The best phones we’ve reviewed in 2024

If you’re considering a phone upgrade, you’re in the right place. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one, but our comprehensive guide is here to help. We’ve carefully ranked our favourites below, focusing on the key aspects that matter most to users. Whether you’re eyeing a large-screen Android device or the latest iPhone flagship, we’ve rigorously reviewed the top smartphones on the market.

Our evaluation process is hands-on. We test every smartphone in real-world conditions to ensure it performs well in everyday life. This includes binge-watching series to assess battery life and capturing hundreds of photos to evaluate camera quality. We also push the graphics to the limit with the latest mobile games to measure processing power, and use our experience to rate display quality, design, durability, and software experience.

After this rigorous testing, only the best-performing handsets make it into our guide. Whether you’re after the fastest processor, the best camera system, or the longest battery life, our rankings are designed to help you find the perfect smartphone.

Why you can trust Stuff: Our team of experts rigorously test each product and provide honest, unbiased reviews to help you make informed decisions. For more details, read how we test and rate products.

Quick list: what’s the best phone?

The best smartphones you can buy today:

1. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

In our opinion, this is the best iPhone Apple has ever made. The camera improvements are truly impressive, making it easier to capture stunning photos in any situation. And finally, USB-C is here – it’s a change that was long overdue, but now that it’s arrived, it’s fantastic. The new Action button is a thoughtful addition, adding convenience to everyday tasks. All of this builds on what Apple already does exceptionally well, like the superb display, powerful speakers, and the unbeatable app ecosystem.

Sure, some might say that the changes in the iPhone are more evolutionary than revolutionary. We get that—it’s a sentiment often expressed by tech journalists who handle dozens of phones every week. But for most people who upgrade every couple of years, these refinements are exactly what you want: incremental improvements that keep things fresh without overwhelming you with drastic changes.

So, should you buy one? Well, if you already own last year’s Pro Max, we’d say hold off unless you’re a die-hard photographer, absolutely need USB-C, or have a thing for those sleek, chamfered edges. But for everyone else, if you can afford it and want the best Apple has to offer, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is definitely worth it.

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

If you’re shopping for the ultimate Android experience, we believe the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands at the top of the tree. Clad in Gorilla Glass Armor and set in a titanium frame, it feels both premium and rugged in the hand. Its sizeable 6.8-inch AMOLED display is a treat for the eyes, and the switch from curved edges to a flat panel is a welcome change. That makes it a perfect match for the bundled S Pen stylus, enhancing productivity.

Speaking of productivity, we appreciate the genuinely helpful on-device AI capabilities, which make multitasking smoother than ever. Performance is outstanding, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 CPU running at speeds unmatched by any rival. The Ultra simply breezes through every app, task, and game we throw at it.

The top-spec S24 also features an overhauled zoom camera, with a higher pixel count sensor and 5x optical zoom that excels in low-light situations compared to last year’s model. While the 200MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP 3x zoom remain unchanged, competitors have caught up, and in some cases, surpassed Samsung in picture quality. Still, the differences are minimal.

You’ll pay a premium to fit the S24 Ultra in your pocket, but if you’re willing to make that investment, we think your reward will be the best Android smartphone you can buy right now.

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro

The Google Pixel 9 Pro sets a new standard for Pixel smartphones, offering cutting-edge tech wrapped in a new, more premium design. For those of us who’ve craved a smaller device without compromising on performance, this new Pro model is a game-changer, blending the best camera tech, AI smarts, and an exceptional battery, into the more compact 6.3in size.

The design is great, with straight edges, a matte glass back, and a new pill-shaped camera island that highlights Google’s focus on photography. It feels lovely in hand and is more durable than previous models, with IP68 water resistance and a refined colour palette.

The Actua display is a standout, offering incredible brightness and vibrant colours, even outperforming the iPhone 15 in direct sunlight. Paired with a 120Hz refresh rate, every swipe is buttery smooth. As expected, the camera system is top-tier, especially the upgraded 48MP ultrawide and periscope telephoto lenses. AI-driven tools like Magic Editor make editing photos effortless, while new features like ‘Add Me’ let you appear in group shots post-capture.

