Google Pixel 8 Pro: The 2024 Android Phone Champion Reviewed.

By: Jessica Miller

3 Minute read

Category: tech

The Verge's Best Android Phones of 2024: A Review Roundup

The Verge's guide to the best Android phones, updated for 2024, presents a tiered approach, recognizing that "best" is subjective and depends heavily on budget and needs. Here's a breakdown of the recommendations, synthesizing their key points:

Overall Pick: Google Pixel 8 Pro

The Pixel 8 Pro consistently tops the list, and for good reason. The review highlights its exceptional camera system, powered by Google's computational photography. Features like Best Take (combining multiple shots for the perfect group photo), Magic Editor (AI-powered object manipulation), and Audio Magic Eraser (noise reduction in videos) are repeatedly praised. Beyond the camera, the Pixel 8 Pro boasts a bright and vibrant 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Google's Tensor G3 chip provides smooth performance, though it's not quite as powerful as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 found in some competitors. The seven years of software updates is a major selling point, significantly extending the phone's lifespan. Downsides mentioned include the price (it's a premium device) and the Tensor G3's efficiency, which can impact battery life compared to Snapdragon-powered phones.

Runner-Up / Premium Alternative: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The Galaxy S24 Ultra is positioned as the top alternative, particularly for those heavily invested in the Samsung ecosystem or prioritizing raw power. It features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, offering top-tier performance and improved efficiency. The camera system is incredibly versatile, with a 200MP main sensor, excellent zoom capabilities, and strong low-light performance. The S24 Ultra also boasts a bright and vivid 6.8-inch display, a built-in S Pen stylus, and a robust build quality. The review notes Samsung's Galaxy AI features, which are similar to Google's offerings but with a slightly different implementation. The downsides include the price (even higher than the Pixel 8 Pro), Samsung's One UI software (which some find cluttered), and a less consistent software update commitment than Google's seven years.

Best Value: Google Pixel 8 & Best Budget: Google Pixel 7a

Stepping down in price, the Pixel 8 is lauded as the best value Android phone. It shares many of the Pixel 8 Pro's key features, including the Tensor G3 chip, excellent camera capabilities (though slightly less advanced than the Pro), and the seven-year software update promise. The smaller 6.2-inch display makes it more pocketable, and the price is significantly lower than the Pro model. The review acknowledges that the battery life isn't exceptional, and the display isn't quite as bright or high-resolution as the Pro's, but it represents an excellent balance of features and price. The Pixel 7a continues to be a strong contender in the budget category, offering a surprisingly good camera experience and a smooth 90Hz display thanks to Google’s computational photography. It uses the Tensor G2 chip for decent performance and is a fantastic option for a Pixel experience without a high price tag.

Best Foldable & Other Notable Mentions / Overall Impression

For those interested in a foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the recommended choice. The review highlights its improved hinge design, making it more durable and allowing it to fold flatter. The cover screen is more usable, and the internal display is bright and vibrant. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor provides excellent performance. However, foldables remain expensive and bulky, and the battery life isn't as good as traditional smartphones. Other notable mentions include the OnePlus 12 (praised for fast charging, smooth display, and strong performance) and the Nothing Phone (2a) (a unique and stylish phone with a good camera and competitive price). Overall, the guide emphasizes that the "best" Android phone depends on individual needs and priorities, with Google’s Pixel series consistently receiving high marks for camera, software, and long-term support, and Samsung offering a wider range of features and options.