The new Samsung Galaxy S24 lineup is here, and it’s safe to say that Samsung has blurred the lines between the regular, Plus, and Ultra models more than ever before. With similar features across all three, choosing the best one for you can be tricky. Should you save money and go for the regular model, or splurge on the Ultra? In this guide, we’ll break down all the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Display: Similar Yet Different
While the three models share a similar Super AMOLED 2 display technology, the key differences in resolution and display glass are notable.
Display Specs Comparison
| Model | Display Size | Resolution | Peak Brightness | Refresh Rate | Glass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S24 | 6.2 inches | FHD+ (1080p) | 2600 nits | 120Hz | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| S24 Plus | 6.7 inches | FHD+ (1080p) | 2600 nits | 120Hz | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| S24 Ultra | 6.8 inches | Quad HD+ (1440p) | 2600 nits | 120Hz | Gorilla Armor Glass |
- Resolution: All models come with FHD+ by default, but the S24 Plus and S24 Ultra support Quad HD for a sharper display.
- Display Glass: The S24 Ultra features Gorilla Armor glass, which reduces reflections by up to 75%, making it easier to see in bright conditions.
Design & Build: Size and Feel Matter
The design language is similar across all three models, but the size and materials used differ.
Design & Materials
| Model | Frame Material | Dimensions (mm) | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S24 | Aluminum | 151.7 x 70.9 x 7.6 | 168g |
| S24 Plus | Aluminum | 158.5 x 76.7 x 7.6 | 196g |
| S24 Ultra | Titanium | 163.4 x 79.3 x 8.9 | 233g |
- S24 Ultra has a Titanium frame, which gives it a more premium feel, while the S24 and S24 Plus sport an Aluminum frame.
- Weight: The Ultra is noticeably heavier, with a weight of 233g, compared to the S24 at 168g, making it a bulkier option.
Performance: Same Processor, Different RAM
All three models come with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (in the U.S.), but the amount of RAM varies across models.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Processor | RAM | Storage Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| S24 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | 8GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| S24 Plus | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | 12GB | 256GB, 512GB |
| S24 Ultra | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | 12GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
- The S24 has 8GB of RAM, while the S24 Plus and S24 Ultra come with 12GB.
- Storage Options also vary, with the Ultra offering up to 1TB, making it the best choice for power users who need a lot of space.
Camera: Different Lenses, Same Great Features
All three models have similar front-facing and ultra-wide lenses. However, there are key differences in the primary rear camera and zoom capabilities.
Camera Specifications
| Model | Front Camera | Rear Camera Setup | Zoom |
|---|---|---|---|
| S24 | 12MP | 50MP Primary, 12MP Ultra-Wide, 10MP 3x Telephoto | Up to 30x |
| S24 Plus | 12MP | 50MP Primary, 12MP Ultra-Wide, 10MP 3x Telephoto | Up to 30x |
| S24 Ultra | 12MP | 200MP Primary, 12MP Ultra-Wide, 10MP 3x Telephoto, 50MP 5x Periscope | Up to 100x |
- The S24 Ultra features the 200MP primary camera and a 50MP 5x Periscope lens for superior zoom capabilities.
- All three phones share the same 12MP front camera, but the Ultra takes the crown with a 200MP primary camera, offering higher resolution and detail.
Battery Life: What You Can Expect
Battery sizes vary across the three models, affecting their overall performance.
Battery Comparison
| Model | Battery Capacity | Charging Speed |
|---|---|---|
| S24 | 4000mAh | 25W Fast Charging |
| S24 Plus | 4900mAh | 45W Fast Charging |
| S24 Ultra | 5000mAh | 45W Fast Charging |
- The S24 Ultra has the largest battery at 5000mAh, while the S24 comes with a smaller 4000mAh battery.
- Charging Speed: Both the S24 Plus and S24 Ultra support 45W fast charging, while the S24 is limited to 25W.
Which One Should You Buy?
The best Galaxy S24 model for you really depends on your needs and budget. Here’s a quick recap:
- Samsung Galaxy S24: Great for those who want a compact device with top-tier performance at a lower price.
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus: Perfect for those who want a larger screen and better performance without jumping to the Ultra.
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Best for power users who want premium features, including the S Pen, superior cameras, and extra RAM/storage.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Galaxy S24 is a solid choice, offering most of the features of the Plus and Ultra models. However, if you need a larger screen or more advanced camera capabilities, the S24 Plus and S24 Ultra may be the better fit.
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| S24 | $799 |
| S24 Plus | $999 |
| S24 Ultra | $1299 |
The price of each model is fairly consistent with previous generations, but the S24 Ultra definitely comes with a premium price tag.
