With the sheer number of options available, buying a new smartphone can be daunting. Modern smartphones are much more than just calling devices thanks to the technology advancements. Nowadays, they can be your work assistant, entertainment center, camera, and much more. So how do you pick the best one for your requirements? In the sea of brand claims and specifications, it's simple to get lost. Whether you're a gamer, a photography enthusiast, or someone searching for a long-lasting battery, understanding the crucial aspects that you must consider will enable you to recognize your needs and make an informed choice.

We'll walk you through the key features in this buying guide, including processing speed, camera quality, battery life, display technology, and storage capacity, to help you make an informed choice. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which features are most important for you and how to select a phone that offers the best value for your money.

Buying guide for phones: Key factors you should look for


Factors to look for while buying a smartphone

1. Display size:

The size of the display is one of the most crucial aspects to take into account when selecting a smartphone. This establishes how convenient it is to use with one hand or how small it can fit in your pocket. A smartphone's screen size is expressed in inches and measured diagonally.

Most smartphones have screens that are six inches or larger. A phone with a display size between 4 and 6 inches might be something to look into if you don't like the idea of a large smartphone or want to be able to use it with one hand. However, a display size larger than 6 inches is advised for heavy video editing, intense gaming, split-screen work, e-reading, and movie

2. Display type

Display type is another important factor that affects the viewing experience. Smartphones are now available with LCD, Retina, OLED, and AMOLED panels, each of which has optimal use cases, viewing angles, and color reproduction capabilities of its own. Here are all the display type explained.

LCD display:

Liquid crystal displays, or LCDs for short, are a common option for smartphones and other devices due to their affordability and widespread use. The term LCD refers to a collection of liquid crystals that are backlit by a backlight.

Relying on a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) layer with an active matrix, modern LCDs are less expensive and complex than their low-resolution, passive counterparts, like the ones found in many calculators, vintage watches, and even the original Game Boy. Because tiny transistors regulate the current received on each row and column of pixels in a TFT, each pixel can be turned on or off without requiring a dedicated connection.

OLED display:

Organic Light Emitting Diode, use OLED. Thin sheets of electroluminescent material make up an OLED display; as the name suggests, these materials emit light when current is applied to them. OLED displays are "always off," unless the individual pixels are powered, in contrast to backlit LCD panels.

This indicates that when black or darker colors are shown on the screen, OLED displays have much purer blacks and use less energy. On the other hand, OLED screens with lighter color themes consume a lot more power than an LCD screen with the same theme. The cost of producing OLED screens is higher than that of LCD screens.

In comparison to LCD screens, OLED displays have higher contrast ratios since their black pixels are "off." Although OLED displays can also have very quick refresh rates, they are not as visible in bright light as backlit LCDs. Other things to think about are screen burn-in and diode degradation (since they are organic).

AMOLED display:

Unlike PMOLEDs (passive matrix OLEDs), which drive the display on a row and line level, AMOLEDs (Active Matrix OLEDs) use a TFT layer to control individual pixels. The outcome is comparable to LCDs and enables larger and denser screens. Generally speaking, every OLED screen available today is an adaptation of AMOLED technology.

Apple's ProMotion, Liquid Retina, and Liquid Retina XDR:

The term "Retina" was first used in the past to refer to LCD screens that have "Retina" resolutions, meaning that at standard viewing distances, the human eye cannot distinguish individual pixels. According to paper, every iPhone model since the iPhone 4.

Apple uses the term "Liquid" for the LCD panel and "XDR" for the HDR capabilities in its Mini LED technology. Another marketing term used by Apple to characterize screens with high refresh rates and dynamic adjustment is ProMotion. Comparable to the Dynamic & Fluid prefixes discussed earlier, but applicable to LCD screens in the case of Apple as well.

Refresh rate

The number of times your screen is refreshed every second is known as the refresh rate. The smoother your video viewing experience is, the higher the refresh rate, which is measured in Hz. Calling, light web browsing, and light social media use are best served by 60 Hz, whereas heavy web browsing, email, social media usage, light gaming, and editing are best served by 90 Hz. On the other hand, intense gaming, watching movies, and video editing work best at 120Hz and higher.

