Smartphone gaming: 10 best phones for gaming enthusiasts to buy in 2024

Gaming on smartphones has evolved significantly, with manufacturers increasingly catering to the demands of avid gamers by packing powerful hardware and immersive displays into their devices. Whether you’re into fast-paced FPS games or expansive RPGs, choosing the right smartphone can enhance your gaming experience dramatically. And if you’re wondering just which one is for you, here’s a list of the ten best smartphones to buy for gaming in 2024.  

10 best smartphones for gaming enthusiasts

1. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max 

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G 

3. Samsung Galaxy S24 5G 

4. OnePlus 12 5G 

5. OnePlus 12R 5G 

6. Xiaomi 14 5G 

7. Realme GT 6T 5G 

8. Realme GT 6 5G 

9. Vivo X100 5G 

10. Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G 

1. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

For iOS enthusiasts, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max offers unparalleled performance. Priced at Rs 1,50,090, it features the powerful A17 Pro chipset and a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display. Combined with iOS’s optimisation for gaming, this phone delivers exceptional graphics and fluid gameplay. 

The iPhone 15 Pro Max, alongside the iPhone 15 Pro, also supports console-level games like Death Stranding and Assassin’s Creed Mirage.

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G

Priced at Rs 1,29,999, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G houses the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor and 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth gameplay even in the most demanding titles.

ALSO READ: Which processor is best for mobile gaming? 

Its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate delivers stunning visuals and responsiveness, making it ideal for immersive gaming sessions. It also excels in photography and productivity, thanks to the inclusion of a 200MP quad camera system and the S Pen stylus.

3. Samsung Galaxy S24 5G

Priced at Rs 79,999, the Samsung Galaxy S24 5G is a compact flagship featuring a 6.2-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz display. It features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, a 4,000mAh battery, and a 50-megapixel triple camera unit.

4. OnePlus 12 5G

The OnePlus 12 5G, priced at Rs 69,999, offers flagship-level gaming performance thanks to the inclusion of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and up to 16GB of RAM. On the front, it has a massive 6.82-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 2K resolution. This combination provides excellent graphics and responsiveness, catering to the needs of serious mobile gamers.

5. OnePlus 12R 5G

Priced at Rs 44,999, the OnePlus 12R 5G is designed for gaming enthusiasts on a budget. It features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and 16GB of RAM, ensuring snappy performance. The 6.78-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth gaming experience with vibrant visuals.

6. Xiaomi 14 5G

The Xiaomi 14 5G, which is available for Rs 69,999 on Croma, is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB of RAM. What’s interesting about this smartphone is its compact design, which features a 6.36-inch AMOLED 120Hz panel and a 4,610mAh battery with 90W fast charging support.

7. Realme GT 6T 5G

With a starting price of Rs 30,999, the Realme GT 6T 5G offers excellent value for money. It features a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset, up to 12GB of RAM, and a 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging, offering a near flagship-level gaming experience.

Additionally, it has a coupled with a 6.78-inch AMOLED curved-edge display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This combination ensures smooth gameplay and vibrant visuals, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious gamers.

8. Realme GT 6 5G

Priced at Rs 44,999, the Realme GT 6 5G is a sub-flagship designed for gamers. It features a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, up to 16GB of RAM, paired with a 6.78-inch AMOLED curve-edge screen with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures smooth gameplay and vibrant visuals, making it suitable for both casual and intense gaming sessions.

9. Vivo X100 5G

Priced at Rs 63,999, the Vivo X100 5G combines sleek design with top-notch photography prowess and capable gaming performance. It is the only phone in our list to feature the Dimensity 9300, one of the most powerful MediaTek chipsets.

The phone flaunts a 6.78-inch Super AMOLED curved-edge display and a high-quality 50MP triple camera unit. These features make it suitable not only for gaming enthusiasts but also for photographers seeking excellent image quality.

10. Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G

The Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G, priced at Rs 14,999, offers affordability without compromising on gaming performance. It comes with a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chipset and 8GB of RAM, along with a 6.78-inch IPS LCD FHD+ screen with support for a 120Hzf refresh rate. While not as high-end as other models, it provides a decent gaming experience for its price range.

ALSO READ: Best gaming smartphones under Rs 30,000 

Investing in a smartphone optimised for gaming ensures you can enjoy your favourite games with enhanced graphics, smooth performance, and immersive gameplay experiences. However, choosing the best smartphone for gaming depends on your budget and preferences. Whether you prefer the iOS ecosystem with the iPhone 14 Pro Max or the flexibility and performance of Android phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G and Xiaomi 14 5G, the list above offers options to suit every gaming style.