Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review
The AI Productivity Powerhouse
Our Verdict
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is not just a phone; it's a computer in your pocket. The S-Pen remains a unique advantage for business owners and creatives, and the new Galaxy AI features are genuinely useful, not just gimmicks. While the shutter lag still annoys me when taking photos of moving kids or pets, the screen and zoom capabilities are unmatched.
The Good
- Galaxy AI features (Circle to Search, Live Translate) are excellent
- Flat display makes using the S-Pen much better
- 7 years of OS updates is a huge commitment
- Anti-reflective screen coating is a game changer outdoors
- Zoom quality up to 10x is still the best in the business
The Bad
- It is a very large and boxy phone to hold
- Shutter lag is still present in indoor lighting
- 45W charging is faster than iPhone but slower than Chinese rivals
Design: Flat & Functional
Samsung finally listened! The curved screen is gone. The S24 Ultra has a completely flat display, which is fantastic for using the S-Pen right to the edge without slipping. The titanium frame adds durability, though it doesn't feel quite as light as the iPhone. It's a big, boxy phone that means business.
Display: The Best Screen Period
Samsung makes the best screens, and this is their masterpiece. The new Gorilla Armor glass significantly reduces reflections. Using this phone under the harsh Lagos sun is noticeably better than any other device. The colors are vivid, and the 2600 nits peak brightness is blindingly good.
Galaxy AI & S-Pen
The "Circle to Search" feature is addictive—I use it constantly to find prices of shoes or clothes I see on Instagram. Live Translate works surprisingly well for calls, though you might not use it daily. The S-Pen remains the king for signing documents on the go or quick sketches. If you run a business from your phone, this tool is invaluable.
Camera: 200MP Power
The 200MP main sensor captures an insane amount of detail. You can crop into photos endlessly. The switch from 10x optical to a 5x 50MP sensor was controversial, but in practice, it's better. 5x is a more usable zoom length for portraits, and the digital crop to 10x is nearly lossless. Video quality has improved, especially in low light, though iPhone still holds the crown there.
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Tech Specs
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