Why the Itel S24 Dominates the Budget Entry Market for Families

The Itel S24 is an entry-level smartphone designed for cost-conscious users who prioritize camera resolution and essential connectivity over high-end gaming. Released in April 2024, it competes with other sub-€150 devices by offering a high-resolution primary sensor and unique thermal management features. This model features a 108 MP main sensor for high-detail photography, a 90Hz IPS LCD for smoother scrolling, and a Helio G91 Ultra chipset to handle daily tasks.

Engineering for the Everyday Drop

When we analyze the construction of the Itel S24, the choice of materials reflects its aggressive price point. Weighing in at 192g, the handset uses a polycarbonate shell that feels dense enough to survive the occasional tumble from a kitchen counter. The 8.3mm thickness provides a substantial grip, which is helpful for children or seniors who might find ultra-thin devices difficult to hold securely. The circular camera housing dominates the rear, giving it an aesthetic that mimics much more expensive photography-focused flagships. We found the weight distribution to be balanced, avoiding the top-heavy feel often associated with large-camera modules.

From a repair perspective, the use of an IPS LCD rather than an AMOLED panel is a strategic choice for budget-conscious families. Replacing an LCD screen is significantly cheaper should a cracked display occur. The 720 x 1612 resolution is standard for this tier, though the 267 ppi density means text isn't as sharp as 1080p alternatives. However, the 90Hz refresh rate does a lot of heavy lifting in making the UI feel more responsive than older 60Hz [budget phones](/trend/best-budget-phones-2026/). The screen reaches a peak of 480 nits, which is adequate for indoor use but may require squinting under direct April sunlight.

Navigating Without the Frills

Software efficiency is critical when working with 4GB or 8GB of RAM. This device runs Android 13, and while it isn't the latest version of the OS, it remains stable. For family members who aren't tech-savvy, the interface is straightforward. We noticed that the Mali-G52 MC2 GPU handles the UI animations well at 90Hz. There is some pre-installed software, which is typical for Itel, but most of it can be tucked away in folders or disabled to keep the home screen clean for seniors who prefer a simplified experience.

One specific highlight for families is the side-mounted fingerprint sensor. It doubles as the power button and offers a faster, more reliable unlock method than the cheap under-display sensors found in some low-end competitors. This physical tactile feedback is better for muscle memory. The inclusion of an 8 MP selfie camera in a hole-punch cutout rather than a dated notch makes the device look contemporary, ensuring a kid won't feel they are carrying an ancient hand-me-down.

Thermal Management Under Pressure

The Helio G91 Ultra is an interesting choice here. It is an evolution of the G88/G85 line, specifically tuned to support the data-heavy 108MP sensor. In our sustained load tests, the chip stays relatively cool during social media browsing and video playback. If a teenager decides to play a round of Mobile Legends, the device manages heat reasonably well for about 30 minutes before the Cortex-A75 cores begin to throttle slightly to preserve battery health. It never becomes uncomfortable to hold, which is a safety plus for younger users.

Perhaps the most surprising feature for a 120 EUR phone is Bypass Charging. This technology allows electricity to flow directly to the motherboard without going through the battery. If the phone is plugged in during a heavy task like gaming or long video calls, it prevents the battery from heating up. This significantly extends the lifespan of the lithium-polymer cell, a massive win for families who plan to keep this phone for three years or more. It's rare to see this "[gaming phone](/trend/best-gaming-phones-2026/)" feature in the extreme budget segment.

Long-Term Viability and Storage

Storage speed is the silent killer of budget phones. The Itel S24 uses eMMC 5.1 storage. To explain the trade-off, eMMC is slower than the UFS storage found in [mid-range phones](/trend/best-mid-range-phones-2026/). This means apps will take a second longer to open, and large file transfers won't be instantaneous. However, for a device intended for light social media, WhatsApp, and photography, the bottleneck is manageable. We strongly recommend the 128GB or 256GB versions over the base model, as the 108MP photos consume storage quickly.

Software support remains the biggest question mark. Itel traditionally doesn't provide the long-term OS update promises that Samsung or Google offer. You should view this handset as a "what you see is what you get" product. It is unlikely to see Android 15. However, for a family looking for a reliable communication tool at a rock-bottom price, the hardware durability often outlasts the software relevance anyway. The dedicated microSDXC slot is a vital inclusion, allowing you to expand storage cheaply without sacrificing one of the two SIM slots.

Audio Simplicity and Connectivity

For the older generation and kids, the 3.5mm headphone jack is a mandatory feature. It allows for cheap, wired earbuds that don't require charging or complex Bluetooth pairing. The loudspeaker is loud enough for ringtones and speakerphone calls, though it lacks the depth or bass required for a great music experience. It is a functional speaker, not an entertainment one. The inclusion of an FM radio with recording capabilities is another budget staple that provides free entertainment without using data plans.

In terms of connectivity, this is strictly a 4G LTE device. In 2024, 5G is still a luxury in the sub-€150 category. The signal reception on GSM and HSPA bands is stable. We tested the GPS during a short commute, and it maintained a lock without drifting, which is important for parents using tracking apps like Life360 to keep tabs on their kids. The NFC support is region-dependent, so check your local box if you intend to use the phone for contactless payments.

Endurance and the 18W Reality

The 5000 mAh battery is the gold standard for endurance in 2024. Combined with the 720p screen and the power-efficient 12nm chipset, this phone is a legitimate two-day device for light users. Even with heavy social media use, getting through a full day is easy. The 18W charging speed is the only real compromise here. It takes about 40 minutes to reach 50%, and a full charge takes nearly two hours. This is a phone you plug in overnight, not one you top up in 15 minutes before leaving the house.

However, the trade-off is battery health. Slower charging generates less heat, which, combined with the bypass charging feature, means the battery won't degrade as fast as those in phones with 67W or 120W charging. For a budget economist, this slow-and-steady approach is actually a benefit for long-term value. It minimizes the chance of the battery swelling or losing significant capacity within the first 24 months of ownership.

The Family Conclusion

The Itel S24 succeeds by knowing exactly what it is: a durable, high-resolution camera phone for people who don't want to spend flagship money. The 108MP sensor provides a hardware advantage that competitors like the Redmi A3 simply cannot match. While the 720p screen and eMMC storage remind you of the price point, the inclusion of bypass charging and a massive battery makes it a reliable companion. It is a practical, value-driven choice for a child's first smartphone or a reliable secondary device for a busy household.