Budget-Friendly Smartphones: What To Look For And What To Avoid

Shopping for a new phone doesn’t need to be an overwhelming experience, especially when you’re eyeing a midrange model. Let’s break down the key things to consider before making a purchase to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Budget-Friendly Smartphones: What To Look For And What To Avoid

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart

Shopping for a mobile phone can feel like navigating a maze of options, jargon, and glossy promises. The midrange market is particularly tricky, offering a sweet spot between budget phones and flagship models, but with so many choices, it's easy to get lost. Finding the right balance between features, performance and price can be tricky, but it doesn't have to be. But fear not! If you're in the market for a mid-range mobile, whether it's your first smartphone or an upgrade, there's a way to make your decision easier.

Explore what to look for when buying a mid-range phone and, just as importantly, what to avoid. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be able to choose a phone that fits your needs without spending a small fortune. So, let's dive into the world of mid-range phones, where value meets performance.

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Screen Quality: Size And Resolution Matter

The screen is one of the first things you'll notice about your phone, and if you've been using a top-tier model in the past, the difference in quality might be striking. For mid-range phones, the sweet spot is usually an LCD or an AMOLED display. Look for a model with Full HD+ resolution for a crisp, clear picture.

But don't just focus on the numbers! Think about the size too. A 6.1 to 6.5-inch screen is common in mid-range devices, offering ample space for gaming, scrolling, and watching videos without feeling too bulky in your hand. If you're the type to binge-watch Netflix or scroll Instagram for hours, this becomes crucial. Aim for a screen with vibrant colours, wide viewing angles, and good brightness—especially if you plan on using your phone outdoors a lot.

A high refresh rate, such as 90 Hz or 120 Hz, is another feature to consider. It makes a noticeable difference when scrolling through apps or browsing the web, making everything feel smoother and more responsive.

2. Performance: Power For Everyday Tasks

Performance is where mid-range phones really start to differentiate themselves. Flagship devices often boast bleeding-edge processors, but midrange models still pack a punch. The key is choosing a phone with the right processor to handle your daily needs without too much lag.

Look for devices powered by newer, midrange chipsets like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 or 8 series or MediaTek Dimensity. These processors can easily handle multitasking, light gaming, and your social media habits without breaking a sweat. However, avoid models with outdated chipsets, as they might struggle to keep up with newer apps or updates.

The amount of RAM plays a role in performance too. Aim for at least 4GB of RAM for smooth everyday use. If you like having a dozen apps open at once or are into mobile gaming, 6GB or more would be ideal. Just remember: more RAM doesn't always guarantee better performance if other factors—like the chipset—aren't up to scratch.

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Battery Life: Can It Last The Day?

Battery life is one of those things you never truly appreciate until you're out and about with 3% left and no charger in sight. The good news? Most mid range phones today are equipped with batteries that last a full day, even with moderate to heavy use.

Look for a device with a battery capacity of 4000mAh or more. This should give you a comfortable buffer for daily activities like texting, browsing, and watching a video or two. If you're always on the go, a phone with a 5000mAh battery or higher is even better.

Of course, battery life is also influenced by how efficient the phone is with power. A high-end processor that's power-efficient, combined with features like adaptive battery modes or a low-power display, will help stretch your phone's endurance. Always check online reviews for real-world battery life—manufacturers' claims can be a little over-optimistic.

4. Camera Quality: Look Beyond Megapixels

We all want a phone with a camera that can capture beautiful moments without needing a professional setup. While the camera specs on mid-range phones are often impressive in terms of megapixels, it's the software that often makes the biggest difference.

Look for a phone with a primary camera of at least 48MP, but don't get bogged down by megapixels alone. Other factors, like optical image stabilisation (OIS) for smoother photos and night mode for low-light situations, are just as important. A good camera setup typically includes an ultra-wide lens, a macro lens, and sometimes even a telephoto lens for those with a penchant for zooming in on distant subjects.

When testing cameras, check reviews that include sample photos. It's essential to see how the camera performs in real-world scenarios, especially in tricky lighting conditions, which is often where mid-range phones can fall short.

