Are you in the market for a new phone, but not sure where to start? With so many options available, choosing the right phone can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when buying a phone, discuss the top contenders in each category, and provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Operating System: Apple iOS or Android?
The first decision you need to make is which operating system (OS) you prefer: Apple’s iOS or Android. This choice will largely depend on your personal preferences and needs.
iOS
If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem with an iPad or Mac, an iPhone might be the way to go. iOS is known for its ease of use, security, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. Additionally, iOS has a more limited range of devices to choose from, making it easier to find the right phone for you.
Some of the top iOS devices to consider in 2018 include:
- iPhone X: The flagship device from Apple, featuring a stunning 5.8-inch OLED display, facial recognition technology, and a powerful A11 Bionic chip.
- iPhone 8: A more affordable option with a 4.7-inch LCD display, wireless charging, and a fast A11 Bionic chip.
Android
If you’re looking for more customization options, a wider range of devices, and a lower price point, Android might be the way to go. Android offers a more open approach, allowing users to customize their home screens, notification shades, and more.
Some of the top Android devices to consider in 2018 include:
- Samsung Galaxy S9: A powerhouse device with a 5.8-inch Infinity Display, 12-megapixel camera, and a large 3000mAh battery.
- Google Pixel 2: A flagship device with a 5-inch OLED display, exceptional camera performance, and timely software updates directly from Google.
Display: Size and Quality Matter
When it comes to the display, size and quality are key factors to consider.
Display Size
Do you prefer a phone that fits comfortably in one hand, or a larger device that provides an immersive experience?
- If you’re looking for a compact device, the iPhone 8 or Google Pixel 2 might be the way to go, with their 4.7-inch and 5-inch displays, respectively.
- If you prefer a larger device, the Samsung Galaxy S9 or iPhone X might be the better option, with their 5.8-inch and 6.1-inch displays, respectively.
Display Quality
What type of display technology do you prefer?
- OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays, found on the iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S9, offer better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors.
- LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) displays, found on the iPhone 8, provide better brightness and are more affordable.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
When it comes to performance, you want a phone that can handle your day-to-day tasks with ease.
Processor
What type of processor do you need?
- If you’re looking for a fast and efficient processor, the Apple A11 Bionic chip, found in the iPhone X and iPhone 8, is a great option.
- If you’re looking for a processor with more customization options, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, found in the Samsung Galaxy S9, might be the way to go.
RAM and Storage
How much RAM and storage do you need?
- If you’re looking for a phone with plenty of RAM, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its 4GB or 6GB options, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone with more storage, the iPhone X, with its 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB options, might be the better option.
Camera: Capture Life’s Moments
When it comes to the camera, you want a phone that can capture life’s moments with clarity and precision.
Rear Camera
What type of rear camera do you need?
- If you’re looking for a phone with a dual-camera setup, the iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S9 might be the way to go, with their advanced features like portrait mode and optical zoom.
- If you’re looking for a phone with a single camera, the Google Pixel 2, with its exceptional software processing, might be the better option.
Front Camera
What type of front camera do you need?
- If you’re looking for a phone with a high-resolution front camera, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its 8-megapixel camera, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone with advanced front camera features, like facial recognition, the iPhone X, with its TrueDepth camera, might be the better option.
| Phone | Rear Camera | Front Camera |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone X | Dual 12-megapixel | TrueDepth 7-megapixel |
| Samsung Galaxy S9 | Dual 12-megapixel | 8-megapixel |
| Google Pixel 2 | Single 12.2-megapixel | 8-megapixel |
Battery Life: Power Through the Day
When it comes to battery life, you want a phone that can last throughout the day.
Battery Capacity
What size battery do you need?
- If you’re looking for a phone with a large battery, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its 3000mAh battery, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone with a more compact battery, the iPhone X, with its 2716mAh battery, might be the better option.
Fast Charging
Do you need fast charging capabilities?
- If you’re looking for a phone with fast charging, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its QuickCharge 2.0 technology, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone with wireless charging, the iPhone X, with its Qi-compatible charging, might be the better option.
Additional Features: What Else Do You Need?
What else do you need from your phone?
Water Resistance
Do you need a phone that can withstand the elements?
- If you’re looking for a phone with water resistance, the iPhone X, with its IP67 rating, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone with advanced water resistance, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its IP68 rating, might be the better option.
Headphone Jack
Do you need a phone with a headphone jack?
- If you’re looking for a phone with a headphone jack, the Samsung Galaxy S9, with its 3.5mm jack, might be the way to go.
- If you’re looking for a phone without a headphone jack, the iPhone X, with its Lightning EarPods, might be the better option.
What Phone Should You Buy in 2018?
So, what phone should you buy in 2018? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.
