Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review: Why Buy Anything Else?

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

18 min, 30 sec

A comprehensive review of the Samsung S24 Ultra, highlighting its all-encompassing features and capabilities as a top-tier Android phone of 2024.

Summary

  • The Samsung S24 Ultra encapsulates the pinnacle of Android phone features, from its display, camera, and battery to its software and AI capabilities.
  • Samsung has evolved their Ultra phone formula over the years, now offering a device that includes all the best hardware and software in one.
  • The S24 Ultra's display is a 6.8 inch quad HD AMOLED, flat and bright, with a new anti-reflective coating and improved fingerprint reader.
  • Battery life remains strong with a 5,000mAh capacity, and performance is top-notch with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 12 gigs of RAM.
  • The camera system is versatile with a 200 megapixel primary sensor and a new 50 megapixel 5X camera, providing utility and impressive results.

Chapter 1

Introduction to the S24 Ultra

0:00 - 30 sec

Initial thoughts on the Samsung S24 Ultra's capabilities and market positioning in 2024.

Initial thoughts on the Samsung S24 Ultra's capabilities and market positioning in 2024.

  • The S24 Ultra is considered a go-to option for anyone with a $1,300 budget for an Android phone.
  • It combines the best features from other high-end phones with additional enhancements.
  • The phone aims to push every possible value to the maximum, offering an all-in-one premium experience.

Chapter 2

Evolution of Samsung Ultra Phones

0:41 - 33 sec

The progression of Samsung's Ultra phone series and its current culmination.

The progression of Samsung's Ultra phone series and its current culmination.

  • Samsung's Ultra phone strategy has shifted from simply having the highest specs to becoming more refined.
  • The inclusion of the S Pen marked a significant evolution, absorbing the Note line into the Ultra series.
  • Samsung now focuses on integrating the best available hardware and software into the Ultra phones.

Chapter 3

Display and Design Improvements

1:19 - 1 min, 16 sec

Detailed review of the S24 Ultra's display advancements and design changes.

Detailed review of the S24 Ultra's display advancements and design changes.

  • The S24 Ultra maintains a 6.8 inch quad HD AMOLED display with 120Hz LTPO, now flatter and brighter than before.
  • The screen can reach a brightness of 2,600 nits and offers a new anti-reflective coating for better visibility.
  • Design-wise, the phone resembles its predecessor but reveals significant improvements upon closer inspection.

Chapter 4

Battery Life and Charging

2:40 - 41 sec

Exploration of the S24 Ultra's battery performance and charging capabilities.

Exploration of the S24 Ultra's battery performance and charging capabilities.

  • The S24 Ultra retains a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring exceptional battery life even with a thinner design.
  • It supports 45 watt wired charging and 25 watt wireless charging, providing convenience and longevity.
  • The device can handle long days of use, with over six hours of screen-on time, and can last two days with careful usage.

Chapter 5

Performance and S Pen Utility

3:30 - 1 min, 3 sec

Assessment of the S24 Ultra's general and gaming performance, including S Pen functionality.

Assessment of the S24 Ultra's general and gaming performance, including S Pen functionality.

  • Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 12GB RAM, the S24 Ultra excels in multitasking and performance.
  • The S Pen remains a unique offering for those who prefer a high-end stylus for productivity.
  • Enhancements in gaming performance and cooling systems make the S24 Ultra an excellent choice for gamers.

Chapter 6

Camera System Overview

4:35 - 3 min, 21 sec

In-depth look at the S24 Ultra's camera capabilities, covering both utility and aesthetics.

In-depth look at the S24 Ultra's camera capabilities, covering both utility and aesthetics.

  • The S24 Ultra's camera system features a 200 megapixel primary sensor and a new 50 megapixel 5X telephoto lens.
  • While maintaining Samsung's signature image processing style, the camera system offers a well-rounded performance.
  • The camera hardware and software enhancements, such as HDR and AI editing, provide a comprehensive photography experience.

Chapter 7

Software and AI Features

8:30 - 5 min, 37 sec

Exploring the S24 Ultra's software intelligence, updates roadmap, and partnership with Google.

Exploring the S24 Ultra's software intelligence, updates roadmap, and partnership with Google.

  • The S24 Ultra boasts a wealth of AI-driven features, including advanced photo editing and live translations.
  • Samsung has partnered with Google to integrate powerful tools like Circle to Search for enhanced user experience.
  • The phone promises seven years of software updates, ensuring a long and up-to-date lifespan.

Chapter 8

Comparisons and Final Thoughts

14:40 - 3 min, 47 sec

Final arguments for purchasing the S24 Ultra and its comparison to the competition, including the iPhone.

Final arguments for purchasing the S24 Ultra and its comparison to the competition, including the iPhone.

  • The S24 Ultra competes with iPhones by adopting similar features like the flat display, new color options, and camera innovations.
  • While acknowledging its high price, the S24 Ultra is positioned as the ultimate device for those seeking the most feature-packed Android phone.
  • The video concludes with an ad for the Ridge Wallet, emphasizing its minimalist design and the variety of styles available.

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