Samsung Galaxy S24 Review: Compact & Powerful
The Samsung Galaxy S24 offers a premium compact experience with powerful performance and extensive software support, making it a strong choice for most users.
Decision: buy · Match: 81/100 · Confidence: 92/100
How this score is calculated: This score combines two things: the product's absolute hardware level (Qor AI Tech Score 78/100) and how well it fits your quiz answers — weighted 60/40. Product segment: Upper-mid segment. A device that is excellent for its own class still will not reach the score of a higher tier.
This smartphone delivers flagship-level performance in a sleek, compact design, appealing to users who prioritize portability without sacrificing power. Its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display and advanced camera system provide an excellent multimedia experience. While the battery life is adequate for most, heavy users might find it falls short of expectations, and the absence of a charger in the box is a notable drawback. However, Samsung's commitment to seven years of software updates ensures long-term value and security for this device.
Detailed analysis
The Samsung Galaxy S24 stands out as a premium Android smartphone, offering a compelling blend of compact design, powerful hardware, and advanced features. It is equipped with either the Samsung Exynos 2400 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, depending on the region, ensuring top-tier performance for all tasks. Performance is a significant strength, with its 10-core CPU and 8 GB of RAM delivering smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications and games. While some reports mention potential warming during extended gaming sessions, this is generally within acceptable limits for high-performance devices. The camera system is robust, featuring a 50 MP main sensor, 12 MP ultra-wide, and 10 MP telephoto lens. It supports 8K video recording and includes AI-powered enhancements like Portrait Mode and ProVisual Engine, which improve image quality and offer creative shooting options. However, the absence of autofocus on the ultra-wide camera is a notable limitation. The 6.2-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display is a highlight, boasting FHD+ resolution, an adaptive 120 Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 2600 nits peak brightness. This combination ensures vibrant colors, smooth scrolling, and excellent visibility even in direct sunlight, all protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Battery life from the 4000 mAh unit is generally adequate for a full day of moderate use, supported by 25W fast charging and wireless charging. However, heavy users might find it necessary to recharge before the day ends, and the lack of a charging adapter in the box is an inconvenience that adds to the initial cost. Samsung's commitment to seven years of operating system and security updates is a major advantage, ensuring the Galaxy S24 remains secure and feature-rich for an extended period. This long-term software support significantly enhances the device's longevity and value proposition. Built with a premium glass back and an aluminum frame, the S24 exudes a high-quality feel and offers IPX8 water resistance for added durability. Its compact form factor is a key selling point for users seeking a powerful phone that is easy to handle and carry. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G support, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E, and a versatile USB Type-C port. Dual SIM capability further adds to its utility. However, the absence of a MicroSD card slot means storage cannot be expanded beyond the internal capacity.
Strengths
- Exceptional 120Hz Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with 2600 nits peak brightness for superb visuals.
- Powerful Samsung Exynos 2400 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset ensures top-tier performance.
- Seven years of promised OS and security updates guarantee long-term software longevity and value.
- Compact 6.2-inch design with premium glass and aluminum build offers excellent ergonomics and feel.
- Robust 50 MP main camera with AI enhancements captures high-quality photos and 8K video.
- IPX8 water resistance provides strong protection against water immersion and spills.
Weaknesses
- Charging adapter is not included in the box, requiring a separate purchase.
- Ultra-wide-angle camera lacks autofocus, limiting its versatility for certain shots.
- No MicroSD card slot means storage cannot be expanded beyond the internal capacity.
- Galaxy AI features are only free until the end of 2025, potentially incurring future costs.
- The 4000 mAh battery, while decent, may not consistently last two full days for heavy users.
Things that change the decision
No MicroSD Card Support
The Samsung Galaxy S24 does not offer expandable storage via a MicroSD card slot, meaning users are limited to the internal storage option chosen at purchase. This can be a drawback for those who require extensive local storage for media or files.
