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+Topic: The best phones you can buy
+Description:
+With dozens of smartphones on the market today, it's not always easy to choose the best phone for you -- especially if you prefer Android over iOS. That's why ZDNET's done all the work for you. Over the past year, I've tested and reviewed just about every major smartphone released by Apple, Samsung (including the new Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6), Google, OnePlus, and others to curate this definitive list of the best handsets available right now.
+
+What is the best phone right now?
+After extensive testing of dozens of devices, our pick for the best phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, thanks to its immersive and vibrant display, reliable battery life, and wealth of special features, some of which are powered by the company's new generative AI model. 
+
+Of course, the best phone overall may not exactly be the best phone for you. Find the rest of our top picks below.
+
+Best phones of 2024
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
+Best phone overall
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra on purple background
+Jason Hiner/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Best display available in any smartphone
+Reliable quad-camera setup
+Battery life remains among best in class
+AI features deliver new value
+cons
+Costs more than some premium laptops
+No Qi2 magnetic charging
+Can be unwieldy for some, especially with a case
+more details
+Samsung's latest Galaxy S24 line is the first to go all-in on AI, and the S24 Ultra, the most premium of the three, is the best Android phone today. The new Galaxy AI model embedded in the device brings a host of generative capabilities, including real-time phone call translations, the ability to circle an object on screen to perform an image-based Google search, AI-assisted photo editing and transcriptions, and even a Chat Assist feature for figuring out how to phrase a message in different tones.
+
+Like its predecessor, the S23 Ultra, the S24 Ultra is built with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a reliable 5,000mAh battery. Though the price has gone up to $1,299 ($100 more than the S23 Ultra), the phone's upgrades make it well worth it: The S24 Ultra is made of a lightweight yet durable titanium frame, compared to last year's aluminum, and features Corning's new Gorilla Armor. 
+
+Review: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
+
+The difference in display protection means the S24 Ultra is more glare-free than ever, which ZDNET reviewer Jason Hiner suggested: "makes its screen more enjoyable to use than the iPhone 15 Pro Max and other flagship phones." Reddit users seem to agree with Hiner, including one who said he believes "the anti-reflective glass really makes a difference."
+
+Under the hood, the S24 Ultra includes an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for improved graphics and AI features, 12GB RAM (an increase from last year's 8GB), and 2,600 nits of brightness -- a big improvement over last year's 1,750. As for the new camera system, the big upgrade comes in the form of a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The results, as Hiner discovered, were sharper and less noisy images, and an overall camera system that can pull in more light than ever before.
+
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra tech 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
+
+View now at Best Buy
+View now at Samsung
+iPhone 15 Pro Max
+Best iPhone overall
+iPhone 15 Pro Black
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Action button brings new customizability
+Lighter, more comfortable form factor
+Compatible with new Apple Intelligence features
+5X zoom camera for high-quality shots
+cons
+Battery life could be longer
+Apple-branded cases, especially the FineWoven, need to be better
+more details
+The latest iPhone 15 Pro Max offers everything a premium flagship smartphone should, including a brilliant 6.7-inch AMOLED display for all the media consumption -- and mobile productivity, of course. This year's model also looks and feels different than any prior Pro Max devices, as it's made of titanium instead of stainless steel and, therefore, significantly lighter in the hand. This makes the iPhone 15 Pro Max noticeably more comfortable to use, as ZDNET Editor-in-Chief Jason Hiner noted in his review.
+
+Another major feature of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the USB-C connector; particularly, one that supports faster charging and data transfers and can charge other devices including the Apple Watch from your iPhone, directly transfer photos and videos into a portable SSD, and connect to an external 4K monitor. These benefits are game-changing for professional content creators.
+
+Review: iPhone 15 Pro Max
+
+The iPhone 15 Pro Max also features a new 5x zoom camera lens -- the equivalent of a 120mm focal length on a mirrorless or DSLR camera. The far-distance capturing and improved low-light performance of the new camera system has been so reliable that the iPhone 15 Pro Max has become my go-to for video recording during product launch events. Lastly, a new Action button replaces the mute-switch toggle of older iPhones and lets you better customize shortcuts and easily open the apps you need, including firing up the camera with a press-and-hold.
+
+And the A17 Pro chip rounds out the year's upgrades, offering improved graphical performance over last year's iPhone 14 Pro model. Multiple Best Buy customers have attested to the iPhone's improved performance, with one citing, "No glitches have come up in the several weeks I've had the phone." Given all the upgrades, Apple is charging you more for the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max, with a starting price that's now been bumped up to $1,199. In turn, the device comes with a base storage of 256GB.
+
+iPhone 15 Pro Max tech specs: Processor: A17 Pro | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto (2x), 12MP telephoto (5x) | Front camera: 12MP
+
+View now at Apple
+View now at Best Buy
+View now at Amazon
+Google Pixel 8a
+Best budget phone
+google-pixel-8a-in-hand.
+Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Competitively priced at under $500
+Bright and smooth 120Hz OLED display
+Seven years of operating system updates
+Plenty of Android AI features, with more to come
+cons
+Lack of dedicated telephoto lens
+6.1-inch screen may be too small for some users
+Wired charging capped at 18W
+more details
+If bang for your buck is what you're after, consider the Google Pixel 8a. There are really three key reasons why you should buy the latest Pixel over any other mid-range phone: For $499, you get a comfortable 6.1-inch OLED display that ramps up to a 120Hz refresh rate, a reliable 64MP camera system, and Google's catalog of AI features like Magic Editor, Audio Eraser, and Gemini, all backed by seven years of operating system updates.
+
+Software is the name of the game with Google Pixel phones, and the extensive support provided for the 8a series, powered by a new Tensor G3 chip, should keep it feature-relevant for as long as until 2031. For reference, most phones in this price range, including last year's Pixel 7a, typically receive two to four years of software and security updates.
+
+Also: Google Pixel 8a hands-on
+
+Of course, some limitations are to be expected from a phone at this price range, such as the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens and a slower wired charging rate (18W). However, from my hands-on time with the Pixel 8a, I found it just as capable of capturing various subjects and styles, and the presence of wireless charging makes up for the phone taking a few minutes longer to fully charge than flagship handsets.
+
+Google Pixel 8a tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Display size: 6.1 inches | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB | Rear cameras: 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide| Front camera: 13MP
+
+View now at Google Store
+View now at Best Buy
+View now at Target
+Google Pixel 8 Pro
+Best camera phone
+Google Pixel 8 Pro Actua Display
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Quality cameras all across the board
+Plenty of useful AI features
+5,050mAh battery with LTPO display
+Priced to undercut the larger iPhone and Samsung Galaxy
+cons
+Stock Android can feel too minimal
+Capped at 30W fast charging
+Costs $100 more than last year's model
+more details
+When it comes to camera performance, you really can't go wrong with any of the flagship devices from the big three (Apple, Samsung, and Google). Depending on your preference for color temperature and feature set, you may lean towards one manufacturer over the other. But more often than not, it's Google's Pixel camera system that satisfies the most users, and the latest Pixel 8 Pro remains a champion both for instant capturing and post-processing. 
+
+The latest model features a reliable triple lens setup, with a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP ultrawide that's notably more capable at capturing macro and close-up photos than the 12MP sensor on the older Pixel 7 Pro model, and a 48MP telephoto lens for far-distance shots. Should you want more finite control over the Pixel 8 Pro's camera quality, there's now a series of Pro controls that allow you to tweak capture settings like the exposure and shutter speed.
+
+Review: Google Pixel 8 Pro
+
+But real-time capturing is only half the battle with mobile photography; there's also post-processing and how flexible devices are with editing and tweaking subjects around. In that regard, the Pixel 8 Pro, powered by a new Tensor G3 chipset, may just have the most flexible and creative photo toolbox on the market, with AI features like Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Best Take that can turn any bad photo into a good one. When I tested the camera system last year, I found its stabilization and HDR capabilities just as impressive.
+
+All in all, the Pixel 8 Pro has one of the most versatile camera systems on the market, with an output that's balanced in color and generally satisfying to look at. One satisfied Reddit user even says "The camera is a joy, and definitely prefer the look on this over the iPhone."  
+
+Google Pixel 8 Pro tech specs: Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Front camera: 10.8MP
+
+View now at Best Buy
+View now at Target
+OnePlus Open
+Best tablet-style foldable phone
+OnePlus Open folded open on energy yellow background
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Lightest and thinnest foldable design
+Intuitive multitasking and productivity features
+65W fast charging will spoil you
+16GB RAM and 512GB of storage is the base level
+cons
+$1,699 is still pricey, even if it undercuts the competition
+No IP68 rating and wireless charging support
+more details
+The number of foldable phones on the market has never been higher, thanks to the collective effort of just about every manufacturer, including Google with its Pixel Fold, Motorola with its Razr lineup, and OnePlus with the OnePlus Open. While Samsung has held the reins of the best foldable honor for years, I'm giving the top spot right now to the OnePlus Open. 
+
+Unlike its competitors, the OnePlus Open strikes the best balance of weight-to-size ratio. When folded, the phone is as light as an iPhone, and when unfolded, it expands into a thin slate of visual goodness. OnePlus leverages the 7.8-inch display by offering some of the most intuitive multitasking features I've tested, headlined by "Open Canvas." With it, you can open up to three apps at once, and as you tap into each one, the other one or two will tuck itself to the side, ready to reappear when needed.
+
+Review: OnePlus Open
+
+The triple camera setup, while presented in a casing that sticks out more than I'd prefer, captures spectacular photos and videos, with an emphasis on blue and orangish hues that cinematographers and photography buffs know and love. By nature of the foldable form factor, the Open is also capable of taking hands-free selfies and group photos.
+
+OnePlus got the fundamentals down pat with the Open, too, including 65W fast charging capabilities (with a charger in the box) that blow past Samsung's Z Fold 5 and Google's Pixel Fold standards, a base configuration of 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and a crease-less inner display. The cherry on top for me is its $1,699 price tag. One Amazon customer even says the Open was a surprisingly smooth entryway into Android, "after going with just iPhones since the iPhone 7."
