The Top Smartphones in 2024: Our Picks for the Best Phones Right Now

Choosing the perfect smartphone in 2024 can be a daunting task, given the multitude of excellent options available. Whether you’re an iPhone fan, an Android user, or open to any smartphone, finding the best phone for your needs can seem like an insurmountable challenge. But fear not, because we’re here to help!

Below, we have compiled a list of our top picks for the best phones you can currently buy. We believe there’s something for everyone on this list, and we’re confident that you’ll find a phone that suits your preferences perfectly.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: The Best iPhone

Why you should buy this: The iPhone 15 Pro Max has every feature imaginable — the most on any iPhone today.

Who it’s for: Anyone who wants the best iPhone currently on the market.

Why we picked the iPhone 15 Pro Max:

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the crème de la crème of iOS phones. It comes in Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium, offering a matte glass back and smaller bezels surrounding its always-on Super Retina XDR display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has undergone significant hardware changes compared to previous models. It now features a titanium body, a USB-C port, an Action button, an A17 Pro chip, and improved cameras. The switch to USB-C means you no longer need Lightning cables, making it more convenient if you have other devices that use USB-C. The camera system has also received some notable upgrades, resulting in more detailed images, enhanced colors, and improved zoom capabilities.

If you want the very best smartphone running Apple’s iOS operating system, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the one to get.

Apple iPhone 15: The Best iPhone Runner-Up

Why you should buy this: It’s Apple’s latest and greatest iPhone.

Who it’s for: Anyone who wants an iPhone upgrade without going for the Pro route.

Why we picked the iPhone 15:

The iPhone 15 is a great option for those who don’t need all the advanced features of the Pro models. It comes in pink, yellow, green, blue, and black, and features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. The Dynamic Island, first introduced on the iPhone 14 Pro series, is also present, offering a fun new way to view notifications and other content.

The camera system has been significantly upgraded, with a 48MP primary camera, a 12MP ultrawide lens with a wide 120-degree field of view, and a 12MP telephoto camera. The iPhone 15 defaults to 24MP photos, resulting in more detailed images. With improved camera features and the ability to capture every moment in stunning detail, the iPhone 15 is a solid choice for photography enthusiasts.

While the iPhone 15 doesn’t have the Pro features found on the Pro models, it still offers a powerful smartphone experience and is ideal for anyone who wants the latest iPhone without breaking the bank.

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:

After a period of being overshadowed by competitors, OnePlus is back in full force with the OnePlus 12. It’s one of the best smartphones you can buy, with a beautiful design and top-notch performance.

The OnePlus 12 features a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1440p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and comes with 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage. The camera system comprises a 50MP main lens, a 64MP periscope telephoto lens, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. It takes excellent photos with realistic colors, and the 16MP selfie camera ensures great selfies too.

With its powerful specs, sleek design, and excellent camera system, the OnePlus 12 is a fantastic choice for anyone in search of 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 sets a new standard for the Pixel line. With its stunning design, improved camera system, and powerful features, it’s no wonder this phone is being hailed as the best Pixel yet.

The Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 120Hz refresh rate display, a beautiful matte glass back, and a primary camera with a resolution of 50 megapixels. It also features improved AI editing features and Google’s latest Tensor chip, which provides exceptional performance and enables tasks like gaming and live video streaming over a 5G connection.

The camera system on the Pixel 8 Pro is exceptional, with a 50MP main lens, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens. It takes stunning photos with exceptional detail and color accuracy. The Pixel 8 Pro also comes with some exciting new camera software tools, such as Best Take, which automatically stitches together multiple photos, and Magic Editor, which allows you to erase and move objects in photos.

If you’re looking for a top-tier Android phone that delivers in terms of design, camera performance, and AI features, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is an excellent choice.

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:

If you’re on a budget but still want great value, the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is worth considering. It offers an impressive combination of affordability and performance.

The Galaxy A14 5G features a large 6.6-inch LCD display with a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate. It has a textured plastic back that provides a good grip and comes in a range of colors. Under the hood, it has a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chip, which offers decent performance for the price. The camera system, including a 50MP main camera, delivers good photos with vibrant colors.

With its affordable price point, solid performance, and reliable features, the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a great option for budget-conscious buyers.

Samsung Galaxy A54: The Best Cheap Phone Runner-Up

Why you should buy this: The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G 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 at a lower price.

Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G:

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G offers many flagship features at an affordable price. It has a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a respectable camera system. It comes with Samsung’s Exynos 1380 processor, 6GB or 8GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage.

The camera system includes a 50MP main lens, a 12MP wide-angle lens, and a 5MP macro lens. It takes good photos with realistic colors, and the front-facing selfie camera is a solid performer as well.

With its flagship-like features and affordable price, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is a great choice for those who want a reliable and powerful smartphone without breaking the bank.

OnePlus 12R: The Best Phone Value

Why you should buy this: It’s a true flagship killer, offering flagship specs on a budget.

Who it’s for: Anyone who loves getting great value for their money.

Why we picked the OnePlus 12R:

The OnePlus 12R is the perfect alternative if you don’t want to spend $800 on the OnePlus 12 but still want a truly flagship-level experience. It offers many of the same features as its more expensive cousin at a much more affordable price.

The OnePlus 12R features a sleek design, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and 8GB or 16GB of RAM. It has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and crisp visual experience. The camera system is solid, with a 50MP main lens and a 16MP selfie camera.

With its impressive specs and attractive price point, the OnePlus 12R is the best value smartphone on the market today.

Google Pixel 8: The Best Phone Value Runner-Up

Why you should buy this: This is a terrific Pixel that might even be better than the Pixel 8 Pro.

Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a cutting-edge Pixel for less money.

