Programmers are a unique breed of people. They’re creative, analytical, and always looking for ways to automate tasks and save time. That’s why their mobile phones need to be just as versatile and efficient as they are. In this article, we will review what makes a good smartphone for programmers and present you our list of the top 10 best smartphones for programmers to buy in 2024.
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Why trust our review?
We have personally reviewed and tested the most popular and high-rated smartphones available on the market at the present moment. This review is being continuously updated as the new models come out and become available to users.
Our reviews are based on thorough research of specs, common problems, user ratings, and personal experience. As you read through the article, be confident that you are receiving the most thorough and accurate advice on the new tech available today.
Why do I need a good smartphone as a programmer?
As a programmer, you need a smartphone that can keep up with your demanding lifestyle. A good smartphone for programmers needs to be fast, efficient, and have a variety of features that can make your life easier. It should also have a large screen so you can easily view code and other important information as you need it. In addition, a good smartphone for programmers should be able to run a variety of apps seamlessly so you can switch between tasks efficiently.
What makes a good smartphone for programmers?
So how should a developer’s smartphone be any different from others? What are the features that make a smartphone a good fit for a programmer? Here are some of the things that make asmart phone great for programmers:
- Large and bright screen: As a programmer, you often need to view large amounts of code or other text-based information, even when you are on the go. A large and bright screen will make it much easier for you to view this information and get your work done.
- Fast processor: A good smartphone for programmers needs to have a fast processor so you can run multiple apps at the same time without any lag. You will need this to be able to quickly switch between different tasks and get your mobile work done efficiently.
- Variety of apps: As a programmer, you likely use a variety of apps to stay productive and organized. A good smartphone for programmers should have access to a rich application store and run apps quickly so you can get your most important tasks done when you are away from your computer.
- Long battery life: A good smartphone for programmers needs to have a long battery life so you can stay online whenever you need to. You don’t want to be tethered to a charger all day, so a long-lasting battery is essential.
- Durable design: A good smartphone for programmers should be built to last. You need a phone that can withstand the rigors of your busy lifestyle and that won’t break if you drop it. A durable design is essential for a phone that will be used by a programmer.
What smartphone operating system is best for programmers?
Both Android and iOS have their own strengths and weaknesses, but for programmers, we think that Android is the best choice. Android is a more open platform, which gives programmers more freedom to customize their smartphones and develop apps. It is also more compatible with a variety of laptops and computers, which makes it easier to sync your work between devices. iOS is a closed platform, which can be more limiting for programmers in terms of customization and app development. It is, however, more user-friendly for non-programmers and can be a good choice if you are looking for a smartphone that is easy to use.
Can I write code on my smartphone?
Yes, you can write code on your smartphone! There are a number of text editors and IDEs (integrated development environments) that are available for both Android and iOS. These apps will allow you to write, edit, and run code on your phone so you can stay productive even when you are away from your computer. Some of these apps are:
- Python IDLE for Android and iOS
- DroidEdit for Android
- Textastic for iOS
- iSSH for iOS
What apps can I use to learn coding on my smartphone?
If you are looking to learn a new programming language or sharpen your skills in computer science, there are a number of educational apps that can help you take courses and learn new things. Some of these educational apps are:
- SoloLearn for Android and iOS
- Code Academy for Android and iOS
- Udacity for Android and iOS
- Khan Academy for Android and iOS
Besides these, there are several playful applications that will let you learn coding through interactive tasks and challenges as a beginner. These include:
- Lightbot for Android and iOS
- Code Combat for web, Android, and iOS
- Grasshopper for Android and iOS
- Mimo for Android and iOS
The 10 best smartphones for programmers
Now that we’ve gone over what makes a good phone for programmers, let’s take a look at the top 10 smartphones for programmers in 2024:
1. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra – the universal powerhouse.
The new Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the most advanced smartphone on the market, with a host of cutting-edge features that will appeal to even the most discerning users. The 6.8-inch OLED display is simply stunning, with vibrant colors and razor-sharp resolution.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor provides lightning-fast performance, while the 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking. The 128GB of internal storage can be expanded via microSD card, and the rear camera setup includes a whopping 108MP sensor for incredible photos and videos. The 40MP front camera is perfect for selfie lovers, and the 10:13 battery life means you can stay connected all day long. Whether you’re a power user or just looking for a stylish and feature-packed smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is a perfect choice.
Specs:
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Display: 6.8-inch OLED (3200×1400)
- Rear Camera: Triple (10MP + 12MP + 108MP)
- Front Camera: Single (40MP)
- RAM: 8GB, 12GB
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Battery: 5000mAh
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2. Google Pixel 6 Pro – fastest Android smartphone.
Discover the all new Google Pixel 6 Pro. This incredible device features a stunning 6.71-inch OLED display, Tensor CPU, 12GB RAM, and up to 512GB storage. Plus, the rear cameras include a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide sensor, and 48MP 4x telephoto sensor. And the front camera is a powerful 11MP sensor. The Google Pixel 6 Pro also packs a huge punch in terms of battery life, offering up to 7 hours and 49 minutes of Adaptive usage or 7 hours and 55 minutes on 60Hz. So whether you’re streaming your favorite shows or playing the latest games, this smartphone has the power to keep up.
