Top 5 Best Value 5G Phones in 2024

You need a 5G-capable phone to take advantage of the various 5G service options that the three national carriers—AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—offer throughout the United States. It can be difficult to determine which phones work with which 5G networks, but Gadgetex is here to make the process simple. We have many years of experience reviewing and covering mobile phones, so we are well-versed in 5G. In general, the majority of phones have at least one 5G feature. Our top picks range from low-cost devices like the Editors’ Samsung Galaxy A15 5G to high-end models like the Apple iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9. Make sure to read our top picks’ reviews and become acquainted with our 5G buying guide below so you can be a 5G expert, too.

QUICK LIST

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Top 5 Best Value 5G Phones in 2024

1.Apple iPhone 16

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The cheapest model in Apple’s 2024 iPhone lineup is the iPhone 16. This year, the company has made a few changes to all of its phones, and the standard iPhone 16 now has features and performance that are more comparable to the Pro models. In addition to a generational leap in processor and memory to power Apple Intelligence, it shares the same Action Button and Camera Control, for instance. It’s a near-total package that includes high-quality hardware, contemporary radios, quick charging, and a long battery life. The iPhone 16 is our Editors’ Choice winner and the best option for the majority of people, though content creators may prefer the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s additional power and professional video tools.

The vanilla iPhone continues its slow evolution year after year. Although the iPhone 16 retains a lot of the iPhone 15’s design, it still advances significantly because of a few features that Apple has included in all iPhone 16 models.

The smallest and lightest iPhone is the 16 model, which weighs 6.0 ounces and measures 5.81 by 2.82 by 0.31 inches (HWD). The 16 Plus weighs 7.03 ounces and measures 6.33 by 3.06 by 0.31 inches. It has all the same features as the 16 except for the display. With dimensions of 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.32 inches and weighing 7.03 ounces, the 16 Pro is marginally bigger than the 16. At 6.42, the Pro Max is significantly bigger.

Aluminum frames and Apple’s Ceramic Shield on the front and back are features of the iPhone 16 (and 16 Plus). According to Apple, its glass is twice as durable as Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, which is used in the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Google Pixel 9. Matte finishes on the glass panels and frame provide a slight grip boost. Because of its IP68 rating, which protects it from dust and water, the phone can survive up to 30 minutes submerged in water up to five feet deep. Still, it’s best to put a case on the phone unless you’re positive you won’t drop it. There are five colors available for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus: Teal, Pink, Black,Ultramarine, or White. We tested the Ultramarine model, which is an attractive shade of blue that sometimes almost looks purple.

Two new buttons are the iPhone 16’s most obvious external additions. The Action Button, which debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max last year, is first seen on the iPhone 16. In place of the ringer switch, the Action Button is a tiny key located directly above the two volume buttons. The Action Button can be set up to record a voice memo, turn on the flashlight, silence your phone, or initiate your preferred shortcut. Despite its somewhat diminutive size, the button is incredibly helpful. Second, the Camera Control key is the same for the iPhone 16 as it is for the Pro models. You can quickly open the camera to take a picture or record a video with the Camera Control.

2.Google Pixel 8a

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

One of the greatest midrange phones available today is the Google Pixel 8a. It has the same top features as the $699 Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, including Google’s G3 processor, useful AI tools, excellent cameras, and seven years of software support. Given how much else you’re getting for the price, neither of these shortcomings is a big deal. However, we wish it had newer protective glass on the front and supported faster charging. As a result of its competitive performance and affordability, the Pixel 8a receives our Editors’ Choice award for midrange Android phones.

The rounded corners and camera bar of the Pixel 8a give it a similar appearance to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Instead of being glossy like the Pixel 8, the back is matte like the Pixel 8 Pro. It has good dirt and fingerprint resistance. Four of the nine antenna lines that surround the camera bar are visible. Aloe (green), Bay (blue), Obsidian (black), or Porcelain (off-white) are the four color options available for the phone. The Porcelain version was tested by me.

The device’s front is occupied by a 6.1-inch OLED display, but the bezel is worth mentioning. Yes, it is thicker than that of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, but it doesn’t interfere with the device’s functionality or distract me. The bezel somewhat reminds me of the black ring around the Pixel Watch’s display. You might notice it at first, but it’s easy to ignore.

