{"id":25968,"date":"2024-07-24T10:50:06","date_gmt":"2024-07-24T10:50:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/fca69856-6071-47bd-abad-8916fa8b432712"},"modified":"2024-07-24T10:50:06","modified_gmt":"2024-07-24T10:50:06","slug":"the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"The best smartphones to buy in 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>You might have an idea of which smartphone you want to buy next. But there are more options than ever before that are solid \u2014 plenty of companies are making stellar handsets nowadays, at similar prices, all with comparable feature sets. That said, the choice isn\u2019t always cut-and-dry. If you know you want an iPhone, your decision-making process is a bit easier. If you\u2019re an Android person, you have even more options to choose from and more questions to answer before you spend any money. At Engadget, we review phones regularly and have tested dozens over the years; so far for 2024, our top picks remain the same as they were last year, with <span class=\"waslinkname\">Apple&#8217;s iPhone 15 Pro<\/span> and <span class=\"waslinkname\">Google&#8217;s Pixel 8<\/span> handsets sitting at the top of the list. Whether you\u2019ve had your eye on them, one of Samsung&#8217;s new Galaxy S24 phones or another device, we\u2019re here to help you decide which is the best phone to buy this year.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"android-or-ios\">Android or iOS?<\/h2>\n<p>When you&#8217;re searching for the best smartphone, it becomes clear that each OS has its pros and cons. Apple\u2019s tight-knit ecosystem makes it super easy to share data between iPhones, iPads and Macs or seamlessly hand-off phone calls or music from one device to another. At the same time, you\u2019re effectively locked in, as services like Apple Messages aren\u2019t available on other platforms.<\/p>\n<p>As for Android, there\u2019s a much wider range of handsets from companies like Google, Samsung, Sony and more. However, Android phones don\u2019t enjoy that same length of software support and often have lower trade-in values. In short, there\u2019s no wrong answer. However, you will want to consider how your phone will fit in with the rest of your devices. So unless you\u2019re really fed up with one OS and willing to learn another, it probably doesn\u2019t make a lot of sense to switch from an iPhone to an Android phone (or vice versa) \u2013 especially if everyone else in your household is using the same platform.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"cameras\">Cameras<\/h2>\n<p>Since your cell phone often pulls double duty as your primary camera, figuring out what kind of photo tools you want is key. Nowadays, practically every mobile phone can take a great picture in bright light. But if you want a long optical zoom, you\u2019ll probably have to upgrade to a more expensive device.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"caas-figure\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"caas-img-container caas-img-loader noheight\"><img class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-preview\" alt=\"Close up of the Pixel 6 Pro's camera bump.\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Close up of the Pixel 6 Pro's camera bump.\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024.jpg\" class=\"caas-img\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><figcaption class=\"caption-collapse\"><span class=\"caption-credit\"> Cherlynn Low \/ Engadget<\/span><\/figcaption><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">Mid-range phones<\/span> often only have two rear cameras (a primary wide-angle lens and a secondary ultra-wide camera) and can sometimes struggle in low-light situations. Each phone maker also has various features that might be a better fit for your style, with Apple offering four different color presets on the latest iPhones, while Google\u2019s Pixel 8 comes with neat tools like dedicated long exposure and Action Pan modes.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"will-you-get-mmwave-5g-or-wi-fi-7\">Will you get mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7?<\/h2>\n<p>The good news is that in 2024, most phones have at least Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6e and support for some kind of 5G connectivity. However, if you want the fastest wireless speeds possible, it\u2019s going to cost you a little extra. For example, on certain networks, mmWave 5G offers up to gigabit download speeds, less latency and better bandwidth. But mmWave 5G also requires more sophisticated (and pricier) modems, which means support for it is often missing on less expensive devices, even those like the unlocked version of the <span class=\"waslinkname\">Pixel 8. <\/span><\/p>\n<p>On the bright side, mmWave 5G isn\u2019t as widely available as other versions of 5G, so depending on where you live and what network you\u2019re on, you may not be missing out on much right now if you buy a phone that doesn\u2019t support it. It\u2019s a similar situation for Wi-Fi 7, which is available on some high-end handsets like the Galaxy S24, but harder to find on cheaper devices. Wi-Fi 7 also requires you to have a <span class=\"waslinkname\">compatible router<\/span>, so unless you know you need it or have a specific use case in mind, the lack of support for mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7 shouldn\u2019t be a dealbreaker when looking for a new phone.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"other-features-to-consider\">Other features to consider<\/h2>\n<p>Because not everyone agrees on what makes the best phone, you should think about any other specs that might be extra important for you. Mobile gamers will almost certainly appreciate the 120Hz refresh rates you get on phones like the Samsung Galaxy S23 or the Apple iPhone 15 Pro. Alternatively, if long battery life is important, you\u2019ll probably want to go with a larger iPhone or an Android phone with a battery that\u2019s between 4,000 and 5,000 mAh in size. Meanwhile, if you find yourself juggling a lot of devices, it can be really nice to have a phone that supports reverse wireless charging, which on Samsung phones even lets you recharge the company\u2019s Galaxy Watches.