IPhone 16 vs Galaxy S24 Black Friday 2026: The Best Offers

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Apple iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 are compelling compact-phone picks for Black Friday 2026, with 6.1-inch and 6.2-inch displays respectively. The right choice depends less on a spec-sheet winner and more on whether you prefer iOS or Android, how much screen space you want, and which camera tools fit your everyday photos.

We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build a shopper-first guide to seven phones, including larger and premium alternatives. Use the comparison table to narrow your shortlist, then check each model’s storage and features before buying. Best bet: choose Apple iPhone 16 for the Apple ecosystem or Samsung Galaxy S24 for Android flexibility and a smoother 120Hz screen.

How We Picked

• Compared display size, refresh rate, storage and camera hardware using published specifications.
• Considered owner feedback and recurring strengths, including battery experience, software and everyday usability.
• Included compact, large-screen and premium models so shoppers can compare phones at different feature levels.
• Prioritized products with clear differences that help answer the Apple iPhone 16 versus Samsung Galaxy S24 question.
• Selected unlocked configurations as useful starting points for shoppers comparing carriers and retailers.

Comparison Table

Product	Best for	Display	Refresh rate	Base storage
Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked	Compact iOS	6.1-inch OLED	60Hz	128GB
Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked	Compact Android	6.2-inch AMOLED	120Hz	128GB
Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked	Large-screen Android	6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED	120Hz	256GB
Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked	Large-screen iPhone	6.7-inch OLED	60Hz	128GB
Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked	Premium compact iPhone	6.3-inch OLED	120Hz	128GB
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked	Premium Android and zoom	6.8-inch AMOLED	120Hz	256GB
Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked	Google Android and photos	6.3-inch OLED	120Hz	128GB

Best Picks Reviewed

#1

Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked

The Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked is the best compact iPhone for shoppers who want Apple’s ecosystem and a 6.1-inch OLED display. The A18 chip, Camera Control and 48MP Fusion camera make it a capable everyday phone without the size of a Plus model.

Best for: Compact iOS value

Display

6.1-inch OLED

Chip

A18

Main camera

48MP Fusion

Storage

128GB

Pros

• Comfortable 6.1-inch size
• 48MP main camera
• Supports Apple ecosystem features

Cons

• 60Hz display is less smooth than Galaxy S24’s 120Hz screen

Is the Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked is worth considering for shoppers who want a compact iPhone with an A18 chip, a 48MP main camera and 128GB of storage. The Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked's 6.1-inch OLED screen keeps the phone easy to carry.

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#2 · Top pick

Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked is the best compact Android phone for shoppers who value a 120Hz screen and flexible camera setup. The Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked's 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and 50MP main camera make it a strong direct alternative to Apple iPhone 16.

Best for: Compact Android

Display

6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Refresh rate

120Hz

Main camera

50MP

Storage

128GB

Pros

• Smooth 120Hz display
• 50MP main camera plus telephoto camera
• Compact Android design

Cons

• 128GB base storage gives less room for large media libraries

Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked is a strong pick for Android shoppers who want a compact phone, a 120Hz display and a 50MP main camera. The 6.2-inch screen is slightly larger than Apple iPhone 16’s display.

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#3

Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked is the best large-screen Android option for shoppers who want more display and storage than the standard Galaxy S24. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked's 6.7-inch QHD+ screen runs at up to 120Hz, while 256GB provides room for apps and photos.

Best for: Large-screen Android

Display

6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED

Refresh rate

120Hz

Battery

4900mAh

Storage

256GB

Pros

• Large, high-resolution display
• 256GB base storage
• 4900mAh battery capacity

Cons

• Larger body is less pocket-friendly than Galaxy S24

Is the Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked is worth a look for shoppers who want a large Android screen and more starting storage. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB Unlocked's 6.7-inch QHD+ display, 120Hz refresh rate and 4900mAh battery capacity suit media and everyday multitasking.

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#4

Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked

The Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked is the best large-screen iPhone for shoppers who want Apple’s software on a 6.7-inch display. The Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked's A18 chip and 48MP Fusion camera offer the core iPhone 16 experience in a larger format.