+
+OnePlus Open tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Display size: 6.3 inches and 7.8 inches | Storage options: 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto| Front camera: 32MP (outer) and 20MP (inner)
+
+View now at Amazon
+View now at OnePlus
+View now at Best Buy
+Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
+Best flip-style foldable phone
+Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+High-quality materials, fit, and finish
+AI-powered Auto Zoom feature for photos
+IP48 water resistance
+Larger external display is game-changing
+The most pocketable Galaxy phone yet
+cons
+No telephoto camera
+Expensive, but generous trade-in offers abound
+more details
+The new Galaxy Z Flip 6, unveiled at Samsung Unpacked in July, packs a ton of character and features into a tiny clamshell that pays homage to flip phones of the past.
+
+Shape-shifting displays aside, the Z Flip 6 is very similar to the standard Samsung Galaxy S-series flagship, with a large 6.7-inch AMOLED panel that's crisp and bright, up to 512GB of RAM for those high-resolution pictures and videos, and a healthy 4,000mAh battery powering it all -- an upgrade from the Z Flip 5. There's also now a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and the first vapor cooling chamber ever on a Z Flip device, both of which should make the phone run more efficiently, reducing battery drainage. The phone is thinner and lighter than previous models, too.
+
+Review: I went hands-on with Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 6, and it's basically a high-tech fidget spinner
+
+The Z Flip 6's camera system gets a nice boost, too, with an improved 50MP main sensor and 12MP ultra-wide. You'll also find a new AI-powered Auto Zoom feature, which automatically detects how many people are in a frame, as well as potential background objects the user may want to be kept in the shot, and repositions digitally. 
+
+The Flex Window, or outer display of the flip phone, also gets some fun new features in the Z Flip 6, including interactive wallpapers, suggested replies to text messages, and a new Interpreter Mode for live translations. 
+
+Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Main display: 6.7 inches | Cover display: 3.4 inches | RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM with 256GB/512GB internal options | Cameras: 50MP wide angle, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP selfie | Battery: 4,000mAh 
+
+View now at Samsung
+Asus Zenfone 10
+Best compact phone
+Asus Zenfone 10 in hand
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+There's no denying that, over the past five years, smartphones have become more and more unwieldy. Apple now offers Plus and Max-sized iPhones, Samsung has an "Ultra" beast, and even Google has a foldable that opens up to 7.6 inches. On the other end of the spectrum sits the Asus Zenfone 10, a device that deviates from the norm in favor of ergonomics and in-hand comfort, and the decision pays off.
+
+Compared to its predecessor, the Asus Zenfone 9, which I called "the iPhone Mini alternative for Android enthusiasts," the newest model features a compact 5.9-inch AMOLED display, all the power you'd need in a modern-day phone thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, and two capable cameras on the rear.
+
+Review: Asus Zenfone 10
+
+The battery life on the Asus holds up surprisingly well, too, with my review unit recording nearly two days of usage before hitting 0%. Some smaller yet significant details to note include the 3.5mm headphone jack on top, a physical side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a texturized back cover that looks and feels great in the hand. If you're planning to buy the Zenfone 10, multiple Reddit users have suggested to "get the 512GB version because there is no SD card slot," which I fully agree with.
+
+Asus Zenfone 10 specs: Screen size: 5.9 inches | Storage: Up to 512GB | Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Panel type: AMOLED | Color: Black, Blue, Hazel, White, Red | Battery life: 4,300mAh | Water and dust resistant: IP68 
+
+View now at Amazon
+OnePlus 12
+Best fast-charging phone
+OnePlus 12
+Kerry Wan/ZDNET
+pros & cons
+pros
+Snappy and smooth performance
+80W in the US with charger in the box
+Premium build quality for the price
+Competitive main camera for photos
+cons
+IP65 rating is not as water resistant as flagship phones
+Curved glass/frame design can be slippery for some
+Video recording is not the best
+more details
+OnePlus has had its ups and downs over the past four years, pivoting from value-driven smartphones to ultra-premium and then back to square one with last year's OnePlus 11. This year, it's doubling down on its value-driven flagships. 
+
+The OnePlus 12 starts at $899, which undercuts its closest competitors, the $999 Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and Google Pixel 8 Pro, and here's everything you get for the price: a large 6.8-inch AMOLED 120Hz display, a 5,400mAh battery, a triple camera setup with a competent 50MP main lens at the helm, the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and more. Again: $899, and that's before the $100 discount when you trade in any phone in any condition to OnePlus. Take advantage of that. 
+
+Review: OnePlus 12
+
+Putting the value aspect aside, the OnePlus 12 shines with its charging speed, something you'll quickly take for granted once you realize that phones don't have to be sitting by an outlet for two hours every day. The 80W wired charging on the phone can power it from 0 to 50% within 10 minutes. A full charge takes less than 30 minutes. "80W fast charging is life-changing," a satisfied Best Buy customer adds.
