Are there any focus points, red flags, or things to consider before you buy a smartphone? It’s quite common that you go out there to your preferred phone shop and impulsively buy whatever is cheaper, fancy, or popular. The problem with this approach in the world of phones is that you usually get one quality at the expense of another.
Now, clearly, the frustration that comes with landing on a “fake smartphone” is extremely unbearable, but thank God you landed on this page. We are going to list down the top factors you MUST consider before buying a smartphone.
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Contents
Factors that should be considered before you buy a smartphone
1. PRICE
This factor divides consumers into two, and it also determines 70% of the time the quality of the smartphone you take home. Definitely, it’s no surprise that this point comes first, is it? Before going out to buy a phone, make sure you know both how much it costs and how much you’re willing to part with.
However, most reliable phones cost a little more than just something to get the job done. For example, in regards to the Android experience, the Google pixel costs a lot more than Tecno but the experience is drastically significant.
2. BRAND
Clearly, there are tens if not hundreds of phone manufacturing brands out there, but not all of them give the experience that fits your liking. Brands such as Google, Apple, and Samsung for example are focused on high-quality products at a high cost. However, companies like Tecno, Itel, and Infinix are more inclined toward affordability. You can’t just go out to buy a random handset! So, before you buy a smartphone, you need to find out the most authentic brands to choose from whilst keeping in mind your pocket.
3. BATTERY
While purchasing a phone, it’s important to consider its battery lifespan. A lot of times, many of us have bought phones that eventually piss us off because of their drainage speed. This is because fast-draining batteries are extremely unusable. A good battery is usually between 3800 to 5000 mAH upwards. You should however keep in mind that some manufacturers will give you a great battery at the expense of other features, so make a choice that fits you well.
Related: Tips to maximize your iPhone battery lifespan.
4. STORAGE
This feature is one of the most significant ones that will determine whether you flag a phone green or outright red. You may buy a beautiful-looking handset, but I promise you to want something that is going to accommodate your useful files. Best phones usually have 64GB upwards. There are higher chances that you have an excellent phone if it has bigger storage than average.
Most recent flagship phones do not have expandable storage (iPhones as well), however, the choice goes back to whatever option works for you. With online storage, this might not be a big issue.
5. UPDATE FREQUENCY
Ever since the invention of smartphones, the software has been a continuous work in progress. There are even instances where you buy a poorly functioning phone and it improves by just updating its system. You need to find out how often updates reach your desired smartphone so that you don’t have to suffer from a system fault unknowingly for more than 6 months. Phones that receive regular system updates are clearly well maintained by their manufacturers.
Choosing a phone manufacturer that launches updates frequently is something to consider before you buy a smartphone because it will impact your user experience.
6. OPERATING SYSTEM
There are mainly 2 types of operating systems – Android and iOS. Other smartphone OS versions are either infamous or phased out like Windows OS. You should choose a smartphone whose operation system you are familiar with, for example, people who use one operating system might face a somewhat steep learning curve while switching to the other.
This is not to say do not switch to a new operating system, however, make an informed decision. Both iOS and Android have their user experience flaws and hoops.
7. SIZE
According to your purpose, you can always find a phone convenient for you. Most people prefer slim pocket-fitting phones to large ones. People who want huge devices often opt for tablets, iPads, or laptops. If you ask me, yes, you need a phone that actually fits comfortably while holding.
8. SPEED
While you’re purchasing a smartphone, it’s necessary to make sure it is going to get the job done smoothly. Currently, speeds range from 1.8 GHz to 2.2 GHz, but anything above 1 GHz should be good to go.
CAMERA – Some people need to capture moments instantly and a smartphone would be handy if it has a tolerable picture quality.
9. INTERNET SPEED
This is completely different from our 8th point. The introduction of 5G has set a whole new standard for smartphones, but a 4G smartphone is still considered excellent till around 2025.
Conclusively, phones have become a crucial part of our lives such that we have to pay attention to what we’re buying even if the prices are quite higher.
[Images used are courtesy of Google Photos, all rights reserved by the owners]