Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile vs Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked

Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S24 • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$277.00

Versus $799.99 new

See options
Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked
Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$408.00

Versus $814.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and the Samsung Galaxy S24+ are both high-end Android smartphones released in January 2024. While they share a common design language and the same operating system, Android 14 with One UI 6.1, they cater to slightly different user preferences primarily through variations in display size, battery capacity, and memory configurations. Both devices offer a consistent software experience with a focus on AI-powered features.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, both the Galaxy S24 and S24+ offer substantial software support and robust build quality.

  • Software Updates: Both models are part of Samsung's commitment to providing seven years of operating system and security updates, ensuring they remain current and secure for an extended period. This commitment means users can expect continued functionality and access to new features well into the future.
  • Build Materials: Both the Galaxy S24 and S24+ feature Armor Aluminum frames and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, contributing to their overall durability. They also carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, offering protection against common environmental hazards.
  • Practical Lifespan: Given the extended software support and durable construction, both devices are designed for a practical lifespan that extends beyond typical upgrade cycles, making them suitable for users seeking a long-term smartphone solution.

Release Year

2024

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Galaxy S24 and S24+ deliver a responsive and capable user experience, handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease.

  • Processing Power: Equipped with a current-generation processor, both phones offer smooth performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and intensive applications. Users can expect quick app loading times and fluid navigation.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 typically comes with 8GB of RAM, while the Galaxy S24+ features 12GB of RAM. This difference means the S24+ may offer a slightly more seamless experience when juggling a large number of applications simultaneously or running particularly memory-intensive tasks.
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S24 starts with 128GB of storage, with higher tiers available, while the S24+ begins at 256GB. The 128GB variant of the S24 utilizes UFS 3.1 storage, whereas all other configurations for both models use the faster UFS 4.0 standard, impacting data transfer speeds.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is vibrant and clear, though there are notable differences in resolution and size.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both phones feature Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X displays with a variable refresh rate of 1Hz to 120Hz, providing smooth scrolling and adaptive power efficiency. The Galaxy S24 has a 6.2-inch display, offering a compact viewing experience, while the S24+ boasts a larger 6.7-inch screen, providing more screen real estate.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 features an FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels), which delivers sharp visuals for its size. The Galaxy S24+, however, steps up to a QHD+ resolution (1440 x 3088 pixels), offering a noticeably sharper and more detailed image, especially for high-resolution content.
  • Brightness: Both models achieve a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3120

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both the Galaxy S24 and S24+ share an identical camera system, delivering consistent photo and video capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: Each device is equipped with a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for detailed photos across various scenarios.
  • Photography Performance: Users can expect vibrant colors, good detail, and effective dynamic range in well-lit conditions. Both phones also perform well in low-light environments, capturing clear images with balanced exposure.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both models support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second with Super Steady stabilization. For selfies and video calls, they feature a 12MP front-facing camera that captures detailed and sharp images.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two devices.

  • Physical Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S24 measures 147 x 70.6 x 7.6mm and weighs 167g, making it a more compact and lighter option that is easier for one-handed use. The Galaxy S24+, at 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7mm and 196g, offers a larger form factor that might appeal to users who prefer more screen space, though it is heavier.
  • Battery Capacity and Charging: The Galaxy S24 houses a 4000mAh battery, while the S24+ features a larger 4900mAh battery. This difference translates to longer usage times for the S24+, with some reports indicating it can last significantly longer on a single charge for moderate use. The S24 supports 25W wired charging, whereas the S24+ supports faster 45W wired charging, allowing for quicker recharges. Both support 15W wireless charging.
  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices offer 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. They both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer and lack a traditional headphone jack or expandable storage via microSD card.

Weight

6 oz

7 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.2

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24+ offer a compelling choice within Samsung's flagship lineup, with the primary distinctions revolving around size, display resolution, RAM, and battery capacity. User feedback often highlights the S24+'s enhanced battery life and higher-resolution display as significant advantages, while the standard S24 is praised for its more compact and manageable form factor.

Some users have noted concerns regarding the vividness of the display colors on both models compared to previous generations, though Samsung has stated this is an intentional adjustment for a more natural viewing experience. Camera performance is generally well-received, with both phones delivering consistent results, though some early reports mentioned minor issues with camera transitions or grainy textures in specific scenarios.

Users prioritizing a larger, sharper display and extended battery life for heavy usage, such as professionals who spend long hours away from a charger or travelers who consume a lot of media, may find the Galaxy S24+ better suited to their needs. Conversely, those who prefer a more compact device that is easier to handle with one hand and carry in a pocket, without sacrificing core performance or camera quality, will likely lean towards the standard Galaxy S24. Both models represent a quality-assured option for those seeking a modern smartphone experience, and considering a refurbished version can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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