+
+Just as impressive is the OnePlus 12's new 50W wireless charging, a feature many users have been asking for and was sorely missed on last year's model. While the OnePlus 12 is not as "all in" on generative AI features, it offers a well-rounded, high-performing Android experience for a couple of hundred dollars less than other flagship phones.
+
+OnePlus 12 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Display size: 6.8 inches | Storage options: Up to 512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto| Front camera: 16MP
+
+View now at Amazon
+What is the best phone?
+Our pick for the best phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It features everything you could want from a smartphone including a large display, four cameras that can shoot 200MP photos and 8K video, up to 1TB of storage, a built-in S Pen for writing and drawing, and a 5,000mAh battery powering the system. Here's how the S24 Ultra fares with the rest of our top picks.
+
+Best phone model	Price	Storage	Screen size	Battery size	Processor
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra	$1,299	Up to 1TB	6.8 inches	5,000mAh	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
+iPhone 15 Pro Max	$1,099	Up to 1TB	6.7 inches	4,323mAh	A17 Bionic
+Google Pixel 8 Pro	$999	Up to 1TB	6.7 inches	5,050mAh	Google Tensor G3
+OnePlus Open	$1,699	512GB	6.3 inches and 7.8 inches	5,000mAh	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
+Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6	$1,099	Up to 512GB	6.7 inches	4,000mAh	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
+Google Pixel 8a	$499	Up to 256GB	6.1 inches	4,492mAh	Google Tensor G3
+OnePlus 12	$799	Up to 512GB	6.8 inches	5,400mAh	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
+Asus Zenfone 10	$699	Up to 512GB	5.9-inch	4,300mAh	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
+Which is the right phone for you?
+Choosing a phone can be a daunting task. But having a list of your must-have features can go a long way toward narrowing down your options. If you're a mobile professional or travel a lot for work, you'll want to choose a phone that can provide you with at least a full day of use on a full battery as well as both LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity. 
+
+If you're looking for your teen's first smartphone, a budget-friendly and less feature-heavy option may be better to prevent overspending as well as misuse. And if you're a content creator or other creative professional, you'll want a phone with an excellent front and rear camera to capture photos and videos for your social media feed.
+
+Choose this best phone...
+
+If you want...
+
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
+
+A no-compromise smartphone that virtually any type of user can take advantage of. It's the only 2024 smartphone with a built-in stylus.
+
+iPhone 15 Pro Max
+
+The best iPhone money can buy. It has a large screen, the longest-lasting battery out of all the models, and a toolbox of a camera system.
+
+Google Pixel 8 Pro
+
+A flagship camera experience at your fingertips. The Pixel 8 Pro differentiates itself with a slew of AI-powered camera tricks like Magic Editor and Best Take.
+
+OnePlus Open
+
+The best phone-to-tablet foldable that money can buy. And if you're a power user, the multitasking and charging features especially will serve you well.
+
+Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
+
+A flip-style foldable that's both compact and performant. With a large 3.4-inch external display and improved battery life, this is the foldable to buy for most people. 
+
+Google Pixel 8a
+
+A more budget-friendly smartphone that doesn't compromise on performance and camera quality. The Pixel 8a will also receive seven years of OS updates, keeping it feature-relevant until at least 2031.
+
+OnePlus 12
+
+A phone that lasts long and charges from 0% to 100% in just 30 minutes. The OnePlus 12 is quietly good value, too, starting at $799.
+
+Asus Zenfone 10
+
+A compact phone that's easy to pocket but doesn't compromise on performance and specs. The Zenfone 10 is also competitively priced, starting at $699.
+
+Factors to consider when choosing a phone
+The process of making our phone selections includes real-world testing and researching about the phones for weeks, consulting with colleagues, industry experts, and analysts who also have hands-on experience with the smartphones, and then selecting the best from all of the available choices. 
+
+Ultimately, we weigh in the following aspects when curating this list:
+
+Design: There's only so much you can do with a slab design, but size differences, material choices, color options, and even the ability to bend a screen in half give shoppers enough diversity to have a preference. That's why we have a recommendation for every form factor.
+Performance: For many, smartphones are the center of our lives, which means the best ones are performant and can handle most, if not all, tasks you throw at them.
+Camera: Arguably the most valuable feature of a smartphone; the consistency and reliability of a camera system can make or break the overall mobile experience. We test every device in broad daylight and in the darkest of nights when finalizing this list.
+Battery: Every option in this guide should last you at least a day of moderate use. We also consider what devices support fast charging and/or wireless charging.
+Value: Price points are noted, but the most important thing with buying a phone is getting your money's worth. With these picks, you can rest assured that you're getting the best bang for your buck. 
+How we test phones
+ZDNET's review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every major phone release, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and special features. Here's a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:
+
+Design and ergonomics: How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many users' buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing.
+Performance: Several factors affect a phone's performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, with all background tasks closed, and with as stable of a mobile connection as possible.
+Camera quality: ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models.
+Battery life and charging: It's also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it (wired, wireless, or both). 
+Special features: These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite.
+Pricing and availability: Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally.
+For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive phone testing methodology page.
+
+What is the #1 best phone?