Best for: Large-screen iPhone

Display

6.7-inch OLED

Chip

A18

Main camera

48MP Fusion

Storage

128GB

Pros

• Roomy 6.7-inch screen
• A18 chip
• 48MP Fusion camera

Cons

• 60Hz refresh rate trails the Galaxy S24+

Is the Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Apple iPhone 16 Plus 128GB Unlocked is worth considering if a big iPhone screen matters more than a compact design. The 6.7-inch OLED display, A18 chip and 48MP Fusion camera provide a larger-screen version of the standard iPhone 16 experience.

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#5

Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked

The Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked is the best premium compact iPhone for shoppers who want advanced camera hardware and a 120Hz display. The Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked's 6.3-inch OLED screen and 5x telephoto camera add meaningful upgrades over Apple iPhone 16.

Best for: Premium compact iPhone

Display

6.3-inch OLED

Refresh rate

120Hz

Main camera

48MP

Telephoto

5x optical zoom

Pros

• Smooth 120Hz display
• 5x optical telephoto camera
• Pro camera controls

Cons

• Premium features are more than casual phone users need

Is the Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Apple iPhone 16 Pro 128GB Unlocked is a worthwhile premium pick for shoppers who want a 120Hz screen and stronger zoom options. The 6.3-inch display and 5x optical telephoto camera make it a more camera-focused choice than Apple iPhone 16.

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#6

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked is the best premium Android phone for shoppers who want a large screen, S Pen and versatile zoom cameras. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked's 6.8-inch display and 200MP main camera set it apart from Samsung Galaxy S24 and Samsung Galaxy S24+.

Best for: Premium Android and zoom

Display

6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Refresh rate

120Hz

Main camera

200MP

Storage

256GB

Stylus

Integrated S Pen

Pros

• Large 120Hz display
• 200MP main camera and flexible zoom
• Integrated S Pen

Cons

• Large size and advanced features are not ideal for every shopper

Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked is a strong premium choice for shoppers who want an S Pen, a 200MP main camera and a 6.8-inch display. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Unlocked's camera range and large screen suit buyers who prioritize features over a compact phone.

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#7

Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked

The Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked is the best alternative for shoppers who want Google’s Android experience and a compact camera-focused phone. The Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked's 6.3-inch Actua display, 120Hz refresh rate and 50MP main camera give it a distinct place beside Samsung Galaxy S24.

Best for: Google Android and photos

Display

6.3-inch Actua OLED

Refresh rate

120Hz

Main camera

50MP

Storage

128GB

Pros

• Smooth 120Hz display
• 50MP main camera
• Google software experience

Cons

• No dedicated telephoto camera

Is the Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked is worth considering for shoppers who prefer Google’s Android software and want a 120Hz screen. The 6.3-inch display and 50MP main camera make it a compact alternative to Samsung Galaxy S24 and Apple iPhone 16.

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Is iPhone 16 or Galaxy S24 better for Black Friday 2026?

Apple iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 are the strongest compact-phone comparison, with 6.1-inch and 6.2-inch displays. Apple iPhone 16 runs iOS on an A18 chip, while Samsung Galaxy S24 uses Android and adds a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling.

Choose Apple iPhone 16 if your household uses Apple services, you want iMessage and FaceTime, or you already own compatible Apple devices. Choose Samsung Galaxy S24 if Android customization, a faster-feeling screen and a dedicated telephoto camera matter more. Easy recommendation: match the phone to the software you prefer, then compare storage and retailer return policies.

Which phone has the better camera?

Samsung Galaxy S24 and Apple iPhone 16 each offer a 50MP-class main camera, but their camera systems take different approaches. Samsung Galaxy S24 includes a dedicated telephoto camera, while Apple iPhone 16 pairs its 48MP Fusion camera with an ultrawide camera and software-based zoom options.

For more reach from a compact Android phone, Samsung Galaxy S24 is the more versatile camera setup. Apple iPhone 16 is a strong fit for shoppers who prefer Apple’s photo and video workflow. Step up to Apple iPhone 16 Pro for a 5x optical telephoto camera, or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for a 200MP main camera and broader zoom range.

Should you choose a large-screen model?

Apple iPhone 16 Plus and Samsung Galaxy S24+ both have 6.7-inch displays, while Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra increases the screen size to 6.8 inches. The larger models provide more room for video, reading and split-screen tasks than Apple iPhone 16 or Samsung Galaxy S24.