Why we picked the Google Pixel 8:

The Google Pixel 8 is a standout smartphone that offers fantastic value for its price. It boasts a sleek design, excellent battery life, and exceptional camera capabilities.

The Pixel 8 features a compact 4.7-inch display, making it perfect for those who prefer smaller phones. It is powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, providing fast and efficient performance. The camera system is top-notch, delivering exceptional photo quality and impressive AI editing features.

With its affordable price and cutting-edge features, the Google Pixel 8 is an excellent choice for anyone in search of a compact and powerful smartphone.

Apple iPhone 15 Plus: The Best Big iPhone

Why you should buy this: It packs a huge, stunning screen, it feels substantial, and the design won’t fail to impress.

Who it’s for: Anyone who wants the best big-screen iPhone around for less.

Why we picked the iPhone 15 Plus:

The iPhone 15 Plus is the perfect choice for those who want a large iPhone without breaking the bank. It shares many features with its smaller counterpart, the iPhone 15, but offers a bigger display for those who prefer a more substantial smartphone experience.

The iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.7-inch display and comes in a range of attractive colors. It boasts the same powerful A15 Bionic chip, upgraded cameras, and advanced software features as the other models in the iPhone 15 series. With its stunning design and impressive performance, the iPhone 15 Plus is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a big-screen iPhone without the premium price tag.

Apple iPhone SE (2022): The Best Small iPhone

Why you should buy this: Apple’s latest iPhone SE (2022) is a pint-sized wonder that’s powerful, affordable, and future-proof.

Who it’s for: Those looking for a future-proof phone that fits in their pocket (and their hand).

Why we picked the Apple iPhone SE (2022):

The iPhone SE (2022) is the ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller, more compact smartphone. It offers powerful performance, a classic design, and excellent value for money.

Despite its small size, the iPhone SE (2022) boasts the same A15 Bionic chip as the flagship iPhone models. It also features a 4.7-inch Liquid Retina display, a 12MP camera with advanced software features, and a battery that can last up to two days.

With its affordable price and powerful performance, the iPhone SE (2022) is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a small iPhone that doesn’t skimp on features.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus: The Best Big Android Phone

Why you should buy this: It’s the star of this year’s Galaxy S range, and it has a big screen to boot.

Who it’s for: Someone who wants an outstanding Android smartphone that doesn’t cost a fortune and has a huge display.

Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus:

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus is an outstanding Android smartphone that offers a big, beautiful display and top-notch performance. It’s the star of this year’s Galaxy S range.

The S24 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1440p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and comes with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth and powerful performance. The camera system includes a 50MP main lens, a 10MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide lens, delivering impressive photos in various shooting conditions.

With its flagship features and reasonable pricing, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus is an exceptional choice for those who want a big Android smartphone without a hefty price tag.

Samsung Galaxy S24: The Best Small Android Phone

Why you should buy this: It’s everything great about the Galaxy S24 Plus, but smaller.

Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a powerful Android phone in a compact form factor.

Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy S24:

The Samsung Galaxy S24 is the perfect choice for those who prefer a smaller Android phone. It offers many of the same features as its larger counterpart, the S24 Plus, but in a more compact package.

The S24 boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and comes with 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance. The camera system includes a 50MP main lens, a 12MP wide-angle lens, and a 5MP macro lens, delivering impressive photos in various shooting conditions.

With its compact size, powerful performance, and excellent camera capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality Android phone in a smaller form factor.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: The Best Foldable Phone

Why you should buy this: Folding phones are the future, and the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the most powerful foldable around.

Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a powerful phone in a foldable form factor.

Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5:

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the ultimate folding phone, combining cutting-edge technology with a foldable design. It offers a unique smartphone experience that blends the functionalities of a phone and a tablet.

The Z Fold 5 features a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display when unfolded and a 6.2-inch cover display when folded. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and comes with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance across all tasks. The camera system includes a range of lenses, allowing you to capture stunning photos.

With its innovative design and powerful performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best foldable phone on the market today.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: The Best Flip Phone

Why you should buy this: It looks great, boasts fast performance, and has a fun and foldable form factor and bespoke colors.

Who it’s for: Anyone looking for their first foldable who prefers a more compact flip design.

Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5:

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers a unique and compact flip design that sets it apart from traditional smartphones. It combines a sleek form factor with powerful performance and an eye-catching design.

The Z Flip 5 features a 6.7-inch foldable Dynamic AMOLED display and a 3.4-inch cover display. It’s powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for all your needs. The camera system includes a 12MP main lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens, allowing you to capture stunning photos and videos.

With its flip form factor and premium features, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a unique and compact smartphone experience.

Motorola Razr (2023): The Best Cheap Folding Phone

Why you should buy this: Not everyone desires all features on a foldable phone. If that’s you, this is the one you want.

Who’s it for: Anyone who wants a no-hassle smartphone experience.

Why we picked the Motorola Razr (2023):

The Motorola Razr (2023) is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly folding phone. It offers a unique flip phone design and delivers a straightforward smartphone experience.

The Razr (2023) features a compact form factor with a 6.2-inch foldable P-OLED display and a secondary 2.7-inch cover display. It’s powered by a Snapdragon processor, providing decent performance for everyday tasks. The camera system includes a 12MP main lens, offering good photo quality for capturing memories.

With its affordable price, unique design, and user-friendly experience, the Motorola Razr (2023) is a great option for those who want a folding phone without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Choosing the best phone can be a tough decision given the multitude of options available. However, with our top picks for the best smartphones in 2024, we hope to make your decision a little easier. Whether you prefer iPhones or Androids, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Remember, smartphones are an investment in your daily life, so choose one that suits your needs, preferences, and budget. Happy phone hunting!

FAQs

Q: What is the best phone in 2024?

A: The best phone in 2024 ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. However, some top contenders include the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max