Best Samsung Phones 2024: Comprehensive Reviews of Top Models
Samsung has consistently led the mobile industry with its commitment to innovation, offering a wide range of phones that cater to different needs and budgets.Â
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Sam AdeniyiSEO Writer, E-mail Markerter
Reviewed By
Franklin IzuchukwuCrypto Writer, Business Writer and Radiographer
As we approach 2024, the anticipation for the best Samsung phones is high, with expectations centred on groundbreaking features, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled user experiences.Â
Samsung's aim to support seven generations of Android operating system updates for devices like the Galaxy S24 series underscores their dedication to long-term value and performance reliability, setting a benchmark for smartphone excellence. The inclusion of foldable devices such as the Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 in their lineup highlights Samsung's pioneering spirit in transforming the smartphone experience.
When considering the vast array of Samsung smartphones available in 2024, factors such as compatibility, size, camera capabilities, and software support emerge as critical aspects to evaluate. Samsung's prowess in display quality, brightness, battery life, and camera performance positions its devices at the forefront of the Android market, offering compelling choices for consumers.Â
This article aims to showcase the top Samsung smartphones in 2024, highlighting their standout features, performance, and value, while also emphasizing Samsung's reputation for excellence and innovation in the mobile industry.Â
Through comprehensive reviews and comparisons of models ranging from the flagship Galaxy S24 Ultra to the versatile Galaxy A54 5G, readers will gain insight into selecting the Samsung phone that best fits their lifestyle and requirements.
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a new standard for premium smartphones in 2024, combining cutting-edge technology and robust design to offer a superior mobile experience. It stands out with its advanced camera capabilities, high-performance internals, and durable build that appeals to both tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Best Features
- Camera System: The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a sophisticated camera setup with a 200-megapixel primary sensor, complemented by a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and dual telephoto lenses at 10-megapixel with 3x and 5x optical zoom, ensuring versatile photography capabilities.
- Display and Design: Featuring a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, the device offers a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 2600 nits, providing an immersive viewing experience. The new titanium frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Armor enhance durability and scratch resistance.
- Performance: Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the S24 Ultra is optimized for high-speed performance, including gaming and AI processing. It comes with 12GB of RAM and multiple storage options up to 1TB, supported by the latest UFS 4.0 technology.
- Battery and Charging: A robust 5000mAh battery powers the device, supporting 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, along with 4.5W reverse wireless charging capabilities, making it ideal for long-lasting performance throughout the day.
Limitations or Cons
- Software Experience: While the device runs on Android 14 and One UI 6.1, some of Samsung's AI features may not appeal to all, as they can introduce performance delays or may be perceived as unnecessary.
- Low Light Photography: Despite improvements, low light performance may still lag behind competitors, affecting the quality in various night-time photography scenarios.
- Dolby Vision Support: Unlike some competitors, the Galaxy S24 Ultra lacks Dolby Vision support, which could be a downside for users seeking the highest quality video playback experience.
Pricing
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is priced competitively at $1299, offering a range of features that justify its premium status in the market.
Ratings and Reviews
- Performance: 5/5
- Display: 5/5
- Software: 3/5
- Cameras: 5/5
- Battery: 5/5
This combination of high-end specifications, user-focused design, and innovative features makes the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra a leading choice for anyone looking to invest in a top-tier smartphone in 2024.
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus emerges as a more budget-friendly yet highly capable alternative within the Samsung 2024 lineup. With a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a robust set of features, this model balances performance and price, making it an attractive option for a wide range of users.
Best Features
- Display Excellence: The Galaxy S24 Plus boasts a 6.7-inch screen with QHD+ resolution and a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, capable of reaching a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. This makes it exceptionally good for viewing in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight.
- Camera Capabilities: Equipped with a versatile camera array, the S24 Plus includes a 50MP main camera, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 12MP selfie camera. These specifications ensure high-quality photos across a variety of scenarios].
- Long-Lasting Battery: The device is powered by a 4,900mAh battery, supporting extensive use with up to two days on a single charge, complemented by 45W wired charging and wireless PowerShare capabilities.
- Performance: Driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and equipped with 12GB of RAM, the S24 Plus handles everything from daily tasks to more intensive applications smoothly.
