What a yr it’s been! With over 600 smartphones hitting the market in 2024, narrowing it down to only 5 favorites was no small feat. However right here we’re, trying again on the ones that basically stood out.
After almost a decade at GSMArena, I discover it arduous to be impressed by midrange telephones, so this checklist is filled with flagships. There’s one exception, however there is a good purpose for that.,
With out additional ado, listed here are my prime 5 telephones of 2024 – no rankings, as they’re all one of the best in their very own manner!
Samsung Galaxy S24 Extremely
At first look, the Galaxy S24 Extremely doesn’t look like an enormous leap ahead – it’s very a lot in keeping with the Galaxy Ultras of 2023 and 2022. So why is it on my checklist? As a result of it’s a no-nonsense Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 powerhouse that simply works.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Extremely (left) and Galaxy S23 Extremely (proper)
The up to date 5x periscope digital camera is a welcome change from the earlier 10x zoom, which felt extra like a gimmick. Now, I can seize crystal-clear pictures of my sleeping cat with out disturbing my fluffy companion – what’s to not love?
Samsung Galaxy S24 Extremely
Certain, it’s a modest improve, and I get why some followers would possibly hesitate to name it a must have. However for me, efficiency is king, and the S24 Extremely delivers in spades.
Google Pixel 9 Professional XL
Google does the straightforward issues like nobody else. The Pixel 9 Professional XL is a pleasure to make use of, with its clear, bloat-free Android expertise that simply feels… proper.
Admittedly, this isn’t an enormous leap from the Pixel 8 Professional. A barely extra highly effective Tensor G4 chip and a bump in wired charging pace are the primary upgrades, however the selfie digital camera is top-notch, and the consumer expertise is unbeatable. For me, that’s sufficient to earn it a spot on this checklist.
Realme GT 7 Professional
Whereas Samsung and Google stubbornly follow their slow-charging weapons, Realme is charging (pun supposed) into the long run with its 120W SuperVOOC. The GT 7 Professional seems like a 2025 telephone, due to its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and an extremely skinny, highly effective battery.
This yr, Realme lastly gave its GT flagship greater than only one good digital camera. The 3x telephoto lens is a delight, and upgrades just like the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and ultra-bright show make this telephone really spectacular.
Nothing Telephone (2a)
It is time to change gears. The Telephone (2a) is my decide for one of the best funds gadget of the yr. In a market flooded with midrange choices, this one stands out.
It’s obtained extra energy than the best-selling Galaxy A55, sooner charging, higher cameras than the Redmi Observe 13 Professional, and appears that depart the Realme 13 Professional+ within the mud. It’s additionally cheaper than its barely newer sibling (2a) Plus, making it a no brainer for worth hunters.
Honor Magic V3
I’ll admit it – I’ve a tender spot for foldables, even when they don’t completely match my wants. However the purpose the Magic V3 makes the checklist is not its slim physique or completely usable cowl display screen, however somewhat sturdiness.
Just a few years in the past, the concept of a very rugged foldable was laughable. However the Magic V3 modifications that – it’s a foldable you may (nearly) toss round in frustration and nonetheless depend on afterward.
Whereas we’re on the subject of foldables, the Huawei Mate X6 deserves an honorary point out. It’s lovely and difficult, however I can’t justify the eye-watering €2,000 worth for what’s basically an underpowered foldable.