RAM and storage

A 4GB smartphone would be plenty if you're searching for an entry-level model. It would be best to get a phone with 6GB of RAM if you're looking for something between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15,000 because it can hold more apps at once. It's best to spend your money on a smartphone with 8GB of RAM if you want to buy a mid-range or high-end phone that costs between Rs 15,000 and Rs 35,000 in order to enjoy more seamless multitasking. It would be wise to get a phone with at least 12GB of RAM if you're planning to buy a flagship device.

However, in case of iPhones, things are different. Last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max had only 8GB RAM, still it’s one of the most efficient phones available in the market. iOS is known for its efficient memory management and optimisation, which allows it to deliver smooth performance even with relatively lower amounts of RAM compared to some Android counterparts. Even iOS apps are designed in such a way that they work efficiently even with less amount of RAM.

In terms of Storage you can get a smartphone with 64GB and above depending on your need.

Processor

A processor is comparable to a smartphone's brain. You can say that almost everything you do on your smartphone is dependent upon it. Nevertheless, purchasing an expensive flagship smartphone is necessary to get a high-end processor. The tasks and apps you use on your phone will determine how much processing power you require, though. Selecting a smartphone with a processor that provides the ideal amount of power while remaining comfortably within your budget is crucial. Performance of a processor is primarily determined by two factors: the number of cores and clock speeds available. A variety of multi-core processors are available in the latest generations of smartphones. Dual-core (two), quad-core (four), and octa-core (eight) processors are the most prevalent. Here are mostly used processors:

Qualcomm:
Leading the processor industry, Qualcomm is well-known for its Snapdragon chipsets, which include models 4, 6, 7, and 8. These drive a number of high-end flagship devices from Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Samsung.

Mediatek:
Mediatek is another manufacturer known for powering flagship and mid-range smartphones. The popular Helio and Dimensity chipset families from Mediatek power 4G and 5G smartphones, respectively.

Apple:
Apple design its own chipsets exclusively for its own line of products only. All iPhone chipsets, starting with the A14 Bionic, are capable of supporting 5G technology.

Exynos:
Similar to Apple, Samsung also make Exynos mobile processors exclusively for its smartphones. Many Samsung smartphones, including the entry-level Galaxy J series models and the flagship Galaxy S series models, are powered by the same processor.

Camera
One of the first things that most of us look for in a smartphone is a camera. A good smartphone camera is now a need rather than a luxury in an era where social media and remote work have become integral parts of our lives.

Every manufacturer sells smartphones with various camera configurations, each with special features. Three primary types of smartphone lenses exist: telephoto or zoom, ultra-wide angle, and primary sensors.

Primary sensors:

When you open the camera app on a smartphone, the default camera is the primary lens. It is perfect for taking close-up pictures of everyday subjects. Additionally, the primary lens—which a phone may or may not have—always has the highest image resolution of all the sensors.

Ultra-wide-angle sensor:
Smartphones now comes with a wider field of vision between 117 and 123 degrees thanks to an ultra-wide-angle sensor. These lenses come in handy for taking pictures of landscapes at sunsets or perhaps of a sizable gathering of people, like at a wedding.

Telephoto sensors:
Telephoto sensors let you take pictures of distant objects. Essentially, it lets you enlarge an image without sacrificing quality when zooming in on a distant subject. These sensors come in handy for photographing things like wildlife.

What is Megapixel?
Digital image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, which are counted per inch. One million pixels, or discrete bits of data that go into creating an image, make up one megapixel.

When talking about the quality of their photos, the majority of smartphone brands usually mention the number of megapixels on the device. Though having more megapixels does contribute to sharper images, it is important to remember that this is not the only factor.