Limitations or Cons
- Design and Premium Feel: While the S24 Plus offers solid performance, its design and material choices feel less premium compared to the Ultra model, which might be a drawback for users seeking a more luxurious feel.
- Unchanged Camera Hardware: The camera setup remains unchanged from the previous generation, which might not appeal to those looking for significant photographic advancements in new models.
Innovative Features
- Galaxy AI Tools: The S24 Plus integrates Samsung's new Galaxy AI features such as Edit Suggestions and Live Translate, enhancing user interaction and productivity. These AI tools are designed to improve photo editing and offer real-time translation, setting the device apart in terms of smart capabilities.
- Software Support: Promising seven years of Android updates and security patches, the S24 Plus is an excellent choice for long-term users, ensuring sustained performance and up-to-date security].
Pricing and Availability
- The Galaxy S24 Plus is attractively priced at $1,000 for the 256GB model and $1,200 for the 512GB version, offering substantial value given its features. It is available in four standard colours with additional exclusive options available through Samsung's website.
Ratings and Reviews
- Display: 5/5
- Camera: 4/5
- Battery: 5/5
- Performance: 4.5/5
- Value for Money: 4.5/5
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus stands out as a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between high-end features and affordability, making it a standout model in Samsung's 2024 lineup.
3. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a testament to Samsung's innovative prowess in the foldable phone market. Available in a range of colours including Icy Blue, Phantom Black, Cream, Blue, and Gray, this device merges style with cutting-edge technology. It features a 7.6-inch main Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a 6.2-inch sub-display, both boasting high resolutions and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth, crisp visuals. The inclusion of S Pen support adds a layer of productivity that is ideal for both creative and professional use.
Display and Design
- Main Display: 7.6-inch QXGA+ (2176 x 1812) Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 16M color depth, 120Hz refresh rate.
- Sub Display: 6.2-inch HD+ (2316 x 904) Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 16M color depth.
- Design: When unfolded, the device measures 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.1 mm, and when folded, it's 154.9 x 67.1 x 13.4 mm, weighing in at 253g.
Camera System
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is equipped with a versatile camera system that ensures high-quality imaging across various scenarios:
- Rear Cameras: 50.0 MP wide angle, 12.0 MP ultrawide, and 10.0 MP telephoto with up to 30x digital zoom, featuring F1.8, F2.2, and F2.4 apertures respectively. This setup includes autofocus and optical image stabilization (OIS).
- Under-display Camera: 4.0 MP with F1.8 aperture.
- Cover Camera: 10.0 MP with F2.2 aperture.
Performance and Connectivity
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, ensuring top-tier performance.
- Memory and Storage: Comes with 12GB of RAM and options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage.
- Network Compatibility: Supports a wide range of networks including 2G GSM, 3G WCDMA, 4G LTE, and 5G Sub6.
- Connectivity: Includes USB Type-C, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth v5.3, NFC, and UWB.
Battery and Charging
- Capacity: 4400mAh dual battery system.
- Charging Options: Supports 25W fast charging, 12W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging, catering to the needs of users who are always on the go.
Additional Features
- Sensors: Equipped with an accelerometer, barometer, fingerprint sensor, gyro sensor, geomagnetic sensor, hall sensor, light sensor, and proximity sensor, enhancing the device's functionality and user interaction.
- Software: Runs on Android 13 with Samsung's One UI 5.1.1, offering a seamless and intuitive user interface.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 not only pushes the boundaries of foldable technology but also integrates a wealth of features that enhance productivity, connectivity, and multimedia consumption, making it a standout choice in the latest Samsung devices lineup.
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 continues to redefine the compact phone segment with its stylish design and robust feature set. Featuring a larger cover display and an enhanced main screen, the Z Flip 5 is both a fashion statement and a powerhouse of functionality.
Display Excellence
- Main Display: 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED, adaptive 1Hz to 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and viewing.
- Cover Display: Increased to 3.4-inch, facilitating greater usability for notifications and quick interactions without opening the device.
Performance and Hardware
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, ensuring swift and responsive user experiences across apps and games.
