The Galaxy S24 is the standard model in Samsung’s S24 range — the compact one, at roughly half the monthly cost of the Ultra. It has no S Pen, a smaller camera system and an aluminium rather than titanium frame, but it runs the same software and receives the same long update commitment.
For most people that is the more sensible flagship purchase. The Ultra’s advantages are real, but they are specific: the S Pen, extra zoom and a much larger screen. If none of those matter to you, the S24 delivers the flagship experience at a substantially lower monthly figure.
Compare it against both the Ultra above and Samsung’s A-series below before deciding.
Brand or model deal overview
| Consideration | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.2-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz — genuinely compact by current standards |
| S Pen | Not included, and not supported |
| Cameras | Triple system with a 50MP main sensor and 3x optical telephoto |
| Build | Aluminium frame (the titanium is Ultra-only) |
| Charging | USB-C |
| Storage | 128GB and 256GB tiers, not expandable |
| Software support | Samsung’s extended update commitment covers this generation |
| Typical term | 24 months |
Pricing shifts as newer generations launch and promotions run. Confirm the current monthly cost, storage size and total commitment before applying.
Compare by network
Network options
Standard S-series models are widely stocked and frequently promoted. For each network, compare:
- the monthly instalment and which plan tier it assumes;
- the data allocation, and how much is anytime data;
- storage size — 128GB or 256GB;
- whether a promotion or trade-in bonus applies;
- contract term options;
- any upfront charge;
- coverage at your usual locations.
Because the S24 sits at a mid-flagship price, the bundled data often makes a bigger difference to value here than on more expensive handsets — a larger bundle can outweigh a small monthly saving.
Compare by budget
Budget options
The compact flagship case. Genuinely small phones with flagship internals are rare. If size matters, that narrows your options quickly and the S24 is one of the few.
Storage. 128GB is workable; 256GB is safer if you shoot video, since there is no microSD expansion.
Compare against the S24 Ultra. Considerably more per month for the S Pen, a 200MP camera, more zoom and a much larger screen. See Samsung S24 Ultra contract deals.
Compare against the A-series. Substantially cheaper, with a slower chip and simpler cameras but a similar screen size and the same software. See Samsung A56 contract deals.
Total commitment. Monthly × 24 plus upfront.
Current and older alternatives
Alternative models
Samsung S24 Ultra. The full flagship — S Pen, 200MP camera, titanium, 6.8-inch display. See Samsung S24 Ultra contract deals.
Samsung S25 Ultra. The current-generation Ultra. See Samsung S25 Ultra contract deals.
Samsung A56. Mid-range, at a much lower monthly cost. Worth comparing honestly — for many users the practical difference is smaller than the price gap suggests. See Samsung A56 contract deals.
Standard iPhone models. The cross-platform comparison at a similar price point. See iPhone 15 Pro contract deals or iPhone 14 contract deals.
The useful test: if you cannot name something the Ultra does that you would actually use, the S24 is the better purchase.
What to check before applying
- Total contract cost — monthly × term, plus upfront.
- Storage capacity — not expandable.
- Which plan tier the advertised price assumes.
- Data allocation and out-of-bundle rates.
- Whether a promotion or trade-in applies, and when it ends.
- Early cancellation terms.
- Software support period, confirmed on Samsung’s support pages.
- Coverage at your home and work addresses.
Contract applications are subject to the provider’s own checks — identification, proof of address, banking details, RICA registration, and generally a credit and affordability assessment. Requirements vary. Approval is not guaranteed.
FAQs
What is the difference between the Samsung S24 and S24 Ultra?
The Ultra has a much larger 6.8-inch display, a built-in S Pen, a 200MP main camera, extra telephoto reach and a titanium frame. The S24 is a compact 6.2-inch phone with a simpler camera system and no S Pen, at a substantially lower monthly cost.
Does the Samsung S24 have an S Pen?
No. The S Pen is exclusive to Ultra models on the S-series, and it is built into the handset there rather than sold as an accessory.
Is 128GB enough on an S24?
For lighter use, yes. If you shoot much video, 256GB is worth the difference, since Galaxy S models do not support microSD expansion.
How long will the S24 get software updates?
Samsung commits to an extended update period across its flagship line, which covers this generation. Confirm the current commitment on Samsung’s own support pages.
Is the S24 or an A-series phone better value?
Depends on use. The S24 has a faster chip, better cameras and a higher-quality display. For messaging, social media and light use the A-series covers the same ground for much less. Be honest about which you are.
Is the S24 too small?
It is one of the more compact flagships available, which suits some people and frustrates others. If you watch a lot of video or read on your phone, handle one before committing.
Is the charger included?
No. Samsung has not shipped chargers with recent flagships. Check the box contents and add a compatible fast charger if you need one.
What happens at the end of the contract?
The handset is paid off and becomes yours, but the plan typically continues month-to-month at the same rate unless you act. Diarise the date and move to SIM-only or upgrade.
Compare your options: see all Samsung contract deals, or browse contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.