Samsung S24 long-term review: Compact, powerful... and adorable

From left: Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 Ultra, and iPhone 14 Pro Max.

I've used midrange compact phones before, but something is oh-so-satisfying about using a device that fits in your palm and doesn't compromise on quality or performance.

Designed for tech enthusiasts who crave cutting-edge innovation without compromising on style and portability, the Galaxy S24 is making a mark in the competitive smartphone market. For the past few weeks, I've been taking a closer look at this little powerhouse and I'm happy to report it's a delight to use, despite the much-maligned Exynos 2400 processor.

Samsung, known for its diverse product lineup, has been making headlines with its foldable Galaxy Z series and the feature-rich Ultra model within the Galaxy S series. However, these devices often faced criticism for their weight and bulk — I have to say they weigh like bricks. Enter the Galaxy S24, the base model that's here to change the game.

Let's talk design. With a slim 7.6mm profile and a feather-light 167g build, the Galaxy S24 boasts a compact yet robust construction. An aluminium enclosure and Gorilla Glass protection ensure durability, while an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance adds a practical touch. Plus, wireless charging support? Check.

Despite its compact size, the Galaxy S24 sports a generous 6.2-inch display with a fullHD+ AMOLED panel. The adaptive refresh rate technology ensures a smooth user experience without sacrificing battery life. And for those sunny days, Samsung's Vision Booster technology steps in, enhancing sunlight legibility while keeping those colours vibrant.

Audio-wise, the stereo speaker setup with Dolby Atmos technology delivers clear and loud audio for calls, conferences, and gaming. However, for music and video playback, I sometimes found myself yearning for a bit more depth. But then again, a smartphone is my last choice for media consumption, so it wasn't a deal-breaker.

Now, let's focus on the camera, a crucial aspect for many users. The Galaxy S24 features a triple-camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle sensor, and a 10MP 3x telephoto sensor. Improved imaging algorithms and additional features make this camera setup shine, providing consistent results across various lighting conditions.

The software game is strong too, running on the Android 14 operating system with OneUI 6.1. Samsung promises seven years of OS and security updates for the Galaxy S24 series, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Performance-wise, the Samsung Exynos 2400 chipset that powers the Galaxy S24 offers flagship-grade performance, as it did on the Galaxy S24+. While it may not match the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 found in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, it handles everyday tasks with ease. The 4,000 mAh battery keeps the device running for typical daily use, and 25W charging ensures a quick top-up.

With a starting price of ₹79,999, the Samsung Galaxy S24 proves to be a compelling entry into the world of premium smartphones. It caters to discerning consumers with its compact form factor, advanced camera system, vibrant display, and innovative features.

While it's not without its flaws, the strengths of the Galaxy S24 outweigh its limitations, making it a noteworthy contender in its price range. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a casual user, the Galaxy S24 offers a blend of performance and convenience that's hard to resist.