Samsung Galaxy S24

Samsung's Galaxy S24 represents a significant step forward in mobile technology, blending cutting-edge design with powerful performance. From the moment it’s in hand, the S24 feels like a premium device. Its sleek construction features a polished aluminium frame and a refined glass back, which not only looks stylish but also ensures durability. Available in a range of colours, including Onyx Black, Amber Yellow, and Sapphire Blue, it caters to different aesthetic preferences. The phone's dimensions are well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold, while the 167g weight strikes a sweet spot between sturdiness and portability.

At the heart of the Galaxy S24 is its 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which delivers a visual experience that’s both vibrant and crisp. With a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels, every image and video appears sharp and detailed, while the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. This is further enhanced by Samsung's Vision Booster technology, which adjusts brightness and contrast to maintain clarity even under direct sunlight. Whether watching videos, playing games, or simply browsing the web, the display is a joy to use.

Performance is where the Galaxy S24 truly shines. Powered by the Exynos 2400 processor, it offers a seamless experience across a variety of tasks. The 4nm chip is designed to handle everything from demanding mobile games to everyday multitasking without a hitch. Accompanied by 8GB of RAM, the device is responsive, handling multiple apps running in the background with ease. Storage options include 256GB and 512GB, which should be sufficient for most users, although there’s no microSD slot for further expansion.

The S24's camera system is equally impressive, designed to cater to both casual photographers and those who demand more from their mobile photography. The triple-lens setup on the rear includes a 50MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 10MP telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom. This combination allows for a versatile shooting experience, whether capturing landscapes, portraits, or close-up details. Night Mode has been refined to deliver clearer and brighter images in low-light conditions, while the improved AI processing ensures that colours and details are well-preserved in every shot. The 12MP front camera is ideal for selfies and video calls, with support for 4K video recording at 60fps.

Battery life is another area where the Galaxy S24 excels. The 4000mAh battery provides all-day power under typical usage, and when it does run low, the 25W fast charging capability ensures that you’re back up and running in no time. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are also supported, adding to the convenience. Samsung's One UI 6.0, based on Android 14, powers the software experience. It’s a clean, intuitive interface with plenty of customisation options to make the device truly your own. Features like enhanced multitasking, better privacy controls, and a more responsive user experience all contribute to making the S24 a pleasure to use.

Connectivity options on the Galaxy S24 include 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring that you’re always connected at high speeds. There’s also NFC for contactless payments and other conveniences. The device is IP68 rated, meaning it’s dust and water-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about using it in less-than-ideal conditions.

Audio quality is another highlight of the Galaxy S24, with stereo speakers tuned by AKG delivering clear and rich sound. Dolby Atmos support enhances the experience, making it immersive whether you’re watching movies or playing games. While the 3.5mm headphone jack is absent, this is offset by the quality of wireless audio through Bluetooth.

Security features on the S24 include an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor embedded in the display, which is fast and accurate. There’s also facial recognition, which provides an additional layer of security, though it may not be as secure as the fingerprint option.

For those interested in using their phone for more than just communication, the Galaxy S24 supports Samsung DeX, which allows you to connect the device to a monitor and use it like a desktop computer. This feature can be particularly useful for productivity tasks, making the S24 not just a phone, but a versatile tool for work and play.

Released in Australia in early 2024, the Galaxy S24 starts at an RRP of $1,199 for the 256GB model, while the 512GB version is priced at $1,399. Considering its robust feature set, premium design, and powerful performance, the S24 positions itself as a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or switching from another brand, the Galaxy S24 offers a compelling mix of innovation and practicality that’s hard to overlook.

This description was last updated August 2024.