+As mentioned above, the best phone right now is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which features just about everything you could want in a mobile computing device. From the large and vibrant display to the generative AI features to the quad-camera setup, there's no device on the market that checks more boxes than Samsung's latest Ultra flagship.
+
+What is the best AI phone right now?
+The best phone for AI right now is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which supports the company's latest Galaxy AI features, including Circle to Search, Generative Edit, Live Translate, and Chat Assist.
+
+Google and, just recently, Apple have also begun rolling out AI features across new and older handsets. While distinctively branded, Pixels, Galaxy phones, and, soon, iPhones offer a similar list of AI capabilities, including photo editing, text summaries, and voice assistants that can process natural language.
+
+Which phone is best for money?
+Besides the ones listed above, the OnePlus 12R is another great pick for the money. At $499, the device features a large 6.7-inch display with 120Hz refresh rate, a 50MP main camera system, a 5,500mAh battery that beats that of higher-cost devices, and 80W wired charging. The real kicker is OnePlus' aggressive trade-in offer, with the company discounting $100 when you turn in any phone in any condition, effectively bringing the 12R's price down to $399.
+
+Which phone has the best camera?
+It's debatable between the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Google Pixel 8 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. For long-distance shots, Samsung's 200MP rear camera with 100x Space Zoom can capture subjects as far out as the moon. For point-and-shoot pictures and a rather simplified (but effective) camera experience, Google's Pixel phones have always been at the top. If you're a videographer at heart, then the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with Cinematic mode and Action mode, makes for an excellent tool to get the shots you need.
+
+How long should a phone battery last?
+The average phone battery gives you about 22 hours of use on a full charge, which is great for staying connected on your commutes, work flights, and at home in the evenings. But that's just the average, actual use time varies by phone model and by what you're using your phone for. 
+
+For example, the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a 29-hour battery life. But you'll most certainly get less than that if you habitually scroll through social media or stream video and music. 
+
+How much storage should my phone have?
+Most smartphones have a base storage capacity of 128GB, which is plenty of space for average users to download apps and music, take photos, and shoot videos. However, if you're a mobile or creative professional, you'll need more space. Many smartphones have expanded storage options up to 512GB or even 1TB, and you can always sync your phone to your preferred cloud storage service to free up local storage space.
+
+Topic: The 10 best phones available now, and how to choose the right one
+Reviewed and ranked to help you decide
+Description: 
+The smartphone market moves fast, and there seems to be almost no break between launches these days. How can you possibly decide which is the best phone for you?
+
+Your first decision is between an iPhone or Android phone – both are included here. Then, how much are you willing to spend? Maybe a budget or mid-range phone will offer everything you’re looking for.
+
+But if you’re looking for the absolute best of the best, you’ve come to the right place. It’s difficult to whittle down the hundreds of phones we review each year to just 10, but that’s exactly what we’ve done here.
+
+We can easily recommend all the phones below, but each model stands out for individual reasons. Whether you’re looking for a phone with AI features, great cameras, brilliant gaming performance, superb battery life, a folding screen or simply value for money, there’s something here that will appeal to you.
+
+Samsung, Google, Apple, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Honor and Motorola are all represented here. Nothing, Nokia, Realme, Asus, Huawei, Vivo and Sony miss out, but you will find them in other smartphone buying guides. At the bottom of this article, you’ll also find detailed buying advice, helping you to pick the perfect phone for your personal needs.
+
+Why you should trust us: Phone reviews and buying advice have been a staple of Tech Advisor’s coverage since the original iPhone was released in 2007 and Android made its first headlines in 2008.
+
+We’ve guided you through 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G; we’ve reported on the rise and fall of Windows Phone, BlackBerry phones and LG phones.
+
+We’ve seen smartphone makers scramble to offer the biggest, brightest, highest-resolution, fastest-refreshing, toughest, flexible, foldable and even three-dimensional displays; we’ve seen an arms race in processors and graphics in the quest for the ultimate mobile performance; a long-running game of how many cameras – and then how many megapixels – they can first squeeze on to the handset, and later hide out of sight; a push for batteries that can go – never mind all day – but all week; and new technologies that enable water resistant and vastly improve audio.
+
+We’ve held your hand through a fascinating journey of mobile hardware, and today – some 17 years later – it’s the software smarts and once impossible to imagine AI capabilities that glue us to this path. We perform in-depth, real-world testing on every new Android and iPhone model that’s worth buying (dozens every single year), adopting it as our primary phone for the most authentic experience possible and making sure we are in a position to give you the best possible phone buying advice.
+
+Best smartphone 2024
+1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best overall
+Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra - Best overall
+Pros
+
+Top-tier performance 
+Excellent, versatile cameras 
+Very good battery life 
+Clever AI features 
+Seven years of updates
+Cons
+
+Expensive 
+Big and bulky 
+Charging still only 45W
+Price When Reviewed: From $1,299.99
+Best Prices Today:
+$1299.99 at Samsung
+$1419.99 at Best Buy
+If money is no object, the S24 Ultra is the best smartphone you can buy right now.
