In the fiercely competitive smartphone market, the best Android phones don't just stand their ground; they give Apple's flagship phones a run for their money. If you're seeking an Android phone that not only matches but even surpasses Apple iPhones in some cases, look no further than these exceptional devices in the higher-end and premium segment. With unmatched performance, lightning-fast displays, and top-tier camera systems, these Android powerhouses redefine what a smartphone can do. Their support for HDR and 10/12-bit color spectrums offers a visual experience that's on par with, if not better than, Apple's offerings. From the impressive Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to the innovative Vivo X100 Pro and value-packed OnePlus 12R, these are the best Android-based smartphones that we recommend across various price segments that you should be considering when in the market for a shiny new phone.
- 1.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is possibly the most well-rounded Android flagship in the Indian smartphone market in 2024. Featuring a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and an improved heatsink, the phone is exceptionally smooth and runs intensive tasks with ease. The phone houses a quad camera setup headlined by a 200 MP primary camera. It also houses a 50 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, a 10 MP shooter with 3x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide camera. The phone has a versatile camera system which is capable of clicking some excellent shots. Battery life and display brightness have seen a boost this time around as well. All of this makes the Galaxy S24 Ultra one of the best, if not the best, Android phone in India now.
- 2.
The Xiaomi 14 is a fantastic option for those who like compact phones. This compact device is a powerhouse despite its diminutive size. Add to that, the top notch in-hand feel, and this is definitely one of the best built phones on the market. It also comes with impressive specifications such as the latest and greatest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset which allows for smooth performance and daily operations. You also get a hefty 16 GB of RAM, so the phone can multitask without breaking a sweat no matter the load. Of course, Xiaomi has collaborated with Leica once again for the 50 MP prrimary + 50 MP ultrawide + 50 MP telephoto camera setup, which works its magic. The images are sharp and detailed, with excellent dynamic range. Overall, this is a great option for compact phone lovers and/or camera enthusiasts.
- 3.
Another excellent camera phone option, the Vivo X100 Pro “unleashes the photographer in you”, according to our Smartphone reviewer, Darab Mansoor Ali. The Vivo-Zeiss collaboration has worked out very well and the phone’s 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor is one of the best in the market right now. The portrait abilities and the video capabilities are some of the best in the Android world right now. Add to that the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset, and it establishes its position as one of the best phones in the world right now. The ergonomics aren’t the best though, since the phone is quite thick and can get uncomfortable to hold over long periods.
- 4.
If power is of utmost importance to you, the iQOO 12 obliterates the competition in this regard, at a fraction of the cost. The powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset paired with iQOO’s proprietary Q1 chipset smashes the ceiling for performance even in the flagship smartphone segment. The benchmark scores of the iQOO 12 are some of the highest we’ve seen and the day-to-day operations are super smooth, as expected. Furthermore, the camera has improved by a lot this year, outputting flagship-level photos, making this an excellent package at a very exciting price.
- 5.
The OnePlus 12 continues the brand’s tradition of delivering high-performance smartphones with cutting-edge features at a relatively affordable price. It boasts a sleek design and a vibrant display, which makes it stand out amidst its competitors. Its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor ensures smooth multitasking and gaming, while the generous battery capacity keeps users connected throughout the day. The camera setup captures detailed photos in most instances. However, it could be tuned better; it is definitely not the best flagship camera on the block. Still, the OnePlus 12 is a solid option for those who want a flagship experience without having to spend more than a lakh.
- 6.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 introduces a series of refinements over its predecessor, the Galaxy S23, rather than groundbreaking innovations. Notable upgrades include a brighter and larger LTPO 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and an Armor Aluminum 2 frame featuring a sleek matte finish. The software experience is enriched with One UI 6.1, complemented by evolving Galaxy AI features. A key selling point is the promise of seven years of software support. Despite the Exynos 2400 chipset’s improved performance, which now rivals the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it grapples with issues related to throttling and heat management. Nevertheless, the Galaxy S24 maintains its appeal as a compact flagship, catering to users in search of a smaller device packed with Samsung’s latest technology.
- 7.
Despite its modest incremental upgrades, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 stands out as one of the best foldable devices available. Samsung continues to refine and polish its foldable formula with each iteration, resulting in the most refined and versatile folding software experience to date. With blazing-fast performance powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, impressive battery life, and commendable cameras, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 will satisfy most users. However, Samsung faces increasing competition from other manufacturers making significant strides in foldable technology. To maintain its position, Samsung must strive to deliver more substantial improvements rather than relying solely on incremental upgrades.
- 8.
The Pixel 8 Pro boasts excellent cameras that clicks some stunning pictures across various conditions. It also has one of the brightest displays in its segment, and tons of exciting AI features. It is a solid Android smartphone camera enthusiasts can consider. However, there are some issues such as throttling, overheating, and lackluster performance. The Tensor G3 chipset still trails behind its Snapdragon and MediaTek counterparts, so if your main use case is gaming or video editing, there are better options such as the ones we’ve listed above.
- 9.
The iQOO Neo 9 Pro is a mid-range phone that performs like a flagship. Featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, this phone is capable of running circles around other phones at a similar price. Its gaming and day-to-day performance is the best for the price, and this year, it even comes with improved cameras. You get the Sony IMX920 primary camera which clicks some some stellar shots. The sensor is the same one as the Vivo X100’s primary camera, which explains why the pictures look amazing in almost every scenario. Overall, a fantastic device offering the best bang for your buck in its price segment.
- 10.
Priced at ₹40,000, the OnePlus 12R presents an enticing option for those seeking a well-rounded smartphone. With premium features commonly associated with flagship devices—including a robust aluminum frame, an LTPO 4.0 AMOLED display with Dolby Vision support, and rapid 100W SUPERVOOC charging—it excels across various aspects. The OnePlus 12R embodies versatility. However, it’s essential to evaluate whether the upgrade is justified for current OnePlus 11R or iQOO Neo 7 Pro owners. Nonetheless, for individuals in the market for a new ₹40,000 smartphone and haven’t upgraded recently, the OnePlus 12R emerges as a top contender and a pretty straightforward recommendation.
