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The Samsung Galaxy S24 5G is a good buy in 2026 if you want a compact Android flagship and find it at a clear discount from newer Galaxy models. Its strongest case is the combination of a 6.2-inch display, broad connectivity and long-term software support; its weaker points are Samsung’s feature-heavy interface and the risk of paying too much for an older model. Check the price, storage, condition and exact regional model before choosing it.
What you get with the Galaxy S24
Samsung lists a 6.2-inch display for the base Galaxy S24, measured diagonally across the full rectangle. The viewable area is smaller because of the rounded corners and camera opening. That relatively compact size is the phone’s clearest distinction from larger flagships; it may suit readers who want a high-end phone that is easier to handle without choosing a much larger handset. Samsung’s launch specifications also list 5G, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Exact cellular bands and model compatibility depend on the market, so check the model number before buying.
Reviewers have highlighted the compact design and display. TechRadar also identifies complicated software and Galaxy AI features whose usefulness varies by user as drawbacks. Those are the outlet’s assessments, not a guarantee that every buyer will feel the same way. TechRadar’s Galaxy S24 review discusses those strengths and trade-offs; Android Authority’s review is another perspective on the phone.
Galaxy S24 pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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The AI features are a bonus rather than a reason to buy the phone sight unseen: consider which tools you would actually use. Likewise, the S24’s age alone does not make it a bad choice, but the price gap to a newer model matters more than an old launch price.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
Software support and update status
Software support is one of the S24’s stronger reasons to remain on a shortlist. Samsung update logs show Android 16 and a 2026-09-05 security patch level on two specific model variants: the SM-S921B entry records a 2026-09-30 release, while the US SM-S921U entry records a 2026-10-02 release. These dated entries demonstrate updates for those variants; they do not establish that every S24 received them on the same day. Samsung says, “The exact changes may differ depending on your device model, country, and service provider.”
- Samsung’s SM-S921B update log identifies the Android version, patch level and release date for that model.
- Samsung’s US SM-S921U update log lists the corresponding information for that US variant.
Before buying used or importing a phone, confirm the model and ask the seller or carrier whether it is compatible with your network. For updates, check the notice for your own variant and country rather than relying on another market’s rollout timing.
Rank #2
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
Should you buy the Galaxy S24 or a newer Galaxy?
There is no single current price that makes the S24 a good deal everywhere: offers vary by region, storage, condition and seller, and older published comparisons are not live price checks. Compare the exact S24 configuration with the newer phone you are considering. TechRadar’s Galaxy S24 versus Galaxy S25 comparison describes the newer S25 as sharing much of the S24’s design, display and camera setup while offering more processing power and battery endurance in that outlet’s evaluation. That comparison is useful context, but check its original testing and current local offers before treating the difference as decisive.
- Choose the S24 if its smaller format is a priority and its exact price is meaningfully lower than a comparable newer model.
- Lean toward the newer model if the price gap is small and you value the added processing power and battery endurance reported in TechRadar’s comparison.
- Compare like for like: storage capacity, new versus used condition, seller, network variant, regional update availability, and the features you need.
- Consider your usage: if you need a particular level of battery endurance, camera performance or processing speed, find a direct comparison for the exact variants rather than relying on an unsupported general claim.
Verdict: is the Samsung Galaxy S24 5G worth buying?
The Galaxy S24 5G remains a sensible compact-flagship option for buyers who want Samsung’s software ecosystem and long-term updates, provided the local offer is substantially better than a newer comparable Galaxy. Its appeal is less compelling if the newer phone is close in price, if you dislike Samsung’s interface, or if you are buying mainly for Galaxy AI. Treat exact network compatibility and update timing as model- and region-specific, and make the decision using the configuration and seller you can actually buy.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, QHD+ display with 1–120 Hz adaptive refresh and a peak brightness of ~2,600 nits — giving a noticeably sharper, brighter screen than the base S24.
Rank #4
- 6.2 Dynamic AMOLED 2X FHD+, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, 416ppi, 2600nits (Outdoor Peak), 1080x2340px, 4000mAh Battery
- 256GB, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm), Octa-Core, Adreno 750
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 + 10MP, f/2.4 + 12MP, f/2.2, 30X Space Zoom, Front Camera: 12MP, f/2.2, Android 14, One UI 6.1
- 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900, CDMA 800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/30/25/26/28/29/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/12/26/28/30/41/66/70/71/77/78/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM and eSIM
- No Warranty. Compatible with Most GSM and CDMA Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Sprint.
Rank #3
- Width: 2.78 inches; Length: 5.79 inches; Height: 0.30 inches
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
