We all can agree that smartphones have dominated the mobile industry and made interactions less costly. With a simple click on the internet, you can connect with different people from any part of the world.
These tech gadgets have revolutionized the way we live in ways that go beyond communication. But how many people in the world can afford one?
With new technological applications emerging, many people use their smartphones in a number of ways. For instance, you could monitor your health and walk with a fitness tracker application.
Just like computers, tablets, and 2-in-1 laptops, new smartphones are being built to serve as computing devices. You can basically go on with work duties at the comfort of your home.
Nonetheless, you will need to invest your hard-earned money in a phone that meets all your needs. You wouldn’t want to purchase a smartphone that is tacky and less durable. So how much money do you need to set aside for a smartphone with features that work best for you?
Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the average price of a smartphone and what to look out for, sure to direct you on the right path.
Average Cost of a Smartphone – Price of a Smartphone
The growing popularity of smartphones has caused a rise in prices. According to the consumer’s report, the average price of a smartphone is $208 while the one with fewer features will cost $58.
Industries like Apple, Samsung, and Google have been pricing their new smartphones at $1000. Data shows that this cost is too high for most people.
Statistics show that demand for affordable smartphones is high, hence why 73% of users prefer smartphones under $300.
The year 2019 saw a wave of inexpensive smartphones being launched. The $700 iPhone 11 and the $750 Samsung Galaxy S10e.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Smartphone
Due to the variety of smartphones in the market, it is difficult to choose one that works best for you.
Below are some considerations to make before purchasing a smartphone.
Battery
The battery will depend on how the user uses the phone. If you have multiple apps opened simultaneously, you play video games often, and have heavy internet usage, then your battery will easily drain.
In the same way, when choosing a laptop that preserves battery, you would opt for either a MacBook or a Chromebook, so is when settling for a phone with long battery life. You need to examine new android smartphones that have greatly considered this feature. A battery that is 3500mAh, and above. For light users, a battery that is at least 3000mAh would be good to run for a day.
Memory
The RAM, ROM, and processor of your phone will determine the phone’s speed and its ease of operation. The ROM is referred to as storage for storing all apps, documents, and images in your phone.
If you are a heavy user, go for at least 3-4 GB RAM and 64 GB ROM. For an average user, 2 GB RAM and 16 GB ROM would work well for you.
Camera Quality
Manufacturing companies are beginning to pay attention to camera quality in an attempt to meet the consumers’ wants.
Quality photos are a result of ISO levels, aperture, and the speed of autofocus. If you like to take many photos, then opt for a phone with 12 or 16 megapixels with an aperture of 2.0 or more.
Processor
The processor determines the overall performance of the phone. At times, processor capability limits software updates.
Look at the processing speed, identified in Gigahertz (GHz). The higher the speed, the faster the processor.
Build Quality
There are only two types of builds; metal, plastic, and glass-coated. If you are prone to dropping your phone, then it is advisable you settle for either a metal or plastic built phone.
Metallic unibody is stylish but may prevent you from using the Micro SD card. Before buying, check the quality of the phone to ensure you can use it in a more convenient way.
Display
It is ideal to get a phone with a 5.5- 6.0-inch HD or QHD display. It will be easy to carry in your pocket or purse and allows you to enjoy a media experience.
Operating System
There are only two operating systems to choose from; android or IOS. If you are planning on buying an android phone, you should first examine the differences between the latest versions – android 9 pie and android 10.
If you opt for IOS, then that means you are settling for an iPhone. All the other smartphones fall under the android operating system.
Audio/Speakers
If you like entertainment on the go, buy a smartphone that has front-facing speakers. This will give a clear sound, especially when held at a landscape position.
Internal Storage
When buying a new smartphone, it is important to check the internal storage capacity. You should also check the space acquired by pre-installed apps to determine how much space you are left with.
Although you can always get a micro SD card to boost your memory, it is not as efficient as internal memory.
If you are using your phone as an external hard drive, it is recommended that you opt for a smartphone with 128 GB or 256 GB internal storage, depending on how much you intend to store. On the contrary, a 64 GB internal storage will be suitable for any phone user with no intentions of having heavy apps and tones of documents in the handset.
Software and Integrated Functions
These days, you can find a phone that can absolutely do everything. From the latest top-of-the-line to mid-range smartphones, you will find all the latest hardware innovations.
Additionally, do not just opt for a phone that has the latest hardware features. Explore keenly the software in-depth to see if the hidden features have options that work best for you.
Are you an ardent reader of E-Books? Having a smartphone with features that help you adjust the hue of the display will shield your eyes from straining.
Do not just purchase a phone for its appearance, but rather what it offers.
Budget
How much do you want to spend on your next smartphone? Is it worth spending all your money on it, or you can choose to get a cheaper smartphone that is equally powerful? It is entirely upon you to make that decision.
As the prices increase, the features of a phone increase. Therefore, you will need to spend more money to get a high-quality smartphone with better hardware and software features.
Conclusion
By now, you have understood what features to look out for when buying a new smartphone. To get the best out of your purchase, first explore the factors we have listed for you, then make an informed decision.
