Choosing a new mobile phone has become a bit of an odyssey: there are dozens of brands, hundreds of models and a constant dizziness of acronyms, processors, RAM, cameras and batteries which aren't always well explained. And if you're not very tech-savvy, it's easy to end up buying "what's trendy" or what your carrier offers without knowing if it's really right for you.
To prevent that from happening to you, let's calmly review all the Key hardware selection criteria for mobile phone purchasesWhat to look for in terms of battery, screen, processor, memory, camera, sensors, operating system, updates, and other important extras like 5G or water resistance. The idea is that you finish this article with clear arguments for choosing a mobile phone without going crazy… or spending a fortune unnecessarily.
1. Define how you will use the mobile phone and your actual budget
Before looking at technical specifications and comparisons, the first thing is to be clear What do you want the phone for and how much money are you willing to spend?A mobile phone for WhatsApp, calls, and social media is not the same as one for playing demanding games, taking near-professional photos, or... working outside the home all day.
Think about your usual usage: if you take a lot of photos, it makes sense to prioritize camera and storageIf you spend your day between Netflix, TikTok and YouTube, you're most interested in a good screen and generous batteryIf you play demanding games, the key will be a good processor and plenty of RAMThis will also help you see which features you can sacrifice without any drama.
Another key point is deciding how often you usually change your phone. If you renew every one or two years, You don't need the most expensive model or the longest software supportBut if you're the type to use your phone until it dies, then guaranteed updates and build quality are worth considering.
Regarding the budget, set a figure and consider whether it would make sense. stretch it a little (€50-80 more) If that gives you a model much better suited to your needs. Often, a small price jump means going from a basic phone to a well-rounded one that will last you for years without giving you trouble.
2. Size, screen, and visual experience
The size of your phone greatly impacts your daily experience. It's a very personal decision, but it's helpful to be aware of some general guidelines: most current models fall between 5,8 and 6,7 inch screenThose below 5,8″ are considered “compact” and those exceeding 6,5″ are considered “large”.
If you want a really small mobile phone that can be used with one hand, the situation is complicated: Most manufacturers are opting for large screensAnd the few compact models that remain are usually high-end and expensive. In the Android world, there are almost no recent compact alternatives, while Apple maintains some small iPhones, but with high prices.
Beyond size, screen quality matters. These days, it's common to find panels with good resolution (Full HD or higher) and pixel densities of more than 250-300 dpiThis is sufficient to ensure that text and images appear sharp without noticeable pixelation. Based on these figures, the visual experience is generally very good for most users.
You should also look at the refresh rateMany mid-range and high-end phones now offer 90 or 120 Hz refresh rates, resulting in much smoother animations and scrolling, which is especially beneficial if you play games or are sensitive to smooth menu and app navigation. Furthermore, the maximum brightness It is key to see the screen well in the sun, and AMOLED or LTPO panels stand out for their contrast and energy efficiency.
Finally, remember that two mobile phones can have the same screen size but different physical dimensions Regarding the bezels. If you're hesitating between several models, check the height and width measurements: a device with thin bezels fits better in your pocket and is more comfortable to hold.
3. Processor, RAM and performance: what you really need
The heart of the mobile phone is the processor (SoC), and it works hand in hand with the RAM. Together they determine the power, the fluidity when moving the system, and how well demanding applications runIt's easy to get carried away with figures and names here, so it's a good idea to organize the topic a bit.
In Android, the most common processor manufacturers are Qualcomm (Snapdragon), MediaTek (Helio and Dimensity families), Samsung (Exynos) and, in the case of Huawei, its Kirin. The high-end ranges of each brand are usually identified by specific numbers or series.For example, at Qualcomm the Snapdragon 8xx are the most powerful, while the 6xx and 7xx series cover the mid-range.
At Huawei, the Kirin 9xx series corresponds to the high-end range and the 7xx series to the mid-range; at Samsung, the Exynos 9000 series is aimed at the high end and the 7000 series at a more mid-range level. MediaTek historically reserved its X series for the high-end range and the P series (and now many Dimensity series) for mid-range devices with good efficiency. At Apple, things are simpler: The entire iPhone range uses A-series chips.And the higher the number, the newer and more powerful it is.
