A smartphone is much more than CPUs, megapixels and RAM. If you want to find a model that really suits you, you’ll want to look beyond your nose.
If, like us, you love Tech, and you’re looking for a new smartphone, you’re probably familiar with looking through features and specifications. You’re looking at a faster processor, more RAM, bigger storage and a higher-resolution screen.
While those things are important, there are other features that can really make the difference. They can determine whether you just use a smartphone or really love it. We’ve gathered a few of these features for you.
Need a new smartphone? Then pay attention to these important features
Finding the perfect smartphone can sometimes be quite a challenge. Hopefully these tips will make it a little easier for you. Here they come.
#1 A USB port with video output
We use our smartphones daily to watch videos. But it’s not always convenient with such a small screen. Did you know that you don’t have to switch to another device to watch on a bigger screen? You can just plug your phone directly into your TV or computer and continue watching.
Easy to watch videos (Image: Bertel King / How-To Geek)
There’s a catch, though: you need a USB port that can output video. Your phone probably has a USB-C port, but that doesn’t mean it can do the job. You need a smartphone with USB 3 or higher. Fortunately, Samsung phones with Samsung DeX have all of these. Just connect one to an external display and you can use your phone as you would a computer or smart TV.
#2 A smartphone with a good speaker
Looking for a Bluetooth speaker? You really don’t need one at all if you have a good smartphone speaker. Most speakers work fine if you listen alone in a quiet room.
Phones with good speakers sound great when you’re sitting at your desk or watching a video in bed. They are also top notch for gaming. While there are no specific specs to look out for, it’s important to check sound quality in reviews. For example, look for Dolby Atmos support. That usually means the manufacturer is serious about delivering good sound.
#3 A premium selfie camera
We often think that the camera on the back of a smartphone is better than the selfie camera on the front. In many cases it is, but that doesn’t mean that selfie cameras are worthless. In fact, many phones now have selfie cameras that take really nice pictures, perfect for sharing on social media.
Chin down. (Image: Pexels)
And good selfie cameras are also useful for video chats. Not only does it make a good impression, but calling is easier when people can see you clearly.
#4 A clear microphone
A clear microphone is just as important as a good camera. Sometimes even more important. It is crucial that people can hear you clearly. Otherwise, you run the risk of nasty misunderstandings.
A good microphone is essential for clear phone calls, for gaming online and for livestreams on your smartphone. In fact, for anything where you use your voice.
#5 A good vibration engine
When was the last time you felt your phone vibrate? If it’s been a while and you can’t remember, the quality of the vibration motor is not optimal.
A bad vibration motor can ruin everything. Your smartphone should vibrate when someone calls, when you send a message, even when you enter your PIN to unlock your phone. If the vibration is weak, there’s nothing you can do to fix it. Then you’re out of luck.
(Image: Unsplash)
#6 Support for a stylus on your smartphone
A stylus allows you to use your smartphone as easily as pen and paper. It helps you navigate the Internet with the precision of a mouse. It’s useful for drawing and photo editing. But to really get the most out of it, you need a phone with a dedicated, active stylus. A good example is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5.
#7 A good fingerprint reader or Face ID
These days, just about all smartphones have a fingerprint reader. The only question is how well it works and what type it is. Some phones have a fingerprint reader hidden under the screen. That can be convenient, but these in-display readers are usually not as fast as the separate scanners.
Other phones have a fingerprint reader in the power button on the side. Some even have it on the back, within easy reach of your index finger. iPhones, on the other hand, have Face ID, which only requires you to look at your screen to unlock it Each approach has its pluses and minuses. The important thing is that it works best for you.