Galaxy AI Features Free for Limited Duration
The advanced Galaxy AI features on the S24 are offered free of charge only until the end of 2025. After this period, users may need to pay for continued access, which could be a hidden long-term cost.
Feature by feature
| Screen size | 6.2 inches | The 6.2-inch display provides a comfortable grip and single-handed usability, making it ideal for users who prefer smaller phones. This size strikes a good balance between screen real estate and portability. |
| Main camera | 50 MP | The 50 MP main camera captures detailed and vibrant images, suitable for everyday photography and social media sharing. Its high resolution allows for cropping without significant loss of quality. |
| RAM | 8 GB | With 8 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S24 handles multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. This ensures a fluid user experience even with demanding apps open. |
| Storage | 128 GB | The 128 GB internal storage is adequate for most users, accommodating a good number of apps, photos, and videos. However, users with extensive media libraries might consider higher storage variants or cloud solutions. |
| Battery capacity | 4000 mAh | The 4000 mAh battery aims to provide a full day of use for moderate users. While sufficient for many, heavy usage scenarios like gaming or extensive video streaming might require a midday top-up. |
| Water resistance | Yes IPX8 | Its IPX8 water resistance rating offers excellent protection against accidental spills and immersion. This feature provides peace of mind for users in various environments. |
| Fast charging | 25 W Yes | The 25W fast charging allows for relatively quick recharges, getting the phone ready for use faster. While not the fastest on the market, it provides a noticeable boost compared to standard charging. |
| Wireless charging | Yes | Wireless charging capability adds convenience, allowing users to power up their device by simply placing it on a compatible pad. This feature enhances the overall user experience. |
| CPU cores | 10 Core | The 10-core CPU ensures robust processing power, making the S24 capable of handling intensive applications, complex computations, and high-fidelity gaming. This contributes to a smooth and lag-free experience. |
| 5G | Yes | With 5G support, the Samsung Galaxy S24 provides access to the fastest mobile network speeds available. This is crucial for streaming high-quality content, online gaming, and rapid downloads. |
What owners say
Satisfaction: 82/100
Community sentiment for the Samsung Galaxy S24 is largely positive, with a significant majority of users expressing satisfaction with their purchase. The compact size and premium build quality are frequently highlighted as key advantages, appealing to those who prefer a more ergonomic device without compromising on flagship features. The stunning Dynamic AMOLED display, with its high brightness and adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, also receives widespread acclaim for enhancing the visual experience. Performance is another area where the S24 excels in user feedback. Owners consistently report a fluid and responsive experience, whether navigating the UI, running multiple applications, or engaging in demanding mobile gaming. The powerful chipset ensures that the phone handles intensive tasks with ease, contributing to a high level of user satisfaction. However, there are recurring concerns, particularly regarding battery life. While Samsung suggests up to two days of use, many users find that under typical or heavy usage, the device often requires recharging within a single day. This discrepancy between expectation and actual experience is a common theme in negative feedback, especially among users who game frequently or stream a lot of content. Another point of contention is the absence of a charging adapter in the box. This decision, while common among modern flagships, continues to be a source of frustration for consumers who feel it represents an additional, unexpected cost. The lack of an autofocus feature on the ultra-wide camera is also mentioned by some reviewers as a missed opportunity for a phone in this price bracket. Despite these criticisms, the overall perception remains strong, largely due to Samsung's commitment to long-term software support. The promise of seven years of OS and security updates is a significant factor contributing to positive sentiment, as it assures users of the device's longevity and continued relevance. This commitment helps to mitigate some of the minor hardware-related complaints by offering substantial future-proofing.
What owners keep praising
- Long Software Support
The commitment to seven years of software updates is a major draw, providing users with confidence in the device's future-proofing and security. - Powerful Performance
Users appreciate the S24's fast and responsive performance, enabling seamless multitasking and a smooth gaming experience.
