While several of the hottest phones on the market are more attractive than super models, and more impressive than a Ferrari going 100 MPH on the freeway, many of them don’t live up to their hype. Buyers must beware and take the time to research new phones before hastily buying whichever device is touted as the “best” smartphone on the market. Here are a few key features to investigate, and how to get the best information available.
Find Your Optimum Operating System
Via Flickr by Mjtmail (tiggy)
Each operating system represents a different type of phone user. Most likely, you are quite clear about which OS best suits your needs and personality. However, if you need help in choosing one there is an infographic to compare operating systems.
Learn Which Battery Life Outlives the Rest
Via Flickr by Scalespeeder
Each phone has a different battery life expectation, and then the actual results of the battery’s performance. These facts and figures as easily found with a little elbow grease. Compare Battery Life is a website that offers clean-cut information about popular phones’ battery specs. Here are just a few of the key phone specs:
- iPhone 5 – 8 hours of talk or 225 hours of standby
- Galaxy S III – 8.5 hours of talk
- Motorola Droid 4 – 6 to 7.5 hours of talk, depending upon screen brightness
Rethink “Smart”
Via Flickr by Falequin
A lot of folks hastily choose smartphones because they are “the best,” without considering the features. Do you really need Internet connectivity? Would you miss 4G speed? There’s no reason to pay for an expensive data plan if you never use a phone as a GPS device, for MP3s, or to check email; think smaller and cheaper. If you do need or want a smartphone, proceed with the research-intensive steps below.
Choose a Camera That Captures Memories Well
Via Flickr by Albumen
For those who love clear, crisp photographs (that’s everyone), camera research needs to occur before a phone purchase takes place. Know if your prospective camera is front or rear facing, how many megapixels it packs, and how easily images are uploaded.
Investigate Carriers in Your Area (and Coverage!)
Via Flickr by Elvert Barnes
Don’t be surprised by terrible connectivity and single bars after signing a two-year contract. Research each carrier in your area. The best carrier in the nation might be the worst option in your region: it depends upon towers, contracts, and your own needs. BillShrink offers a quick and easy guide to compare the popular carriers; TopTenReviews covers the ten most popular carriers.
Know Which Unavailable Apps You’ll Lament
Everyone has experienced the sorrow of discovering a cool app on a friend’s phone and then realizing it isn’t available on your own operating system or phone. If there are apps crucial to your business or personal life, make sure they’re available on your new phone.
When you take the time to research a new phone you won’t be disappointed with the results. However, those who buy the “coolest” smartphone of the year are often dismayed to discover bugs, unavailable popular apps, and that the camera is just ho-hum.
Sources
- http://techtips.salon.com/look-smartphone-3483.html
- http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/smartphone-specs-dummies/
- http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/high-tech-gadgets/5-tips-for-picking-the-right-smartphone.htm
- http://comparebatterylife.com/
Thats a well put up article..
The battery life of the smartphone is the most important for me.. What can you do with a phone which does not have a hood backup life…
You are right on the money, Akshay. I am not against more apps or a great looking phone, but to have everything but no battery power is akin to having a Ferrari without gas 🙂
Thank you for the kind words!
Shaun
I was thinking of buying the Nokia lumia 520. Should I go for it or not. It’s retailing for 10,159 rs.!
Hi Adithya,
Thank you for asking the question. I have personally not been exposed to the Nokia Lumia 520, and I am not sure about the cost effectiveness because you have mentioned Indian money. However, I think it roughly translates to $200, and for that price, please base your decision on the reviews available on the Internet. Thank you!