<\/p>\n<div id=\"1da6e07c962e4140824f8e003c8aec30\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- walmart_transaction_5054605384 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-1.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-1.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Cherlynn Low \/ Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>iPhone 15 Pro Max review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 6.7-inch | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 1TB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> Dual eSim | <strong>Battery Life:<\/strong> About two days<\/p>\n<p>The changes to the <span class=\"waslinkname\">iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max<\/span> may seem small when considered on their own, but together they add up to more than the sum of their parts. For the iPhone 15 Pro Max, in particular, the smaller, lighter titanium build means it might be within the realm of consideration for many shoppers for the first time. It\u2019s no longer sharp and hefty like a weapon, but still has one of the longest-lasting batteries on the market.<\/p>\n<p>The larger handset also gets a new 5x telephoto camera that helps it catch up to flagships on the Android side, which have had zoom lenses for years. Though Apple doesn\u2019t outclass the competition on photography, it\u2019s certainly closed the gap and you\u2019ll find great cameras on both the Pro and Pro Max. They also have updated portrait effects and editing tools, so photography is improved whether you\u2019re shooting faraway subjects or something just in front of you.<\/p>\n<p>Both <span class=\"waslinkname\">iPhone 15 Pro<\/span> models have the new Action Button and USB-C charging, the latter of which will be more meaningful in a couple of years when the world presumably ditches Lightning at last. The Action Button, meanwhile, takes the often unused mute slider and gives you the option of mapping a frequently used shortcut to it, so you can quickly launch the camera, flashlight, voice recorder or magnifier. Having this many ways to configure the Action Button means it\u2019s far more useful to more people than a simple toggle for silencing your phone.<\/p>\n<p>This year\u2019s A17 Pro chip not only brings excellent performance, but its six-core GPU also enables console-level gaming and hardware-accelerated ray tracing for realistic lighting effects. Later this year, you can dig into titles like <em>Resident Evil Village<\/em> and, in early 2024, <em>Assassin\u2019s Creed<\/em> <em>Mirage<\/em> on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. You\u2019ll also get a second-generation ultra wideband chip for improved precision object location, and reverse USB charging so you can power up your accessories in a pinch.<\/p>\n<p>When you consider all these features as a whole, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are not just a solid upgrade from their predecessors, they\u2019re also among the best phones around.<em> \u2013 Cherlynn Low, Deputy Editor<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Smaller and lighter than previous Pro Maxes<\/li>\n<li>Useful zoom cameras<\/li>\n<li>USB-C is the way of the future<\/li>\n<li>Long-lasting battery<\/li>\n<li>Reverse charging via USB-C<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Action button is hard to reach on the larger handset<\/li>\n<li>Boring colors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$26 at Walmart<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"de6e7f52ee1e482aa9799970bbd6aa2d\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- amazon_B0CGTKM9WC --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-2.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-2.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Sam Rutherford \/ Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>(Pixel 8) Screen size:<\/strong> 6.2-inch | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 256GB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | <strong>Battery Life:<\/strong> 20+ hours<\/p>\n<p>The last two generations of Pixels offered a ton of value, combining smart features with solid hardware. But on the <span class=\"waslinkname\">Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro<\/span>, Google has done some serious leveling up thanks to its new Tensor G3 chip, brighter displays, upgraded cameras and a range of useful AI tools. Peak brightness now sits at 2,000 or 2,400 nits, depending on the model, while still producing realistic colors. And that\u2019s while actually seeing battery life increase between 20 to 25 percent compared to last year\u2019s devices.<\/p>\n<p>The Pixel 8\u2019s cameras also take in more light, so your photos and videos look even better. And with the arrival of features like Best Take and Magic Editor, there are even more ways to create the perfect shot. The Google Assistant is also more capable now due to newfound abilities like more accurate voice typing, the ability to summarize or read new articles aloud and proofreading your texts. But, perhaps most importantly, with Google committing to seven years of software support \u2013 longer than pretty much any other Android phone on the market \u2013 the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are in it for the long haul. <em>\u2013 Sam Rutherford, Senior Reporter<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>New Actua display<\/li>\n<li>Genuinely useful AI features<\/li>\n<li>Tensor G3 chip<\/li>\n<li>Seven years of software support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>$100 more than previous model<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$549 at Amazon<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"97747abaa70e47dda4f2e707071107c5\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- manual_c22f7dbe-067d-42f0-bd9d-4f8ddd100f6a_1715610258250 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-3.