Other additional camera features:

Artificial Intelligence takes away all the hassle of photography; Optical Image Stabilization mechanism reduces blur in your images; High Dynamic Range (HDR) helps capture images with a better dynamic range; and Portrait Mode, which uses the Bokeh Effect to blur the background of your images and enhances your selfies and portraits.

Battery and Charging support

The battery life of a phone is very important, especially for people who are constantly on the go. Larger values, expressed in milliampere-hours (mAh), typically correspond to longer battery life. When used moderately, phones with batteries ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 mAh can usually last an entire day. Fast charging, on the other hand, is a modern necessity. With the fast charging technology found in many smartphones, you can charge your phone to 50% capacity in just 30 minutes. Convenience is increased by the fact that many high-end models offer wireless charging.

Conclusion
Buying a smartphone requires careful consideration of both your needs and your budget. It will be easier for you to choose if you focus on battery life, camera quality, and overall performance. Understanding these key factors will help you make an informed decision. So, the next time you're on the hunt for a new smartphone, our guide will help you find the perfect phone that fits in your lifestyle and budget.


FAQs

1. What is the minimum RAM capacity needed for a Mobile phone?
It is advised to choose a phone with RAM of at least 4GB if you want your end user experience to be as efficient as possible when using the phone. It is recommended that individuals who frequently use multiple programs and processes at once have RAM that is at least 6GB or 8GB.


2. What are the different display options available on Mobile phone?
In terms of external screen protection, mobile phones are available with LCD, OLED, and AMOLED screens, among other screen types. OLED and AMOLED displays are generally found to have better color reproduction and contrast than LCD displays.

3. What are the best display resolutions available on Mobile phone?
The Full HD (1080p) resolution, Quad HD (1440p), and 4k Ultra HD are the display resolutions that work best with smartphones. HD displays produce sharper images, which translates to an improved viewing experience all around.

The DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabiliser is our top-picked in this list for offering smooth and stable video capturing functionality. This is among the best gimbals for smartphones that you can buy right now. With its 3-axis stabilisation, it let users shoot professional-quality footage with minimal shake. The built-in extension rod allow you to shoot in different angles, while its portable and foldable design makes it easy to carry everywhere you go. Plus, it’s compatible with both Android and iPhone, making it a perfect choice.

Users' feedback: Customers find it easy to use and stable for capturing smooth videos. They appreciate its strong build quality and reliable performance.

2. AOCHUAN Smart X Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer

The AOCHUAN Smart X Pro sports a sleek OLED display that offers access to different modes and battery levels at ease. Compatible with iPhones and almost all the Android smartphones, this foldable 3-axis stabilizer weighs just 0.65 lbs. However, it can easily handle a 250g payload, perfect for creators on the move.
Plus, it is equipped with a built-in LED fill light offering 6000 lux brightness, and the Smart X Pro ensures stunning night shots. The gimbal also features Focus Switch, Zoom Slide, and advanced SMART 7.0 Anti-Shake stabilization for a professional-quality footage, live-streaming, and more.

Users' feedback: Customer have said that the gimbal is perfect for shooting whether it's stationary or moving around. They also mentioned that it is easy to setup and easy to connect to Bluetooth.

3. Amazon Basics Handheld Gimbal Stabiliser

The Amazon Basics handheld gimbal stabiliser is one of the best gimbals for smartphones, offering 3-axis stabilisation for smooth, professional-quality video. It features a tripod for added stability, facial tracking for focused shots, and time-lapse and FPV modes for creative filming. With up to 12 hours of operational time, it delivers extended use for all your recording needs. In addition, it’s compatible with all smartphones, this dark grey gimbal combines functionality and convenience, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and seasoned videographers.

Users' feedback: Customers find the camera tripod sturdy and well-built. They appreciate its quality, value for money, and ease of use. The tripod is lightweight and easy to carry. Many customers find it simple to set up and use, making it suitable for beginners.

