Looking for the best Android phone to buy this July 2024? As technology evolves, so do our options for powerful, top-end, feature-rich smartphones. Whether you prioritize stunning displays, innovative new cameras, or long-lasting battery life, the top rivals in the Android market have something to offer. Now, we’ll explore the top 7 Android phones to buy in July 2024.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google’s Pixel lineup has consistently set the standard for computational photography and software optimization, and the Pixel 8 Pro is no exception. This flagship device promises to deliver an unparalleled Android experience, combining cutting-edge hardware with Google’s renowned AI and machine learning capabilities.
Display:
- 7-inch OLED display with edge-to-edge design
- 1344×2992 resolution for stunning clarity
- Variable refresh rate up to 120 Hz for smooth scrolling and animations
- Up to 2,400 nits of maximum outdoor brightness for excellent visibility in direct sunlight
Camera & Video:
- 50MP main lens for capturing incredible detail
- 48MP ultrawide lens with macro capabilities for versatile shooting
- 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom for capturing distant subjects
- 10MP front-facing camera with autofocus for sharp selfies
- Low-light Night Sight feature for stunning images in challenging lighting conditions
- AI-based photo and video editing tools for enhancing your shots
- Video Boost with Night Sight Video for improved quality in moderate light
- AI processing via Google Photos (not on-device) for enhanced colors, details, and stabilization
- Slower processing time due to cloud-based processing
- Limited to the rear camera only
Battery:
- 5,050 mAh battery for all-day battery life, even with heavy use
- 50% charge in 30 minutes and 100% charge in around two hours (using a 30W charger)
Additional Features:
- Matte-glass back for a classy premium look and feel
- Temperature sensor (though its practical use is debatable)
Price:
- Priced at $999
Overall, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a powerhouse of a smartphone, offering an exceptional camera system, a stunning display, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem. If you’re good to invest in a premium device with unparalleled computational photography capabilities, the Pixel 8 Pro is an excellent choice.
Google Pixel 8a
For those desiring a more budget-friendly Google phone without compromising on performance and camera quality, the Google Pixel 8a is an excellent choice. This mid-range offering from Google packs a punch, delivering many of its flagship features at a more convenient price point.
Display:
- 1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400×1080
- 120 Hz refresh rate
- 2,000 nits maximum brightness for excellent outdoor visibility
- Rich colors, excellent contrast, and a vibrant display overall
Performance:
- Tensor G3 processor, (Pixel 8 and 8 Pro)
- 8 GB RAM for seamless multitasking
- 256 GB storage option available
- Handles gaming, image processing, machine learning, and speech recognition without noticeable lag
Cameras:
- 64 MP main camera and 13 MP ultrawide camera (same as Pixel 7a)
- Lacks autofocus on the ultrawide sensor, limiting macro capabilities
- Smaller sensors compared to the Pixel 8, resulting in more lens flares in low-light conditions
- Solid AI-assisted digital zoom and a wider front-facing camera for group selfies
AI Features:
- Call Screen, Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Magic Eraser
- New features like Circle to Search and the Gemini AI assistant
Updates:
- Software and security updates guaranteed until 2031
Battery:
- 4,492 mAh battery, providing more than 24 hours of moderate use
- Struggles with heavy gaming and extended use
- 18W wired charging, taking around 2 hours to fully charge with a 30W brick
Build and Design:
- IP67-rated water resistance
- 100% recycled aluminum frame and 76% recycled plastic rear cover
- Rounded corners and a narrower design compared to the Pixel 7a
- Premium feel despite the plastic body
Price:
- Priced at $559
The Google Pixel 8a strikes an excellent balance between performance, camera quality, and affordability. With its capable hardware, AI-driven features, and guaranteed software updates, it’s an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and future-proof Android device without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy S24
In Samsung, the Galaxy S series has long been a norm for Android smartphones, and the Galaxy S24 continues this tradition. With a focus on design, top performance, and cutting-edge features, this device is poised to impress even the most discerning users.