However, charging speeds lag behind competitors, and it’s pricier than previous Pixel models. But with seven years of software updates, premium design, and AI-powered performance, we feel the Pixel 9 Pro is a worthy investment for those who want a compact yet powerful flagship smartphone. Google has truly stepped into the high-end space with this one.

4. OnePlus 12

Delivering killer specs at a competitive price point, we think the OnePlus 12 hits another home run—though perhaps not quite as far out of the park this time, due to a price hike compared to last year’s model. Its all-screen frontage still fits the modern mould, and the tactile matte back adds a premium feel. The display itself is outstanding, with dynamic refresh rates ranging from 1 to 120Hz, ensuring smooth performance across the board.

The trademark alert slider instantly marks it as a OnePlus device, while the Hasselblad branding on the distinctive circular camera bump hints at enhanced photography features. In our experience, the results are great in most conditions, with Pro and 12-bit RAW+ modes offering serious flexibility for photography enthusiasts. Low-light performance has also seen a noticeable improvement over last year.

Performance-wise, the OnePlus 12 is predictably superb, handling everything we threw at it with ease. Battery life was impressively frugal during our tests, and when the 5000mAh cell did run out, the 100W SuperVooc charging had it back to full in just over half an hour. If you’re after a flagship bargain, we believe the OnePlus 12 comfortably undercuts every major big-screen rival.

5. Nothing Phone 2

Nothing has taken everything we loved about its debut smartphone and turned things up a notch. The glyph interface is smarter now, with more LEDs that provide better visual cues for countdown timers, incoming notifications, and even how long until your Uber arrives. The transparent design is also slicker, with slightly curved rear glass that feels more comfortable in the hand and a larger 6.7-inch screen that enhances the viewing experience.

Performance is very respectable for a mid-range phone, powered by last year’s flagship chip. While the camera hardware hasn’t seen significant upgrades, we still noticed improvements in image quality, both in daylight and nighttime settings. However, what truly stands out for us is NothingOS 2.0. It’s a fantastic take on Android, with a consistent and sleek design that prioritizes widgets and user-friendly interactions.

For the price, we find it to be a very tempting alternative to higher-end options like the Pixel 9 Pro or OnePlus 11. If you’re looking for a unique and polished smartphone experience, this one definitely makes a strong case for itself.

6. Google Pixel 8a

We’ve long been fans of Google’s affordable phones, and the Pixel 8a only continues that record. While not quite as wallet-friendly as previous generations, this is still as well-rounded a phone and as streamlined an Android experience as you’ll get for the cash. There’s none of the Nothing Phone 2’s snazzy lighting, but the composite shell does a stellar impression of the glass used by its premium cousins. You’re also getting pure Android 14, which the 8a’s Tensor G3 CPU (same as the Pixel 8 Pro) runs without a stutter.

Where the Pixel 8a really excels is in the photography stakes. With powerful algorithms in its arsenal, almost every image it captures is balanced, noise-free and packed with detail. There’s no telephoto, but autofocus is rapid, while the combination of high pixel count main camera and Night Sight smarts pull true-to-life stills from tricky late-night scenes.

The addition of luxuries like wireless charging and a 120Hz refresh rate, missing on the outgoing Pixel 7a, mean you’ll struggle to find a better all-round Android experience for less.

7. Sony Xperia 1 VI

The Xperia 1 VI is as close to a ‘mainstream’ flagship as Sony’s mobile division has spat out in years. It swaps the super-skinny 21:9 screen and overkill 4K resolution of its predecessor for a wider 19.5:9 panel with a Full HD+ pixel count – but it’s absolutely not a downgrade, on account of the higher brightness and 1-120Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rate, which does wonders for battery life.

All the other Sony hallmarks remain, including a 3.5mm headphone port, microSD card slot (which you can get to without having to keep a SIM tray tool with you at all times) and front-firing stereo speakers that really pack a punch. The overall styling is as sharp as ever, too. Underneath, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 does all the heavy lifting, and stays wonderfully cool in the process.

On the photography front, Sony has expanded the variable zoom telephoto lens’ range to 7x, helping it better compete with rivals that have 5x optical maximums. It can still handle rapid burst shooting in HDR, with plenty of manual options for serious snappers, but the auto mode has taken a welcome step up for people that prefer to just point-and-shoot. Video creators aren’t quite as well served at launch, though.

