MKBHD's 2024 Smartphone Awards: Who Were the Winners and Losers?

Marques Brownlee, widely known as MKBHD, has become a prominent voice in tech reviews, amassing a staggering 19.7 million subscribers. Each year, he meticulously evaluates the latest smartphones, honoring those that shine in various categories. The 2024 Smartphone Awards have wrapped up, revealing both the standout winners and the disappointing losers this year.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Awarded as the Best Large Phone

Best Large Phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has been named the best large phone, and for good reasons. It features a massive 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, ensuring vibrant visuals and clarity. It also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and gaming. One remarkable aspect of the S24 Ultra is its battery life, lasting over 15 hours on a single charge during regular usage. With the added functionality of the S Pen, it becomes a versatile tool for professionals and creatives.

Best Small Phone: iPhone 16

Claiming the title of the best small phone, the iPhone 16 packs a punch with its feature set. It includes a 12MP dual-camera system that excels in low-light conditions, making nighttime photography easy. The battery life is impressive as well, lasting approximately 13 hours with video playback. Apple has managed to maintain its compact design without sacrificing performance, keeping users satisfied with consistent software updates and seamless integration of services.

Best Camera: iPhone 16 Pro

The iPhone 16 Pro has won the award for the best camera smartphone, thanks to its exceptional capabilities. With features like 4K video recording at up to 60fps and a 48MP main sensor, it provides professional quality in a pocket-sized device. Users can also rely on its Night mode, which improves image quality significantly in dim lighting. Photographers have found that the camera's automatic adjustments often outperform the competition, elevating it as a reliable option for capturing both casual moments and professional projects.

Best Value: Nothing Phone 2a

The Nothing Phone 2a has received recognition for its outstanding value at just $350. It features a 120Hz AMOLED display and a robust 5,000mAh battery that can comfortably last more than a day of heavy use. Surprisingly, this phone also includes a decent dual-camera setup, capturing respectable images even in challenging conditions. With its seamless software experience, it stands out as a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality.

Best Battery: Red Magic 10 Pro

When it comes to battery life, the Red Magic 10 Pro shines brightest. Fitted with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, it optimizes performance while maintaining efficiency. The remarkable 7,050mAh battery can last up to two days under regular use. What stands out further is its rapid charging capability, going from 0% to 100% in about 30 minutes with its 100W peak charging feature. This device speaks volumes to those who prioritize uninterrupted gaming or heavy application usage.

Best Design: Huawei Mate X2

With its stunning triple-fold design, the Huawei Mate X2 captures attention. The slim profile contributes to a sleek aesthetic, separating components for the battery and camera, which enhances the overall ergonomic experience. Users appreciate the practicality of the design, which includes intuitive software features across all three panels, making multitasking seamless and enjoyable.

Best Foldable Phone: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold claims the title for the best foldable phone this year. Its innovative improvements in hinge technology and display quality elevate it above many competitors. Users reported that it feels solid in hand and provides a smooth transition from a compact phone to a full-sized tablet, making it a worthy contender in the foldable market.

Most Improved: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has shown significant enhancements compared to its predecessor. Improvements in camera technology, hinge quality, and bezel design have made it a compelling device. Users note that these changes have resulted in faster operation and an enhanced overall experience, making it a hot favorite among foldable options.

Disappointment of the Year: Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra

The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra has been labeled a disappointment this year. While it possesses some decent features, such as a capable camera and good performance, it has failed to meet the high expectations set by earlier models. The shift to a more traditional design has lost the compact, innovative characteristics that once set it apart, leaving users feeling let down.

Smartphone of the Year: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The title of Smartphone of the Year goes to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. This phone excels in all areas, from its high-quality display and powerful chipset to its impressive battery life and advanced camera features. While competitors like the Vivo X200 Pro and Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold are noteworthy, the comprehensive performance of the Galaxy S24 Ultra solidifies its position as the standout choice of 2024.

Final Thoughts

MKBHD's 2024 Smartphone Awards showcase the remarkable growth of smartphone technology, highlighting devices that excel in various fields. From the best large and small phones to standout cameras and impressive battery life, the awards reflect a thriving market ready to meet diverse consumer needs.

Examining the winners and losers reveals a landscape brimming with innovation. As technology continues to advance, exciting options will await consumers in the years to come. Whether upgrading to a powerful flagship or considering a budget device, these awards serve as a valuable guide for making informed choices in your next smartphone purchase. By keeping an eye on industry trends and recognized devices, you'll be well-prepared to find the perfect smartphone that suits your lifestyle.