In days of yore, small phones did reign over the tech landscape, compact marvels that captivated the populace in the early 2010s. But alas, even the valiant efforts of companies like ASUS could not kindle enduring affection for these diminutive devices. Yet fear not! For the stalwart small phone models that persist are veritable powerhouses, capable of serving you faithfully for many moons to come. Behold, a glimpse at the finest small phones that can still be procured in this digital age of 2024.
1. ASUS Zenfone 10
The ASUS Zenfone 10 emerges as the final bastion of small Android phones, boasting a mere 5.9-inch display and a featherweight of only 172 grams. Its heart beats with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, while a robust 4,300 mAh battery stands ready to be charged at 30W. This device is adorned with UFS 4.0 storage, up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a dazzling 144Hz OLED display shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus. The dual-rear cameras, led by a 50MP sensor, deliver photographic prowess. Clad in ZenUI, ASUS’s proprietary skin, this phone, with its multitude of colors, audio jack, and $699 price tag, shines as a paragon of excellence in the realm of small phones.
2. Samsung Galaxy S24
While the 6.2-inch expanse of the Galaxy S24 may not immediately scream "small," its compact vertical length of 5.79 inches renders it as pocketable as the Zenfone 10. Its 120Hz dynamic AMOLED display is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400 chipset, contingent on your locale. Armed with UFS 4.0 storage and LPDDR5X RAM, this Samsung creation captures life’s moments with its trio of rear cameras. Running on OneUI 6 and promised up to 7 years of updates, the Galaxy S24 casts a beguiling charm at the price of $799.
3. Google Pixel 8
Google’s Pixel 8 emerges as a slightly smaller successor, boasting a 6.2-inch display within a 5.93-inch frame. Its OLED panel pulsates with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits of luminosity. The Google Tensor G3, though not as fleet as newer Snapdragon SoCs, proves a reliable companion for shutterbugs, offering seven years of major OS updates. At $599, the Pixel 8 stands as a stalwart ally for years to come.
4. Xiaomi 14
While the Xiaomi 14 bears a 6.36-inch display within a 6.01-inch visage, its slender bezels grant it a semblance of compactness. A Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, triple 50MP cameras, and a 4,610 mAh battery with swift charging capabilities adorn this flagship. Priced around $799, the Xiaomi 14 beckons as a beacon of technological splendor.
5. ASUS Zenfone 9
For those seeking an economical option, the Zenfone 9, powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, and graced with a 5.9-inch OLED 120Hz display, resonates as a budget-friendly choice. Priced at $349, this relic from ASUS provides humble performance and functionality, albeit with limitations on future updates.
6. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
In the realm of foldable wonders, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 unfurls its 6.7-inch majesty, only to tuck neatly into a 3.3-inch embrace when folded. Priding itself on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, UFS 4.0 storage, and a cadre of cameras, this foldable marvel beckons as a technological marvel at the price of $999.
7. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra, though somewhat heftier than its contemporaries, grants a dash of nostalgia with its foldable form factor. Boasting UFS 3.1 storage and the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, this flip phone, priced at $1,049, offers a blend of modernity and innovation.
8. Pixel 7a
While not diminutive in stature, the Pixel 7a, with its 6.1-inch display, captures a hint of pocketable charm. Infused with Google’s Tensor G2 and the promise of Android 16, this device, priced affordably, stands as a beacon of value and performance.
9. Samsung Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S23, though a year old, remains a gem of compact design, pairing a 6.1-inch display with a slender 5.76-inch frame. Priced attractively and boasting four years of updates, this device exudes a blend of elegance and functionality.
In the annals of tech history, the tale of small phones unfolds as a somber ballad of innovation thwarted by progress. Yet, amidst the march of larger devices, the allure of compact marvels endures, a testament to craftsmanship and design. As we ponder the fate of these petite wonders, let us reflect on the past and envision a future where small phones once more find their place in the sun.