Apple iPhone 16 Plus suits shoppers who want a large iPhone without moving to a Pro camera system. Samsung Galaxy S24+ adds a 120Hz QHD+ panel and 256GB of base storage, while Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra adds an S Pen and advanced camera hardware. Consider pocket comfort alongside screen size: a bigger display also means a larger phone.

Which phone offers the best overall value?

Apple iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 are the best starting points for shoppers comparing everyday features in a compact phone. Each offers 128GB of base storage, premium materials and a high-resolution main camera, while Samsung Galaxy S24 adds a 120Hz display and Apple iPhone 16 brings the A18 chip.

Value depends on the features you will use, not just the model name. Compare the exact storage configuration, carrier compatibility, included accessories and retailer return terms before checkout. Shoppers who need more room for photos should compare 256GB models such as Samsung Galaxy S24+ and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra rather than buying a lower-storage phone and relying on frequent cleanup.

Which premium alternative should you consider?

Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra are the premium choices for shoppers who prioritize display and camera upgrades. Apple iPhone 16 Pro brings a 120Hz screen and 5x optical zoom in a 6.3-inch format, while Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra combines a 6.8-inch 120Hz screen, 200MP main camera and integrated S Pen.

Choose Apple iPhone 16 Pro for a smaller premium iPhone with Apple’s software and advanced zoom. Choose Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for a large Android phone with stylus support and a more expansive camera system. Google Pixel 9 is another useful comparison for shoppers who prefer Google’s Android experience and a 6.3-inch, 120Hz display.

Buying Guide

Choose your operating system first

Apple iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 differ most in software, with iOS on iPhone and Android on Galaxy. Start with the apps, messaging features and devices you already use, then compare hardware. Switching platforms is manageable, but ecosystem preferences shape daily convenience.

Match screen size to how you use your phone

Apple iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch display, while Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra reaches 6.8 inches. Smaller phones are easier to carry and use one-handed; larger displays work better for video and reading. Handle a similar-size phone in a store before deciding.

Buy enough storage for your photos

Apple iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 start at 128GB in the configurations listed here. Shoppers who keep large video libraries or many offline files should compare 256GB options, including Samsung Galaxy S24+ and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Compare camera tools, not just megapixels

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra lists a 200MP main camera, but megapixels alone do not define photo quality. Compare optical zoom, ultrawide coverage and the kinds of images you take. Apple iPhone 16 Pro adds 5x optical zoom for shoppers who value distant subjects.

Check the exact unlocked listing

Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked and Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked are practical comparison points. Confirm the model name, storage, carrier compatibility, return window and included accessories on the specific listing before placing an order.

FAQ

Is the iPhone 16 better than the Galaxy S24?

Apple iPhone 16 is better for shoppers who want iOS, Apple services and a 6.1-inch OLED screen. Samsung Galaxy S24 is a better fit for Android users who want a 120Hz display, a 50MP main camera and a dedicated telephoto camera.

Does the Galaxy S24 have a better screen than the iPhone 16?

Samsung Galaxy S24 has the smoother display, with a 6.2-inch screen and 120Hz refresh rate. Apple iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. Choose Samsung for smoother scrolling and Apple for its familiar iOS experience.

Which phone is better for photos, iPhone 16 or Galaxy S24?

Samsung Galaxy S24 offers a dedicated telephoto camera alongside its 50MP main camera, which helps when photographing distant subjects. Apple iPhone 16 has a 48MP Fusion camera and ultrawide camera. For advanced zoom, compare Apple iPhone 16 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Is the iPhone 16 Plus better than the Galaxy S24+?

Apple iPhone 16 Plus and Samsung Galaxy S24+ both have 6.7-inch screens. Apple iPhone 16 Plus suits shoppers who want a large iPhone, while Samsung Galaxy S24+ offers a 120Hz QHD+ display and 256GB of base storage.

Which Samsung Galaxy S24 model has the best camera?

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the camera-focused choice in the range, with a 200MP main camera and multiple zoom cameras. Samsung Galaxy S24 and Samsung Galaxy S24+ offer a more compact alternative with a 50MP main camera and dedicated telephoto hardware.

Is an unlocked phone a good Black Friday 2026 buy?

Apple iPhone 16 128GB Unlocked and Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB Unlocked are useful options for shoppers who want to compare carrier plans separately. Check network compatibility, activation requirements, storage and the retailer’s return terms before choosing an unlocked listing.