For over a decade, Samsung’s Android phones have consistently ranked among the best in their class, blending thoughtful design, top-tier hardware, and impressive performance. Notably, Samsung pioneered mainstream foldable smartphones with the introduction of the Galaxy Z Fold half a decade ago.
In 2024, Samsung made waves by unveiling the highly anticipated Galaxy S24 series. Comprising the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra, these devices introduce a plethora of design and hardware enhancements. Additionally, they integrate intuitive AI-powered user experience features developed in collaboration with Google. These features, initially introduced in Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro late last year, encompass enhanced communication, Google search capabilities, and advanced camera performance with AI-driven image editing. As a result, AI plays a pivotal role in various tasks and interactions with your new Galaxy device.
Renowned as benchmarks for premium design and performance within the Android ecosystem, the Galaxy S series consistently merits consideration when contemplating an upgrade. Conversely, the Galaxy A series offers instantly recognizable design and hardware features, including vibrant AMOLED displays, at a more budget-friendly price point. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z series of foldable phones epitomize cutting-edge design and unparalleled versatility, albeit with a higher price tag.
The Best Samsung Phones
- Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Best Budget Galaxy: Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
- A Premium Galaxy for Less: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G
- Best Midrange Galaxy: Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
- Best Galaxy Under $1,000: Samsung Galaxy S24
Samsung’s top-tier smartphones boast a waterproof design alongside a plethora of other essential features. At the forefront is the vibrant AMOLED display, often present in multiple variations, with millions of individually backlit pixels for unparalleled visual quality. These devices are powered by speedy chipsets, ensuring seamless performance across various tasks. A versatile multi-sensor camera setup enables users to capture stunning photos and videos in any environment. Additionally, fast wired and wireless charging capabilities keep you powered throughout the day, while stereo speakers deliver immersive audio experiences.
Moreover, Samsung’s top-shelf smartphones come equipped with future-proof wireless connectivity features, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6/6E, and Bluetooth 5.0 (and higher), ensuring you stay connected and up-to-date with the latest technology trends.
The prices listed for these smartphones reflect unlocked, contract-free devices, providing a great option for frequent upgraders or those purchasing the phone as a gift. Alternatively, users can opt to pay for any phone through small monthly installments, either directly from Samsung or through their chosen wireless carrier. This flexible payment option caters to diverse preferences and financial circumstances, making it easier for users to access the latest Samsung devices.
What to Consider
FORM FACTOR
With the latest iterations of the Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold, Samsung has effectively transitioned its foldable smartphones from expensive niche products to legitimate mainstream contenders. Consequently, they are now worthy of consideration before purchasing a traditional Galaxy phone.
In contrast to conventional rectangular slabs, foldable Galaxy phones offer significantly enhanced portability and multitasking capabilities. The compact Galaxy Z Flip fits seamlessly into pockets, while the larger Galaxy Z Fold serves as a hybrid device, combining the functionalities of a phone and a tablet. However, due to their innovative design and intricate engineering, Galaxy Z products come with a higher price tag compared to standard high-end Samsung phones.
DURABILITY
In addition to their higher price point, the foldable Galaxy Z smartphones exhibit reduced durability compared to their mainstream counterparts, which often feature IP ratings for water and dust resistance. For instance, while the latest Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 boast an IPX rating for water exposure, they lack the comprehensive protection provided by a full IP rating. The intricate hinges of their foldable screens, reliant on moving parts, present challenges in effectively sealing the devices against prolonged exposure to water and dust.
Conversely, traditional Galaxy phones are better equipped to withstand accidental drops, whether or not they are equipped with protective cases. Therefore, if you have a tendency to frequently drop your phone, this factor should be taken into consideration. I highly recommend investing in a protective case for a foldable Galaxy device, as its complex construction makes it less resilient to heavy impacts.
CAMERA
While Samsung’s foldable phones excel in multitasking and entertainment capabilities, courtesy of their innovative shape-shifting primary screens, they do not match the camera prowess of the top-tier Galaxy S handsets. This limitation primarily stems from packaging constraints and limited space within the device. Integrating a foldable display inside the phone leaves less room for accommodating advanced camera sensors and zoom lenses.
For users who prioritize camera quality above all else, opting for a Galaxy with an Ultra moniker is advisable. These models consistently feature the most advanced camera technology among Samsung’s lineup, ensuring superior imaging performance and capabilities.
MEMORY
The amount of RAM in a Samsung Galaxy phone directly impacts its multitasking capabilities. For users who frequently switch between multiple open apps, opting for a device with 8GB or more of RAM is recommended to ensure smooth and efficient performance.