- Memory and Storage: Options include 8GB of RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage, utilizing the fast UFS 4.0 standard.
Camera Capabilities
- Rear Cameras: Dual 12MP setup, offering enhanced image processing for clearer, more detailed photos.
- Front Camera: 10MP, ideal for selfies and video calls.
- Innovations: Includes a new reduced-glare lens and an advanced image signal processor for superior photo quality.
Battery and Charging
- Capacity: Improved battery life with 3,700mAh, supporting extended use.
- Charging Options: 25W wired, 15W wireless, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging capabilities.
Design and Durability
- Build: Features a polished Armor Aluminum frame with a matte finish on the back and sides, ensuring durability and style.
- Water Resistance: IPX8 rated, though it lacks dust protection.
- Hinge: Designed to stay open at various angles and close seamlessly without a gap.
Software and User Experience
- Operating System: Runs on Android 13 with Samsung's One UI 5.1.1, providing a seamless and intuitive interface.
- Colour Options: Available in standard colours like Mint, Lavender, and Graphite, with exclusive colours on Samsung's website including Blue and Yellow.
Pricing
- Retail Price: Starts at $999 for the 256GB model, with frequent promotions offering additional savings.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 not only offers a compact and stylish design but also packs a punch with its large functional screens, robust performance, and improved battery life, making it a standout choice among the latest Samsung devices.
5. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G emerges as a formidable contender in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a blend of robust features at a competitive price point. With a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display and equipped with the Exynos 1380 processor, this model caters to users seeking a blend of performance and affordability.
Display and Design
- Screen Size and Quality: Features a 6.4-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display, providing vibrant colours and deep contrasts with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth navigation and viewing.
- Brightness and Visibility: The display supports a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, making it suitable for outdoor use under direct sunlight. HDR10+ support ensures a premium viewing experience.
Performance Specifications
- Processor and Memory: Powered by the Samsung Exynos 1380 chipset, available with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. Storage options include 128GB or 256GB, expandable up to 1TB via microSD, catering to varying user needs.
- Connectivity Options: Supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and eSIM capabilities, ensuring wide connectivity.
Camera System
- Versatile Photography: Equipped with a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 5MP macro camera. The 32MP front-facing camera enhances selfie and video call quality.
- Camera Features: Offers features like night mode and enhanced image stabilization, providing decent performance across various shooting conditions.
Battery Life and Charging
- Battery Capacity: Includes a 5,000mAh battery, capable of delivering up to two days of usage on a moderate charge, supported by 25W fast charging. However, it lacks wireless charging capabilities.
- Endurance: Designed to cater to extended use, making it ideal for users with heavy mobile usage without frequent recharges.
Software and Longevity
- Operating System: Runs on Android 13 with Samsung's One UI 5.1. Promises four years of Android OS updates and five years of bi-monthly security patches, ensuring the device stays current and secure.
- User Interface: Features a clean and intuitive interface, bolstered by Samsung's commitment to regular updates and security patches.
Pricing and Value
- Cost-Effectiveness: Priced at $450, the A54 5G offers substantial value with its advanced features and long-term software support, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Market Positioning: Stands as a competitive option in the $400 price range, appealing to users who prioritize software support and battery life over cutting-edge performance.
The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G not only provides a balanced performance but also ensures longevity and reliability, making it a preferred option for users looking for quality and affordability in the mid-range segment.
7. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G presents itself as a robust contender in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a sophisticated camera system and solid performance specifications. With its competitive pricing and comprehensive feature set, the A35 5G is tailored for users who seek quality and affordability.
Camera System
- Main Camera: The 50MP primary camera is equipped with an improved image sensor that enhances HDR performance and colour accuracy, making it adept at handling high-contrast scenarios with decent detail.
- Ultra-Wide Camera: While the 8MP ultra-wide camera captures images with good dynamic range, it tends to struggle in extreme conditions and darker areas, becoming noisy.
- Macro Camera: The 5MP macro camera offers specialized close-up shots but is less impressive under low-light conditions.
- Low-Light Performance: Notably, the A35 5G excels in low-light photography, thanks to Samsung's Night mode, providing images with plenty of detail and well-represented colours.