Chronic problems
- Battery Life Falling Below Expectations common
Many users report that the 4000 mAh battery often does not last a full two days, especially with moderate to heavy usage, averaging 5-7 hours of screen-on time. - Warming During Gaming occasional
Some users have noted that the device can experience noticeable warming during extended gaming sessions, potentially impacting comfort and sustained performance.
Smart alternatives
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE — The Galaxy Z Flip7 FE offers a larger 6.7-inch foldable display, providing a unique form factor for users seeking portability and a larger screen when unfolded. While it shares similar core performance and battery capacity, its foldable design is the primary differentiator.
- Xiaomi 14T Pro (256 GB) — The Xiaomi 14T Pro (256 GB) boasts a significantly larger 5000 mAh battery and ultra-fast 120W charging, offering superior endurance and quicker top-ups. It also comes with 12 GB of RAM, providing even more headroom for multitasking compared to the S24's 8 GB.
- Nothing Phone (4a) (12 GB / 256 GB) — The Nothing Phone (4a) offers double the storage at 256 GB and a higher 12 GB RAM configuration for a slightly lower price than the Samsung Galaxy S24. While its overall tech score is slightly lower, it provides excellent value for users needing more memory and storage out of the box.
Price outlook
Trend: up · Buy or wait: buy · Best time to buy: Now, or monitor for short-term promotions
This pricing aligns with its flagship-level features and premium build quality, appealing to users seeking high performance in a compact form factor. Over the past six months, the price of the Samsung Galaxy S24 has seen a significant increase of 39.32%, with a 21.96% rise in the last month and a 1.78% increase in the last week. This indicates a strong upward trend, suggesting that market forces are pushing prices higher rather than allowing for depreciation. This upward trend suggests that the current market conditions are driving prices higher, possibly due to inflation, strong demand, or supply chain factors. The product's relatively recent launch in January 2024 means it is still a current-generation device, which typically maintains its value more effectively than older models. Given the recent price increases and the product's market positioning, it is unlikely that significant price drops will occur in the immediate future. Therefore, for buyers in the market, the current period might be as good a time as any to purchase the Samsung Galaxy S24 if they need a new device. Waiting is unlikely to yield better deals, as the trend indicates continued stability or further increases. Monitoring for short-term retailer promotions or bundle deals could be the best strategy for potential savings.
Who is it for?
Buy it if: This phone is ideal for users prioritizing a compact, premium smartphone experience with flagship performance and a commitment to long-term software support. Its excellent display and camera system make it suitable for multimedia consumption and photography enthusiasts.
Skip it if: It is not ideal for users who require extensive battery life for continuous heavy usage or those who depend on expandable storage via MicroSD cards. Buyers on a strict budget might also find the initial cost, plus the need for a separate charger, a deterrent.
Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 is a highly capable and well-rounded smartphone that delivers a premium experience in a compact form factor. Its strengths in display, performance, and software support outweigh its minor drawbacks, making it a recommended purchase for most users seeking a high-end Android device.
Frequently asked questions
What is the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy S24?
With a 4000 mAh battery capacity, the Samsung Galaxy S24's battery life might fall short of expectations during heavy use. Average screen-on time is reported to be around 5-7 hours.
Is the Galaxy S24 camera good?
The 50 MP main camera, with 8K video recording and AI-powered features, captures high-quality photos and videos. However, the lack of autofocus on the ultra-wide-angle camera is a limitation.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 suitable for gaming?
The Exynos 2400 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 8 GB RAM provide top-tier performance, sufficient for daily tasks and demanding games. It may show a tendency to heat up during intense gaming sessions.
How long does Galaxy S24 software support last?
Samsung commits to seven years of operating system and security updates for the Galaxy S24, ensuring the device remains current and secure for a long period.
Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 come with a charger?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S24 does not include a charging adapter in the box. This means users will incur an additional cost to purchase a separate adapter.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 water resistant?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S24 has an IPX8 water resistance rating. This protects the device against water immersion and provides durability against everyday accidents.