As a smartphone reviewer, my job entails spending hours testing apps, making phone calls, and taking countless food photos with the newest phones on the market. I am well-acquainted with my SIM card ejector, and I wear that badge proudly. With Labor Day just around the corner, you’ve come to the right place for some expert buying advice.
After testing various Android phones from top manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and OnePlus, I’ve gained a keen sense of which ones truly deserve your hard-earned money. This includes providing insights into the latest Google Pixel 9 series, featuring not one, not two, but four new models for your evaluation.
The best Android phone in 2024, according to my thorough testing, is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. This device boasts Samsung’s flagship features and specifications, including an S Pen stylus for precise inputs, a 200MP camera system, and the most durable display on any Galaxy phone to date.
Read on to discover more of my top picks for the best Android phones available today. Additionally, for discounts on recommended handsets tested by ZDNET, check out our best Labor Day phone deals roundup.
Best Android phones in 2024
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Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Android phone overall
The new Galaxy S24 Ultra from Samsung is the first to fully embrace AI, and the S24 Ultra – the premium model – is currently the top Android phone on the market. The phone’s Galaxy AI model comes packed with a range of generative capabilities, including real-time phone call translations, object recognition for image-based Google searches, AI-assisted photo editing and transcriptions, and even a Chat Assist feature for composing messages with different tones.
Similar to its predecessor, the S23 Ultra, the S24 Ultra sports a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a robust 5,000mAh battery. Despite a price increase to $1,299 (which is $100 more than the S23 Ultra), the phone’s enhancements more than justify the cost: The S24 Ultra now boasts a lightweight yet sturdy titanium frame as opposed to last year’s aluminum build, along with Corning’s latest Gorilla Armor.
Review: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The updated display protection on the S24 Ultra offers improved glare resistance, prompting ZDNET reviewer Jason Hiner to note that it’s more enjoyable to use than the iPhone 15 Pro Max and other flagship phones. This sentiment is echoed by Reddit users, with one user stating that the anti-reflective glass significantly enhances the user experience.
Under the hood, the S24 Ultra features an enhanced Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for improved graphics and AI capabilities, 12GB of RAM (up from last year’s 8GB), and 2,600 nits of brightness, a substantial improvement over last year’s 1,750. Notable upgrades in the camera system include a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, resulting in sharper, less noisy images and an overall camera system that captures more light than ever before.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Display size: 6.8 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (5x), 10MP telephoto (3x) | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh
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Google Pixel 9 Pro
Best camera Android phone
When it comes to camera performance, you can’t go wrong with any of the flagship devices from the major players like Apple, Samsung, and Google. Depending on your preference for color temperature and feature set, you may lean towards a specific manufacturer. However, in most cases, Google’s Pixel cameras satisfy the majority of users, and the latest Pixel 9 Pro (and Pro XL) remains a standout for instant capture and post-processing.
Both models of the latest Pixel series boast a reliable triple-lens setup, featuring a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens for distant shots. These cameras are complemented by various software features like Google’s Super Res Zoom (enabling up to 30x zoom photos), 8K video upscaling, and a new Add Me feature that enables the merging of two photos so everyone can be captured in a single shot. Additionally, there’s a new 42MP selfie camera that’s sharper and captures a wider field of view compared to last year’s 10.8MP sensor, making it ideal for group selfies and scenic shots.
Review: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Real-time capture is just part of the equation when it comes to mobile photography; post-processing and the flexibility of devices with editing and tweaking capabilities are equally important. In this regard, the Pixel 9 Pro, powered by the new Tensor G4 chipset, may offer the most versatile and creative photo toolbox currently available. With AI features like Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Best Take, this phone can transform any subpar photo into a gem.
Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro boasts one of the most versatile camera systems available, with output that strikes a balance between color accuracy and overall satisfaction to the user’s eye.