- Portrait and Selfie Cameras: Both the portrait mode and the selfie camera are praised for their good detail and colour accuracy, with portrait mode delivering accurate subject separation and a pleasing background blur.
Video Capabilities
- 4K Video Recording: Supports 4K video at 30fps with an optical image stabilizer to enhance video quality. However, it lacks higher frame rate options which restricts versatility in video capturing.
- Camera Footage Quality: The main camera's 4K footage is sharp with a commendable dynamic range, but the ultra-wide camera's footage is less usable due to quality degradation.
Performance in Comparison
- PhoneArena Camera Score: The A35 5G scored 85 for the main camera, 25 for the ultra-wide, 30 for the selfie camera, and 79 for video recording, indicating a strong performance in its class but showing room for improvement in the ultra-wide and selfie categories.
- Market Comparison: It performs better than competitors like Motorola and Nothing in the same price range, though it doesn't reach the reliability of the Pixel A-series in consistent imaging.
Digital Zoom
- Usability: Digital zoom on the A35 5G is practical at 2x magnification but loses significant quality at higher levels like 5x and 10x, leading to blurry images.
This detailed examination of the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G's camera and video capabilities demonstrates its competence in the mid-range sector, especially noted for its impressive low-light performance and solid HDR capabilities. The device offers a good balance between functionality and cost, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious consumers looking for dependable photographic performance.
8. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, released in 2023 and priced at $600, offers a solid performance and feature set for its price range. Available in a variety of colours including purple, graphite, mint, cloudy indigo blue, and cream, this model appeals to a broad audience with its stylish design and substantial capabilities.
Design and Display
- Build Quality: The Galaxy S23 FE features a glass front and back, giving it a premium feel, although the cameras protrude slightly, resembling portals.
- Display: It sports a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. The HDR10+ certification enhances the HDR quality for a superior viewing experience.
Camera Features
- Main Camera: Equipped with a 50 MP main camera, the S23 FE captures excellent photos in bright lighting conditions.
- Zoom Camera: It includes a 3x 8 MP optical zoom camera, offering superior zoom capabilities compared to standard digital zooms found in other smartphones.
- Video and Modes: Supports 8K video recording capabilities, although there are some limitations with 4K 60 FPS video recording. The unique Food mode applies warm color tones and a blur effect for enhanced food photography.
Performance and Software
- Processor: Runs on Android 14 with One UI 6, providing a smooth and responsive user experience.
- Gaming and Updates: Offers good gaming performance and has shown improved smoothness following software updates.
Battery and Charging
- Battery Life: Houses a 4,500 mAh battery capable of lasting a full day on a single charge. It supports 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, along with a reverse wireless charging feature.
- Power Management: Includes power-saving features and performance adjustments to extend battery life. However, users have reported significant battery drain issues, attributed to the Exynos 2200 SoC's inefficiency.
Additional Features
- Connectivity and Extras: Features an in-display optical fingerprint scanner for enhanced security. It also supports Samsung Dex mode, which allows the phone to emulate a laptop experience.
- Software Ecosystem: Comes equipped with both Samsung's Gallery and Google Photos, offering users a choice in photo management applications.
Pricing and Availability
Priced competitively at $600, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE offers more features than many other smartphones in the same price range, making it an attractive option for those seeking value and performance.
9. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Introduction and Overview
The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, priced at an affordable $200, offers a compelling package of features for an entry-level smartphone. With a focus on providing substantial memory, a long-lasting battery, and dual-SIM capabilities, this model is designed for users who seek functionality without the premium price tag.
Key Features and Performance
- Display and Design: The A15 5G boasts a 6.5-inch AMOLED screen that delivers vibrant visuals and a responsive touch experience. Its design, primarily plastic with a glossy back that mimics glass, provides a premium look while maintaining lightweight handling.
- Processor and Storage: Equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset and options of 4GB or 6GB RAM, the phone handles everyday tasks with ease. It offers 128GB of built-in storage, expandable via a Micro-SD card, catering to a variety of storage needs.
- Battery Life: A robust 5,000mAh battery powers the device, supporting up to 10 days of light usage on a single charge, and features 25W fast charging to quickly replenish power.
