Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Asus Zenfone 9 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. We'll break down the specs, explore their real-world impact, and help you figure out which phone might be the best fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, focusing on the practical implications of each specification:
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 9 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-15 | 2024-01-24 | S24 Ultra is newer by about 4 months, meaning more up-to-date tech and longer software support. |
| Size | 146.5 × 68.1 × 9.1 mm | 162.3 × 79 × 8.6 mm | Zenfone 9 is significantly smaller and easier to handle one-handed; S24 Ultra is large and might be unwieldy for some. |
| Weight | 169g | 232g | Zenfone 9 is notably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.8" | S24 Ultra offers a much larger, more immersive viewing experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | S24 Ultra's higher resolution results in a noticeably sharper, more detailed picture. |
| PPI | 445 | 505 | S24 Ultra's display is sharper due to higher pixel density, making text and images crisper. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | Zenfone 9's AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and superior power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer a smooth, fluid experience for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 2600 nits | S24 Ultra is much better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, offering significantly higher brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | S24 Ultra's newer chipset provides a faster, more efficient performance, with better AI capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,232,500 | 1,814,869 | S24 Ultra is significantly faster in benchmarks, suggesting smoother app loading and operation. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | S24 Ultra's GPU likely provides superior graphics performance for demanding games and apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 5000mAh | S24 Ultra has a larger battery, likely translating to longer battery life for typical use. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | S24 Ultra charges faster, getting you back in the game quicker. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging | S24 Ultra has additional features such as bypass charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging for greater convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" sensor, Sony IMX766 | 200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3" sensor, Samsung ISOCELL HP2 | S24 Ultra has a higher resolution sensor, larger sensor size, slightly wider aperture, leading to better detail and low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + portrait | N/A | 50MP, f/2.4, 1/1.56" sensor, Sony IMX854 | S24 Ultra offers an additional telephoto lens for zoomed images and portrait photography. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93" sensor, Sony IMX663 | 12MP, f/2.2 sensor, Samsung S5K3LU | S24 Ultra has slightly wider aperture leading to better low light performance in selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP, f/3.4, 1/3.52" sensor, Sony IMX754 | S24 Ultra offers an additional telephoto lens for zoomed images. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor, Sony IMX564 | S24 Ultra has an additional wide angle lens for wide landscapes. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor, Sony IMX363 Exmor RS | N/A | Zenfone 9 has a dedicated wide angle + macro sensor for those specialized shots. |
| Video | 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, 4K@30fps with HDR, EIS, 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS, 4K@120fps with HDR, EIS, 1080p@30fps with HDR, EIS, 1080p@60fps with HDR, EIS, 1080p@240fps with HDR, EIS | 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@30fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 4K@120fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p@30fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p@60fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, 1080p@240fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | Both offer excellent video recording quality, with S24 Ultra also including stereo sound recording. |
| DXOMark | Not Available | Mobile: 144, Photo: 144, Video: 137 | S24 Ultra has scored higher in DXOMark ratings, indicating superior camera capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 (Upgradable to 21) | S24 Ultra has the latest Android version out-of-the-box and has longer software support with the latest upgrades. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | S24 Ultra supports WiFi 6E for faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.3 | S24 Ultra has a slightly newer version of Bluetooth for potentially better connectivity. |
| GPS | Multiple GNSS Support | Multiple GNSS Support | Both offer precise location tracking; Zenfone 9 supports more systems like BeiDou (B2), NavIC System for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM/eSIM | S24 Ultra offers the flexibility of eSIM, good for international travel. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | S24 Ultra offers more internal storage, better for storing large files and media. |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB | 12GB | Zenfone 9 offers a 16GB option, good for heavy multitasking or gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 9 offers high quality audio with hi-res audio, and an extra mic for better call quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Zenfone 9's side fingerprint sensor is quick and conveniently placed. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra uses superior screen protection glass. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer, Geomagnetic | S24 Ultra includes additional environmental sensors, while Zenfone 9 offers an additional gravity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Asus Zenfone 9 Strengths:
- Compact Size & Lightweight: A rare find in the modern flagship space. It's designed for one-handed use and pocketability without sacrificing performance.
