In today's world, technology is advancing at an incredible pace, and the mobile device market is no exception. Every year, manufacturers release new smartphone models that promise to be even faster, more powerful, and more functional. In this guide, we will tell you how to properly choose a smartphone, what criteria to pay attention to, and also consider which smartphone to choose in 2024 among different price categories.
When choosing a smartphone, it's important to decide on your preferences regarding the operating system. Android and iOS are the two main operating systems, each with its unique features. iOS is the best operating system in terms of ease of use, while Android is the best if you are looking for more customization options and a variety of smartphone purchase options.
iOS offers a simple and minimalist interface, fast and timely updates, and the best integration with other Apple devices, such as Mac, Apple Watch, and iPad. iOS devices also tend to support major software updates for six years, which is much better than what most Android manufacturers offer.
However, from the very first day, you will be limited in the appearance of the operating system. Even with the addition of widgets and custom icons to iOS, the customization capabilities of iOS still significantly lag behind Android. First and foremost, users are limited in hardware choice: iOS is available only on iPhone, which means that at any given time you can only choose from what Apple offers.
When it comes to Android, things get much more interesting. With Android, you can choose from a wide range of devices across a more extensive price range. This means you can find a device that fits your needs without having to spend extra money on something that doesn't suit your use case.
Android also allows you to customize your device more thoroughly — this has become especially relevant since the introduction of a new design concept in Android 12. Moreover, Google's operating system lets you change everything from icons to the system's color palette, as well as choose from a multitude of widgets that have their own level of customizability. The possibilities for changing your phone are almost limitless.
The technical specifications of a smartphone encompass a variety of parameters that determine its performance and functionality. Here are some of them:
Thus, the technical specifications of a smartphone play a key role in determining its performance and functionality. Users should choose a device taking into account their needs and preferences, based on the above parameters.
The appearance and tactile feel of a device play a significant role in a consumer's purchasing decision, and for some, the choice of the right device may depend solely on design. However, relying only on the appearance when buying a smartphone is unwise. It is important to consider other factors, such as technical specifications and functional capabilities. The right choice of device implies finding a balance between form and functionality.
Today, many smartphones possess outstanding design features that become their hallmark. This could be, for example, a prominent camera bump, like on the OnePlus 11, exclusive colors or finishes, or the placement of a foldable display, as in the Galaxy Z line from Samsung.
When evaluating a phone's design, it's important to consider not just its appearance but also how comfortable it is to hold. The materials used to manufacture the device should also be taken into account. Most modern high-end smartphones are equipped with tempered glass in a metal frame, which feels pleasant to the touch. However, glass can easily break upon impact and is quite slippery. Plastic, on the other hand, may look and feel less premium but is more durable and cost-effective.
Before making a purchase decision, it's recommended to personally explore the devices you're considering. This will allow you to assess the variety of color options, see how they look in real life, and determine which device best suits your lifestyle.
Modern smartphones offer a variety of functional features, such as 5G network support, wireless charging, fingerprint or facial scanners, styluses for input, as well as various touch and gesture control interfaces. When choosing a smartphone, users should consider their needs and preferences to find a device that meets their requirements.
Battery life and fast charging are important aspects for many users. A smartphone with a powerful battery and fast charging feature will help avoid problems associated with frequent charging of the device.
If you use an iPhone, you may encounter the issue of limited battery life. You'll constantly need to look for an outlet, laptop, or charger to keep your phone running.
When choosing a new phone, pay attention to the battery capacity. Opt for models with a capacity of at least 5000 mAh. Today, smartphone manufacturers are installing batteries with increased capacity in their devices. Standard batteries for smartphones start at a capacity of about 2000 mAh, with the maximum exceeding 10000 mAh.
Exploring reviews from other users and professional reviews can help gain a more objective understanding of the quality and performance of specific smartphone models. This can help avoid disappointments and make a more informed choice.
Some users prefer smartphones integrated into a specific ecosystem to access unique services and devices. When choosing a smartphone, consider its compatibility with other devices and services if it matters to you.
For instance, Google's ecosystem is significantly broader and more diverse than that of other technology companies. It includes Google Workspace tools, the YouTube media platform, Google Home smart home products, and more.
It's important to determine your budget for buying a smartphone. The market offers a variety of price categories, ranging from affordable models to premium segments. Readers should understand how much they are willing to invest in a new device. Let's consider some examples from different price categories.