Google Pixel 9 Pro tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Display size: 6.3 and 6.7 inches | Storage options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Front camera: 42MP | Battery: 4,700/5,060mAh
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After weighing out the specs and reviewer-tested experiences, the best Android phone is currently the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It’s got a beautiful AMOLED display, a powerful CPU, and a state-of-the-art camera that covers all the bases and angles. Here’s how the best of the best compare to each other:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: $1,299, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6.8 inches, 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED, 200MP main, 50MP with 5x optical, 10MP with 3x optical, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera, 5,000mAh
- OnePlus Open: $1,700, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 6.3 and 7.8 inches, 120Hz Flexible AMOLED, 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto, 5,000mAh
- Nothing Phone 2: $599, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, 6.7 inches 120Hz AMOLED, 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 4,700mAh
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: $999, Google Tensor G4, 6.3 inches, 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED, 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 4,600mAh
- OnePlus 12: $899, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6.8 inches, 120Hz AMOLED, 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto, 5,500mAh
- Google Pixel 8a: $499, Google Tensor G3, 6.1 inches, 120Hz OLED, 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 4,495mAh
- Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro: $1,199, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6.78 inches, 165Hz AMOLED, 50MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 5,500mAh
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: $1,099, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6.7 inches, 120Hz AMOLED, 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 4,000mAh
All of these phones run the same base operating system, but the user interface ranges from stock Android to more elaborate options. Select the one that best suits your needs.
Camera performance is solid across the board for most phones on the list, with some standing out among others. Opt for Google, Samsung, or OnePlus if photography is your main focus.
If you plan on investing $1,000 or more, longevity should also be considered. Look for companies committed to providing consistent smartphone updates. Google and Samsung lead the way, offering up to seven years of software support.
Choose your ideal Android phone based on your preferences:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: The ultimate all-rounder with top-tier features across the board.
- OnePlus Open: The best foldable phone offering comfort, essentials, and a competitive price.
- Nothing Phone 2: A stylish device prioritizing design and hardware.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: Clean software, exclusive perks, and distinct features.
- OnePlus 12: Lightning-fast charging and impressive specifications at a reasonable price.
- Google Pixel 8a: A top sub-$500 phone with flagship-worthy camera capabilities.
- Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro: High-performance gaming features for an immersive experience.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: Compact yet powerful, offering performance without compromise.
As smartphone reviewers, we spend months rigorously testing every major Android release, evaluating real-life performance in areas like phone calls, messaging, browsing, and photography. We also consult with industry experts and analysts to curate the best of the best Android phones. Here’s what we consider:
- Display: The most overlooked yet crucial feature, a good display enhances your everyday interactions.
- Performance: Powered by Qualcomm’s chipsets, today’s Android devices can handle multi-tasking effortlessly.
- Camera quality: Reliable cameras capture crisp photos and videos across various scenarios.
- Battery life: From morning to night, top picks offer lasting power and fast recharging capabilities.
- Price: We prioritize value, ensuring you get what you pay for without breaking the bank.
If you’d like a detailed breakdown, visit our phone testing methodology page for more information.
When considering which Android brand is best, your choice depends on your preferences for features, user interface, and design. If you prefer a minimalist approach, Google’s Pixel line may suit you best. Samsung offers an all-encompassing smartphone experience, while OnePlus provides unique value propositions like ultra-fast charging and a smooth interface.
Budget plays a role, but major manufacturers like Google and Samsung offer phones in every price range, from budget-friendly to premium models.
Among Android makers, Samsung stands out as a reliable brand with extensive aftersales support and software updates. With a promise of up to seven years of software updates for its latest phones, Samsung is a leader in the Android market. Their phones are widely available in the U.S., with a robust repair and insurance infrastructure.
The current top version of Android, Android 14, boasts enhanced security and privacy settings, making it the most advanced and secure Android release yet.
Android offers unparalleled customizability and supports cutting-edge features like foldable displays and fast USB-C charging. While Android devices may be more experimental, they can sometimes lack the consistency and reliability of iPhones. Apple devices are known for stability and ease of use, while also offering unique features like iMessage and FaceTime.
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As smartphone trends evolve, Android phones continue to innovate and offer exciting features. For compact yet powerful devices, the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 are excellent options. These phones balance performance and usability, making them popular choices among consumers.
