Smartphone Specs ― How to Choose the Right Smartphone

The processor is often called a smartphone's brain, and that’s true. It decides how fast and efficient the device is in handling tasks. Essentially, a processor is a tiny chip that processes instructions and executes commands.

Here are the things to consider when buying a smartphone:

1. Number of cores. Processors can be dual-core, quad-core, or octa-core. The number of cores affects the smartphone's functionality: the more cores, the better it handles multitasking. Modern tech brands combine high-performance and power-efficient cores to increase battery life without sacrificing speed.
2. Clock speed. It measures how fast the processor can execute instructions. It’s measured in GHz. Higher clock speed means better performance, especially for heavy tasks, such as gaming or video editing.
3. Chipset. Smartphone processors are categorized by chipsets, for example, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon, Apple’s A-series, or MediaTek’s Dimensity.

Premium chipsets like Apple’s Snapdragon 8 Gen series or A17 Bionic are found in flagships. They are the fastest and most power-efficient. Mid-range chipsets balance performance and price, while entry-level chipsets focus on affordability.

In simple terms, a high-performance processor makes your phone more responsive, launches apps fast, plays games smoothly, and handles multitasking well. That’s what we all want?

The display ranks first among the smartphone features that require user interaction. One's experience greatly depends on its effectiveness. Make sure to evaluate the device factoring in the following areas.

1. Size. The display size may range between 5 and 7 inches upwards. A smartphone with a large screen is better for operating many apps simultaneously, playing, and watching content. The only drawback is the phone's bulkiness. It is easier to operate models with a smaller screen with one hand. Select an option more suitable for your day-to-day activities.
2. Resolution. The image's sharpness or fidelity is determined by the display resolution. However, popular Full HD (1080p) and Quad HD (1440p) are standard. It is possible to obtain stunning detail using 4K resolution, but this consumes higher battery energy as well. However, for most people, Full HD is the happy middle ground where one seeks power and good quality in an affordable range.
3. Screen type (OLED, AMOLED, LCD). OLED and AMOLED displays produce deeper blacks and more vibrant colors due to the ability to switch off individual pixels, whereas LCD screens perform well in bright light and conserve energy. High-end mobile devices frequently use AMOLED technology because the current multimedia display does not require additional conditions to produce good quality.
4. Refresh rate. It is measured in hertz units (Hz). Feature phones have a refresh rate of 60Hz, while mid-range devices go as high as 90Hz. This number has been significantly boosted to 120Hz or even 144Hz for newer models.

The battery is yet another key feature for active users. It is understandable, considering the level of complexity and the sheer amount of tasks modern phones perform. Remember the following points:

1. The battery capacity (in mAh). This characteristic is expressed in milliamp hours rating (mAh), which gives a battery life estimate. So, if you have batteries with a higher capacity, for instance, higher than 4000 mAh, they tend to last longer. But do ensure that you use this number in conjunction with the overall phone efficiency.
2. Battery optimization. Interestingly, if the phone with a larger battery is not optimized, it does not mean it outlasts a smaller one. The OS and the efficiency of the chipset also determine the time the battery can last.
3. Charging speed. Fast charging, which is measured in watts, allows users to replenish the battery promptly. Fast charging is supported by many flagship phones, ranging from 30 W minimal to about 100 W. Look for devices with fast charge support if it is your habit to charge your smartphone.

An OS (operating system) determines everything, from how the user interacts with the device to whether applications can run within it. There’s a high probability that the OS of most smartphones you will encounter is iOS by Apple or Android. In making such decisions, don’t be influenced or get carried away by the success of a particular solution, as other factors require your attention. The following features tend to be the most sought after by consumers themselves:

• Software updates. It is a common understanding that flagship smartphones from any of the major brands will get, in most cases, three and sometimes five years of operational software updates. It's critical for security and access to new features, so look for devices that promise regular updates.
• User interface. Apple's iOS offers a unified interface, while Android's open-source code allows different manufacturers to provide unique interfaces. Thus, Samsung's One UI and Google's Pixel UI offer different features on top of Android.

Water resistance makes the smartphone as practical as possible. This way, you will not be afraid of accidentally pouring water or even bathing if you want!

Water resistance is measured by the IP (Ingress Protection) rating:

• IP67: Protection from immersion in water (up to 1 meter for less than 30 minutes).
• IP68: Immersion beyond 1 meter for long durations

But remember, water resistance is not a phone superpower. It doesn't mean devices can survive constant immersion for an extended period.

As it were, it's not the kind of test you have to purposefully try yourself, as it can lead to corrosion of internal components.

NFC lets devices communicate without contact. What makes this tech so popular? It's easy to use and safe, which matters for mobile payments. NFC can do the following:

• It helps you pay through Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. You just need to put your phone on a terminal that works with these systems.
• It allows devices to share data (like contacts or pictures) when you touch them together.
• It gives you access to places you're allowed to enter, taking the place of key cards in offices and hotels.

5G technology grows fast. How does it benefit users?

• It offers quicker speeds than 4G and faster, smoother streaming, gaming, and large file downloads. Under ideal conditions, 5G can match home Wi-Fi speeds.
• It has less delay. 5G cuts down response times between devices and networks. It makes online apps (video calls, games, and augmented reality) feel more responsive.
• It gives better coverage. While 5G is still rolling out, it provides more stable connections in busy places like stadiums, malls, and other crowded spots.

Charging ports are indispensable for power supply and data transfer, so the type will determine its compatibility with other electronic tools.

1. USB-C. It's common in most new Android devices, some external monitors, and laptops. USB-C is advantageous due to fast charging and faster data transfer rates. On the other hand, it's designed to potentially support up to 100W.
2. Micro USB. Some older ports are typically seen on budget devices and accessories. It is slower charging and data transfers than USB-C.
3. Lightning. iPhones and some iPad models use Apple's proprietary connector. It is smaller than USB-C and can be reversible. Exclusive to Apple, it is also fast for charging and data transfer. If you use other brand devices, they will require single cables and adaptors.

Some devices even come with an IR blaster as a universal remote control. So, you can control the TV, air conditioner, and other household from your smartphone!

Don't forget about the biometrics here, mainly the front-mounted fingerprint scanner and face recognition, for easier and secure access. It enables you to replace PIN codes and reliably secure your phone.