I know deciding on a new phone isn’t easy, especially with the OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra both carrying hefty price tags. You’d want to invest in something that’ll serve you well in the long run. Released in early 2024, these two Android giants have a lot to offer and are packed with features that fit different use cases. Read on, and I’ll help you decide which one suits your lifestyle while breaking down the features to help you make a confident decision.
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Which One is For You?
The OnePlus 12 launched on February 6, 2024, with a starting price of around $800 for the base model (12GB RAM and 256GB storage). On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 Ultra came out a bit earlier, on January 31, 2024, and starts at about $1,300 for similar specs. Both phones are equipped with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and feature stunning AMOLED displays, but they target different needs and budgets.
To decide which phone is the better choice, it’s useful to break things down by comparing a few key features. Let’s take a closer look!
Pick OnePlus 12 if…
- You want to save some cash: If you’re looking for a top-notch phone without emptying your wallet, the OnePlus 12 is a great choice. It gives you flagship performance at a much lower price.
- Fast charging is your top priority: With the OnePlus 12’s 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, you can get a full charge in about half an hour—perfect for your busy lifestyle.
- You like a lighter phone: Weighing in at just 220 grams, the OnePlus 12 feels nice and light in hand—ideal for carrying it around all day.
- You enjoy a clean interface: The OnePlus runs on OxygenOS, which is pretty close to stock Android—smooth and easy to use.
- Gaming is your thing: If you’re into mobile gaming, the OnePlus 12 has some cool features that boost performance during intense gaming sessions. It really helps you get into the zone.
- You want customization options: OnePlus lets you change themes and settings easily, so you can make it truly yours.
Pick Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra if…
- You’re big on photography: If taking stunning photos is important to me, the Galaxy S24 Ultra shines with its 200MP main camera and multiple lenses. It’s perfect for capturing family events or travel adventures.
- Long-term updates matter: Samsung promises up to seven years of software updates, so your device will stay current and secure for a long time.
- You need a bright display: If you’re often outside, the S24 Ultra’s peak brightness of 2,600 nits makes it easy to see everything clearly—even in direct sunlight.
- You appreciate premium build: The S24 Ultra has Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an aluminum frame, which gives it a solid, high-end feel. If you’re investing in a phone, you’d want it to feel premium.
- You like to multitask: If you’re juggling work and personal tasks on your phone, the larger display (6.8 inches) of the S24 Ultra makes multitasking a breeze. You can easily split the screen for video calls while taking notes.
- You want an ecosystem of Samsung devices: If you’re already using other Samsung products like tablets or smartwatches, the S24 Ultra integrates seamlessly with them. It really enhances overall tech experience.
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Detailed Breakdown of Features
*While I haven’t had the chance to test these phones myself, I’ve made sure to rely on verified and trustworthy information. So, let’s break down what each phone brings to the table. Let’s jump right in!
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | OnePlus 12 |
| Display | 6.8″ AMOLED, WQHD+ (1440×3120), 120Hz refresh rate | 6.82″ AMOLED, WQHD+ (1440×3168), 120Hz refresh rate |
| Build Quality | Titanium frame, Gorilla Glass Armor | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM & Storage | 12GB RAM, up to 1TB storage | 12GB RAM, up to 1TB storage |
| Main Camera Setup | Quad: 200MP (main), 12MP (ultrawide), 10MP (periscope telephoto, 10x), 50MP (zoom) | Triple: 50MP (main), 48MP (ultrawide), 64MP (telephoto) |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP | 32MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 45W wired, 15W wireless charging | 5400mAh, 100W wired, wireless & reverse charging |
| Software | Android 14 with One UI 6.0 | Android 14 with OxygenOS 14 |
| Special Features | S Pen support, IP68 water resistance | Advanced cooling system, IP68 water resistance |
| Weight | 232g | 220g |
| Price (Base Model) | $999-$1,419 | $799 |
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Display
Winner for binge-waters: OnePlus 12
Winner for those tough on their phones: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, while the OnePlus 12 goes slightly bigger with its 6.82-inch display. Both phones offer stunning WQHD+ resolutions and smooth 120Hz refresh rates—perfect for watching videos, scrolling through apps, or gaming.
Here’s the deal: the differences are subtle, but they do matter. If you’re into binge-watching shows or gaming on the go, the OnePlus 12’s slightly larger screen gives you more room to enjoy. That said, Samsung’s display is a bit tougher, thanks to its Gorilla Glass Armor. For someone who’s rough with their gadgets, that extra protection might be worth it.
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Durability
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Utra
Samsung’s S24 Ultra steps up the game with a titanium frame—giving it a solid, premium feel. The OnePlus 12, on the flip side, uses aluminum, which is lighter but still sturdy. Both phones are water and dust-resistant (IP68 rating), so getting caught in the rain or spilling coffee on them won’t ruin your day.
However, if you’re all about durability, the Samsung’s tougher build wins. But for me, I’d lean toward the OnePlus 12 because it’s lighter and easier to hold for long periods—perfect for scrolling through social media or reading on the couch.
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Camera
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Samsung doesn’t mess around when it comes to cameras. The Galaxy S24 Ultra features a 200MP main camera, a 50MP zoom lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom. The OnePlus 12 keeps it simpler with a 50MP main lens, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 64MP telephoto.
Samsung’s 10x optical zoom is a lifesaver for capturing far-off subjects. Think concerts, wildlife, or even just cool moments from a distance. However, if you’re more about snapping everyday photos or Instagram-worthy shots, the OnePlus 12 does a great job without going over the top.
OnePlus 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Performance
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra(thanks to its S Pen support)
Winner for Gamers: OnePlus 12
Both phones are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and come with 12GB of RAM. This basically means they’ll fly through anything you throw at them, whether it’s multitasking, gaming, or editing photos.
For multitaskers juggling work apps, video calls, and emails, the S24 Ultra has an edge with its S Pen support—it’s like having a mini laptop in your pocket. But if you’re a gamer, the OnePlus 12 handles long gaming sessions better, thanks to its improved cooling system.
Take Control of Your OnePlus 12 and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Screen Time with Always Present
Always PRESENT is a stylish docking station designed to help you spend less time glued to your phone without cutting you off completely. It offers wireless charging, call-forwarding, and a lockable compartment to tuck your phone away when you need a break. The real win here is how it helps build healthier habits—keeping your phone accessible but not distracting.
Link Always PRESENT
Price: The product hasn’t launched yet. Reserve it now with a $1 deposit to get it for $299 instead of the regular $500.
Conclusion
If you want something rugged with impressive zoom and the added bonus of an S Pen, the Galaxy S24 Ultra might be worth the splurge. But if you’d rather save some cash while still getting a top-tier phone, the OnePlus 12 is a no-brainer. Think about what you’ll use it for most, and pick the one that fits your style.