4. Hohem iSteady X Lightweight Smartphone Gimbal

The iSteady X comes with a foldable design and measures 179x79x39mm. It can easily fit in your pocket or small handbag, making it perfect for creators on the go. Equipped with an advanced DC brushless motors and the iSteady 3.0 anti-shake algorithm, this compact gimbals will let you shoot smooth, professional-grade footage, whether you're walking, running, or capturing live moments. With Moment Mode, you can get access to 7 one-tap templates like inception, dolly zoom, and more. It can carry a max payload of 280g, and is compatible with most iPhone and Android devices.

Users' feedback: Buyers find it easy to use and simple to carry. They loved its good build quality, stability, and affordability.

5. IZI GO-X Smartphone Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

IZI GO-X Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer, features next-gen 3-axis ultra-stabilization and impressive features. You can improve your video quality with the exclusive RGB Magnetic Fill Light add-on, offering 16 vibrant colors and 3 brightness levels for stunning low-light shots. It also features anti-shake technology, a magnetic wireless charging pad, and a sleek OLED display to shoot a cinematic footage. Intelligent modes like Face Track, Time-Lapse, and Slow Motion are also available in the gimbal, while an 8-10 hour swappable battery ensures uninterrupted capturing.

Users' feedback: Customers appreciate the product's quality, stability, and ease of use. They find it reliable with a sturdy build, comfortable grip, and simple setup. The 3-axis stabilizer ensures steady footage even while moving. Many customers are happy with the value for money, battery life, and features.

6. DIGITEK (DSG-007F) Gray Smartphone Gimbal

The DIGITEK 3-Axis smartphone gimbal offers excellent stability and versatility. It’s compatible with both Android and iOS devices and features four creative operation modes for different shooting modes. The 3-axis stabilisation ensure smooth, shake-free video, making it ideal for vlogging and dynamic footage. In addition, its ergonomic design provides comfort during use, resulting in professional-quality videography. Apart from all this it come with a 160° tilt angle, 325° roll angle, 340° pan angle, and weighs only 362gms.

Users' feedback: Customers find the camera support to have good quality and user-friendly features. They find it easy to understand and suitable for beginners. However, some customers report issues with functionality and battery life.

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 3 | Dimensions: 62D x 63.5W x 16H Cms

The Bajaj Majesty OFR 13 oil-filled room heater is a powerful and efficient heating solution for chilly winters. With nine fins and a 2900W power capacity, it quickly heats medium—to large-sized rooms. It features an adjustable thermostat, three heat settings, and safety features like an automatic thermal cut-off and overheat protection. The compact design with castor wheels ensures easy mobility, while the noiseless operation makes it ideal for bedrooms and living areas.

Users’ Review:
Users praise the Bajaj Majesty OFR 13 Fin Plus for its quick heating performance and silent operation. Many appreciate its energy efficiency and safety features, ensuring peace of mind. The compact design and portability are also frequently highlighted, making it easy to move around.

2. Best in Efficiency: Havells 13 Fin Hestio Wave Fin OFR

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 3 | Dimensions: 70D x 22W x 73H Cms

The Havells 13 Fin Hestio Wave Fin Oil Filled Room Heater (2900W) offers efficient and long-lasting heating for larger rooms. Equipped with 13 fins, it provides uniform warmth and features a thermostatic heat control with three power settings (low, medium, and high). The PTC fan control enhances heat distribution, ensuring faster warmth. Using superior-grade oil, this heater guarantees durability and extended heat retention. Its sleek black design with easy portability makes it ideal for homes and offices.

Users’ Review:
Users love the Havells Hestio Wave Fin Heater for its powerful 2900W capacity, quickly warming up large rooms. The adjustable thermostat and multiple power settings offer great flexibility, while the PTC fan ensures faster heat circulation.

3. Value for Money: Morphy Richards OFR Room Heater

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 3 | Dimensions: 15D x 18W x 30H Cms

The Morphy Richards OFR 9 Grey Oil-Filled Room Heater is a reliable and efficient heating solution with a 2000W power capacity. It has nine fins and provides even and consistent heat across medium to large rooms. The heater has an adjustable thermostat and three heat settings for customized warmth. Its ISI-approved design ensures safety, while the overheating protection adds an extra layer of security. With a portable design and noiseless operation, it is perfect for use in bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.

