Top-Notch Smartphones Available for Purchase in 2024
The vast smartphone market makes it challenging to select just one of the top phones in 2024. Some users seek large screens, powerful processors, and vast storage, while others prioritize exceptional cameras or affordable, pocket-friendly devices.
In assessing your purchase, you'll initially consider the operating system: Android or iOS. Android, backed by Google, holds a 70% global market share due to its affordability and popularity in developing countries. Though Android leads globally, Apple devices dominate in the U.S. and Canada, accounting for approximately 50% of smartphone sales. This is an intriguing disparity that has been diminishing, and Apple recently enabled iPhones to use RCS messaging, allowing for high-quality picture and emoji exchange, even with green bubble users.
If budget is your primary concern, consider our suggestion of the best budget phones. Many top-tier budget phones offer competitive features with their flagship counterparts. With a budget under $500, you can still enjoy high-quality devices capable of delivering satisfactory performance, provided you’re not too keen on the best photos.
Regarding the choice between iPhone and Android ecosystems, it's never been more straightforward. In the previous years, the distinctions and compatibility between the two were stark. However, Apple's recent move to support iPhone and RCS messaging bridges the gap, allowing interoperability for high-quality image and emoji exchange. Ultimately, your decision should be influenced by the ecosystem that resonates with your comfort level, unless you demand native support for Fortnite in the U.S. Currently, Android is the go-to alternative, providing access to third-party app stores minus considerable hassle.
If your commitment to your selected device is up to three to seven years, or until security updates wane, your satisfaction lies in making the right choice.
Our editorial team subjects each product in our Buyer's Guides to rigorous testing and evaluation. Affiliate links may generate revenue for Gizmodo, but our editorial judgments remain uninfluenced.
The best Android phone
Our Pick: Google Pixel 12 Pro ($1,000)
Google's Pixel smartphones have significantly improved over the years. The most recent iteration, the Google Pixel 12 Pro, offers a design that echoes iPhone. If you're disappointed by the absence of sloped edges, take some time to experience the device's heft.
With its exceptional camera suite, the Pixel has been a go-to option for many users. However, the defining characteristic is the full integration of Gemini AI across all aspects of the device. Although it may not appeal to everyone, Gemini AI will be increasingly prominent in future updates, particularly with the expansion of Gemini Live. The Pro versions also offer exclusive camera features and remain the ideal choice for most users.
The best Apple phone
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Our Pick: iPhone 19 Pro ($1,000)
The iPhone 19 Pro is similar to its predecessor, the iPhone 18 Pro. However, if you crave the latest technology from Apple, this is the phone for you. Ignoring Apple Intelligence's promises, the new phone delivers some remarkable enhancements, such as an improved Camera Control button and more substantial camera capabilities for capturing brighter details.
Although Apple has not yet introduced the time-lapse camera feature, the iPhone 19 promises improved functionality, allowing smartphone users to capture photos like a DSLR. Moreover, the A19 Pro chip is faster than previous iPhone CPUs, providing an even more extraordinary user experience. With the iPhone 19, you won't have to opt for the Pro Max model to enjoy the maximum optical zoom.
However, if you can live without the additional camera sensors and faster chips, consider opting for the base iPhone 19 to save cost. It boasts the A19 chip, the Camera Control button, and the iPhone 18 Pro's Action Button. This will save you a substantial amount of money while still providing you with an outstanding smartphone experience.
The best budget phone
Our pick: Google Pixel 11a ($500)
Google's budget-oriented smartphones have consistently delivered impressive performance and capabilities. The 10a was a hit, and the Google Pixel 11a continues to build upon its earlier success. With a solid design retaining Google's original sloped sides and camera bar, it boasts support for most Android 15 features and Gemini capabilities. Given the Tensor G3 chip's powerful performance, it's challenging to recommend flagship smartphones over the Pixel 11a when the difference is primarily camera quality, which can be addressed with slight price premiums.