Design & Display:
- Flat-edged design similar to the iPhone, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic
- 1080p OLED screen with sharp, vibrant colors
- Maximum outdoor brightness of 2,600 nits for excellent visibility in direct sunlight
- Smaller frame for comfortable one-hand use
Camera & Video:
- The superior choice for video capture among Android phones
- Camera performance outperforms most Android phones, except for Google’s Pixel line and higher S24 models
Battery:
- Slightly larger 4,000 mAh battery compared to the S23’s 3,900 mAh
- Provides about a day of power with medium to heavy use
- Charges up to 50% in 30 minutes with a 25W wired connection
- Efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor contributes to longer battery life
Shared Features with S24 Ultra:
- Seven years of software updates
- Galaxy AI tools: Circle to Search, Chat Assist, translation, transcribing, and photo-editing capabilities
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor for seamless performance
Price:
- Priced at $779
- More affordable than the S24 Ultra while retaining many premium features
The Samsung Galaxy S24 strikes a perfect balance between performance, design, and features. With its powerful hardware, impressive camera capabilities, and Samsung’s commitment to software updates, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded and future-proof Android device.
Google Pixel 8
Google’s Pixel line has always been a standout in the Android ecosystem, and the Pixel 8 continues this tradition with its focus on computational photography and seamless integration with Google’s services.
Software and Features:
- Best Take uses AI to stitch together the best parts of multiple photos
- Magic Editor allows for subject repositioning and background changes
- These photography features are also available on other Android phones and older Pixel models
Camera:
- A 50MP main camera captures more light for improved image quality
- Upgraded 12MP ultrawide camera with autofocus for sharp macro photos
- Lower aperture for colorful and sharp photos in various lighting conditions
- Night Sight feature for superior low-light photography
- New photo features: Best Take and Magic Editor
Updates and Longevity:
- Seven years of updates, including software, security, and feature updates until fall 2030
Battery and Charging:
- 4,575 mAh battery for all-day usage
- Faster charging with up to 50% charge in 30 minutes using a 30W charger
- Reaches charging speeds up to 27W
Android 14 Enhancements:
- More lock-screen customizations
- monochromatic theme options
- The recorder app supports multiple languages
- Improved At A Glance widget with travel updates and event tickets
- Enhanced Call Screen feature for better call management
- Clear Calling feature blocks more background noise
- Google Assistant can summarize content and read websites aloud
- Personal Safety app with Safety Check feature
Accessibility Features:
- Guided Frame supports front and rear cameras, detects food and pets
- The Magnifier app enhances small text or object details
Price:
- Priced at $699
The Google Pixel 8 is a compelling choice for those who prioritize camera performance and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem. With its impressive camera system, software enhancements, and guaranteed updates, it’s a future-proof device that will continue to evolve and improve over time.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Samsung’s flagship offering, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, is a true powerhouse designed to cater to the most demanding users. From its top-notch display to its advanced camera system and cutting-edge AI features, this device is poised to redefine the Android experience.
Design & Display:
- New, iPhone-like design with a large OLED display
- 8-inch screen with a resolution of 1440×3120 and a 120 Hz refresh rate
- Peak outdoor brightness increased to 2,600 nits for excellent visibility
- Titanium frame for improved durability, but slightly heavier than predecessors
- Flat screen edges for easier handling
AI Features:
- Circle to Search: Uses Google Lens to search images, text, or videos
- Chat Assist: Alters text-message tone and translates text into 13 languages
- Live Translate: Real-time phone call translation
- Transcript Assist: Transcribes, summarizes, and translates within the Phone and Voice Recorder apps
- Generative Edit: AI photo-editing for moving, tilting, and removing objects
- Instant Slo-Mo: Converts videos to 120 fps slow-motion
Camera System:
- 200-megapixel main sensor
- 12-MP ultrawide lens
- Replaces one 10-megapixel telephoto zoom with a 50-megapixel sensor
- Sacrifices 10x-optical-zoom for a 5x 50-megapixel lens
- Switches between four lenses while capturing 4K 60 fps video
Performance & Battery:
- Runs on Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip with a neural processor
- Excellent multitasking and gaming performance
- 5,000 mAh battery
Software & Updates:
- Will receive software and security updates for seven years (until early 2031)
Price:
- $1,300, representing a $100 increase over the S23 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a true flagship device that pushes the boundaries of what an Android phone can achieve. With its cutting-edge hardware, advanced camera system, and extensive AI features, it’s a powerhouse that caters to the most demanding users.
