions. The lighter body is an even bigger upgrade than you might suspect.
One of the most notable features is the new 5x zoom camera lens, which is perfect for capturing far-distance shots and performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions. This makes the iPhone 15 Pro Max a go-to choice for video recording during events.
Another major upgrade is the USB-C connector, which supports faster charging and data transfers. This port can also charge other devices, like the Apple Watch, and connect to external 4K monitors, making it a game-changer for professional content creators.
The new Action button replaces the old mute switch, allowing for customizable shortcuts. You can easily open apps like the camera with a simple press-and-hold.
While the iPhone 15 Pro Max offers many high-end features, it does come with a few drawbacks. The battery life could be longer, and the Apple-branded cases, especially the FineWoven, need improvement. Additionally, the starting price has been bumped up to $1,199, which is more expensive than previous models.
Despite its higher price, the iPhone 15 Pro Max delivers a top-notch experience with its advanced features and improved design.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch AMOLED |
| Processor | A17 Pro |
| Rear Cameras | 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto (2x), 12MP telephoto (5x) |
| Front Camera | 12MP |
| Storage Options | Up to 1TB |
| Charging | USB-C, 27W wired, 15W MagSafe wireless |
| Starting Price | $1,199 |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality cameras
- Lighter titanium build
- USB-C with faster charging
- Customizable Action button
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer
- Expensive
- Apple-branded cases need improvement
3. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a top-tier smartphone that offers a flagship camera experience. It stands out with its AI-powered features and the best selfie camera on the market. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is essentially a larger version of the Pixel 9 Pro, but that's a good thing. It doesn't have exclusive camera features or extra RAM for a boost; it's just got a bigger screen and battery.
Camera System
Both sizes of the latest model feature a reliable triple lens setup, with a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens for far-distance shots. They're backed by numerous software features like Google's Super Res Zoom (for up to 30x zoom photos), 8K video upscaling, and a new Add Me feature that lets you snap and merge two photos so everyone can be in the same shot. There's also a new 42MP selfie camera that's both sharper and captures a wider FOV than last year's 10.8MP sensor. That should play well with group selfies and scenic shots.
Performance
Powered by the new Tensor G4 chipset, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may just have the most flexible and creative photo toolbox on the market. AI features like Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Best Take can turn any bad photo into a good one. The phone also offers a bright and smooth 120Hz OLED display, making it a joy to use for both work and play.
Battery and Storage
The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a 5,060mAh battery, ensuring you get through the day without needing a charge. Storage options range from 128GB to a whopping 1TB, so you'll have plenty of space for all your photos, videos, and apps.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Competitively priced at under $500
- Bright and smooth 120Hz OLED display
- Seven years of operating system updates
- Plenty of Android AI features, with more to come
Cons:
- Lack of dedicated telephoto lens
- 6.1-inch screen may be too small for some users
- Wired charging capped at 18W
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartphone. Its camera system is versatile, and the AI features make it easy to capture and edit stunning photos. If you're in the market for a new phone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL should definitely be on your list.
4. Google Pixel 8a
If you're looking for a budget-friendly smartphone, the Google Pixel 8a is a great choice. For just $499, you get a lot of value packed into a sleek device. The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for watching videos and playing games.
The camera system is another highlight. It includes a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide lens, allowing you to capture a variety of shots. Google's AI features like Magic Editor and Audio Eraser enhance your photos and videos, making them look professional.
One of the standout features of the Pixel 8a is its software support. Google promises seven years of operating system updates, ensuring your phone stays up-to-date until 2031. This is a significant advantage over other phones in this price range, which typically offer only two to four years of updates.
The Pixel 8a's overall specs are good enough for the price point, the software is excellent, and the camera probably punches above its weight.
However, there are some limitations. The Pixel 8a lacks a dedicated telephoto lens and has a slower wired charging rate of 18W. Despite these drawbacks, the phone supports wireless charging, which is a nice bonus.
In summary, the Google Pixel 8a offers a lot for its price, making it one of the best budget phones available today.
5. OnePlus Open
The OnePlus Open is a standout in the foldable phone market, offering a unique blend of features and performance. Priced at $1,699, it undercuts many competitors while still delivering top-notch specs.
When folded, the OnePlus Open is as light as an iPhone, making it easy to carry around. Unfold it, and you get a 7.8-inch AMOLED display that is perfect for multitasking. The "Open Canvas" feature allows you to open up to three apps at once, making it a productivity powerhouse.
The phone's triple camera setup excels in capturing vibrant photos and videos, especially in blue and orangish hues. However, the night mode could use some improvement. The OnePlus Open also supports 65W fast charging, which is faster than many other foldable phones on the market.
One downside is the lack of wireless charging and an IP68 rating, but the phone's other features more than make up for these omissions.
The OnePlus Open is a surprisingly smooth entryway into Android, especially for those switching from iPhones.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,699 |
| Display | 7.8 inches (inner), 6.3 inches (outer) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB |
| Battery | 5,000mAh |
Overall, the OnePlus Open is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of foldable phones.
6. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a compact and powerful flip-style foldable phone. It features a 6.7-inch AMOLED main display and a 3.4-inch cover display, making it versatile for various tasks. The phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring smooth performance.
Key Features
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED main display, 3.4-inch cover display
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Storage Options: 256GB and 512GB
- Camera System: 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP selfie camera
- Battery: 4,000mAh
Performance
The Z Flip 6 offers snappy and smooth performance thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The phone also includes a vapor cooling chamber, which helps in reducing battery drainage and keeps the device running efficiently.
Camera
The camera system on the Z Flip 6 has been upgraded with a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. The new AI-powered Auto Zoom feature automatically detects the number of people in a frame and adjusts the shot accordingly.