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-3.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>David Imel for Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>iPhone 13 review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 6.1-inch | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 512GB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, Dual eSim | <strong>Battery Life:<\/strong> Up to 13 hours<\/p>\n<p>Our previous pick here was the $429 <span class=\"waslinkname\">iPhone SE<\/span>, but spend the extra $170 on the iPhone 13 and you get some significant upgrades. Most notable is a far less dated design, with flat sides, Face ID and an edge-to-edge display. The 6.1-inch OLED panel is much larger than the SE\u2019s 4.7-inch LCD screen, yet the device as a whole is just 0.33 inches taller and only marginally thicker. That display is better in every way \u2014 brighter, sharper, more vivid and more durable to boot.<\/p>\n<p>The iPhone 13 also supports <span class=\"waslinkname\">MagSafe<\/span>, unlike the SE, plus it starts with twice as much storage at 128GB. Instead of the SE\u2019s single-camera setup, the 13 has a superior dual-camera system with a dedicated ultra-wide lens. Around the front, there\u2019s a sharper selfie camera that supports 4K video. Battery life is longer, too. <em>\u2014 Jeff Dunn, Senior Reporter, Buying Advice<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Modern design<\/li>\n<li>Camera performance is still perfectly solid for most<\/li>\n<li>Ditto for processor, display and battery life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Two generations old<\/li>\n<li>Lightning port<\/li>\n<li>60Hz refresh rate<\/li>\n<li>No telephoto lens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$599 at Apple<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"bec6ada14eed461392e111f04a6d987f\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- amazon_B0CYQDJS5L --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-4.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-4.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Sam Rutherford \/ Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>Google Pixel 8a review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 6.1-inch | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 256GB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | <strong>Battery Life:<\/strong> Close to 20.5 hours<\/p>\n<p>Google\u2019s A-series Pixels have long been some of the best midrange phones on the market. But now with the addition of a Tensor G3 chip, the <span class=\"waslinkname\">Pixel 8a<\/span> supports the same powerful and versatile AI functions you get on Google\u2019s flagship phones along with excellent cameras, a gorgeous 120Hz OLED display and great battery life. The device also comes with creature comforts like IP67 dust and water resistance and convenient (but slow) 7.5-watt Qi wireless charging. But most importantly, starting at $499, it might be one of the best deals on the market.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Colorful 120Hz OLED display<\/li>\n<li>Strong battery life<\/li>\n<li>Excellent cameras<\/li>\n<li>Great value<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Slow wireless charging<\/li>\n<li>Thick bezels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$449 at Amazon<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"5b3997b52e57438baec250131f472e2a\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- amazon_B0CGTJ12Z9 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-5.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-5.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Sam Rutherford \/ Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 6.7-inch | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 1TB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | <strong>Battery Life:<\/strong> 21 hours<\/p>\n<p>Thanks to a new suite of sensors including a 50-MP main cam, a 48-MP ultra-wide and a 48-MP telephoto camera with a 5x zoom, the <span class=\"waslinkname\">Pixel 8 Pro<\/span> shoots sharper and more detailed pics than ever. Tack on Google\u2019s excellent HDR+ processing, its class-leading Night Sight mode and features like Action Pan, and you get a smartphone that can capture high-quality images in practically any situation. But what pushes the Pixel 8 Pro to the top is its latest batch of AI-powered editing tools. Best Take allows you to pick the best expression for each person\u2019s face from a selection of images. Meanwhile, Magic Editor makes it super simple to remove distracting subjects, recompose your shot, or move things around, with AI helping to fill in any holes. For video, Audio Magic Eraser can drastically cut down on ambient noise from wind, traffic and other sources. Between upgraded hardware and sophisticated machine-learning tools, the Pixel 8 Pro is the complete package for capturing photos and videos. <em>\u2013 S.R.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>New Super Actua display<\/li>\n<li>Genuinely useful AI features<\/li>\n<li>Tensor G3 chip<\/li>\n<li>Seven years of software support<\/li>\n<li>New temperature sensor<\/li>\n<li>Much improved battery life<\/li>\n<li>Configs now go up to 1TB of storage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>$100 more than previous model<\/li>\n<li>Face Unlock setup can be a little tricky<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$734 at Amazon<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"9566ff7fdad24e48a80240430a8b95ba\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- manual_c79d6d4f-ec0f-4344-ab45-f59bcf8452b1_1721658557588 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-6.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-6.