Users’ Review:
Users appreciate the Morphy Richards OFR Room Heater's efficient heating and quick performance. Many commend its quiet operation, making it suitable for use in bedrooms. The adjustable thermostat and easy mobility are frequently highlighted.

4. Best in Safety: Crompton Insta Fervor 9 Fins 2400 Watts Oil Filled Room Heater

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 3 | Dimensions: 52D x 16.5W x 72H Cms

The Crompton Insta Fervor oil filled room heater offers powerful and efficient heating, making it ideal for medium to large rooms. Equipped with a PTC fan, it ensures faster and more uniform heat distribution. The adjustable thermostat and three heat settings (low, medium, and high) provide customisable comfort. The heater is stylish and functional, with a sleek black and gold design. It also features overheat protection for added safety and portability for easy movement.

Users’ Review:
Users praise the Crompton Insta Fervor for its efficient performance, fast heating, and quiet operation. Many appreciate the added PTC fan for quick heat circulation. The adjustable settings and safety features are also well-received.

5. Best in Budget: Havells Room Heater 2000Watt Pacifio Mica

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 2 | Dimensions: 53D x 12.5W x 65.5H Cms

The Havells Pacifio Mica Room Heater (2000W) uses advanced mic athermic technology to provide rapid and instant heating. This innovative technology ensures quick heat distribution without drying out the air, offering a more comfortable environment for breathing. It delivers consistent warmth with minimal noise, with two heat settings and silent operation. The sleek black and rose gold design adds a touch of elegance to any room. It comes with a 2-year warranty, ensuring durability and peace of mind.

Users’ Review:
Users love the Havells Pacifio for its quick and efficient heating, especially in smaller to medium-sized rooms. The silent operation and lack of air dryness are frequently praised, making it ideal for bedrooms and living areas. The sleek design and portability are bonuses.

6. Best Designed: Orient Electric Comforter Collection 11 fin Oil Filled Radiator

Voltage: 230 Volts | Number Of Speeds: 2 | Dimensions: 58D x 15W x 64H Cms

The Orient Electric Comforter Collection oil filled room heater provides powerful and efficient heating for large rooms. It uses advanced S-shaped fins to enhance heat retention and distribution for consistent warmth. The built-in PTC fan heater accelerates heat flow, making it ideal for quick heating. With three heat settings and a 2-year warranty, it offers flexible control and reliability. The sleek design and portability make it easy to move between rooms for customized comfort.

Users’ Review:
Users appreciate the Orient Electric Comforter's fast heating performance and efficient warmth distribution. The advanced fins and PTC fan are praised for providing quick comfort in larger rooms.

FAQs
1. Is an oil heater good for a room?
Oil room heaters are an efficient way to heat your home or office because they retain heat for longer.

2. Do oil-filled heaters use a lot of electricity?
No, these oil-filled room heaters are generally energy-efficient. They provide long-lasting heat even after being turned off, making them cost-effective.

3. Which heater is best, oil or fan?
Fan heaters can dry the air, potentially causing issues like nasal blockage and dry eyes. In contrast, oil heaters do not pose such problems and are the safer option. Oil heaters are, in fact, kids, friendly too.

If you’re on the hunt for a sleek, stylish, and ultra-reliable cover for your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, look no further than the Spigen Liquid Air Back Cover Case. Known for its smart design and exceptional durability, this case brings the perfect mix of protection and sophistication to safeguard your flagship device without compromising its premium feel.

The Spigen Liquid Air stands out for its minimalist yet functional design. With a slim profile and a modern matte black finish, it ensures your phone looks as elegant as ever while adding a secure, grip-friendly texture that minimizes slips.

Users' feedback: Customers appreciate the cell phone case for its quality, fit, and minimalist design. They find it durable, with a perfect fit and a nice look that doesn't make their expensive phone look cheap. The case provides adequate grip for comfortable handling.