If You Want a Premium Device with Advanced Features
- If you’re looking for a premium device with advanced features, the iPhone X might be the way to go, with its stunning OLED display, facial recognition technology, and powerful A11 Bionic chip.
If You Want a Device with a Large Display and Advanced Camera Features
- If you’re looking for a device with a large display and advanced camera features, the Samsung Galaxy S9 might be the way to go, with its 5.8-inch Infinity Display, dual 12-megapixel camera, and large 3000mAh battery.
If You Want a Device with a Compact Design and Exceptional Camera Performance
- If you’re looking for a device with a compact design and exceptional camera performance, the Google Pixel 2 might be the way to go, with its 5-inch OLED display, exceptional camera performance, and timely software updates directly from Google.
Ultimately, the best phone for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Take the time to research, compare, and test out different devices before making your decision. Happy shopping!
What are the most important features to consider when choosing a phone?
When choosing a phone, there are several key features to consider. First, think about the operating system. Do you prefer the ease of use and ecosystem of Apple’s iOS, or the customization options and affordability of Android? Next, consider the display size and resolution. If you plan to use your phone for watching videos or gaming, a larger, higher-resolution screen may be a good choice. You should also think about the camera quality, battery life, and storage capacity.
Additionally, consider the processor speed and amount of RAM, as these will impact the phone’s overall performance. If you plan to use your phone for heavy-duty tasks like video editing or gaming, a faster processor and more RAM may be necessary. Finally, think about any additional features that are important to you, such as water resistance, a headphone jack, or wireless charging capabilities.
How much should I spend on a phone?
The amount you should spend on a phone depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic phone for calls, texts, and light internet use, you can find a decent option for under $200. If you’re looking for a mid-range phone with more advanced features like a good camera and faster processor, expect to spend between $200-$500. If you want a high-end phone with the latest features and top-of-the-line specs, be prepared to spend $500-$1000 or more.
It’s also worth considering that you may not need to pay the full cost of the phone upfront. Many carriers offer financing options or discounts for trade-ins, which can help make a more expensive phone more affordable. Additionally, consider the cost of any additional features or accessories you may want, such as a case, screen protector, or headphones.
What’s the difference between a CDMA and GSM phone?
The main difference between CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and GSM (Global System for Mobile) phones is the type of network they use. CDMA phones are used on networks like Verizon and Sprint in the US, while GSM phones are used on networks like AT&T and T-Mobile. GSM phones use a SIM card to connect to the network, while CDMA phones do not.
This difference is important because it can impact your ability to use your phone on different networks. If you travel internationally, a GSM phone may be a better choice, as GSM is the standard in most countries. On the other hand, if you’re primarily using your phone in the US, a CDMA phone may be fine. Be sure to check with your carrier to see what type of phone is compatible with their network.
What’s the best phone for photography?
The best phone for photography depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a phone with a high-quality camera, look for one with a high megapixel count (at least 12MP), optical zoom, and features like portrait mode and low-light enhancement. Some phones, like the Google Pixel 3, are particularly known for their camera quality.
Other features to consider when looking for a phone for photography include the type of lens (wide-angle or telephoto), the aperture size, and the type of image stabilization. You may also want to consider a phone with advanced editing software or features like manual focus and exposure control. Ultimately, the best phone for photography will depend on your specific needs and the type of photography you plan to do.
How do I choose the right size phone for me?
Choosing the right size phone for you depends on a few factors, including your hand size, personal preference, and intended use. If you have smaller hands, a smaller phone (around 5 inches) may be a better fit. On the other hand, if you plan to use your phone for watching videos or gaming, a larger phone (around 6 inches or more) may be a better choice.
You should also consider the weight and ergonomics of the phone. Look for a phone with a comfortable grip and a screen that is easy to navigate with one hand. Additionally, consider the durability of the phone, including features like water resistance and scratch-resistant glass. Ultimately, the right size phone for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
What’s the difference between a flagship and budget phone?
The main difference between a flagship and budget phone is the level of features and specs. Flagship phones are the latest and greatest models from top manufacturers, with cutting-edge features like the latest processors, high-resolution displays, and advanced cameras. They typically come with a higher price tag, often $500 or more.
Budget phones, on the other hand, are more affordable options with fewer features and lower specs. They may have older processors, lower-resolution displays, and fewer camera features. However, they can still offer good performance and value for those on a budget. Budget phones can often be found for under $200.
Should I buy a phone from a carrier or manufacturer?
There are pros and cons to buying a phone from a carrier versus a manufacturer. Buying from a carrier can be convenient, as they often offer financing options and may have a wider selection of phones. Additionally, carriers may offer exclusive deals or promotions.
On the other hand, buying from a manufacturer can give you more flexibility and options. You may be able to find a wider selection of phones, including unlocked models that can be used on any carrier. Additionally, manufacturers may offer more customization options or direct support. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to research and compare prices and features before making a decision.