The best large phone
Our Pick: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra ($1,300)
The Galaxy S24 Ultra Excess surpasses its predecessor in numerous ways. It boasts a 200-MP primary camera, retaining the 100x digital zoom from the Galaxy S23 Ultra for capturing distant objects such as planes, trains, and birds. The telephoto lenses have seen significant improvements this generation, featuring a 50-MP sensor with 5x optical zoom, contrasting the S23 Ultra's 10-MP telephoto lens and 3x optical zoom. The S24 Ultra's photographs from a distance exhibit sharper details compared to the S23 Ultra.
Furthermore, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is more ergonomic due to its squared edges, making it more comfortable and easier to hold overall. Its edge-to-edge design is ideal for users planning to utilize the integrated S Pen, which serves a multitude of purposes, including writing, sketching, cropping images, and even acting as a remote control for selfie shots. Although it may not appeal to everyone, the Galaxy S24 Ultra serves as a versatile smartphone, offering various functionalities, justifying its $1,300 starting price.
Additional Consideration: iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,200)
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The Max variant is an upsized alternate that retains the appealing aspects of the Pro series. Though you won't notice significant improvements beyond the extended body, the iPhone 16 Pro Max still caters to fans of Apple's lineage.
The Best Compact Smartphone
Photo: Florence Ion / Gizmodo
Our pick: Samsung Galaxy S23 ($800)
For Android enthusiasts, test out the compact Galaxy S23. This 6.1-inch device is the perfect remedy for individuals tired of oversized screens occupying valuable pocket space. The Galaxy S23's cinematography excels in low-light conditions, offering a competitive showdown with Google's algorithms.
Although smaller in size, the Galaxy S23 boasts Samsung's signature Super AMOLED technology with a lightning-fast 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in a smoother user experience than the 90Hz Google Pixel 7. The only limitation is the absence of UWB support, reducing overall value from monthly carrier payments.
Additional Consideration: Apple iPhone 15 ($800)
If you prioritize small, pocket-friendly smartphone options and remain committed to the Apple ecosystem, consider the 6.1-inch iPhone 15. Apple equips this device with the A16 Bionic processor, similar to the iPhone 14 Pro, but with an added performance boost. It retains last year's Dynamic Island and now utilizes USB-C ports.
The Best Foldable Smartphone
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Our Pick: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold ($1,800)
Foldable technology has finally gained ground, with the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold falling largely behind Samsung's market domination. Despite the gap, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold showcases an impressive transformation from the 2023 Pixel Fold. It's now thinner and boasts improved performance, melding to the sensation of high-end devices like the OnePlus Open from 2023.
Although the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold's cameras aren't as refined as competitors like the Pixel 9 Pro flagship, its software had undergone significant developments, emphasizing user-friendly split-screen capabilities. Admittedly, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold falls short of matching flagship chipsets from Qualcomm and Apple, despite its $1,800 price tag. However, its unique foldability and premium build quality justify the cost, making it the standout option in the foldable market.
Best Clamshell Foldable
Our Pick: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 ($1,100)
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 carries a distinct front-row seat in the foldable smartphone arena, primarily due to its robust build quality and technological advancements. Although the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 may be restrictive in terms of external app usage and widgets, it offers exceptional cameras and a 50 MP photo option. This foldable device is rated IPX dust resistance, ensuring durability for the clamshell category. Its design and color options, such as the striking yellow and gold trim, serve as aesthetic appeal factors.
Additional Consideration: Motorola Razr 2024 ($700)
For those who can't justify a high-end, expensive device, consider the $700 Motorola Razr 2024. It features a less powerful chipset and diluted camera performance but delivers the foldable experience at a more accessible price point. Although it has limitations, the Motorola Razr 2024 remains a compelling alternative for individuals looking to embrace the foldable craze without diving headfirst into the deep end.
Keen on exploring Gizmodo's recommendations in the realm of consumer electronics? Dive into our rundowns on the top-notch laptops, the outstanding TVs, and the excellent headphones. Got a curiosity about the upcoming tech sensation? Satisfy your cravings with our scoop on the all-things-known about the iPhone 16.
In the future, technology advancements in smartphones may lead to even more impressive features, such as improved AI integration and upgraded camera capabilities. (technology, future)
As you peruse technology reviews, consider reading the expert opinions on the latest advancements in budget smartphones, as they often offer impressive performance at an affordable price point. (technology, reviews)