2. ESR for Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Case

When it comes to protecting your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the ESR Case stands out as a perfect blend of style, functionality, and durability. Designed with precision, it offers robust protection without compromising the phone’s sleek and premium aesthetics. Its crystal-clear finish highlights the S24 Ultra’s stunning design, while anti-yellowing technology ensures long-lasting clarity.

With Air-Guard technology for reinforced corners, this case absorbs shocks and cushions drops, keeping your device safe from damage. Plus, raised edges protect the screen and camera bump from scratches. Lightweight, slim, and wireless charging compatible, the ESR Case delivers everyday protection with a modern, practical touch.

Users' feedback: Customers appreciate the sturdy build quality and perfect fit of the cell phone case. They find it provides good protection for their phone with adequate lip protection on the corners. The kickstand is versatile, and customers are happy with the grip, kickstand, and utility.

3. Spigen Aqua Shield Floating Waterproof Cover Case

The Spigen Aqua Shield Floating Waterproof Cover Case is the ultimate companion for safeguarding your device during aquatic adventures. Designed to keep your smartphone dry and secure, it features a floating design that prevents accidental submersion by keeping your device buoyant. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, it ensures protection up to 30 meters underwater, making it perfect for beach trips, swimming, or kayaking.

The transparent, touch-sensitive cover allows you to use your phone seamlessly while keeping it protected from water, sand, and dust. Durable, lightweight, and travel-friendly, the Spigen Aqua Shield offers peace of mind for water enthusiasts everywhere.

Users' feedback: Customers appreciate the cell phone case for its waterproofing, durability, and floatability. They find it works well for keeping phones dry in water and rough conditions. Many are satisfied with its quality, underwater photography capabilities, and floatation.

4. Nillkin Polycarbonate Galaxy S24 Ultra Case

The Nillkin Polycarbonate Galaxy S24 Ultra Case offers a sleek and durable solution to protect your device while maintaining its premium design. Made from high-quality polycarbonate, this case provides excellent shock absorption and defense against scratches, bumps, and everyday wear. Its precision cutouts ensure easy access to buttons, ports, and cameras, while the lightweight design ensures a comfortable grip without adding bulk. The case’s anti-slip texture enhances grip, making it easier to hold your phone securely. With its stylish matte finish and slim profile, the Nillkin case combines practicality and elegance for your Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Users' feedback: Customers find the cell phone case offers good value for money. It has a good build quality, durability, and camera protection. The design is superb with perfect cutouts and finish.

5. TheGiftKart Ultra-Hybrid Clear Back Case Cover

The TheGiftKart Ultra-Hybrid Clear Back Case Cover is the perfect choice for Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra users seeking a blend of protection and style. This transparent case allows you to showcase the phone’s original design while offering robust protection. Made with a combination of hard PC back and soft TPU bumper, it ensures shock absorption from drops and impacts. The raised edges provide additional protection for the screen and camera, preventing scratches when placed on flat surfaces. Its slim profile maintains the phone's sleek design, while precise cutouts ensure easy access to all ports and buttons.

Users' feedback: Customers find the cell phone case to be a good quality product at a reasonable price. They appreciate its sturdy construction, perfect fit, and nice look. Many find it a great value for money, with a finish that highlights the phone's color.

6. Vihibii for Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Back Cover

The Vihibii Back Cover for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a sleek and reliable solution for protecting your device without compromising on style. Designed with precision, this back cover fits the phone perfectly, providing full coverage while maintaining its slim profile. Made from high-quality, shock-absorbing materials, it ensures excellent protection against drops, scratches, and daily wear. The textured surface provides a comfortable grip, reducing the risk of accidental slips. With precise cutouts for easy access to ports, buttons, and cameras, the Vihibii Back Cover combines durability and functionality in a stylish, minimalistic design.

Users' feedback: Customers find the cell phone case functional and providing good protection for their phones. They appreciate its sturdy build, lens cover, and card storage.