Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review: 100 Days Later - Worth It?

Electronics & Technology Review Techmo Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

A comprehensive 100-day review of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, detailing its top features and drawbacks.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • 📸 The 5X optical zoom on the Galaxy S24 Ultra is a game changer for photography, capturing stunning details and vibrant colors even from afar.
  • 🌡️ Thermal performance is solid, with the device maintaining reasonable temperatures even under intense use, debunking concerns about the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 overheating.
  • 🖋️ The S-Pen offers practical functionalities beyond traditional note-taking, acting as a remote for photography and for annotating screenshots, enhancing productivity.
  • 📱 Despite its impressive features, the Galaxy S24 Ultra's size and grainy screen issue might deter users who prefer more compact devices or clearer displays.
  • 💰 The high price point of the Galaxy S24 Ultra could be a significant barrier, especially for users who do not require its advanced camera or S-Pen capabilities.

📝 Timestamped Summary

00:04 Introduction: 100 Days with the Galaxy S24 Ultra:

  • Initial impressions on the high-quality optical zoom and the latest Snapdragon processor.
  • Mention of a grainy screen issue as a potential drawback.

00:23 Camera Capabilities:

  • Detailed review of the 5X zoom feature, showcasing its utility in wildlife photography and capturing distant subjects.
  • Discussion on quality comparison with the base S24 model and other scenarios where the zoom proves essential.

02:16 Thermal and Battery Performance:

  • Overview of thermal management, with logged data showing the phone operates within safe temperature ranges.
  • Battery life analysis through real-world use cases, including comparison with the Galaxy S24+.

03:31 Design and Accessories:

  • Examination of premium case options, emphasizing the importance of protecting the device with high-quality accessories.
  • Review of the fit and utility of the official Samsung anti-reflective screen protector.

04:16 Hardware Specifications and User Experience:

  • Discussion on the specs like Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 12GB RAM, and QHD+ display.
  • Personal anecdotes on replacing a laptop with the Galaxy S24 Ultra for productivity tasks.

05:08 S-Pen Functionality:

  • Detailed examples of how the S-Pen can replace traditional notebooks and enhance digital workflows.
  • Benefits of in-air actions for remote photography.

06:30 Cons: Size, Display, and Price:

  • Discussion on the challenges of the phone's large size, the new anti-reflective display's effectiveness, and the grainy screen issue.
  • Analysis of the price justification relative to its features and comparison with previous Galaxy models.

08:00 AI Features and Overall Recommendation:

  • Critical view of the AI features, suggesting they are underwhelming and not a strong selling point.
  • Final thoughts on whether the Galaxy S24 Ultra is worth buying based on its performance and features.

❓ FAQ

Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra suitable for everyday use despite its size?

Yes, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra is larger than many smartphones, many users find they adjust to the size quickly, appreciating the increased screen space for productivity and media consumption.

How does the camera of the Galaxy S24 Ultra compare to professional cameras?

The Galaxy S24 Ultra's camera, especially with its 5X zoom, delivers high-quality photos that are comparable to some professional cameras, making it a versatile tool for both casual and serious photographers.

Can the S-Pen truly replace traditional note-taking methods?

For many users, the S-Pen can replace traditional notebooks, especially due to its integration with digital apps and its functionality for annotating and signing documents digitally.

🎬 Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra presents a compelling mix of high-end features and a few drawbacks. With its powerful camera, robust battery life, and unique S-Pen, it caters well to tech enthusiasts and power users. However, consider the size, screen issues, and price before making a purchase decision. If these features resonate with your needs, the Galaxy S24 Ultra could be a worthy investment in your tech arsenal.