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Sam Rutherford\/Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 7.6-inch (main) 6.3-inch (folded) | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 1TB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | <strong>Battery life:<\/strong> Up to 23 hours<\/p>\n<p>While we would have liked to see some more drastic design changes, <span class=\"waslinkname\">Samsung\u2019s Galaxy Z Fold 6<\/span> remains one of the most versatile and well-rounded examples of a big, premium foldable phone. Its new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip delivers strong performance and improved energy efficiency while its Enhanced Armor Aluminum chassis is noticeably lighter than before (and a bit more durable too). There\u2019s also a new ultra-wide angle camera sensor and a boatload of AI-powered features scattered throughout the phone. Plus, the Z Fold 6 remains one of the few foldables with native stylus support, though you\u2019ll need to pay extra for one of Samsung\u2019s S Pens. Perhaps the biggest downside is that Samsung\u2019s latest flagship now costs $100 more than its predecessor. <em>\u2014 S.R.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Super bright and colorful display<\/li>\n<li>Even lighter chassis<\/li>\n<li>Great battery life<\/li>\n<li>Native stylus support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Even more expensive than before<\/li>\n<li>Same main camera as the previous two Z Folds<\/li>\n<li>S Pen not included<\/li>\n<li>Charging speeds could be faster<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$1,900 at Samsung<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"403db61227b64666aa9dfda4e28eccee\" class=\"pd-list commerce-module\" data-jump-link-target><!-- amazon_B0C63KD7JP --><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-item has-label horizontal large-view\">\n<div class=\"img-container\"><span class=\"waslinkname\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"caas-img caas-lazy has-width img\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-7.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/the-best-smartphones-to-buy-in-2024-7.jpg\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\" class=\"caas-img has-width img\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Photo by Cherlynn Low \/ Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bottom-info\">\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p><strong>Read our full <\/strong><span class=\"waslinkname\"><strong>Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 review<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Screen size:<\/strong> 6.7-inch (main) | <strong>Storage capacity:<\/strong> Up to 512GB | <strong>SIM support:<\/strong> 1x nano SIM, 1x eSim | <strong>Battery life:<\/strong> Up to 23 hours<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re shopping for a foldable in the US, you actually have choices now. The clear winner of that race in the flip-phone category, though, continues to be Samsung. While Motorola\u2019s Razr+ gave the Galaxy Z Flip series some serious competition, it still wasn\u2019t good enough. With this year\u2019s <span class=\"waslinkname\">Z Flip 5<\/span>, Samsung brought a larger external display that\u2019s more functional than previous generations. You\u2019ll have to jump through a few hoops to enable full-sized apps and maximize the experience on that screen, but once you do, the Flip 5 realizes its potential.<\/p>\n<p>This year, Samsung also updated the hinges on its Z series, using a new dual-rail structure that\u2019s supposed to better diffuse impact than before. It also creates a water drop-shaped crease that the company says results in less stress on the screen, which should improve overall durability. Even if your Flip does break, Samsung is better positioned to handle repairs than any other foldable maker in the US, since it\u2019s the most established player here.<\/p>\n<p>The Flip 5 also has superior cameras compared to the Moto Razr+, delivering richer, more saturated colors in daylight. Of course, don\u2019t expect flagship-level pictures from any flip-style foldable. The Flip 5 pales in comparison to the likes of the latest iPhone or Pixel in low light, but for the most part, its pictures will be good enough for Instagram. Plus, you\u2019ll have a lot more fun snapping selfies or group photos with a foldable, since it can act as its own tripod when flexed and you can see yourself in the external display. And don\u2019t forget Samsung\u2019s handy open-palm gesture that triggers a camera timer, which will make capturing stills or videos much easier from a distance.<\/p>\n<p>When it\u2019s time to kick back on your couch, the Flip 5 also delivers. It has the fastest processor on a foldable and a vibrant internal screen that refreshes at up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and animations. It doesn\u2019t have the longest battery life, especially when compared to non-folding flagships like the Galaxy S23. But if you don\u2019t mind charging your phone whenever you\u2019re near an outlet, and a flipping foldable is on your shopping list, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the best foldable with this form factor. <em>\u2014 C.L.