+
+Samsung has put that high price tag to good use, delivering a superb user experience with no real weaknesses. And there are a catalogue of major strengths, from incredible overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance to five distinct camera lenses, each of which more than hold their own.
+
+You still get a gorgeous 6.8-inch AMOLED display and built-in S Pen, yet this is still a two-day phone for many people in terms of battery life.
+
+What’s more, the the software experience is the best it’s ever been, with a slick One UI skin over Android 14 and seven years of both OS and security updates. A selection of genuinely useful AI features are the icing on the cake.
+
+The S24 Ultra’s price and big, bulky design aren’t for everyone. But it’s the most complete smartphone money can buy.
+
+Read our full Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review
+2. Google Pixel 8 Pro – Best for most people
+Google Pixel 8 Pro -  Best for most people
+Pros
+
+Luxurious build quality
+Incredible cameras
+Useful software features
+Seven years of updates
+Cons
+
+So-so battery life
+Slow charging
+Big and heavy
+Price When Reviewed: From $999
+Best Prices Today:
+$739.99 at Amazon
+$809 at Best Buy
+$999 at Google
+The Pixel 7 Pro was already an excellent smartphone, but the Pixel 8 Pro takes things to the next level.
+
+Not only does the Tensor G3 chip boost performance, it enables a range of genuinely useful software features. Many of these improve the photography experience, where Google’s advanced processing and capable lenses deliver consistently excellent photos.
+
+Android 14 on the Pixel is the cleanest and most intuitive software on any smartphone, and it’ll now be supported by Google for an incredible seven years. Add in a luxurious, premium build and price that still undercuts the top-tier flagships, and the Pixel 8 Pro is a superb smartphone.
+
+However, it’s not all good news. The battery life and charging could still do with improvement, while the big, heavy design won’t suit everyone.
+
+If the latter is an issue for you, the regular Pixel 8 is a better bet. But there are a few other differences between them.
+
+Read our full Google Pixel 8 Pro review
+3. Xiaomi 14 Ultra – Best cameras
+Xiaomi 14 Ultra - Best cameras
+Pros
+
+Incredible photography
+Stunning vegan leather design
+Gorgeous curved screen
+Flawless performance
+90W wast charging
+Cons
+
+Expensive, with Photography Kit sold separately
+Mixed HyperOS software
+Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
+Xiaomi’s flagships have taken excellent photos for a few years now, but the 14 Ultra takes things to the next level.
+
+It’s the first smartphone that can genuinely replace a DSLR for most people, such is the quality and versatility of the system on offer. It includes four 50Mp rear lenses and a 32Mp selfie camera, all of which take superb photos in basically any environment.
+
+And while expensive, the optional Photography Kit accessory makes the experience even closer to a real camera.
+
+With a gorgeous design, stunning display, great performance and solid battery life supported by 90W fast charging, the 14 Ultra is one of the few phones that justifies its sky-high price tag. However, that also makes it unaffordable for many people, while the HyperOS software experience still isn’t great.
+
+Those two factors prevent it from being higher in this list, but if photography is your top priority, this is the phone to buy.
+
+If you’d rather something more affordable, the regular Xiaomi 14 is nearly as good when it comes to photography.
+
+Read our full Xiaomi 14 Ultra review
+4. iPhone 15 Pro – Best iPhone
+iPhone 15 Pro -  Best iPhone
+Pros
+
+Excellent cameras
+Superb display
+USB-C port
+Cons
+
+Slow charging
+Missing Pro Max 5x optical zoom
+Price When Reviewed: $999
+Best Prices Today:
+$999 at Apple
+$999.99 at Best Buy
+The iPhone 15 Pro has a collection of small changes that, when combined, represent a significant upgrade.
+
+A new titanium build is durable but noticeable lighter, and there’s also a new customisable Action Button to replace the mute switch. Apple’s A17 Pro chipset is the most capable on any smartphone, and delivers truly stellar performance, while the introduction of USB-C is undoubtedly a step forward.
+
+The 6.1in display is relatively compact by modern phone standards, but it looks excellent and benefits from the 120Hz refresh rate. Battery life is generally solid, though you’ll still have to put up with slow charging speeds.
+
+But despite the missing 5x optical zoom on the telephoto lens, the all-round camera experience is superb. Many apps now support the genuinely useful Dynamic Island, and iOS 17 is just as slick and intuitive as ever.
+
+For most people, the iPhone 15 Pro is the sweet spot in Apple’s 2023 smartphone range.
+
+Read our full Apple iPhone 15 Pro review
+5. Google Pixel 7a – Best value phone
+Google Pixel 7a - Best value phone
+Pros
+
+Phenomenal camera for the price
+Excellent Google software
+Strong performance
+Water-resistant
+Cons
+
+Slow charging
+Wireless charging is unreliable
+Only 90Hz display
+Price When Reviewed: $499
+Best Prices Today:
+$299 at Amazon
+$299 at Best Buy
+$439.99 at Walmart
+The Pixel 7a isn’t Google’s latest mid-range phone anymore – that award goes to the Pixel 8a – but the upgrades don’t justify most people paying the premium.
