Need a new phone? With new handsets launching constantly, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to buy. Whether you prefer an iPhone, a Samsung Galaxy, or any Android handset, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
There are over a hundred phones reviewed every year, but only the best of the best make it to this list. Each phone recommended below has its own standout features, whether it’s AI capabilities, top-tier cameras, excellent battery life, gaming performance, folding screens, or great value for money.
Represented in this list are brands like Samsung, Google, Apple, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Honor, Motorola, and Nothing. While some brands like Nokia, Realme, Asus, Huawei, Honor, Vivo, and Sony are not featured here, they can be found in other phone buying guides.
When it comes to phone reviews and buying advice, Tech Advisor has been a trusted source since the original iPhone release in 2007 and the rise of Android in 2008. From 2G to 5G, Windows Phone to BlackBerry, and LG phones to the latest innovations in display technology, processors, and AI capabilities, Tech Advisor has covered it all.
In the current market, the best phone deals can be found during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Whether you’re in the UK or the US, you can find great discounts on phones during this period.
Now, let’s take a look at the top 10 phones for 2024:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best overall
- Pros: Top-tier performance, excellent cameras, very good battery life, clever AI features, seven years of updates.
- Cons: Expensive, big and bulky, charging still only 45W.
- Price: From $1,299.99
- Review: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra – Best cameras
- Pros: Incredible photography, stunning vegan leather design, gorgeous curved screen, flawless performance, 90W fast charging.
- Cons: Expensive, mixed HyperOS software.
- Price: Unavailable in the US
- Review: Xiaomi 14 Ultra Review
- Oppo Find X8 Pro – Superb all-rounder
- Pros: Awesome camera system, great battery life, super powerful, new camera control button, useful AI features.
- Cons: Smaller sensors than the Find X7 Ultra, no autofocus on the selfie camera, magnetic charging only works with case.
- Price: Check for latest prices
- Review: Oppo Find X8 Pro Review
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL – A great alternative
- Pros: Impressive cameras, superb display, some of the best software around, seven years of updates.
- Cons: Expensive, rather generic design, battery life could be even better.
- Price: From $1,099
- Review: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Review
- Apple iPhone 16 Plus – Best iPhone
- Pros: Large Super Retina XDR display, smooth performance, excellent battery life, useful Camera Control button.
- Cons: No 120Hz refresh rate, incomplete AI at launch, starts at 128GB storage.
- Price: $899
- Review: Apple iPhone 16 Plus Review
- OnePlus Nord 4 – Best value phone
- Pros: Premium build, great display, strong main camera, solid battery life, six years of security updates.
- Cons: Polarising design, disappointing ultrawide camera, no telephoto camera.
- Price: From $799 | Model reviewed $899
- Review: OnePlus Nord 4 Review
- Motorola Razr 50 Ultra/Razr+ (2024) – Best foldable phone
- Pros: Incredible outer display, notable camera improvements, unique software features, solid battery life.
- Cons: Rivals offer longer software support, can get noticeably warm, poor internal camera.
- Price: $999
- Review: Motorola Razr 50 Ultra Review
- Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max – Best Premium iPhone
- Pros: Stunning display, premium design & build, powerful performance, excellent battery life, useful Camera Control button.
- Cons: Incomplete AI features at launch, only 8GB of RAM, expensive.
- Price: $1,199
- Review: Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review
- 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: From $799 | Model reviewed $899
- Review: OnePlus 12 Review
- CMF Phone 1 – Best budget phone
- Pros: Unique, stylish design, bloat-free operating system, solid performance, fun accessories.
- Cons: No NFC, limited water and dust resistance, simple cameras.
- Price: $199
- Review: CMF Phone 1 Review
When buying a phone, consider factors like build quality, display, performance, cameras, battery life, software, and value for money. Flagship phones typically start at around $700 but can go over $1,000. Unlocked phones are usually a better deal than contract phones, providing more flexibility and savings in the long run. Make sure to choose a SIM card or mobile plan that suits your needs and supports the features of your phone.
For more detailed buying advice and related articles, refer to the full guide. Happy phone shopping!