Specs:
- Processor: Tensor
- Display: 6.7-inch OLED (3120 x 1440)
- Rear Camera: 12MP + 48MP + 50MP
- Front Camera: 11MP
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
- Battery: 5000mAh
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3. iPhone 14 Pro Max – best Apple smartphone.
The iPhone 14 Plus is the latest and greatest from Apple. With its large 6.7-inch OLED display, you’ll have a clear and vibrant viewing experience. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures that your content will look smooth and fluid. Under the hood, the A16 processor provides impressive power and efficiency. And with three cameras on the back, you’ll be able to capture stunning photos and videos. So if you’re looking for the best of the best out of Apple smartphone products, the iPhone 14 Plus is your best pick.
Specs:
- Processor: A16 Bionic 6-core CPU
- Display: 6.7″ (1290 x 2796) all-screen OLED
- Rear Camera: 12MP + 12MP + 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
- Battery: 23-75h
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4. OnePlus 10 Pro – best alternative Android.
The OnePlus 10 Pro is a top-of-the-line smartphone that offers premium features and performance. It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display. The rear camera has 8MP + 50MP + 48MP resolution and the front camera has 32MP resolution. It also comes with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage. Plus, the battery is a whopping 5000mAh. In other words, this phone has everything you could ever want in a smartphone and then some.
Specs:
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED (3216 x 1440)
- Rear Camera: 8MP + 50MP + 48MP
- Front Camera: 32MP
- RAM: 8GB, 12GB
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB
- Battery: 5000mAh
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5. Apple iPhone 14 – best everyday smartphone for most people.
Looking for a powerful and cutting-edge smartphone? Check out the new Apple iPhone 14! It comes equipped with a six-core A15 Bionic processor, making it one of the most powerful phones on the market. Plus, the 6.1″ all-screen OLED display is absolutely beautiful. You’ll love taking pictures with the 12MP rear camera, and the 12MP front camera is perfect for selfies. The iPhone 14 also comes with 6GB of RAM and your choice of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. And with a 20-80h battery, you’ll be able to use your phone all day long.
Specs:
- Processor: A15 Bionic 6-core CPU
- Display: 6.1″ (2532 x 1170) all-screen OLED
- Rear Camera: 12MP + 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB
- Battery: 20-80h
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6. Samsung Galaxy S22 – best regular-screen smartphone for developers.
This top-of-the-line smartphone features a stunning 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, and an impressive 8GB of RAM. Plus, with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, there’s plenty of room for all your photos, videos, and apps.
But that’s not all the S22 has to offer. It also comes equipped with three rear cameras – a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 10MP 3x telephoto camera – allowing you to capture amazing photos and videos no matter where you are. And with the 10MP front camera, you can take stunning selfies and video chat with ease.
But perhaps the best part about the S22 is its weight. At just 5.89 ounces, it’s one of the lightest smartphones on the market, making it perfect for carrying around with you wherever you go.
Specs:
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Display: 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED (2340 x 1080)
- Rear Camera: 10MP + 12MP + 50MP
- Front Camera: 10MP
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Battery: 3700mAh
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7. Google Pixel 6 – best affordable Android
The Google Pixel 6 is the latest phone from the tech giant, and it does not disappoint. With a powerful processor and stunning display, this smartphone is sure to impress. The rear camera is a whopping 50 MP, making it great for photography enthusiasts. And with 8 GB of RAM, you can be sure that this phone will be able to handle all your heavy duty apps and games.
xPlus, with 128 GB of storage, you’ll have plenty of room for all your photos, videos, and files. And if that’s not enough, you can always upgrade to the 256 GB model. Best of all, the battery life on this phone is incredible. With 4614 mAh, you can be sure that you’ll get through even the longest days without needing to recharge. So if you’re looking for a new smartphone that has it all, the Google Pixel 6 is the perfect choice.
Specs:
- Processor: Google Tensor Titan M2™ security coprocessor
- Display: 6.4″ FHD+ (1080 x 2400) OLED
- Rear Camera: 12MP + 50MP Octa PD Quad Bayer
- Front Camera: 8MP
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Battery: 4614 mAh
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So that’s it! These smartphones all have large displays, powerful processors, and plenty of RAM to handle even the most demanding programming tasks. They also have top-of-the-line cameras for capturing those perfect moments, fast charging capabilities for when you’re on the go, and spacious storage options so you can keep all your code snippets and apps close at hand. So if you’re in the market for a new phone in 2024 and you’re a programmer, be sure to check out these seven great options. You won’t be disappointed!
Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.
Due to his interest in programming and years of past personal experience in coding, he decided to break into the tech industry by attending a Master’s in Computer Science for career changers at University of Pennsylvania. Elmar passionately writes and coaches about breaking into the tech industry and computer science in general.