Editor's Choice: Top 5 smartphones of 2023

As 2023 draws to a close, the smartphone landscape has witnessed significant strides in technology and design. Here's a closer look at the top 5 smartphones that made waves in 2023, ranging from mid-range marvels to premium flagships.

1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Elevating the Standard

In a strategic move, Samsung continued the legacy of the Galaxy Note series by transforming the Galaxy S22 Ultra into the spiritual successor. The Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts incremental upgrades, introducing the exclusive Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC for Galaxy Smartphones. One of its standout features is the groundbreaking 200 MP rear camera, setting it apart in the crowded flagship market. The integration of the S Pen stylus and productivity features, coupled with a stunning display offering 120Hz refresh rate and QHD+ resolution, solidify the Galaxy S23 Ultra as a top contender. With storage options ranging from 256 GB to 1 TB and 45W charging support, this device stands as one of the best smartphones of 2023.

2. OnePlus 11: Unifying Excellence

The OnePlus 11, launched early in the year, unified the Pro and vanilla variants into a single, powerful smartphone. Boasting a 6.7-inch display with QHD+ resolution and Gorilla Glass protection, it is a visual delight. The device runs on OxygenOS, featuring exclusive functionalities, and stands out with its impressive 100W charging capability. With options of 8GB and 16GB of RAM, the OnePlus 11 presents itself as a worthy upgrade over its predecessor, the OnePlus 10 Pro.

3. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: Embracing Innovation

A standout in Apple's lineup, the iPhone 15 Pro Max embraces a new design paradigm with the dynamic island. This premium flagship offers a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, powered by the Apple A17 Pro based on a cutting-edge 3nm manufacturing process. Notable improvements include the adoption of a USB Type-C connector for faster charging and data transfer, along with the ability to charge other devices. The A17 Pro's prowess enables the iPhone 15 Pro Max to run PC-level games, opening new horizons for mobile gaming enthusiasts.

4. Nothing Phone (2): Evolution in Design and Functionality

While not competing directly with 2023's premium flagships, the Nothing Phone (2) represents a commendable evolution from its predecessor. Featuring the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and a refined display design, the device introduces the innovative Glyph interface. Beyond being aesthetically pleasing, this interface allows users to customize multiple LED lights, serving as alerts, notifications, and reminders. The Nothing Phone (2) is a step in the right direction for the brand, showcasing improved hardware and software capabilities.

5. Vivo X90 Pro: Camera-Centric Excellence

Vivo's X90 Pro, a flagship launched in 2023, emphasizes its camera-centric philosophy with ZEISS optics for professional-grade photography. The device combines this imaging prowess with a stunning OLED display featuring 2,800 x 1,200 pixels of resolution. Powered by the Dimensity 9200, the Vivo X90 Pro excels in the hardware department. Its camera setup includes a 50.3 MP primary lens, a 50 MP telephoto shooter, and a 12 MP ultrawide camera, offering a versatile photography experience. With a 4870mAh battery and 120W fast-charging support, the Vivo X90 Pro stands out as one of the best flagship smartphones of 2023.