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Software: Updates And Support

The user experience is shaped by the software running on your phone. Mid-range phones often come with Android, but the experience can differ vastly depending on the manufacturer's approach.

Opt for a phone from a brand that regularly provides software updates—this is especially important for security patches and new features. Brands like Google, Samsung, and OnePlus tend to do well in this regard, pushing out updates more frequently than others.

Avoid phones from brands that have a reputation for slow updates or poor software support. A phone with outdated software is more vulnerable to security risks, and certain apps might not run smoothly. You'll also want to keep in mind the version of Android the phone is running. Ideally, you should be getting at least two years of software support and three years of security updates.

6. Storage: Do You Need Extra Space?

With more apps, photos, and videos taking up space, it's tempting to look at a phone with plenty of built-in storage. A mid-range phone usually offers storage between 64GB to 128GB, which should be plenty for most people. However, if you're someone who loves downloading a ton of media or storing large files, 128GB or even 256GB might be a better option.

Another thing to consider is whether the phone has expandable storage. Many mid-range phones still offer a microSD slot, which can be a lifesaver if you tend to accumulate a lot of data. Avoid phones that only offer 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, as apps and operating systems take up a significant portion of that.

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart

Top Deals On Smartphones From Flipkart; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Build Quality: Durability Versus Aesthetics

We all want a phone that looks sleek, but it's also important to make sure that it's built to last. Mid-range phones often use plastic backs or glass on the back with plastic frames, which is fine if you're not rough on your devices. However, if you're prone to dropping your phone or using it in harsher conditions, you might want to look for one with a more rugged design or a glass back that's treated for durability.

Some phones come with IP ratings for water and dust resistance, which is an added bonus, especially if you're caught in the rain or spill something on your device. You can find this feature in mid-range phones, but it's best to avoid models that are completely devoid of protection features.

8. Audio Quality: Sound Matters

When it comes to audio, mid-range phones don't always get the recognition they deserve. While high-end models have Dolby Atmos or stereo sound for an immersive experience, mid-range phones still have decent audio setups. Look for a phone with dual speakers or at least one good-quality speaker.

Also, check whether the phone supports high-definition audio or has a headphone jack. While many phones are ditching the headphone jack, it's still a feature that many users appreciate for its simplicity and sound quality.

9. 5G Compatibility: Is It Worth It?

With 5G rolling out in many countries, having a 5G-compatible phone can future-proof your device, especially if you're planning to keep it for several years. While mid-range phones are increasingly coming with 5G support, it's worth considering whether you'll actually benefit from it right away.

In areas where 5G is still limited, it might not be a must-have feature, but if you live in a city where 5G is more widespread, it can offer faster internet speeds. However, avoid mid-range models that don't support 5G if you're someone who wants your phone to last a few years. The extra cost for 5G support often isn't huge and may be worth it in the long run.

10. Price: Is It Really A Deal?

Lastly, let's talk about price. One of the main selling points of mid-range phones is that they offer great value for the price. But just because something is “midrange” doesn't mean it's automatically affordable. Sometimes, you might find that a phone priced just a little higher offers so much more in terms of features, performance, and longevity.

Compare prices across different retailers, and always check for any ongoing deals, trade-in offers, or discounts that might make the purchase even more worthwhile. Don't fall into the trap of paying too much for features you won't use. Keep your budget in mind and aim for the best specs and features that match your needs.

Product Recommendations For Article
 

1. SAMSUNG Galaxy A35 5G

2. realme P1 Pro 5G

3. vivo T3x 5G

4. Google Pixel 8a

5. Motorola Edge 50 Pro 5G With 125W Charger

6. CMF by Nothing Phone 1

7. Apple iPhone 15 Plus

8. Motorola G85 5G

9. SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE


Buying a mid-range phone doesn't have to feel like a gamble. By keeping these 10 considerations in mind- screen quality, performance, battery life, camera, software, storage, build quality, audio, 5G compatibility, and price- you'll be able to find a phone that fits your lifestyle and your budget. Remember: it's not just about getting a good deal; it's about getting the best phone for your needs, whether you're a social media enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who needs a reliable device for work and personal use. With a bit of research and a careful eye, your perfect mid-range phone is just a few clicks away.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.