When considering onboard storage, it’s essential to account for your usage patterns, particularly if you intend to capture numerous photos and videos with the device’s exceptional camera system. While entry-level models typically offer 128GB of storage, it’s advisable to invest in a version with higher storage capacity. Since most Samsung phones lack memory card slots for easy expansion, spending an additional $50 to $100 upfront for additional storage is a worthwhile investment. Depending on your requirements and budget, high-end Galaxy phones can be customized with storage options of up to 1TB.
How We Choose?
As seasoned smartphone testers, we have extensively evaluated Samsung’s Galaxy lineup over the years. Our rigorous testing process involves weeks of assessment to gauge various aspects, including design, hardware, performance, and battery life, in comparison to older models. We prioritize assessing the overall value that each device offers to ensure that our recommendations align with the needs and preferences of our audience.
In this comprehensive Samsung Galaxy guide, we present picks featuring the most up-to-date specs and features across various price categories, ranging from affordable to high-end options. These selections are curated to ensure that your new phone provides long-lasting satisfaction. Additionally, we have included older iterations that remain viable options at a slightly lower price point, particularly for users who prioritize value over having the latest features. However, we always advocate for investing a bit more to acquire the current generation if you’re on the fence. The design and hardware improvements in newer models are undoubtedly worth the investment.
Without further ado, here are the best Samsung phones worth considering today, meticulously chosen based on our extensive testing and evaluation.
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Smartphone
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra emerges as the pinnacle of smartphone excellence, boasting the latest and most advanced hardware specifications and camera performance — provided it aligns with your budget. Setting itself apart from its Galaxy S24 and S24+ counterparts, the S24 Ultra features a larger and sharper screen, a distinctive design characterized by sharper angles, and a premium titanium build, marking a first for a Samsung Galaxy S device. Additionally, it houses a larger battery and a superior camera setup, solidifying its status as the most powerful Galaxy device with the best-in-class camera capabilities.
Setting the Ultra apart from the rest of the Galaxy S24 family is its integrated S Pen stylus, enabling creativity and productivity tasks on the expansive screen that surpass those of any competitor.
The camera hardware of the S24 Ultra includes a high-resolution 200MP wide sensor and dual telephoto snappers, one of which boasts a high-resolution 50MP sensor. Notably, the primary snapper boasts the highest resolution in the industry. Coupled with the high-resolution telephoto camera, this device instantly contends for the title of the best camera phone of 2024.
Having spent only a few days with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, I can attest that its titanium build represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 Ultra. We will continue to provide updates and impressions in the weeks ahead.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is available for order in titanium black, titanium gray, titanium violet, and titanium yellow. Exclusive blue, green, and orange options will be offered solely by Samsung.
2. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Smartphone
For budget-conscious shoppers, the sub-$200 Samsung Galaxy A15 5G stands out as the top choice. Boasting a sleek design and packed with features, it offers exceptional value for its price point. Key highlights include 5G connectivity, a large and vibrant Super AMOLED display with a high refresh rate, a versatile multisensor camera setup, impressive battery life, expandable storage, and a standard audio jack.
The inclusion of a Super AMOLED display panel, a hallmark feature of Galaxy devices for over a decade, represents the most significant upgrade over its predecessor, the A14 5G. This ensures an immersive viewing experience with vivid colors and sharp clarity.
Powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery—matching the capacity of Samsung’s Ultra flagship phones—the Galaxy A15 5G offers extended usage between charges. Additionally, its USB-C port supports fast charging, allowing for quick and convenient recharging.
While it’s worth noting that the Galaxy A15 5G lacks water resistance and stereo speakers, its incredibly affordable price more than compensates for these omissions. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G presents an unbeatable option for those seeking a feature-rich smartphone without breaking the bank.
3. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Smartphone
The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G emerges as the optimal midrange choice in the Galaxy lineup and stands as one of the finest smartphones available for under $500. Boasting a sleek design reminiscent of its pricier Galaxy S counterparts, a robust waterproof build, and a powerful chipset built on 5-nanometer architecture, this device offers exceptional value for its price point. Its expansive and vibrant display, versatile camera setup, and long-lasting battery life further enhance its appeal.
Upon unboxing the Galaxy A54, users are greeted with a premium experience akin to handling a higher-priced product. The device’s Galaxy S-like design, featuring slim display bezels, coupled with its waterproof construction and fluid AMOLED display, exudes sophistication. Notably, Samsung has priced this product below $450, making it an even more compelling option.
Setting it apart from its competitors, the Galaxy A54 5G retains stereo speakers, a feature often reserved for top-tier smartphones. Additionally, unlike flagship devices from Samsung and Google Pixel, this midrange offering includes a card slot for convenient and cost-effective memory upgrades.