Camera System
- Main Camera: The A15 5G features a triple camera setup with a 50 MP primary sensor that captures decent-quality photos under various lighting conditions.
- Front and Ultra-Wide Cameras: The 13 MP front camera and 5 MP ultra-wide camera provide functional imaging capabilities, though they perform below par in low-light and high-detail scenarios.
Connectivity and Additional Features
- Network Support: Offers comprehensive connectivity with 5G, and the option to switch to 4G to conserve battery life. It also includes legacy support for 2G networks.
- Dual-SIM and Expansion: The SIM tray accommodates either two SIM cards or one SIM card plus a Micro-SD card, enhancing the phone's versatility.
- Security and Accessibility: Features a side-mounted fingerprint reader for quick and secure access, alongside a USB-C charging port and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Software and User Experience
- Operating System: Runs on Android 14, providing a clean and efficient user interface that is close to stock Android. The phone is committed to four years of software updates, ensuring longevity and up-to-date security.
Pricing and Market Position
- Affordability: With a retail price of just under $200, the Galaxy A15 5G presents itself as an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers, offering a balance of features and performance that surpass expectations for its price range.
Expert and User Opinions
- Reception: The A15 5G has received a positive response for its usability, portability, and excellent value, with 86% of users recommending it to a friend. However, some users have noted issues with connectivity, including sporadic Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections.
10. Samsung Galaxy S24
The Samsung Galaxy S24, a standout model in the 2024 lineup, offers a perfect blend of high-end features and affordability. With a 6.2-inch screen and powered by the advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, this device is designed to deliver top-tier performance for a wide range of users. Priced at a budget-friendly $800, the Galaxy S24 is equipped with a triple rear camera setup, making it an ideal choice for those seeking quality without a hefty price tag.
Best Features
- Display and Performance: The S24 features a 6.2-inch display that provides vibrant visuals and smooth interactivity, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring a seamless user experience.
- Camera Capabilities: It boasts a very capable triple rear camera setup, allowing users to capture high-quality images and videos with ease.
- Battery Life: Notably, the S24 line, including the S24 model, offers improved battery performance, making it suitable for extended use without frequent recharges.
Innovative Tools
- AI-Enhanced Editing: The Galaxy S24 comes with AI-enhanced photo and video editing tools. These features allow users to easily erase or rearrange elements within images and videos, enhancing creative flexibility and control.
- Night Mode and Video Stability: This model has enhanced Night Mode for better low-light photography and improved noise reduction for videos, which is particularly beneficial for users with unsteady hands.
Pricing and Value
- Cost-Effective Choice: At $800, the Galaxy S24 is positioned as a more accessible option within the premium phone market, offering substantial capabilities without the premium price tag.
Longevity and Updates
- Software Support: Samsung has committed to providing seven years of software updates for the Galaxy S24, ensuring that the device remains up-to-date with the latest Android features and security patches. This long-term update policy places it on par with Google's Pixel series, making it an excellent choice for future-proofing.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 not only meets the expectations for modern smartphone capabilities but also offers a compelling price-to-performance ratio, making it the best Android phone for most people in 2024.
Conclusion
Throughout this exploration of the best Samsung smartphones of 2024, a clear theme of innovation and excellence has emerged. Samsung's commitment to offering a robust array of choices, from the flagship Galaxy S24 Ultra with its cutting-edge camera technology to the versatile Galaxy A54 5G, caters to a diverse spectrum of needs and preferences. Each model underscores Samsung's prowess in melding high performance with distinctive features, whether it's through pioneering foldable technology or ensuring long-term software support. This not only showcases the brand's dedication to innovation but also reinforces its esteemed position in the mobile industry.
Encouraging readers to delve deeper into the Samsung ecosystem, this article has highlighted the paramount importance of selecting a device that aligns with individual requirements and lifestyles. By emphasizing the key features and highlights of the top Samsung phones in 2024, it's evident that Samsung continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in mobile technology. The brand's enduring commitment to excellence, coupled with a keen focus on user experience, makes any of the featured smartphones a worthy consideration for those looking to embrace the latest in mobile innovation.
Frequently asked questions
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