Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review: A Comprehensive Look
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has managed to bring numerous excellent features to a lineup already considered one of the best in the smartphone world. If you're upgrading from an older phone, the S24 Ultra will indeed feel like a powerful, feature-rich device.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Display and Build Quality
The S24 Ultra boasts an impressive 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display capable of reaching 2,600 nits of brightness, making it one of the brightest screens on a smartphone to date. This anti-reflective and anti-scratch Gorilla Armor screen ensures that using the device outdoors, even in full sunlight, remains a pleasant experience.
The build quality doesn't fall short, with IP68 durability and a titanium frame offering a robust feel. It's available in multiple colors, including Gray, Black, and Violet, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
Camera System
Samsung has enhanced the camera system with a new setup: a 200MP wide lens, 12MP ultrawide, and revamped telephoto options including a remarkable 50MP periscope telephoto lens. The jump in sensor capabilities, particularly in the new 5x zoom lens, provides additional versatility and improved low-light performance without extra noise or graininess.
While the digital zoom capability extends up to 100x, it's best utilized up to 10x for optimal quality. Although Night mode is a useful feature, turning it off in certain conditions can yield better natural shots, especially given the camera's solid low-light capabilities.
AI Features and Usability
The Galaxy S24 Ultra incorporates collaborative AI features developed with Google, such as Circle to Search and Live Translation. While they enhance the phone's usability, it's likely these features will be broadened to other devices in the future, which might make them less of a unique selling point.
Additional modes and Pro features for photographers, including a Pro Video mode, allow more control, but the interfacing could benefit from an incorporated RAW shooting option within the main app.
Pricing and Conclusions
Starting at $1,299, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is not an inexpensive option. However, for customers focused on a flagship Android experience with top-tier build quality, comprehensive camera capabilities, and a stunning display, it carries justifiable reasons for its price.
While the exclusion of features like Qi2 wireless charging and spatial video capture feels like missed opportunities, the phone's hardware advancements and practical features maintain its reputation as the king of Samsung's smartphone lineup
Testing and Final Thoughts
Tested rigorously over several weeks, the S24 Ultra demonstrated impressive resilience and functionality across varied conditions, from daily use to extreme weather, proving its place as a superior device in its category. Continued use reinforced its reputation as a staple of modern smart devices with ongoing improvements in hardware, ensuring a premium user experience for the foreseeable future.
Alternatives to Consider
Here are some alternatives you might consider depending on your priorities:
- Pixel 8 Pro: Google's flagship AI phone offers competitive features expected to evolve with updates.
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Known for its camera quality consistency, it's a strong contender for photography enthusiasts.