The aluminum and glass used in the 8a create a sleek, elegant design. The front, which is several generations old, is covered by Gorilla Glass 3. Similar to the Pixel 7a, the 8a has an IP67 rating, which is respectable but not quite as impressive as the IP68 rating of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 FE provides IP68 protection, whereas the Samsung Galaxy A35 is rated IP67. In general, unless you intend to regularly immerse your phone in water, you shouldn’t be concerned about the distinction between an IP67 and IP68 rating. Rain and unintentional spills should not harm the Pixel 8a.

3.Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the only smartphone in the company’s lineup with a S Pen stylus, revives the Galaxy Note dream. Although it’s a lot of phone, no other device can match this combination of a top-tier processor, an amazing display, top-tier cameras, useful AI capabilities, and an integrated stylus. If you don’t need the S Pen or the additional camera zoom, the slightly smaller and less expensive Galaxy S24+ might be a better option, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s unwavering commitment to quality makes it our Editors’ Choice for high-end Android phones.

The largest and priciest member of the S24 family, which also includes the $799 Galaxy S24 and the $999 Galaxy S24+, is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Its squared-off design, integrated S Pen stylus, and more distant cameras set it apart from its more reasonably priced stablemates.

With dimensions of 6.40 by 3.11 by 0.34 inches (HWD) and a weight of 8.22 ounces, the Ultra is undoubtedly a large phone. Despite weighing only 0.03 ounces less than the S23 Ultra, the S24 Ultra feels lighter thanks to its updated design. Don’t be misled, though; this is a very large gadget that won’t be appealing to people who prefer to use their phones with one hand. If that’s your stance, the S24 (5.79 by 2.78 by 0.30 inches, 5.93 ounces) and the S24+ (6.2 by 3.0 by 0.30, 6.95 ounces) are smaller, lighter, and more rounded.

Corning Gorilla Armor, which Corning claims is more durable than any other smartphone glass it produces, is used to protect the display on the S24 Ultra. Additionally, according to the company, Gorilla Armor is less reflective and can, depending on the lighting, reduce glare by up to 75%. In fact, the Ultra appears nearly paper-like and exhibits fewer reflections than other phones I’ve tested.

In contrast to the curved panels of previous models, the front glass is entirely flat. Samsung claims that user feedback led to this modification. Because there is less chance of the curved edge registering your palm as input, the flat screen makes using the S Pen easier. Because drawing on curved glass was difficult, it also makes the S Pen easier to use.

Samsung hasn’t altered the design of the rear camera: Four rear cameras—three large and one small—as well as a laser focus module are included. The Ultra’s back panel has a matte finish that deters fingerprints and uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2.Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet, and Titanium Yellow are the available color options for the Ultra. The black and yellow models are outlined with color-matched frames, while the gray and violet models are surrounded by a gray titanium frame. You can purchase Titanium Blue, Titanium Green, or Titanium Orange versions if those colors aren’t your thing, but only through Samsung’s website. The orange model has a lighter gray frame, whereas the blue and green models have a darker gray frame. The titanium substance is only available to the Ultra model. The S24 and S24+ use Samsung’s Armor Aluminum. The color of the included S Pen matches the titanium frame except for the yellow model, which gets a dark gray S Pen.

4.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 continues where the Z Fold 5 left off: it’s a remarkably multipurpose phone that has the capacity to manage almost any task you put it through. Although the improvements over its predecessor aren’t revolutionary, its improved durability, lighter weight, and enhanced cover screen experience all contribute to its premium feel, which is commensurate with its price. Highlights also include the amazing camera system, seven years of software support, and cutting-edge Galaxy AI features. The Z Fold 6’s poor charging capabilities are our biggest grievance, but that isn’t enough to keep it from winning our Editors’ Choice award. Simply put, it’s the greatest large foldable phone available.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 measures 6.04 by 2.68 by 0.48 inches (HWD) when closed, spans 6.04 by 5.22 by 0.22 inches when open, and weighs 8.43 ounces. It’s shorter, wider, thinner, and lighter than the Z Fold 5, which measures 6.10 by 2.64 by 0.53 inches closed, expands to 6.10 by 5.11 by 0.24 inches unfolded, and tips the scales at 8.92 ounces. The aging $1,799.99 Google Pixel Fold is downright hefty by comparison. It comes in at 5.50 inches by 3.10 inches by 0.50 inches closed, folds out to 5.50 by 6.24 inches by 0.23 inches, and weighs 9.98 ounces. All three of these devices fold flat when closed, a must for all foldable phones these days.

