Why I don’t think the Galaxy S24 Ultra was 2024’s best smartphone

There were a lot of good smartphones released in 2024, and it’s actually not easy to settle on “the best.” But, for me at least, I struggle to put the Galaxy S24 Ultra at the top of that list.

1. Design and Build Quality

When it comes to the design and build quality of smartphones, Samsung has always been at the forefront of innovation. However, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, I felt that the design was lacking that 'wow' factor. While the device is undeniably sleek and well-built, it didn't bring anything particularly groundbreaking or unique to the table.

With competitors pushing the boundaries of design with more daring choices, such as experimental materials and form factors, the Galaxy S24 Ultra felt a bit too safe and familiar. In a year where bold design statements were being made, the conservative approach taken by Samsung with the S24 Ultra left me wanting more.

2. Camera Performance

One area where Samsung has always excelled is in the camera department. The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasted an impressive array of lenses and features, promising top-tier photography capabilities. However, in real-world usage, I found the camera performance to be a bit underwhelming.

While the S24 Ultra certainly delivered good quality photos, it didn't quite reach the level of excellence that I was expecting from a flagship device. The competition in the smartphone camera space is fierce, with other brands pushing the boundaries of what is possible. In comparison, the S24 Ultra's camera felt like it was playing catch-up rather than leading the pack.

3. Display and Display Technology

Samsung is renowned for its top-of-the-line display technology, with their AMOLED screens setting the industry standard. The Galaxy S24 Ultra featured a stunning display, as expected, with vibrant colors and deep blacks that make multimedia consumption a joy. However, in a year where foldable and rollable displays were gaining traction, the S24 Ultra's traditional form factor felt a bit dated.

While the display was undoubtedly gorgeous, it didn't bring anything truly innovative or groundbreaking to the table. In an era where display technology is rapidly evolving, the S24 Ultra's lack of cutting-edge features left me feeling like it was a missed opportunity for Samsung to truly stand out.

4. Battery Life and Performance

One of the key factors that can make or break a smartphone is its battery life and overall performance. The Galaxy S24 Ultra promised all-day battery life and top-notch performance, thanks to its high-end processor and optimized software. However, in my usage, I found that the battery life was just average, struggling to make it through a full day of heavy usage.

Additionally, while the performance was generally smooth and responsive, it didn't feel like a significant leap forward from its predecessor. With other smartphones offering better battery life and performance at similar price points, the S24 Ultra fell short of being the standout choice in its category.

5. Software and User Experience

Software plays a crucial role in shaping the overall user experience of a smartphone. Samsung's One UI is known for its feature-rich interface and customization options, offering users a highly personalized experience. However, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, I found the software experience to be a bit overwhelming.

While power users may appreciate the plethora of features and settings available, the average consumer might find the interface to be cluttered and confusing. In a year where simplicity and ease of use were becoming more valued, the S24 Ultra's software felt like it was trying to do too much, ultimately impacting the overall user experience.

6. Pricing and Value Proposition

Finally, one of the most crucial factors to consider when evaluating a smartphone is its pricing and overall value proposition. The Galaxy S24 Ultra was positioned as a premium flagship device, commanding a high price tag that put it in direct competition with other top-tier smartphones.

While the S24 Ultra certainly offered a range of cutting-edge features and capabilities, I found it hard to justify the steep price point when compared to other devices offering similar performance and features at a lower cost. In a market where consumers are increasingly looking for value for money, the S24 Ultra's pricing may have been a deterrent for potential buyers.

In conclusion, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra is undeniably a solid smartphone with a lot to offer, I couldn't quite rank it as the best smartphone of 2024. In a year filled with fierce competition and innovative releases, the S24 Ultra fell short in several key areas that prevented it from standing out as the top choice. With competitors pushing the boundaries of design, camera technology, display innovation, and overall user experience, the S24 Ultra felt like it was lagging behind rather than leading the pack.

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