Are you looking for a cell phone with a pen? In our comparison we will show you which models will still be available to buy with a stylus in 2024 and reveal how they differ.
We already know the advantages of a pen, also known as a stylus, from tablets: more precise input is possible than is the case with a finger, and even high-quality drawings, sketches and handwritten entries can be made very easily.
The market is now only served by Samsung
Why not have all these advantages on your smartphone too? A smartphone with a pen makes it possible. Unfortunately there are only a few of them left. While a few years ago numerous manufacturers such as LG and HTC tried out similar devices, Samsung currently has an almost monopoly position on the stylus market with its Galaxy smartphones.
With the Galaxy S24 Ultra, its predecessor S23 Ultra and the Z Fold 5 as well as its predecessor Z Fold 4, the South Korean manufacturer currently offers four models with an included stylus. Samsung calls this S-Pen. Another one is likely to be added in the summer, the Z Fold 6. All devices are priced from 1,000 euros upwards.
Samsung’s S-Pen can do that
Before we take a closer look at the models, let’s take a look at the features of the S-Pen. Because they are largely the same for all of the Samsung models mentioned. The S-Pen is hidden in the left side of the case and can be extended by briefly pressing it. Above all, you can use the S-Pen to draw, sketch and take notes. It also responds to different levels of pressure, so lines pressed harder appear thicker on the screen.
But the S-Pen can do much more than just drawing. The gestures carried out with the S-Pen can also be used to control presentations or videos playing or to take photos. You can also use the S Pen’s side button to take screenshots, take photos or open a specific app. The gestures can be set in the smartphone settings.
Below we would like to highlight the most important differences between the individual models.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The S24 Ultra is Samsung’s current top smartphone. Compared to the S23 Ultra, it offers a flat display without beveled edges, which should make it easier to write on the device with the S-Pen. The stylus is included and can also be stored in the device.
9.3
9.3 out of 10 points
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is easier to hold in your hand than its predecessor. Nevertheless, the device remains a monster in terms of dimensions and weight, which will certainly not please everyone. Noticeable…
- R.A.M: 8, 12GB
- Battery capacity: 5000mAh
- Device memory: 256, 512, 1024GB
- Main camera (back): 200MP
- Display diagonal: 6.8 inches
Other innovations compared to the S23 Ultra include a new processor, a brighter display and an upgrade for the main camera and the second telephoto lens, which now has a resolution of 50 instead of 10 megapixels. The device also has integrated artificial intelligence with Galaxy AI.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
This will also find its way to the predecessor S23 Ultra via an update by summer. This was Samsung’s first cell phone with a 200 megapixel camera. Here too, the control pen is included in the scope of delivery and can be stored in the housing.
8.9
8.9 out of 10 points
It’s hard to criticize anything about the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Samsung has impressively addressed the main points of criticism of its predecessor: “camera” and “battery life”. When it comes to processing, display and…
- R.A.M: 8, 12GB
- Battery capacity: 5000mAh
- Device memory: 256, 512, 1024GB
- Main camera (back): 200MP
- Display diagonal: 6.8 inches
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
The foldable Galaxy Z Fold 5 can also be operated with the S-Pen. However, this must be purchased separately. It also cannot be stored in the housing, but must be transported separately. Alternatively, Samsung also offers a case with a slot for the pen.
8.4
8.4 out of 10 points
In our opinion, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is more of a Z Fold 4.5. The hardware of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 has been largely taken over and packed into a thinner, slimmer housing that can now also be used without…
- R.A.M: 12GB
- Battery capacity: 4,400mAh
- Device memory: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Main camera (back): 12MP ultra wide angle camera
- Display diagonal: 7.6 inches
Compared to previous foldables, the Z Fold 5 offers a significantly slimmer housing. Compared to the competition’s foldables, Samsung is still at a disadvantage here. The smartphone is waterproof.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
If the Z Fold 5 is too expensive for you, you should take a look at its predecessor. The Z Fold 4 is available from just 1,000 euros. However, you have to make do with a chunkier design here. The S-Pen is also not included in the scope of delivery, but must be purchased separately (from 49 euros).
8.2
8.2 out of 10 points
With the Galaxy Z Fold 4, Samsung is launching a consistent upgrade. The new smartphone scores with improved battery life, a better camera and even more performance. Should…
- R.A.M: 12GB
- Battery capacity: 4,400mAh
- Device memory: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Main camera (back): 12MP
- Display diagonal: 7.6 inches
It can also only be used when opened on the device’s screen and cannot be stored in the housing. Instead, it can be attached to the Z Fold 4 using a case that is also still available for purchase. If you can do without Bluetooth functions such as remote control of your cell phone, you can also get the S-Pen in a cheaper Fold edition with the Z Fold 4.
Motorola Edge 30 Pro
If you don’t want a Samsung device, you will find an alternative in the Motorola Edge 30 Pro, but this is almost two years old and is only available from a few retailers. The stylus must also be purchased separately and can only be attached to the cell phone using a protective case.
Theoretically, the Honor Magic V2 is another foldable on the market that can be controlled with a pen. With this, both the interior and exterior displays can be operated with a stylus. However, Honor does not (yet) offer the stylus required for this in this country.
Are you looking for a tablet with a pen? Then take a look at the linked purchasing advisor.
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