The key is not to obsess over having "the best" if you're not going to use it. If you don't play demanding games or edit video on your phone, a good, recent mid-range processor will suffice. It offers more than enough performance With lower power consumption and better value for money. For demanding gaming or for those seeking maximum speed in everything, it makes sense to go for a high-end chip or even consider a high-end chip from the previous year, which is usually cheaper and still very powerful.
RAM also plays a significant role in performance. On Android, it's currently recommended to operate between 6 and 8 GB of RAM To have enough headroom with several apps open and modern games running, entry-level phones with 4 GB of RAM might be acceptable for basic use, but 2 GB is clearly insufficient and can cause frequent lag.
On iPhones, Apple limits the system to a few models and can afford smaller amounts of RAM while still offering a Very smooth and stable performanceYou don't usually choose how much RAM your iPhone has, but you can start from the fact that it's very well optimized with the amount it comes with from the factory.
4. Internal storage and expansion
Another critical point is the Storage capacityThis is the available space for apps, photos, videos, music, documents, and more. These days, a phone with 32 GB fills up very quickly; even 64 GB can fall short if you take a lot of photos or install several large games. Therefore, it's sensible to aim for at least... 128 GB internal memory.
If you're a heavy videographer, shoot at full resolution, store years' worth of photos, or install large games, seriously consider the 256 GB or moreAlso, pay attention to the type of memory: current UFS technologies (UFS 2.2, 3.1, etc.) offer much faster read and write speeds than older eMMC, which impacts loading times and the overall feeling of speed.
It's also worth checking if the phone allows Expand memory with a microSD cardMany Android devices still include a slot, but others, especially high-end models, do without it. Apple doesn't offer microSD cards: what you buy from the factory is what you get, so choose your initial capacity wisely.
If you choose a phone with little storage, assume that after a few months you'll need to upgrade. Clean up photos, videos, documents, and apps you don't use.Or you could use cloud services. It's not a big deal, but it can be inconvenient if you hadn't planned for it.
5. Operating system: iOS, Android and Huawei case
In today's market, we basically coexist with two major systems: iOS (Apple) and Android (Google)Switching from one to the other is possible, but it's a bit of a hassle: backups, paid apps, and the way you use your phone change enough to be a real drag.
iOS is a very polished, stable, and easy-to-use system. It is designed specifically for iPhones and Apple keeps its mobile phones updated for many yearsThis means that models that are four or five years old continue to receive the latest version of iOS. This extends the device's lifespan and security.
The less pleasant part is that iOS is only on iPhonesSo there's no variety in manufacturers or price ranges. They're high-quality phones, but with mid-to-high price tags. Furthermore, Apple uses proprietary connectors, often doesn't include a charger in the box, and doesn't allow storage expansion with a microSD card, so choosing the right initial capacity is crucial.
Android, for its part, is an open system that any manufacturer can adapt, which explains the incredible variety of models, prices and designsFrom phones under €100 to true flagship models. It stands out for its customization options, widgets, shortcuts, ease of transferring files to your computer, and a Play Store full of apps that are often cheaper than on iOS. If you prefer a cleaner experience, you can activate a stock Android style.
The problem is the famous Android version fragmentationEven when Google releases a new version, each brand then decides whether and when to update. This means that some phones, especially mid-range and low-end models, take months to receive the update or remain stuck on an older version.
Then there's the specific case of Huawei. Due to the US ban, the latest models Google services are not includedThere's no Play Store, no Google Maps, no native YouTube, and many of the tools we usually use. Huawei offers its own store (AppGallery), and apps can be installed from APK files, but it's a less user-friendly system designed for more advanced users.
6. Updates, support and security
Related to the operating system is the issue of long term software supportIt's not just a matter of having the latest features, but also of receiving security patches that fix bugs and vulnerabilities that could be exploited to install malware or spy on the device.
