1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra arguably features the finest screen available in 2024. With a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, it offers a resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels and about 505 pixels per inch. A 120Hz refresh rate, capable of dropping to 1Hz, conserves battery life, while the screen’s peak brightness reaches 2,600 nits. An ‘Extra Dim’ mode allows it to dip to just 1 nit, maintaining vivid color fidelity. Additionally, Corning Gorilla Armor reduces reflections and protects the display.
Our review lauded the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s screen as “huge and sharp […] among the best you’ll find,” although it lacks Dolby Vision support.
2. OnePlus 12
Notably, the OnePlus 12 excels with an extraordinary peak brightness of 4,500 nits, which, though excessive, is undeniably impressive. Its 6.82-inch AMOLED display provides a resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels, approximately 510 pixels per inch, and a 1-120Hz refresh rate.
The OnePlus 12’s display left a strong impression during our review, where we observed, “the OnePlus 12 can reach brightness levels that are potentially harmful, and it’s also plenty sharp and colorful to compete with the best.”
3. Google Pixel 8 Pro
The Google Pixel 8 Pro sports a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a 1344 x 2992-pixel resolution and around 489 pixels per inch. It features a peak brightness of 2,400 nits and a refresh rate that ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz.
Our review highlighted the screen as the most notable feature, comparing it favorably to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. We stated, “this bright and sharp display is just as good as the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and maybe better.”
4. iPhone 15 Pro Max
Featuring a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1290 x 2796 pixels and about 460 pixels per inch, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a refresh rate that ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.
Although its specifications fall short of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is still impressive. Our review described it as “beautiful and bright,” with the primary caveat being the somewhat distracting Dynamic Island.
5. Sony Xperia 1 V
The Sony Xperia 1 V stands out with its 4K display, boasting a 1644 x 3840 resolution at roughly 643 pixels per inch. Its 6.5-inch OLED screen refreshes at 120Hz and is free from notches and punch-holes, offering an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Our review praised the Xperia 1 V for its high-resolution display and excellent color and contrast. However, it was slightly critiqued for its smaller size compared to rivals and limited customization options.
Note: The Sony Xperia 1 VI is currently available, but having not reviewed the device, we cannot yet comment on its screen performance. Interestingly, it features a lower resolution than the Xperia 1 V, suggesting the latter still holds the edge in display quality among Sony smartphones.
Every phone on this list offers a standout display, but each has its unique strengths. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific screen preferences and needs.