It’s a pricey handset, no doubt, but the Xperia 1 VI is easier to recommend to non-Sony fans than any previous iteration.

8. OnePlus Open

It’ll leave a bend in your bank balance, but OnePlus’ first foldable sets a new benchmark for the category. It’s as sturdy and stylish as you’d expect for the price, while only being barely heftier and thicker than a normal handset while folded.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor is zippy in the extreme. Top-tier shooting skills come from a trio of clever cameras, with the lead sensor using an all-new stacked design developed by Sony for added low light chops. With colourful OLED tech and 120Hz adaptive refresh rates, the outer panel is as good as you’ll find on any flagship phone. Yet it’s the lesser of the two: the 7.82in screen inside is bright, smooth and vibrant, offering acres of space.

OnePlus has also pulled a blinder with its clever multitasking modes, which let you mix full-screen and split-screen apps with gesture swipes. It’s easily the best we’ve used on a foldable phone. The fact you can grab one for less than either Google Pixel Fold or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 only cements its five-star status.

Want more folding phone suggestions? Check out Stuff’s guide to the best folding smartphones.

9. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Sure, it might have been usurped by the newer Galaxy S24 Ultra above, but the Galaxy S23 Ultra is still a cracking smartphone, especially when you take into account its current offers. If you can pick it up at a discounted price, you’re getting almost the same aesthetic and performance of the newer Galaxy S24, for less.

Admittedly, it’s not slathered in titanium. And its zoom game is slightly weaker. But apart from that, it’s still plenty powerful, and comes with a cavalcade of S Pen smarts for productivity fiends to lose themselves in. If you’re not fussed about Samsung’s new AI, and zoom smarts, then the Galaxy S23 absolutely will not disappoint — especially when you take its current deals into account.

How to choose the best smartphone for you

In order to buy the best smartphone for your needs, there are several important factors to consider. Luckily, Stuff’s smartphone experts are here to help you compare options and make a final decision.

The first big decision you’ll have to make is choosing between Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android operating systems. Both have their own interface, features, and app ecosystem, so if you have a preference or existing devices with potential compatibility issues, then it’s best to stick with what you’re already familiar with.

One of the next things you’ll need to do is set a budget. Smartphones vary widely in price, from as little as $300/£200 to over $1200/£1000. Once you’ve decided on a budget you’ll be able to narrow down potential candidates from our best cheap phone guide, best mid-range smartphone guide, and the best premium phones (this guide).

Once you’ve decided on an operating system and budget, then it’s time to consider things like size, resolution, and quality of the display. If you prefer a more compact phone then you can read Stuff’s guide to the best small phones, or you might prefer a bigger screen which is better for watching videos and reading.

The performance of your smartphone will largely depend on how much you spend, but you should look for a phone with a decent amount of processing power, RAM, and storage capacity (of course, we’ll help you avoid any underpowered phones). This ensures smooth a multitasking experience, and fast app loading.

On a similar note, check the battery capacity and read about the battery life tests in our phone reviews to assess how long the phone typically lasts. You should also look for smartphones with fast charging and wireless charging options, as both of these are very useful.

While all smartphones are pretty good at taking pictures nowadays, if you’re really into taking pictures, then you’ll want one of the best smartphones for photography.

And, finally, if you’re a hardcore gamer, then you should consider one of the best smartphones for gaming. These push performance to the max to take your mobile gaming to the next level.

What is the difference between a mobile phone and a smartphone?

A mobile phone typically refers to any portable device used for telecommunications. It’s capable of making and receiving calls and text messages. It’s a broad term that encompasses, but in today’s language, generally refers to basic feature phones (or ‘dumb’ phones) with limited functionalities.

On the other hand, a smartphone offers advanced computing capabilities and connectivity alongside basic telephony. Smartphones typically have a touchscreen, advanced operating systems (like iOS or Android), and can run apps. They include features like internet access, email, social media, GPS, a camera, and multimedia capabilities.

In essence, while all smartphones are mobile phones, not all mobile phones are smartphones.