Ready to find the perfect phone? Our phone quiz is here to help! We've spent years developing a meticulous algorithm, conducting exhaustive product research, and performing extensive testing to assist you in your search. Embark on this in-depth journey that assesses your specific phone needs and budget constraints. Through your responses, we'll compare a plethora of phone models, delivering you an optimal recommendation, helping you to find the phone you should buy.
Choosing a phone often begins with picking an operating system. The two primary contenders are Android and iOS. Android, developed by Google, is used by a variety of manufacturers, offering a wide range of phones in terms of price, size, and design. Android's open system allows for high customization, numerous free apps, and integration with Google's popular services.
On the other hand, iOS, developed by Apple, runs exclusively on iPhones. This operating system is known for its ease of use, seamless integration with other Apple devices, strong security, and long-term regular updates. The App Store also tends to get new apps first. Your choice may depend on your budget, desire for customization or simplicity, and the ecosystem you're invested in.
In the phone quiz we’ll ask you which operating system you would like. If you already know which one you’d prefer you can select it. But if you are not sure we can help work this out for you.
Advancements in screen technology mean larger screens are now standard, with edge-to-edge displays even on regular-sized phones. Display type also impacts the viewing experience, with OLED screens offering vibrant colors and deep blacks, while LCD screens provide a more budget-friendly alternative with reasonable color accuracy and brightness.
Flagship models often come in regular and plus sizes. Your ideal size depends on hand size, usage, and portability. Larger screens favor multitasking and media, but they can be less convenient to carry.
In the innovation arena, foldable phones present a novel approach. Unfolded, they offer ample screen space akin to a tablet; folded, they retain regular smartphone portability. However, consider their fragility due to the folding mechanism and typically higher price points before deciding.
The durability and feel of your phone hinge on the materials used in its construction. Glass backs offer a sleek, premium look and support wireless charging but can be susceptible to cracks. Plastic backs, more resilient to drops and less prone to smudges, may feel less luxurious, whereas metal backs are robust but typically eliminate wireless charging.
Frames are often metal in high-end models, adding to the phone's sturdiness, while budget models might use plastic frames, potentially compromising durability.
Screen materials matter too, with popular options like Gorilla Glass offering good scratch and crack resistance. Some phones use sapphire glass, which provides superior scratch resistance but may be less shatter-resistant.
Additionally, many modern phones feature water and dust resistance, indicated by an IP rating. An IP68 rating, for example, signifies the phone can survive immersion in water up to certain depths and durations.
Striking the right balance between aesthetics, durability, and features is crucial, and largely depends on individual preferences and how you plan to use the phone.
Your phone is often the most accessible camera you have, making it worthwhile to invest in superior camera quality. From flagship to budget models, multi-camera setups are now common, usually featuring a standard lens, a telephoto lens, and an ultra-wide lens. The integration of software and hardware enables a seamless viewing experience, allowing you to smoothly "zoom" between cameras and apply effects like digital blur.
Modern phones also offer advanced photography features. Night mode, for instance, has revolutionized low-light photography by using longer exposure times and software enhancements to produce bright, clear photos even in dim conditions. Some phones also allow you to shoot in RAW format, providing more control over post-processing by preserving all the data from the camera sensor.
Additionally, with high-resolution video recording and advanced features like Dolby Vision filming, phones are increasingly encroaching on the territory of professional cameras. Such capabilities allow you to shoot cinema-grade videos directly from your phone.
While these features are more prevalent in high-end models, they're gradually making their way to mid-range and budget phones, too. Keep in mind, the evolution of camera technology is swift, and our quiz regularly updates to account for these advances.
Your phone's performance hinges on its internal specs. The processor, or chipset, largely determines speed and efficiency, with higher-end models typically featuring powerful processors for smooth multitasking and demanding tasks like gaming. RAM also contributes to performance, especially for multitasking – more RAM usually means smoother operation. Storage is another consideration, with some phones offering expandable storage via a microSD card slot to accommodate your apps, photos, videos, and other files.
Some smartphones come equipped with unique features that might tip the scale in their favor. For instance, certain models feature a barometer for measuring atmospheric pressure, which can be useful in weather forecasting apps or for detecting altitude. Other sensors might include accelerometers, gyroscopes, and compasses for improved navigation and motion detection. Depending on your needs, these special features could significantly enhance your phone usage.
Another crucial aspect to consider is battery life. Factors such as screen size, resolution, processor efficiency, and software optimization can all influence a phone's battery performance. Battery capacity, measured in milliamp hours (mAh), can give you an indication of how long the battery might last, with a higher number usually signifying longer battery life. Fast charging support, present in many modern smartphones, can substantially reduce the time to fully charge your device. Some also offer wireless charging for added convenience, though typically at a slower pace.
Audio quality is another critical factor for music lovers and media consumers. Some smartphones come with stereo speakers that provide a rich audio experience, while others might support high-resolution audio codecs. The presence of a headphone jack can be a deciding factor for those who prefer wired audio equipment for better sound quality, though this feature is becoming less common in modern smartphones. Some phones also offer unique audio features like Dolby Atmos, which creates an immersive, three-dimensional sound experience. If you use your phone for music or video, take the time to assess the audio capabilities of your potential choices.
5G, the latest generation of mobile network technology, promises faster speeds, lower latency, and improved capacity. As 5G networks continue to expand across the world, you might want to consider a smartphone that's 5G-ready to take advantage of these benefits. This is particularly relevant if you frequently stream or download large files, play online games, or use your phone for other data-intensive tasks. While 5G coverage is still growing, opting for a 5G-compatible phone can future-proof your device.
In the US, mobile networks use either GSM (like AT&T, and T-Mobile) or CDMA (like Verizon, and US Cellular). It's essential to ensure your chosen phone is compatible with your network. Although some phones operate on both systems, double-check with your carrier before purchasing a non-carrier phone.
Biometric security has replaced the traditional PIN as the go-to option on smartphones, thanks to its speed and enhanced security. Options like face recognition and in-screen fingerprint readers offer quick access while maintaining security.
While both methods have their pros and cons, the choice is largely a matter of personal preference. Fingerprint readers, for instance, can't be used with gloves and require accuracy, while face recognition requires direct line of sight. If you're undecided, don't worry - both are excellent choices, and you can prioritize other features.
High-end flagship phones come equipped with top-of-the-line specifications, advanced features, and premium materials. These devices are perfect for those who prioritize state-of-the-art performance and the latest technological innovations, and are willing to invest more heavily in their device.
Mid-range phones strike a balance between performance and affordability. They offer commendable performance, good camera quality, and a selection of useful features. These phones provide excellent value, granting many of the benefits of flagship models at a more accessible cost level.
At the budget end of the scale, phones have seen dramatic improvements in recent years. These devices offer a satisfying user experience, along with a level of performance and camera quality that was previously unimaginable in this category.
Regardless of your financial means, finding a phone that fits your needs has become much easier. As tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) aptly puts it, "good phones are getting cheap and cheap phones are getting good." Therefore, the key is to pinpoint the features that matter most to you, and find a phone that delivers these within your means.
Our phone quiz has been years in the making, involving meticulous algorithm tweaks, exhaustive product research, and extensive testing. We aim to provide you with the best advice and make your phone selection process effortless and enlightening.