The buttons and ports on the Z Fold 6 and Fold 5 are identical. On the right edge are the power button/fingerprint sensor and the volume rocker. There aren’t many mistakes with the fingerprint sensor. Fortunately, Samsung has made it possible to enter your fingerprint while the device is closed. (On the Z Fold 5, this was not feasible.) Another, less secure option is Face Unlock. Dual speaker grilles are located at the left top and left bottom of the frame, and a USB-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer is located at the bottom right of the opened device. The Z Fold 5’s grilles have nine different holes, while the latter’s have a sleek, slit-like appearance here. The SIM tray on the left frame accepts one physical nano-SIM; the Z Fold 6 also supports eSIM.

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which also covers the front screen and back panel. Corning claims that compared to the original Victus, this glass manages drops on uneven surfaces better. Gorilla Armor, a more recent material used in the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, reduces screen reflections by 75%, resists scratches, and provides drop protection. Given their higher starting prices, I would like to see the Galaxy Z Fold series take advantage of the same features as the S24 Ultra.

The Z Fold 6’s frame is made by Samsung using an upgraded Armor Aluminum that is 10% stronger than the Fold 5’s Armor Aluminum. Official dust resistance is another new feature for this model. The Z Galaxy Fold 6 gets an IP48 rating, an improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s IPX8 rating. Both can survive submersion in water, though the Z Fold 6 can also resist ingress of materials 1mm or larger. For comparison, the Pixel Fold has an IPX8 rating.

5.Google Pixel 9

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

With a starting price of the Google Pixel 9 is a well-balanced, small Android phone that appeals to a wide range of users with its sophisticated AI features and attractive design. With many of the same features as the Pixel 9 Pro it boasts top-notch hardware, dependable performance, superb cameras, and a long battery life. It also comes with the majority of the Pro’s Gemini AI tricks and promises the same seven-year software support window. Gemini’s capabilities are still impressive when compared to the competition, but we wish it had been more developed at launch. The Google Pixel 9 is our Editor’s Choice because, at it is a great deal and, for the majority of users, the best mainstream Android phone.

The Pixel 9, which is a rectangular slab with rounded corners, is similar to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL in terms of design. It is the same size and weight as the 9 Pro, measuring 6.0 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches (HWD) and weighing 7.0 ounces. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S24 weighs 5.93 ounces and is 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches, while the Apple iPhone 15 is 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches and weighs 6.02 ounces. Despite its relative weight, the Pixel 9 feels balanced and comfortable in the hand.

Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protects the rear panel and the 6.3-inch screen. Victus 2, the same material that protects the Galaxy S24, is not the newest glass from Corning, but it is good at preventing scratches and shattering. The Pixel 9 has an IP68 rating, which means it can resist water and dust for added durability. The rating for the Pixel 9 Pro, Galaxy S24, and iPhone 15 is the same.

The aluminum outer frame is matte-finished in a color that complements the glossy back panel. On the right side are a power button and a volume rocker. The buttons have a shallow amount of travel and feel a little stiff. The SIM card tray, USB-C (v3.2) port, and down-firing speaker are embedded in the bottom edge. The Pixel 9 can support up to two SIM cards: one physical and one eSIM. This is the same as competing phones from Apple and Samsung.For biometrics, the Pixel 9 features an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and secure Face Unlock. The ultrasonic sensor is 50% faster than previous models, according to Google. In testing, it proved quick and reliable. Face Unlock works well and is secure enough to use with banking and financial apps.

The Pixel 9 is available in four colors: Obsidian (black), Peony (pinkish), Porcelain (white), or Wintergreen. I enjoy the latter two color options because they bring a bit of whimsy. The Wintergreen model I tested quickly earned the nickname “Greeny” around my home.

The Pixel 9 boasts a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a refresh rate between 60 and 120 Hz and a resolution of 2,424 by 1,080 pixels at a density of 422 ppi. Although they have the same refresh rate, the screen is slightly bigger and sharper than the 6.2-inch, 2,400-by-1,080-pixel panel of the Pixel 8. The screen of the 9 Pro is the same size, but it has a higher pixel density of 495 ppi and a resolution of 2,856 by 1,280 pixels. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 boasts a 6.1-inch panel with 2,340 by 1,080 pixels and a variable refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, while the iPhone 15 has a 6.1-inch display with a resolution of 2,556 by 1,179 pixels and a fixed refresh rate of 60Hz.