In case you haven’t noticed, there are lots of different smartphones on the market – and the options aren’t limited to iPhones and Galaxies. If you’re in the market for a new phone and don’t know where to start, this article can help.
3 Things to Consider
There are a number of smartphone operating systems on the market – including popular platforms like Android, Apple, Windows, and Blackberry. As you sort through your options, there are a number of things you’ll want to consider.
1. Operating System
The operating system is clearly something to think about. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons, which you’ll need to think about.
- Apple iOS. Apple is known for offering an intuitive, user-friendly interface that’s fast and easy to use. Since it offers cross-platform support for computers, TVs, watches, and tablets, Apple makes it easy for users to organize their entire digital presence. The downside is that Apple has a limited number of devices and can be expensive if you don’t have the right carrier.
- Android. What Apple lacks in selection, Android makes up for with a number of different devices. However, the biggest strike against Android is that the interface feels clunky at times.
- Windows. The best part about Windows is that it can easily sync up with Microsoft Office products, which makes it great for people in the business world. The user experience is also very customizable, which appeals to people who want to make their phone unique. Sluggishness and a lack of apps are the two biggest strikes against the Windows operating system.
2. Price
Price is something a lot of people don’t openly discuss, but it’s a very real issue for most consumers. If a phone is way too pricey, you can’t seriously consider it. Smartphones need to be affordable in order to make sense to the average customer.
There’s certainly value in purchasing last year’s models, but sometimes there are new smartphone features that you absolutely must have. In this case, the latest, greatest smartphone might be your only option. Thankfully, you don’t always have to pay full price up front. Cell phone providers like T-Mobile offer consumer friendly financing options that could potentially sway you towards a particular device. Having said that, be sure that you give the cost some consideration as you check out your options.
3. Device Size
From a very practical perspective, physical device size is something to take into account. Are you looking for a phone that is sleek and will fit into your front pocket, or are you okay sacrificing size in order to have a big screen that allows you better readability? Many smartphone providers have different sizes within the same product line, but make sure you’re comfortable with the selections before narrowing your choices down too much.
This resource from PhoneArena.com provides a neat way of visually comparing device sizes against one another.
Make Your Own Choice
Apple or Android? You’ve probably been asked this question before, but it’s a pretty empty question if you think about it.
First off, there are more options on the market than just Apple and Android. It’s unwise to limit yourself to just these two options. Secondly, the type of smartphone you choose will depend on your present needs. That means you may switch from Apple to Windows to Android to Blackberry as your situation changes.
So, instead of letting others tell you that you need to pick a particular phone, make it a personal decision and listen to your own needs.