Richard's top 5 smartphones of 2024

I know, it’s already well past mid-January, but better late than never, right? With the exception of the world’s first “tri-fold” phone, 2024 was a relatively steady year in terms of smartphone progress. Foldable phones expectedly set new benchmarks for thickness and camera capabilities, though some brands — namely Samsung and Oppo/OnePlus — are saving their tricks for 2025. At least in Samsung’s case, its Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition proves that it’s capable of matching the benchmark, just not at scale yet.

As for candybars, the slightly earlier launch of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite silicon meant some flagship lines — especially those in China — were able to shorten their annual cycle and get a lead in Q4. MediaTek also did well by offering its alternative flagship chips of equal match — Dimensity 9300+ to Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and Dimensity 9400 to Snapdragon 8 Elite. At the end of the day, choices benefit consumers.

Without further ado, here are my top 5 smartphones of 2024:

5. Realme GT 7 Pro

You really can’t go wrong with Realme’s flagship devices. Not only is the GT 7 Pro the first Snapdragon 8 Elite phone, but it’s also of great value, costing just ¥3,699 (about US$505). There’s no compromise on the build quality, camera performance and cooling system, with the bonus being its massive 6,500mAh battery with 120W SuperVOOC fast charging support.

4. ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro

I’m far from a hardcore mobile gamer, but I can’t imagine myself playing FPS titles like PUBG Mobile on any handheld other than an ROG Phone. The latest model was one of the first to pack a Snapdragon 8 Elite, and coupled with ASUS’ thermal design know-how (just look at that beastly clip-on active cooler), there’s no question about this device’s gaming performance. The cameras received a notable upgrade, too. There are also some practical AI tools to help you pick up items, automatically record key moments and communicate better with fellow gamers. The mini games on the rear mini LED array are cute.

3. Huawei Mate XT

This one needs no introduction. It’s my childhood dream come true. In fact, a few nights ago, I witnessed two Americans buying a Mate XT each at my friend’s shop. The hardware is solid, but I’d rate the Mate XT higher if it didn’t cost an arm and a leg (officially from ¥23,999 or about US$3,300), plus I worry about the stability of the hack that makes Google apps run on HarmonyOS. I wouldn’t be surprised if another brand releases its own “tri-fold” device this year — my money’s on Honor, if not Xiaomi, and theirs will definitely be more affordable.

2. Xiaomi Mix Fold 4

This is, in my opinion, the best all-round foldable phone of 2024, featuring a powerful set of cameras (including 5x optical zoom) inside the world’s second slimmest body — after the Honor Magic V3, which doesn’t take as nice photos, in my opinion. Some say the crease this time is more obvious, which is likely because the new hinge design requires more bending on the folded display.

1. OPPO Find X7 Ultra

I was torn between the Find X7 Ultra and the Find X8 Pro. While I prefer the newer phone’s design, it’s the Find X7 Ultra — launched all the way back in last January — which packs better cameras with larger sensors, except for the 6x periscope camera which is identical. The Find X7 Ultra has become my trusty pocket camera for capturing product shots and performances.

Honorable mention: Xiaomi Mix Flip

The Mix Flip is a well thought out small foldable phone, offering nice cameras while taking advantage of the entire cover for the external touchscreen.