.webp)
The world of mobile phones is constantly evolving, with new and innovative devices being released all the time. In 2024, we've seen some truly impressive smartphones hit the market, with features and capabilities that were unimaginable just a few years ago.
Mobiles 2023: The Best of the Best
In this blog post, we'll take a look at the top 10 popular mobile phones of 2023. These are the devices that have impressed us the most with their design, performance, features, and value for money.
This list is diverse, featuring phones from popular brands such as Google, Apple, Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, and Xiaomi. While brands like Nokia, Realme, Asus, and Oppo are not included here, you can find them in our other smartphone round-ups, including the best budget phones and best mid-range phones.
So, if you're looking for the best of the best, be sure to check out our list of the top 10 popular mobile phones of 2023..
1. iPhone 15 Pro
$999.00
The iPhone 15 Pro is ranked number one on our top 10 smartphone list for 2023 due to its exceptional features and performance. This flagship device from Apple offers cutting-edge technology and innovation. It boasts a powerful processor, impressive camera capabilities, and a sleek design. Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro provides a seamless user experience with its advanced iOS software and extensive app ecosystem. With its combination of top-notch hardware and software, the iPhone 15 Pro offers users an unparalleled smartphone experience, making it the best choice for tech enthusiasts and iPhone fans alike.
2. Google Pixel 8 Pro
$859.99
The Pixel 8 Pro, featuring a Tensor G3 chip and advanced processing and lenses, outperforms the Pixel 7 Pro in terms of speed and photography quality. It runs on Android 14 and is supported by Google for seven years. The luxurious build and lower price make it a great choice, but battery life and charging could improve, and the heavy design may not be suitable for everyone.
3. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
$899.99
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is a large and expensive phone with a triple camera, long-lasting battery, and a special pen for screen use. Its unique shape makes it easy to hold, and its 200Mp main camera captures bright, colorful images with multiple lenses. However, the selfie camera struggles in low light conditions. The phone's unique design and high-quality camera make it a great choice for 2023.
4. iPhone 15
$799.00
The iPhone 15 offers two upgrades over the iPhone 14: USB-C for easy accessory connection and the Dynamic Island for useful information. The A16 Bionic chip boosts speed and efficiency, improving battery life. The iPhone 15 is a great value with smooth iOS software and high-quality build, but may be less appealing for those seeking a higher refresh rate display or fast charging.
5. OnePlus 11
$549.99
The OnePlus 11 is a premium smartphone priced at $699/£729/€849,$629.99/$549.99, offering fast performance, excellent display, strong cameras, and four years of Android updates and five security updates. It is a slim and svelte phone with a 6.7in screen, available in green glossy or black matte finishes. The phone has a 50Mp main lens, strong cameras, and a 50Mp main camera. It has a matt, almost-silk-like finish to the back glass, making it slipperiest but not fingerprint-free. The newer OxygenOS version of the phone is labored, but it is a great choice for those looking for a long-lasting device.
6. Xiaomi 13 Pro
$699.99
The OnePlus 11 is a premium smartphone priced at $699/£729/€849,$629.99/$549.99, offering fast performance, excellent display, strong cameras, and four years of Android updates and five security updates. It is a slim and svelte phone with a 6.7in screen, available in green glossy or black matte finishes. The phone has a 50Mp main lens, strong cameras, and a 50Mp main camera. It has a matt, almost-silk-like finish to the back glass, making it slipperiest but not fingerprint-free. The newer OxygenOS version of the phone is labored, but it is a great choice for those looking for a long-lasting device.
7. Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
$799.99
The Galaxy S23 Plus is a decent-sized phone with a decent display, top battery life, and excellent five-year software support. It comes with three capable rear camera lenses and a plain design. The software takes more tweaking than Pixel phones, but Samsung's OneUI is more customizable than Google's Android version. The phone feels premium in aluminium and glass, and has an excellent display with good outdoor visibility. If the size is too big, there's a regular Galaxy S23 with a smaller display.
8. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra/Razr
$1319.00
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra, also known as the Razr+ in some markets, is a better choice for most people due to its larger, 3.6-inch, 144Hz outer screen and 6.9-inch, 165Hz internal display. It is durable, has an IP52 rating for water and dust resistance, and has a premium design. However, it has a outdated Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and a step down in camera capabilities compared to Android's best. Despite these issues, the Razr 40 Ultra is a great foldable option.
9. Google Pixel 7a
$374.00
The Google Pixel 7a is a premium Android phone that offers the best features of the 2022 Pixel 6a, including a great camera, solid performance, and software support. It is priced at $499/£449/€509, making it one of the best value phones. The phone has a smaller 6.1in display, is easier to use and pocket, and has the same Tensor G2 chipset as the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. The 64Mp main camera is exceptional, and it comes in blue, coral, white, or black colors. However, charging is slow and wireless charging is unreliable.
10. Samsung Galaxy A14
$199.00
Samsung offers budget handsets like the Galaxy A14, priced between £150 and $199. Inspired by Samsung's flagships, the device has a 5000mAh battery and a basic 6.6in Full HD 60Hz panel. While it has downgraded in performance and cameras compared to more expensive phones, the MediaTek Helio G80 chipset is still suitable for everyday use. The 50Mp main rear lens provides good photos in good lighting. The One UI is slick and intuitive, and while slow charging and no 5G are a compromise, the A14 is a great budget option.
Tips For Buying Smart Phone
When choosing a phone, consider build quality, design, ease of use, features, performance, and value. In 2023, flagship phones start at around $700/£700, with contract prices ranging from £30 to £50-per-month in the UK. Contract deals are often better in the US. While mid-range and budget phones are also available, flagships are heavily featured. Buying a phone outright is usually the best value, but a SIM card and plan are required.
Which phone should you buy—an Android or an iPhone?
Android and iOS are the two most popular mobile operating systems. Android 13 is the latest version, while iOS 16 is Apple's latest. Both platforms have excellent app stores, and transferring data between them is easy. However, paid-for apps and certain app data cannot be moved, so research specific concerns before switching platforms.
What makes buying an unlocked phone recommended?
Unlocked phones are untethered to specific mobile operators and are generally a better deal than contracts, except for Apple's iPhones. They are not tied to a contract and can be bought outright without a SIM card or contract. This allows for flexible usage and the option to buy a new phone without committing to a long-term contract.
What SIM card or mobile plan should you purchase?
To ensure a compatible phone, consider the size and shape of the SIM required. If your phone requires a nano-SIM, get it. Networks will send different-sized SIMs, and SIM cards come in all three sizes. If you're looking for a SIM-free or unlocked phone, you likely already have one. Ensure you get a 5G-enabled phone and SIM for optimal performance.
Best Mobile Phones 2024
| Mobile Name | Price |
| Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate | $1,499.00 |
| Samsung Galaxy S24+ Ultra | $899.99 |
| Apple iPhone 15 Pro | $799.99 |
| Google Pixel 8 Pro | $859.99 |
| OnePlus 11 | $549.00 |
| Xiaomi 13 Pro | $699.99 |
| Oppo Find X5 Pro | $899.00 |
| vivo X80 Pro+ | $899.00 |
| realme GT 2 Pro | $599.00 |
| Sony Xperia 1 IV | $999.99 |
#Note: The prices and specifications are based on MAR-2024 and are subject to change over time with Retailer and Location.
.webp)