+
+At launch, the 8a was £50 more expensive than the 7a (same price in the US), but regular discounts on the older model still make it a better buy.
+
+It’s still an excellent phone in 2024, with a great camera, solid performance and software support for four more years. And with a smaller 6.1-inch display, the Pixel 7a is much easier to use and pocket than many of the larger phones on this list.
+
+However, 64Mp main camera is truly exceptional. There’s still no better phone camera for still images at this price, and barely any better at any price. You can buy the phone in playful blue and coral colours, or stick to white or black if you prefer.
+
+The charging is very slow, and the added wireless charging was unreliable in our testing. But if you want an all-round Android phone with an excellent camera and great value for money, this is the device for you.
+
+Read our full Google Pixel 7a review
+6. OnePlus 12 – Great all-rounder
+OnePlus 12 - Great all-rounder
+Pros
+
+Elegant, distinctive design
+Superb screen
+Fast wired and wireless charging
+Great main and telephoto cameras
+Cons
+
+Average wide-angle and selfie cameras
+More expensive than OnePlus 11
+Limited water resistance
+Price When Reviewed: From $799 | Model reviewed $899
+Best Prices Today:
+$799 at OnePlus
+The OnePlus 12 is significantly more expensive than the OnePlus 11, meaning it no longer takes the title of best value flagship.
+
+However, it still undercuts most flagships on price, yet delivers everything most people are looking for in a smartphone.
+
+Performance from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset is superb, while the 120Hz AMOLED screen delivers a top-tier viewing experience. Even the main and telephoto cameras, a slight weakness of some earlier OnePlus phones, are now among the best around. However, the wide angle and selfie cameras could still be improved.
+
+Battery life is strong, and it’s nice to see the 100W fast charging is now combined with fast 50W wireless charging.
+
+OnePlus’ OxygenOS skin (now over Android 14) is still excellent, though the commitment to four OS updates and five years of security patches is a step down from the best of Google and Samsung (both seven).
+
+But overall, the OnePlus 12 is a superb smartphone that’s easy to recommend. If you’re looking for a foldable, consider the OnePlus Open instead.
+
+Read our full OnePlus 12 review
+7. iPhone 15 – Best value iPhone
+iPhone 15 - Best value iPhone
+Pros
+
+Versatile USB-C
+Useful Dynamic Island
+Great performance
+Good value for money
+Cons
+
+Display only 60Hz
+Slow charging
+Price When Reviewed: From $799
+Best Prices Today:
+$829 at Apple
+$829.99 at Best Buy
+There are two upgrades that make the regular iPhone 15 instantly better than 2022’s iPhone 14. The introduction of USB-C makes the device more versatile, allowing you to easily connect a range of different accessories.
+
+And then there’s the Dynamic Island, the pill-shaped cut-out used to display a variety of useful information – it was previously exclusive to Pro models.
+
+The iPhone 15 is very similar in other areas, but that’s usually not a bad thing. The A16 Bionic chip delivers small boosts to performance and power efficiency, with the latter helping deliver solid batter life.
+
+With slick iOS software and a premium build, it’s the best value iPhone 15 model you can buy. But if a higher refresh rate display or fast charging are important to you, you’ll be better off elsewhere.
+
+Read our full iPhone 15 review
+
+8. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra/Razr+ – Best foldable phone
+Motorola Razr 40 Ultra/Razr+ -  Best foldable phone
+Pros
+
+Great outer display
+IP52 water resistance rating
+Good battery life
+Cons
+
+Older chipset
+Not the best cameras
+Price When Reviewed: $999.99
+Best Prices Today:
+$599.99 at Amazon
+$999.99 at Motorola
+When you think of flip phones released in 2023, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 5 is probably the first one that comes to mind. But while it is worth considering, the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra (known as the Razr+ in some markets) is a better choice for most people.
+
+The 3.6-inch, 144Hz outer screen is the main reason for this. Not only is it significantly larger than rivals, you can run any app you like on it. The 6.9-inch, 165Hz internal display is just as impressive, with a crease that’s barely noticeable.
+
+Despite two screens and a hinge, the Razr 40 Ultra feels impressively durable, and you also get an IP52 rating for water and dust resistance. Throw in solid battery life and a premium design, and you’ve got yourself a great foldable.
+
+However, it’s not without compromise. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset is now two generations out of date, while the cameras are a step down from the absolute best Android has to offer. But neither should be dealbreakers for most people.
+
+Read our full Motorola Razr+ (2023) review
+9. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G – Best budget phone
+Samsung Galaxy A15 5G - Best budget phone
+Pros
+
+Sleek design
+Solid main camera
+Excellent battery life
+Smooth 90Hz display
+Cons
+
+Slow performance
+No IP water resistance rating
+Relatively slow charging
+Price When Reviewed: $199
+Best Prices Today:
+$127.49 at Amazon
+$199.99 at Adorama
+$199.99 at Best Buy
+Samsung isn’t all about flagship phones and foldables – the company also makes some very good budget handsets. And the £199/$199.99 Galaxy A15 5G is the best evidence of this.