In terms of imaging capabilities, the phone’s triple camera system delivers impressive results, while the selfie camera boasts a high-resolution sensor, further enhancing the overall photography experience. The Galaxy A54 5G is available in black or violet color options, each featuring an “awesome” moniker to underscore its appeal and style.
4. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Smartphone
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (Fan Edition) continues the tradition of offering top-tier specifications and performance at an exceptionally affordable price point. Priced at less than $600 before factoring in additional deals and discounts, this value-packed Galaxy device encompasses everything a great Android smartphone should offer: a sleek design, robust build quality, and stellar hardware specifications.
Compared to the standard Galaxy S23 model, the FE iteration boasts a larger screen and battery, enhancing the overall user experience. While it may feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, which is a generation behind, and lacks the ability to record 8K video, these omissions do not significantly impact its appeal within its price category. During my usage of the device as my primary Android handset for several weeks, I never felt compromised in terms of ergonomics, tactile feedback, or daily performance.
Overall, the Galaxy S23 FE stands out as one of the best smartphones available for the money, offering exceptional value and performance. Available in cream, graphite, mint, and purple color options, with 128GB of storage capacity, this device caters to a wide range of preferences and style preferences.
5. Samsung Galaxy S24 Smartphone
The entry-level Samsung Galaxy S24 emerges as the prime choice for buyers operating within a sub-$1,000 budget. Boasting an elegant design, a powerful chipset, a capable camera setup, and a stunning AMOLED display, this device offers exceptional value for its price point. Available in several colors, it combines cutting-edge specifications with an agreeable price tag, making it an enticing option for a wide range of consumers.
Compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 features a more robust chipset and a larger, brighter 6.2-inch screen. Additionally, it houses a slightly larger battery and an upgraded selfie camera with a higher-resolution sensor, further enhancing the overall user experience.
Metaphorically speaking, the Samsung Galaxy S series holds the same esteemed status in the Android realm as the iPhone does in the iOS ecosystem. With a long-standing reputation for excellence, it appeals to both first-time users and loyal Galaxy enthusiasts alike. Upon initial impressions of the S24, users will find it to be familiar yet noticeably faster and more futureproof than its predecessors.
For those in need of a larger screen and battery with faster charging capabilities, the $200 pricier Galaxy S24+ presents a compelling alternative. Notably, unlike its predecessor, the S24+ boasts a higher-resolution display panel compared to the standard Galaxy S model, with the remainder of its hardware specifications remaining identical.
6. SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Fold5 Smartphone
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 continues the legacy established by its predecessors as Samsung’s most cutting-edge and premium smartphone offering. With its unique ability to transform from a phone into a tablet, it commands attention and offers unparalleled versatility within the Galaxy lineup. As a result, it became my primary travel and work companion for months, thanks to its capability to replace both a phone and a tablet.
Compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold4, the Fold5 boasts a more powerful chipset and an improved hinge mechanism that enables it to close almost completely flat. This minor adjustment significantly enhances the device’s handling and usability.
Samsung has also equipped the Z Fold5 with an exceptional triple camera setup, featuring primary image sensor resolution and optical zoom capabilities comparable to those found in the Galaxy S23. This ensures that users do not have to compromise on camera performance to enjoy the innovative design of the Galaxy Z Fold5. Additionally, the device features selfie cameras hidden beneath the foldable display, although these are primarily suited for video calls.
Furthermore, the range-topping Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 supports the S Pen stylus, providing users with additional productivity and creativity options. It is available in Phantom Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream color options, with storage capacities of up to 1TB, catering to diverse user preferences and storage needs.
7. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Smartphone
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 builds upon the success of its predecessor, maintaining its status as the most popular foldable phone on the market and providing a futuristic and pocket-friendly alternative to today’s flagship smartphones. Compared to the Galaxy Z Flip4, the new iteration features a refined design with an upgraded hinge, a larger external display, a more powerful chipset, and an improved camera system.
The introduction of the Flex Window, the large external display of the Z Flip5, offers enhanced interactivity and a plethora of customization options. Its generous size facilitates effortless tasks such as responding to texts with a full keyboard, allowing users to complete tasks without needing to flip the phone open frequently. This feature significantly enhances productivity, enabling users to spend extended periods using the device without interruption.
Moreover, the external display enhances the selfie-taking experience by providing a convenient preview of images captured with the main camera. The unique form factor of the Galaxy Z Flip5 contributes to an unforgettable user experience, offering innovative features such as the ability to split an app’s interface and position its controls on the bottom half of the display when open.
Samsung offers the Galaxy Z Flip5 in a variety of colors, including mint, graphite, cream, and lavender, catering to diverse style preferences. Additionally, users can choose between models with 256GB or 512GB of onboard storage, ensuring ample space for storing files, photos, and apps.
