Choosing the best phones under $1000 can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many options with cutting-edge features just shy of the ultra-premium models. If you’re in the market for a powerhouse smartphone that doesn’t make your wallet weep, this guide will help you find the perfect balance between performance, design, and value. From photography enthusiasts to gamers and foldable tech fans, here are the best smartphones that deliver high-end performance without exceeding the $1,000 mark in 2024.
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The Best Sub-$1000 Android: Samsung Galaxy S24
Samsung has set a high standard with the Galaxy S24, making it a top contender for the best Android phone under $1000. Released as a follow-up to the already successful Galaxy S23 series, the S24 refines the formula without straying too far from what made its predecessor great.
Key Features:
- Display: A brilliant 6.2-inch AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth scrolling and immersive media experiences. Whether you’re watching 4K videos or playing the latest mobile games, the visuals are top-tier.
- Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the Galaxy S24 delivers the speed you need for multitasking, gaming, and everything in between. With 8 GB of RAM, you won’t experience lag even when juggling demanding apps.
- Battery Life: The Galaxy S24 features a 4,500mAh battery that comfortably lasts through a full day of moderate use. While Samsung still hasn’t incorporated blazing fast charging into this model, it’s enough to keep you going with moderate daily use.
The camera setup remains largely unchanged from previous generations. However, it still ranks among the best, with a 50 MP primary sensor that takes crisp, well-balanced photos in both low light and daylight conditions. If you’re looking for a compact flagship with premium features and software updates for up to seven years, the Galaxy S24 is a solid choice.
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Image Credit: Apple
The Best Sub-$1000 iPhone: Apple iPhone 15
For the Apple enthusiasts, the iPhone 15 stands out as the best iPhone you can get under $1000. Apple’s 2024 lineup continues to impress with its focus on performance and refinement, while keeping prices just under the four-figure threshold.
Key Features:
- Processor: Equipped with the A16 Bionic chip, the iPhone 15 maintains Apple’s reputation for delivering fluid, seamless performance, whether you’re editing photos, playing games, or using augmented reality (AR) apps.
- Camera: The 48 MP camera is a significant upgrade over previous models, particularly in low-light photography. Thanks to Apple’s computational photography, every shot looks clean and vibrant, from portraits to landscapes.
- Dynamic Island: Apple has extended the Dynamic Island feature to this model, providing quick access to notifications and app shortcuts in a clever, intuitive way.
However, the iPhone 15 does have its drawbacks, such as a 60 Hz refresh rate display, which might disappoint users who’ve experienced the smoother scrolling of 120Hz panels. But if you can live without that, the iPhone 15 remains an exceptional device within the Apple ecosystem.
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Best Camera Phone Under $1000: Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google has been synonymous with mobile photography excellence, and the Google Pixel 8 Pro cements its place as the go-to for photography buffs looking for an elite camera experience.
Key Features:
- Camera: The Pixel 8 Pro’s 50 MP main camera, backed by Google’s unbeatable computational photography, delivers stunningly sharp, vibrant photos in any lighting. Whether you’re taking portraits or night shots, the AI-driven enhancements do the heavy lifting.
- Display: The 6.7-inch OLED display is one of the brightest and most color-accurate screens you’ll find in this price range. It’s perfect for media consumption and outdoor readability.
- Software: Running the latest version of Android, the Pixel 8 Pro also promises 7 years of updates, meaning this phone is a solid investment in the long run.
On the downside, the phone’s slow charging and lack of a charger in the box are notable. Despite that, if photography is your priority, this is your best bet under $1000.
Best Value for Money: Nothing Phone (2)
For those wanting a premium experience without paying a premium price, the Nothing Phone (2) hits the sweet spot between style, functionality, and value.
Key Features:
- Design: Nothing’s transparent design, combined with the Glyph interface, gives the Phone (2) a futuristic aesthetic. Its 6.7-inch OLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate is equally impressive.
- Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, the Phone (2) handles everyday tasks smoothly, though it’s not as robust as the flagship processors in the Galaxy S24 or Pixel 8 Pro.
- Battery: With a 4,700mAh battery, it comfortably lasts through a day of use, and it also supports 45W fast charging, so you’re never tied down to an outlet for too long.
Its weaknesses are mainly in the camera department, where it doesn’t quite match up to the likes of the Pixel 8 Pro, but for the price, it’s hard to complain.
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Best Foldable Under $1000: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Foldable phones are no longer just a novelty, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 proves that you can get a stylish foldable device without going over $1000.
Key Features:
- Design: The gapless fold is one of the biggest upgrades, making the phone sleeker and more durable. The larger secondary display adds more usability, allowing you to reply to messages, control music, and even take selfies without unfolding the phone.
- Performance: With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the Z Flip 5 performs well for everyday tasks, though it may fall short for more intense gaming sessions.
- Durability: The hinge mechanism feels sturdy, and the phone has an IPX8 water resistance rating, making it one of the most durable foldables on the market.
The major drawbacks include battery life, which is shorter compared to slab-style phones, and the camera quality, which, while good, is not on par with similarly priced flagships
What to Expect From Sub-$1000 Smartphones in 2024
Smartphones under $1000 have become a sort of “entry-level high-end” option in 2024. With flagship devices regularly surpassing the $1,000 mark, it’s important to understand the trade-offs. Phones in this range might not have the absolute best features like LTPO displays or 16 GB of RAM, but they still offer powerful processors, great displays, and high-quality cameras.
You’ll likely have to compromise on certain extras like the fastest charging standards or telephoto lenses, but in return, you get phones that handle 95% of everyday tasks effortlessly.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Phone Under $1000
If you’re after a solid all-rounder, the Samsung Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 are excellent picks. For camera enthusiasts, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is unmatched. And for those looking to embrace the future of foldable tech, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers a unique and stylish experience. Whatever your priorities are, there’s a flagship-level phone under $1000 that’s perfect for you.