+
+While not quite S24-level, the design is certainly inspired by Samsung’s flagships, and it looks almost as good. The 5000mAh battery also delivers excellent battery life, despite featuring a decent 90Hz OLED display.
+
+The A15 5G doesn’t have a world-class camera system by any means, but the 50Mp main rear lens is surprisingly good for such a cheap phone.
+
+One UI is also a big reason to buy the Galaxy A15 5G over non-Samsung rivals – it’s slick and intuitive. And three years of Android OS updates is plenty for most people.
+
+Performance isn’t amazing, there’s no official water or dust resistance and charging is limited to 25W, but these are compromises worth making when you’re spending so little and getting such a lot.
+
+If you don’t need 5G, the Galaxy A15 4G is also available for £169, but it’s not available in the US and there are other downgrades.
+
+Read our full Samsung Galaxy A15 5G review
+10. Samsung Galaxy S24+ – Superb all-rounder
+Samsung Galaxy S24+ - Superb all-rounder
+Pros
+
+Excellent display
+Strong performance
+Useful AI features
+Incredible battery life
+Seven years of updates
+Cons
+
+No S Pen support
+No Micro-SD support
+Still quite expensive
+Price When Reviewed: From $999
+Best Prices Today:
+$849.99 at Best Buy
+For many people, the S24+ is the sweet spot in Samsung’s Galaxy S24 range. While you miss out on the S Pen support and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (in the UK; US models still get it), it’s still a fantastic phone in its own right.
+
+They Exynos 2400-powered model we tested still offers very good performance, especially when combined with that high-quality 6.7-inch display and premium design. The cameras are good and battery life is excellent.
+
+Other key features from the S24 Ultra do make it here, including the useful AI features, and superb seven years of software updates.
+
+Besides slow charging and a still-premium price tag, there’s very little to dislike here.
+
+Read our full Samsung Galaxy S24+ review
+Your buying guide for the best phones in 2024
+When choosing a phone you should consider these things: build quality and design, display, performance, cameras, battery life, software and value for money.
+
+Generally speaking, a flagship phone in 2024 will start at around £700/$700 but can cost over $1,000/£1,000 in some cases. On contract, you’re looking at between £30 and £50-per-month on average in the UK but you can spend a lot more if you want an expensive phone and lots of mobile data.
+
+In the US you can often find very good contract deals on phones, better than in the UK and Europe.
+
+It’s worth noting that while this list highlights the best smartphones available right now, that doesn’t explicitly mean flagships (even though they do feature heavily here). There are entries that cross over with our mid-range and budget phone round-ups too, but earn their place here based on the capabilities and quality on offer in relation to their price.
+
+Buying a phone outright will usually give you the best value, but we appreciate finances in the real world don’t always accommodate such big one-off purchases. If you can, you’ll obviously need a SIM card and plan, as well as the phone. If you don’t already have one, check out our best SIM-only deals.
+
+Smartphones buying advice
+1.
+Should I buy an iPhone or Android phone?
+There’s more than one mobile operating system, but really only two worth talking about: Android and iOS.
+
+The vast majority of phones today run Android – Android 14 being the latest publicly-released version. Apple’s iOS platform, currently on iOS 17, may have a lower market share but developers almost always release their apps on iOS first. As a result of this approach, it has one of the best app stores you can find.
+
+If you have an Android phone or iPhone and want to move to a phone running the other OS (operating system), it’s fairly easy to transfer your contacts and other select data from one to the other. What you can’t move are paid-for apps and certain app data (like WhatsApp backups), so keep this in mind if you’re considering a change of platform – and research any specific concerns you may have about the process.
+
+2.
+Should I buy an unlocked phone?
+An unlocked phone is one that is not tied to any particular mobile network operator. Buying ‘unlocked’ usually means buying the phone outright without a SIM card or contract attached.
+
+The most important point is that an unlocked phone is almost always a better deal than buying a phone on contract – if you can afford it.
+
+The only real exception to this is Apple’s iPhones – because of their traditional popularity, operators often subsidise the cost of buying an iPhone in order to lock you into a lucrative long-term deal.
+
+Generally speaking, if you can afford the upfront cost of the handset, you will pay less over the life of your phone by buying unlocked.
+
+More importantly, you are not locked into a lengthy contract. If you want a new handset at any time, you can buy one without having to up-purchase your way out of said contract or commit to another two years. 
+
+Just be sure to make certain the phone you’re getting is not locked to a certain network.
+
+3.
+Which SIM or mobile plan should I get?
+One other thing to consider is the size and shape of the SIM required for your phone. Make sure you get a nano-SIM if a nano-SIM is what your phone requires.
+
+For the record, every phone in this list takes a nano-SIM, aside from some iPhone models in the US, which use eSIM.
+
+But for most people, it’s best to stick with a physical SIM card for now. Most networks send you a SIM card in three different sizes, so you can just pop out the one you need.
+
+If you’re looking for a SIM-free or unlocked phone, you probably already have a SIM card you’d like to use.
+
+4G connectivity is still fine for most people. But if you want 5G, make sure both the phone and the SIM support it.
+
+
 TOPIC: 
 Features of a phone