- Unique Gimbal Camera Stabilization: Offers exceptional video stabilization, great for capturing smooth footage on the move.
- Hi-Res Audio and 3 Microphones: Appeals to audio enthusiasts looking for great sound quality and clearer calls.
- Potentially Better Multitasking: With the availability of a 16GB RAM variant, the phone is great for heavy multitasking.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Strengths:
- Cutting-Edge Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip gives it a significant edge in raw speed and processing power.
- Massive and Sharper Display: The 6.8-inch screen is excellent for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks.
- Superior Camera System: A versatile setup with high-resolution sensors, multiple lenses, and excellent low-light capabilities.
- Longer Battery Life & Faster Charging: Ensures you're powered through your day and back to full quickly.
- Feature-Rich: Offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and bypass charging for a versatile usage.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Zenfone 9: Smaller screen may feel cramped for some users, especially media lovers. The camera system is good but not as versatile as the S24 Ultra.
- S24 Ultra: Size and weight make it less convenient for pocketing and one-handed use. It lacks the gimbal stabilization and Hi-Res audio of the Zenfone 9. It also lacks the dedicated Wide Angle + Macro camera of the Zenfone 9.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 9 is Best For:
- One-Handed Users: Individuals who value a smaller, easily manageable phone that fits comfortably in the hand and pocket.
- Video Enthusiasts: Content creators who prioritize a small form factor and high-quality video stabilization.
- Audio Lovers: Users seeking Hi-Res audio quality and top-notch call clarity.
- Minimalists: Those who want a high-performance phone without the bulk and extra features.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is Best For:
- Power Users: Individuals who need top-tier performance for demanding apps, gaming, and heavy multitasking.
- Media Consumers: Users who want the largest, most immersive display for watching videos, playing games, or browsing the web.
- Photography & Videography Pros: Those who seek the best-in-class camera system with multiple lenses and outstanding low-light performance.
- All-Around Users: People who want a flagship experience with all the bells and whistles.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- How important is phone size and handling to you?
- If one-handed use and pocketability are crucial, go for the Zenfone 9. If not, the S24 Ultra's large screen may be appealing.
- What's more critical – camera versatility or video stabilization?
- If you need the most versatile camera system, go for the S24 Ultra. If video stabilization is your top priority, choose the Zenfone 9 with its gimbal.
- Do you need the absolute best performance and cutting-edge tech?
- If so, the S24 Ultra will be the better option with it's newer chipset. If you don't need the most cutting-edge performance and want a more affordable experience, Zenfone 9 will be great for you.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- On-the-Go Videographer: Zenfone 9 for its outstanding video stabilization and compact form.
- Gaming Enthusiast: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for its top-tier performance, large screen, and excellent graphics capabilities.
- Casual User: Depends on preference, either could fit, but the Zenfone 9 offers a smaller more pocketable device, while the S24 Ultra offers a larger screen for watching videos and browsing.
- Photography Buff: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, due to its diverse camera setup and high-resolution capabilities.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. While I deeply appreciate the Zenfone 9's compactness and unique gimbal stabilization, my daily needs often involve heavy media consumption, gaming, and a wide variety of photography scenarios. The larger, sharper display, superior camera system, faster performance, and longer software support of the S24 Ultra would be incredibly beneficial. The S24 Ultra's versatility in the camera department outweighs the gimbal stabilization of the Zenfone for my use case. I wouldn't want to have to bring a separate camera for high quality photos and videos, so the S24 Ultra's camera system checks all my boxes.
Ultimately, the best phone is the one that best fits your specific needs and preferences. I hope this detailed comparison has been insightful and has helped you make an informed decision!
