If your phone can’t run the apps you need or if it’s running so slow that you want to pull your hair out, it may be time to buy a new one. Unfortunately, buying a new phone can sometimes be a daunting chore given the sheer number of specifications to consider.
As serviceable as most phones are, these days, not all of them are created equal. In this article, we’ll take a look at the phone specs that matter when you’re in the market for a new device.
Price
It’s hard to ignore price when you’re looking for new phones. So-called flagship phones can easily cost five times more than a new basic smartphone, all while the qualitative differences between basic and flagship phones are getting narrower year after year. Regardless, you should look for a phone that fits within your budget while still meeting all your other needs. Make sure to explore trusted e-commerce sites to find the best cheap phones Singapore has to offer.
Processor
If your old phone is starting to get slow or frequently heats up, it’s usually because the processor is having a difficult time running newer applications. Generally speaking, you should look for a current-generation processor with a high clock speed and multiple cores for a smooth and responsive experience.
Note that while a fast processor is certainly desirable, having the best and newest may not be necessary for everyone. If you only use your phone for basic tasks like browsing the web and checking email, a mid-range processor may be sufficient.
RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is the amount of working memory available for running apps and multitasking. Higher amounts of RAM are usually better. Aim for at least 4GB of RAM for a decently snappy performance. Higher amounts can be a good investment, as large amounts of RAM will tend to mean that your phone should perform acceptably fast for a longer time.
Storage
Often confused with RAM, storage is the amount of space (i.e. long-term memory) available for apps, photos, videos, and other files. These days, you should have at least 64GB of storage to begin with, because any smaller and you’re liable to fill up your phone in a few months. Consider going for 128GB or more if you take a lot of photos or high-definition videos. Phones with a microSD memory card slot are also worth considering if you take a lot of photos for work. If you’re comfortable using cloud storage options like Google Drive and iCloud, you may not need more than 64GB of physical storage on your device.
Display
Given that the display is what you’ll be looking at for hours each day, you probably want to choose a phone with a display that’s easy on the eyes. While there are caveats based on the specific technologies used on different displays, generally, you’ll want a display with a high resolution and a high pixel density for sharper and clearer images. If you’re going to be watching movies or doing a lot of gaming on your phone, you may want a larger screen size as well.
Cameras
A lot of the cost of more expensive phones today is in the precision manufacturing of better cameras. Phones today tend to feature multiple AI-controlled cameras to appeal to people who enjoy taking photos and videos. If photos and videos are important to you, look for a phone capable of taking sharp and detailed images in a variety of lighting conditions.
Battery life
If you’re constantly on the go, a phone with long battery life is essential. The generally accepted minimum battery capacity of a modern phone is 4,000mAh, with higher numbers being better. If you find yourself frequently listening to Spotify or constantly running multiple applications, you should strongly consider phones with batteries rated from 6,000 to 8,000mAh. You may be able to get by with a shorter battery life if you’re able to charge your phone frequently throughout the day, but it’s always handy to have more in those instances you don’t have access to a power bank or charger.
Operating system
The operating system (OS) largely defines the overall user experiences of your phone, as well as the apps and features that are available. If you’re already used to your current phone’s OS, it might make sense for your next phone to have a newer version of the same operating system.
Another consideration is device ecosystems. If you’ve already invested in a device ecosystem like Apple’s, Samsung’s, or Xiaomi’s, then it might be a good idea to buy a phone that fits seamlessly within it.
Size
While larger phones have been trending for some time, many people still prefer relatively small phones that could easily be operated with one hand. People with more basic needs may also prefer a smaller, less obtrusive device. That said, larger phones are popular for a reason. Their extra screen size can be more convenient for watching movies and managing multiple apps at the same time. Regardless, make sure to pick a size that matches your personal preferences.
Build Quality
Thankfully, phone build quality isn’t much of an issue these days. You can easily get a fairly durable phone at any price. But if you enjoy outdoor activities or find yourself dropping your device a lot, you may want to consider a device that’s built tougher than the competition. If you use your current phone in wet and humid conditions, consider getting a new model that comes with appropriate levels of water resistance out of the box.
Ultimately, the specs that actually matter depend on your personal preferences and usage habits. Take the time to consider what’s most important to you and shop around to find the phone that closely matches your needs. By focusing on your needs rather than on raw specs, you’ll be able to find a device that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
