MKBHD’s Smartphone Awards 2023: Unveiling the Unexpected ‘Best Phone Of The Year

Explore MKBHD’s Smartphone Awards 2023! Discover the unexpected ‘Best Phone Of The Year’ and delve into top-performing smartphones evaluated by Marques Brownlee. From the value-packed Samsung Galaxy A54 to the innovative Google Pixel 8, find your next tech companion.

smartphone-awards-2023

Introduction

In the fast-evolving realm of smartphones, tech enthusiasts eagerly await Marques Brownlee’s annual Mobile Awards of the Year. The 2023 edition is no exception, and MKBHD has spotlighted the best-performing smartphones based on a meticulous evaluation of various criteria.

The Most Value-Packed Phone

Brownlee kicks off the awards with the category of the most value-packed phone, and the Samsung Galaxy A54 takes the spotlight. With its flat display, triple cameras, wireless charging, and robust build, all at an affordable $400, it’s a clear winner. The Moto G Play secures the runner-up spot, priced at $169, while the Pixel 7A earns an honorable mention at $499.

Read here Review of the Galaxy A54

The Battery Award

Next up is the Battery Award, claimed by the iPhone 15 Plus. Praised for its unique combination of a custom chip, software optimization, and the largest iPhone battery ever (4912mAh), it promises a genuine two-day usage experience. The Asus ROG Phone 7 and Asus Zenfone 10 secure the runner-up and honorable mention positions, respectively.

Read here iPhone 15 Plus review

The Design Award

In the Design Award category, the Honor Magic V2 steals the show as a “physics-defying” foldable phone. With its slim 9.9mm profile, a 5000mAh battery, and two displays, it challenges the norms in folding phone design.

The Best Foldable Phone

The Best Foldable title goes to the OnePlus Open, surprising everyone with its exceptional specs, impressive screens, and multitasking capabilities. The Pixel Fold and Samsung Z Flip 5 earn the runner-up and honorable mention positions, respectively.

Read here OnePlus Open Review

Most Improved Smartphone

Acknowledging advancements, the Nothing Phone 2 claims the Most Improved title. Enhanced LED patterns, rounded glass edges, and significant software functionality improvements showcase the prowess of Nothing OS. The iPhone 15 secures the runner-up spot in this category.

Bust of the Year

Not all phones receive accolades, and the Solana Saga Crypto Phone earns the undesirable title of “Bust of the Year.” Brownlee expresses disappointment in its ceramic build, citing weaknesses in the camera, display, and battery, making it a regrettable choice for users.

Phone of the Year

With a drumroll for the grand finale, the coveted Phone of the Year award goes to the Google Pixel 8. Brownlee praises its super bright 120Hz display, upgraded cameras, and a plethora of clever software features, not to mention a remarkable promise of seven years of updates. The Asus Zenfone 10 secures the runner-up position, with honorable mentions for the iPhone 15 Pro, S23 Ultra, and OnePlus.

Unveiling the Best in Tech: MKBHD’s Smartphone Awards 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of smartphones, tech enthusiasts eagerly await Marques Brownlee’s (MKBHD) annual smartphone awards to guide them towards the most exceptional devices. In the latest video uploaded on December 19, 2023, MKBHD unveils his picks for the best smartphones of 2023, delving into the reasons behind each choice and providing invaluable insights for those contemplating a phone upgrade.

1. Best Big Phone: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Dominates

MKBHD crowns the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra as the Best Big Phone for its exceptional features. Praised for its massive, high-resolution display, powerful processor, long battery life, and impressive camera system—especially the zoom capabilities—the Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out as a powerhouse in the big phone category.

Read here Galaxy S23 Ultra

Runner-up: OnePlus 11 Pro — Scores high marks for its large unfolded display and robust hardware.

Honorable mentions: Asus ROG Phone 7 (gaming-focused powerhouse) and Oppo Find X6 Pro (stunning design and top-notch specs).

2. Best Compact Phone: Asus Zenphone 10 Takes the Crown

In the realm of compact phones, the Asus Zenphone 10 emerges victorious. Its perfect blend of pocketable size, smooth performance, excellent cameras, and long battery life earns it the title of the Best Compact Phone.

Honorable mention: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 — Technically not small, but its foldable design makes it ultra-portable when closed.

3. Best Camera: iPhone 15 Pro Clinches the Title

The iPhone 15 Pro secures the Best Camera award for its consistently outstanding photo and video quality across various lighting conditions and shooting scenarios.

Honorable mentions: Google Pixel 8 Pro (computational photography prowess) and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (versatile camera system with impressive zoom).

4. MVP (Most Valuable Phone): Google Pixel 8 Stands Out

Crowned the Most Valuable Phone, the Google Pixel 8 impresses with its well-rounded package. Boasting a fantastic camera, a significantly improved 120Hz display, the same powerful processor as the Pixel 8 Pro, and exceptional battery life, all at a more affordable price point compared to its Pro counterpart.

Read here Google Pixel 8

Runner-up: Asus Zenfone 10 — Impresses with flagship-level performance in a compact form factor.

Honorable mentions: iPhone 15 Pro (refined design and USB-C adoption), Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (consistent performer with no major drawbacks), and OnePlus 11 Pro (powerful hardware and large foldable display).

5. Additional Notes: Acknowledging Noteworthy Devices

Marques Brownlee doesn’t limit his recognition to just the winners. The iPhone 15 Pro earns praise for its refined design and the long-awaited USB-C port. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra receives acknowledgment for its overall consistency and lack of major flaws.

Conclusion

In a year packed with innovation, these awards provide a comprehensive guide for tech enthusiasts seeking the best in the smartphone market. MKBHD’s discerning eye and thorough evaluation bring to light the standout devices that have shaped the tech landscape in 2023.

MKBHD’s Smartphone Awards 2023 offer a comprehensive guide for tech enthusiasts navigating the crowded smartphone market. Whether you prioritize a large display, compact design, superior camera capabilities, or overall value, these awards provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

FAQs

What criteria did MKBHD use for evaluating smartphones?

MKBHD considered various criteria, including battery life, design, software functionality, and overall user experience.

Why did the Google Pixel 8 win Phone of the Year?

The Google Pixel 8 impressed with its super bright 120Hz display, upgraded cameras, and a promise of seven years of updates.

Which phone earned the undesirable title of “Bust of the Year”?

The Solana Saga Crypto Phone received the regrettable title due to weaknesses in its ceramic build, camera, display, and battery.

What makes the Samsung Galaxy A54 the most value-packed phone?

The Samsung Galaxy A54 stood out for its flat display, triple cameras, wireless charging, and robust build, all at an affordable price of $400.

Are there any budget-friendly options among the winners?

Yes, the Moto G Play secured the runner-up spot for the most value-packed phone, priced at $169.

Can I trust MKBHD’s smartphone recommendations?

Absolutely. Marques Brownlee is a trusted authority in the tech community, known for his unbiased and thorough reviews.

Are these awards based on personal preferences?

While personal preferences play a role, MKBHD considers various factors like performance, design, and user experience in his evaluations.

Is the Google Pixel 8 worth the investment?

Yes, especially if you value a well-rounded phone with an excellent camera and overall performance.

Why is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra consistently praised?

Its massive display, powerful processor, long battery life, and versatile camera system contribute to its acclaim.

Where can I share my own smartphone picks?

Feel free to join the discussion in the video’s comments section and share your thoughts with the community.

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