The Best Smartphones of 2024: A Look Back and Why They’re the Best Value in 2025
2024 was defined by the mobile AI revolution. Every major manufacturer pushed the boundaries of computational photography and on-device machine learning, resulting in a phenomenal lineup of smartphones. Now, a year later, these same flagship devices have settled into the secondary market, reaching their sweet spot for refurbished value. Here are the handsets that stood out in 2024—and why they should be on your shopping list in 2025.
🏆 The 2024 Flagship Winners
1. Apple iPhone 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max
The iPhone 16 series arrived in September 2024, confirming Apple’s commitment to incremental power upgrades and a focus on video. The key takeaway was the introduction of the A18 Pro chip and the new Camera Control button on the side. The camera system was significantly refined, with a focus on spatial video and new computational photography modes designed specifically for Apple Intelligence (AI). Buying a refurbished iPhone 16 Pro now gives you access to a top-tier camera, titanium build quality, and years of guaranteed iOS support for an accessible price.
2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Launched at the start of the year, the S25 Ultra was the absolute king of Android hardware. It packed the bespoke Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip and retained the integrated S Pen stylus. However, the real story was the camera's zoom capability and its market-leading display. With its 6.9-inch screen and anti-reflective Gorilla Armor 2, it remains the ultimate powerhouse for demanding users, delivering incredible battery life and unmatched versatility.
3. Google Pixel 9 Pro
The Google Pixel 9 Pro cemented Google’s position as the leader in on-device AI. Powered by the Google Tensor G4, the device served as the launchpad for deep Gemini integration, allowing for highly advanced photo editing, real-time summarisation, and natural voice interaction. For photographers, the triple-camera system, including a dedicated 5x telephoto lens, offers class-leading computational images. Choosing a refurbished Pixel 9 Pro means getting access to Google’s latest AI features and a commitment to seven years of software support.
✨ Best of the Rest in the Refurbished Market
- Best for Speed and Charging: OnePlus 12 – Launched in early 2024, the OnePlus 12 remains an absolute beast for speed, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and its signature 100W SuperVOOC wired charging. It’s perfect for users who hate waiting for their phone to power up.
- Best Value Mid-Range: Google Pixel 9a – The mid-range A-series from Google always offers incredible value. The Pixel 9a brought flagship-level computational photography and decent performance to a highly affordable price point, making it the smartest refurbished option for budget-conscious buyers.
♻️ Why 2025 is the Perfect Time to Buy 2024’s Best
The biggest drop in a phone's price typically happens within the first 12–18 months. As the 2025/2026 models take centre stage, the 2024 flagships become the ultimate value proposition. They still offer world-class cameras, multi-day battery life, and powerful AI capabilities—all while saving you hundreds of pounds.
Make a smart choice for your wallet and the planet. Find a fully guaranteed, professionally checked 2024 flagship model today when you buy a refurbished smartphone. Have one of these devices and ready for the 2026 model? Sell it to us for an instant cash quote when you sell your old handset!