OnePlus 12
OnePlus has built a reputation for delivering high-performance devices at competitive prices, and the OnePlus 12 continues this tradition. With its powerful hardware, OnePlus’s unique camera setup, and long-lasting battery, this phone is a compelling choice for those seeking a flagship experience without hurting the bank.
Display:
- 82-inch 1440p 120Hz LTPO OLED screen for a stunning visual experience
Performance:
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor
- Up to 16GB of RAM
Camera:
- 50-megapixel f/1.6 main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS)
- 64-megapixel 3x telephoto camera with OIS for zoomed shots
- 48-megapixel f/2.2 ultrawide camera for capturing wide-angle scenes
Battery & Charging:
- 5,400mAh battery for all-day usage and extended battery life
- 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging for rapid top-ups
Features:
- IP65 water resistance for protection against splashes and light rain
- Upgraded Hasselblad cameras for improved image quality
- Wireless charging support for added convenience
- Improved water resistance compared to prior models
Price:
- Priced at $799
The OnePlus 12 is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance phone without extensive AI features. With its powerful hardware, OnePlus’s unique camera setup, and long-lasting battery, it offers a premium experience at a more affordable price point.
Nothing Phone 2
Nothing, the newcomer in the smartphone industry, has quickly garnered attention with its unique design and innovative approach. The Nothing Phone 2 is a stylish and feature-packed device that aims to feel unique in the crowd.
Design:
- Retro-infused, unique design with a distinct personality
- Rear-panel LED light strips (“glyphs”) for customizable notifications
Display & Performance:
- 7-inch 1080p 120Hz OLED screen for smooth visuals
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 processor for great daily performance
Camera:
- 50-mp F/1.9 main camera with OIS
- 50-megapixel ultrawide camera for capturing wider scenes
- 32-megapixel selfie camera for high-quality self-portraits
Battery & Charging:
- 4,700 mAh battery for all-day usage
- 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging for added convenience.
Features:
- IP54 splash resistance, protecting against light rain and splashes
- Not fully water-resistant, so caution is advised in wet conditions
- Not certified for use on Verizon’s network, limiting its compatibility in the US
- LED light strips for customizable notifications, adding a touch of flair
- Not as functional as an always-on display, but a stylish alternative
Price:
- Priced at $699
The Nothing Phone 2 is a perfect choice if you prioritize unique style and are willing to overlook its limitations in terms of water resistance and network compatibility. Its striking design and LED light strips make it a head-turner, but it may not be the most practical choice for everyone.
The Competition
- OnePlus 12R: A more affordable alternative to the OnePlus 12, with slightly lower specifications but still offering excellent value for money.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+: A step down from the S24 Ultra, but still packing a punch with its powerful hardware and impressive camera system.
- Samsung’s Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23 Ultra: Last year’s flagships, still holding their own in terms of performance and features.
- Google’s Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro: Previous-generation devices that continue to excel in computational photography and software optimization.
Choosing the right Android phone is a highly personal decision. Whether you prioritize camera performance, battery life, software updates, or a unique design, the top seven picks we’ve covered offer something for everyone.
If you’re a photography enthusiast, the Google Pixel 8 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stand out with their exceptional camera systems and computational photography capabilities. For those looking for a balance between phone performance and affordability, the Google Pixel 8a and Samsung Galaxy S24 are excellent choices.
If you value high-end performance and a premium experience without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 12 is a compelling option. And for those who appreciate unique design and style, the Nothing Phone 2 is a head-turner with its retro-inspired aesthetics and customizable LED light strips. So, take your time to carefully consider every aspect, and make your choice.