Flex Window Features
The outer display, known as the Flex Window, includes interactive wallpapers, suggested replies to text messages, and a new Interpreter Mode for live translations. These features make the phone not only functional but also fun to use.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a great choice for those who want a stylish, compact phone without compromising on performance or features.
7. OnePlus 12
The OnePlus 12 is a standout in the smartphone market, especially for those who value fast charging and performance. One of the standout features of the OnePlus 12 is its remarkable battery life. The massive 5,400mAh battery ensures the phone can easily power through a full day of heavy use.
The OnePlus 12 starts at $899, making it a more affordable option compared to its competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and Google Pixel 9 Pro. For this price, you get a large 6.8-inch AMOLED 120Hz display, a triple camera setup with a 50MP main lens, and the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
Key Features
- Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Battery: 5,400mAh
- Cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto
- Charging: 80W wired, 50W wireless
Pros
- Fast charging capabilities
- High-quality display
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Camera performance in low light could be better
- Lacks some AI features
The OnePlus 12 offers a well-rounded, high-performing Android experience for a couple of hundred dollars less than other flagship phones. It's a great choice for those who want a premium phone without the premium price tag.
8. Google Pixel 8 Pro
The Google Pixel 8 Pro is a top-tier smartphone that offers a lot of value, especially for those who love taking photos. Its camera system is one of the best in the market. The phone features a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. For selfies, it has a 10.5MP front camera.
The Pixel 8 Pro's display is a 6.7-inch OLED with a resolution of 1,344 x 2,992 and a refresh rate that ranges from 1 to 120Hz. This makes it perfect for both everyday use and high-quality video streaming. The phone is powered by the Tensor G3 CPU and comes with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for most tasks.
Key Features
- Display: 6.7-inch OLED (1,344 x 2,992; 1-120Hz)
- CPU: Tensor G3
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage Options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Rear Cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 10.5MP
- Battery Life: 10 hours and 3 minutes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Improved Pro camera features
- Brighter Super Actua Display
- Seven years of updates
Cons
- Weaker than average battery life
- Lacks performance power compared to other phones
The Pixel 8 Pro is a great choice if you prioritize brains over brawn. Its advanced AI features make photo editing, productivity, and call screening smarter and more efficient.
Overall, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality smartphone with excellent camera capabilities and long-term software support.
9. iPhone 15 Plus
The iPhone 15 Plus is a great choice for those who want a big screen without spending too much. It offers a 6.7-inch OLED display, which is the same size as the iPhone 15 Pro Max but at a lower price. This makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Features
- Display: 6.7-inch OLED (2778 x 1284)
- Processor: A16 Bionic
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage Options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
- Rear Camera: 48MP main (f/1.6), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 12MP (f/1.9)
- Weight: 7.1 ounces
- Battery Life: Up to 14 hours and 14 minutes
Pros
- Amazing battery life
- Improved photography with 2x zoom mode
- Excellent performance
Cons
- Display is 60Hz only
- No telephoto camera
- 20W max charging is slow
The iPhone 15 Plus may not have the 120Hz display refresh rate or the telephoto camera that some of its Android rivals boast, but it still has a lot to offer. Its A16 Bionic chipset ensures smooth performance, and the new Dynamic Island feature on the display adds a touch of fun to the user experience.
If you're looking for a large iPhone without breaking the bank, the iPhone 15 Plus is a solid pick. Its combination of size, performance, and price makes it a compelling option.
10. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is a standout choice for those seeking a budget-friendly big phone. Priced at just $400, it offers a lot of value without breaking the bank. This phone is part of the Moto G series and is known for its large display and built-in stylus, making it perfect for doodling or taking notes.
Specifications
- Display: 6.7-inch pOLED (2400 x 1080)
- CPU: Snapdragon 6 Gen 1
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB, expandable
- Cameras: 50MP main, 13MP ultrawide (back); 32MP (front)
- Weight: 6.7 ounces
- Battery Life: 15 hours and 1 minute (auto refresh rate)
Reasons to Buy
- Built-in stylus
- Brighter display
- Unique design
- Excellent battery life
Reasons to Avoid
- Weak chipset
- Limited update schedule
If you're looking for a big phone that won't cost a fortune, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is a great option. Its spacious screen and built-in stylus make it versatile for various tasks. However, its underpowered chipset might struggle with demanding apps, and the limited update schedule could be a drawback for some users.
Conclusion
Choosing the right smartphone can be a daunting task with so many options available. However, by focusing on what matters most to you—whether it's camera quality, battery life, or screen size—you can narrow down your choices. Don't overlook midrange phones, as they often offer excellent features at a more affordable price. Always consider shopping during sales events for the best deals, and don't hesitate to try out phones in-store to get a feel for them. By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect phone that meets your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when buying a new phone?
Think about what matters most to you. Is it the screen size, camera quality, or battery life? Knowing this helps you pick the right phone. For example, if you love taking photos, phones like the iPhone 15 Pro or Galaxy S24 Ultra have amazing cameras.
Is it worth buying a midrange phone?
Yes, midrange phones often have features that were in last year's flagship models. You can get a great phone that does almost everything a premium phone does, but for a lot less money.
When is the best time to buy a phone?
Look for sales during major holidays like Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day. Also, when new models come out, last year's models often get discounted.
Should I buy a phone online or in a store?
Both options are good. Buying in a store lets you hold the phone and see how it feels. Online shopping can offer more deals and options.
Is it better to stick with the same brand of phone?
If you've already bought a lot of apps or movies for a specific brand, it might be easier to stick with that brand. Switching brands can mean losing access to some of your purchases.
Do I need a case and screen protector?
Yes, using a case and screen protector can keep your phone safe from damage and help it last longer. It can also make your phone more valuable when you want to sell or trade it in.