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"pros-cons large-view\">\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleCheckmark icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Pros<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Useful external screen<\/li>\n<li>Compact when folded<\/li>\n<li>New hinge enables gapless design<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-wrapper\"><span class=\"circleX icon\"><\/span><span class=\"title\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A lot of settings to dig through to maximize use<\/li>\n<li>Short battery life compared to typical Android phones<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"waslinkname\">$747 at Amazon<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"other-smartphones-weve-tested\">Other smartphones we&#8217;ve tested<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"samsung-galaxy-s24-ultra\">Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra<\/h3>\n<p>For its latest super-premium phone, Samsung gave the <span class=\"waslinkname\">S24 Ultra<\/span> a more durable titanium frame, faster performance thanks to a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and a much longer battery life. The company also tweaked its longest telephoto lens with a 5x optical zoom so it&#8217;s more usable in a wider range of situations. But the biggest upgrade is a new full suite of AI tools, which includes the ability to proofread texts, edit images and transcribe recordings. And when you tack on the best display available on a phone today and a built-in stylus, you have a very compelling flagship handset. Unfortunately, starting at $1,300, the S24 Ultra is a bit too expensive to recommend to anyone without deep pockets.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"oneplus-12\">OnePlus 12<\/h3>\n<p>While the <span class=\"waslinkname\">OnePlus 12<\/span> wasn\u2019t able to unseat the latest Pixel, it\u2019s worth mentioning because it offers powerful specs for the money. It features a speedy Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, a big and bright 6.8-inch, 120Hz OLED screen and the best battery life we\u2019ve seen on any phone to date. OnePlus also brought back support for wireless charging for the first time in several generations, along with a good (but not great) IP65 rating for dust and water resistance. And even though its huge camera module looks a bit ungainly, its photos are surprisingly sharp. But the best thing is that, with a starting price of $800, the OnePlus 12 costs $200 less than a Pixel 8 Pro or a similarly specced S24+.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"how-do-i-know-which-smartphone-is-the-best-for-me\">How do I know which smartphone is the best for me?<\/h3>\n<p>While choosing the best smartphone can be challenging, it mostly comes down to how you plan on using the device. All of the best phones available now get the basics right \u2014 you\u2019ll be able to make calls, text and access the internet without many hiccups. If your smartphone is your most used gadget, you may want to consider paying for a device on the higher end of the price spectrum. That will get you better overall performance, higher-quality cameras and a phone that will last for many years. If you don\u2019t use your phone for everything, you may be able to compromise on performance and extra perks and spend less on a still-capable handset.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"how-much-is-a-smartphone\">How much is a smartphone?<\/h3>\n<p>Smartphones range in price from $300 to over $1,500. The best budget phones available now will usually compromise on overall performance, design, camera prowess and extra features to keep costs down. On the flip side, the most expensive phones will have powerful processors, triple-camera arrays and even flip or fold designs. Most people will find a phone that fits their needs somewhere in the middle of that wide price range \u2014 we\u2019ve found that most of the best smartphones available right now cost between $500 and $1,000.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"what-can-you-do-on-a-smartphone\">What can you do on a smartphone?<\/h3>\n<p>Smartphones are essentially small, portable computers that let you do things like check email, browse social media, follow map directions, make contactless payments and more. This is all on top of the basics like making phone calls and texting, which we\u2019ve come to expect in all modern cell phones. Smartphones have also mostly replaced compact cameras thanks to their high-quality, built-in shooters, and the fact that most smartphones today as just as portable, if not more so, as compact cameras.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"caas-jump-link-heading\" id=\"how-long-do-smartphones-last\">How long do smartphones last?<\/h3>\n<p>Smartphones can last years and people are <span class=\"waslinkname\">holding on to their phones<\/span> longer now than ever before. Software updates and battery life are two of the biggest factors that can affect phone longevity. Apple promises five years worth of software updates for its latest iPhones, and Google promises the same for its Pixel phones. Samsung phones will get four years worth of Android updates from the time they launch. As for charging speeds and battery life, your phone can deteriorate over time as you use and recharge your phone on a regular basis.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You might have an idea of which smartphone you want to buy next. But there are more options than ever before that are solid \u2014 plenty of companies are making stellar handsets nowadays, at similar prices, all with comparable feature sets. That said, the choice isn\u2019t always cut-and-dry. If you know you want an iPhone, &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25969,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"hashtags":[],"class_list":["post-25968","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-gadgets","has-thumb","has-featured"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25968"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25968"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25968\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25969"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25968"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25968"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25968"},{"taxonomy":"hashtags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.worldtechguide.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hashtags?post=25968"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}