Top 5 Alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Best Smartphones to Consider
It’s hard not to be captivated by the allure of the latest and most powerful smartphone on the market, and right now, that title belongs to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Samsung’s flagship device has arrived, and it’s undeniably one of the best smartphones available today. Boasting incredible power, advanced AI features, an outstanding camera, and impressive battery life, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is truly exceptional.
However, here’s the thing: you don’t have to buy it. As amazing as it is, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is just one option among many smartphones on the market, and some of them are just as good as, if not better than, the S24 Ultra in certain key aspects.
If you’re hesitant about shelling out $1,300 for Samsung’s latest offering, here are five smartphones that you should consider instead of the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus: The Perfect Balance
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus is essentially the Galaxy S24 Ultra with a few “extras” removed. While you won’t get the S Pen or the periscope zoom lens, do you really need them? For $300 less, you’ll still enjoy the high-speed Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a 1440p AMOLED display with a dynamic refresh rate of 1-120Hz, and 45W charging speeds. The slight decrease in battery and screen size is hardly noticeable, and the camera still delivers fantastic results. In terms of value for money, the S24 Plus is unrivaled and easily the best Samsung Galaxy S model this year.
2. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Don’t Forget Yesterday’s Gem
While it’s easy to be enamored by the latest model, it’s worth remembering that “new” doesn’t always mean “better.” The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is still an incredible phone that offers almost the same features as its successor. It may be slightly lighter, have a few fewer pixels in the display, and a slightly older processor, but it remains a premium device with a stunning design and powerful performance. Plus, it even boasts a 10x zoom lens, which the S24 Ultra lacks. If you’re looking for a great phone at a discounted price, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is an excellent choice.
3. OnePlus 12: A Worthy Competitor
While the OnePlus 12 may not be a flagship killer (that title goes to the OnePlus 12R), it certainly gives the Galaxy S24 Ultra a run for its money. OnePlus has built its reputation on delivering raw specs without unnecessary frills, making it the antithesis of the S24 Ultra. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the OnePlus 12 offers up to 512GB of storage and a mind-boggling 16GB of RAM. With a 1440p display and a refresh rate of 1Hz to 120Hz, this phone can easily compete with the S24 Ultra. It even boasts faster charging speeds at 80 watts. While the camera may not be as impressive, the OnePlus 12’s lower price point makes it an attractive alternative.
4. Google Pixel 8 Pro: A Strong Contender
Google’s Pixel line may not be as ubiquitous as Samsung’s Galaxy, but it has earned a solid reputation for good reason. While the Galaxy S24 Ultra may have won in the camera department this year, the Google Pixel 8 Pro still offers an incredible camera system that captures true-to-life colors. It matches the S24 Ultra in terms of size and display specs, including the dynamic refresh rate. The Google-made Tensor G3 processor is powerful and fast, and the phone’s clean interface and useful features make it a favorite among purists. Plus, the Pixel 8 Pro comes at a significantly lower price point, starting at $999, making it an attractive option for those looking for a powerful phone without breaking the bank.
5. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Pushing Boundaries
If you’re already considering spending at least $1,300 on a smartphone, why not go all-in and opt for the most cutting-edge device available? The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers similar specs to the S24 Ultra but with the added bonus of a folding screen. With a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip and an excellent camera, the Z Fold 5 is a top contender. Its 7.6-inch inner display boasts the same refresh rate as the S24 Ultra but offers nearly twice the width. For those moments when using a tablet-like screen isn’t practical, there’s also a 6.2-inch display on the outside. While it may be pricier than the S24 Ultra, starting at $1,799, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for the ultimate cutting-edge
