In today’s digital age, a smartphone isn’t just a gadget. It’s a way for us to connect, learn, work, and play. If a new smartphone is at the top of your wishlist, here is a guide to help you navigate the world of smartphones, highlighting the factors you should consider when choosing a new device.
Entry-level Smartphones
Entry-level smartphones are the unsung heroes in the mobile market. They offer an affordable gateway into the digital world, making them an excellent choice for those buying their first smartphone or anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly device.
These smartphones may not have the flashy features of their higher-end counterparts, but they cover the basics well. Look for devices with decent battery life, as this ensures your phone will last through the day. Screen size is another factor; larger screens can enhance your viewing experience, but smaller ones can be easier to handle. The quality of the camera is important if you love capturing moments, while performance affects how smoothly your apps run.
Some of our top picks for entry-level phones include the Realme C30s, which is known for its robust performance and durability at its price point. This makes it a fantastic option for those who simply want a phone for basic calls, texts, and browsing social media.
The OPPO A17K is a commendable entry-level device, equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports day-long use, even with multiple applications running simultaneously. This phone balances affordability with impressive features, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Mid-Range Phones
Mid-range smartphones strike a balance between affordability and advanced features. They are the perfect choice for those who have more specific use cases in mind, such as simple photo editing, social media content creation, or even gaming.
When purchasing a mid-range phone, consider display quality, as this is one of the aspects where you will notice a jump from entry-level phones. Performance is another crucial factor; ensure your chosen device has a strong processor and ample RAM for smooth multitasking.
The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G is a remarkable mid-range phone that offers competitive features at a reasonable price. It boasts a large 6.6-inch screen, a powerful Exynos chipset, and a versatile triple camera setup. Its 5G connectivity ensures speedy internet access, making it perfect for those who value fast data speeds.
The Vivo Y36 is also a noteworthy mid-range contender known for its stylish design and reliable performance. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to maximize their mobile gaming experience, especially in games like Call of Duty or Mobile Legends.
Flagship Phones
Flagship phones are the epitome of technological innovation in the smartphone industry. They pack top-tier specs and cutting-edge features, making them the perfect choice for tech enthusiasts who want to be able to run the latest and most demanding apps. These phones are also recommended for those who plan to complete work tasks on their device (e.g. conference calls, social media management, etc.).
Flagship phones are the creme de la creme of smartphones, so do expect that these options are the most expensive ones on the market. As such, it’s typically a good idea to sign up for a postpaid plan, such as Smart’s Signature Plans, to make your purchase a little lighter on your wallet.
When choosing a flagship phone, consider its processing power as it affects how fast and smooth your phone operates. The quality of the display is crucial too, especially if you consume a lot of media on your phone. Camera capabilities are another major selling point for flagship phones. Look for advanced systems with multiple lenses and special features like night mode or optical zoom.
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro are stellar choices in the flagship category, offering unparalleled performance, stunning displays, and advanced camera systems. Both are powered by Apple’s A16 Bionic chip , ensuring fluid performance and effortless multitasking. The iPhone 15 Pro family also comes with enhanced features like ProMotion, for smoother visuals, and Pro Camera for professional-grade photography.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is an innovative option for those who prefer the top-of-the-line Android phone. This unique device combines the functionality of a smartphone and a tablet, thanks to its foldable design. The large, flexible screen makes it perfect for media consumption and multitasking, while the high-quality camera system and powerful processor ensure top-notch performance.
5G vs 4G Phones: Which Should You Choose?
As you research your options, you may come across models that have “5G” or “5G-ready” in their names or descriptions. This refers to the kind of network the phone is able to take advantage of in its native state.
5G phones support the latest 5G networks, such as the ones used by Smart. This network offers incredibly fast download and upload speeds, lower latencies, and improved capacities. As such, phones that are 5G-rated are ideal for heavy data users, dedicated gamers, or those who stream high-definition content.
4G phones, on the other hand, offer fast speeds, which are sufficient for most day-to-day tasks like standard definition streaming, regular browsing, and direct video calls. While it won’t be able to take advantage of the network’s top-tier speeds due to hardware limitations, a good 4G phone will perform admirably for most users.
The choice between the two is entirely up to you. Considering that 5G networks are the standard in the Philippines, however, opting to go with a 5G phone is a more future-proof decision, so long as the price is within your budget.
Remember: the best device for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. That said, make sure you take your time and do your research before committing to a particular phone model. Happy shopping!