In this area, Apple is far ahead: its iPhones usually receive major iOS updates for 5 years or moreand security patches even longer. Google, with its Pixel phones, also offers extended and fairly clear support, with specific end-of-update dates.
The Android landscape for other manufacturers is more varied. Some brands have stepped up their game and are promising 3 years of system updates and up to 4 or 5 years of security patches in their high-end ranges. In mid-range and entry-level models, however, it is still more common to receive one or two version upgrades, or even remain as they are.
If you want a phone that will last you for many years with peace of mind, it's a good idea to prioritize more durable and reliable brandsOn the other hand, if you change your phone frequently, you can relax a bit on this criterion and focus more on other features.
7. Battery, fast charging and real-world autonomy
Battery life is one of the most important factors in determining satisfaction with a mobile phone. You can have the best hardware in the world, but if you're desperately searching for a power outlet in the middle of the afternoon, it's practically useless. Battery capacity is measured in mAh (milliamps hour)And it's common to see 3.000 to 5.000 mAh batteries in most current smartphones. If you're unsure about the capacity, consult How many mAh does a mobile phone really need?.
A battery around 3.000 mAh can last for a day of moderate use, but nowadays that's considered the bare minimum. Ideally, to have plenty of battery life, you should aim for something between 3.500 and 4.500 mAhAnd if you're someone who really pushes their phone to its limits, goes on long hikes, or can't always charge it, 5.000 mAh is a great idea.
However, milliamps are no longer everything. system energy management, processor efficiency, and screen refresh rate They greatly influence actual battery life. A well-optimized phone can last as long as, or even longer than, one with a larger battery capacity but poorer power management.
Furthermore, the fast chargeMany mid-range and high-end phones offer power outputs of 45W, 67W, 80W, or even over 100W, capable of charging a large portion of the battery in less than half an hour. This changes how you use your phone: you no longer need such high capacity if you can plug it in for 10 minutes and gain hours of use.
It's also important to consider the battery's long-term health. Always charging it from 0 to 100%, leaving it plugged in overnight, or exposing it to high temperatures will degrade it. Ideally, whenever possible, it should be Keep it between 20% and 80% and take advantage of the smart charging features that some manufacturers offer to extend their lifespan. If you want to measure their wear, learn how to check battery cycles.
8. Camera: Beyond Megapixels
For many people, the mobile phone camera is the number one factor. So much so that many have retired their compact cameras and rely solely on their phones to capture trips, events, and everyday life. It's important to understand that... Megapixels are not a direct synonym for qualityThese factors include sensor size, aperture, processing, stabilization, and many other aspects.
If you want a "photographic" mobile phone, you'll normally have to look at mid-to-high or high rangesThis is where the best sensors, lenses, and processing algorithms are concentrated. Almost all phones take decent photos in good light, but the real difference is noticeable in challenging situations: low light, nighttime scenes, interiors with mixed lighting, or moving subjects.
Look at how many cameras the device has and what they're for: wide-angle, telephoto lens with optical zoom, macro, depth sensor… True optical zoom is much more interesting than digital zoom.which simply crops the image and reduces sharpness. It's also important to know if it has optical image stabilization (OIS) to improve nighttime photos and eliminate shake in videos.
Another point to consider is the camera software: night modes, portrait mode, 4K or 8K video, slow motion, Pro mode with manual settings, etc. Manufacturers are increasingly integrating more features. Artificial intelligence to enhance scenes, remove elements, retouch skies, or correct noiseThis means that the final result depends as much on the sensor as on the "magic" of the processing.
If photography is just an occasional hobby for you, there's no need to obsess: a good mid-range phone already offers that. A more than adequate camera for social media and everyday memoriesIf it's an absolute priority, then it's worth researching with specific photo analyses, blind comparisons, and expert tests.
9. Sensors, biometrics and other useful extras
Beyond the basic specifications, there are a number of details that can make a difference in the daily user experience, even if they seem secondary at first glance. We're talking about sensors, unlocking methods, connectivity, and resistance.
The most common sensors include accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, and, increasingly, fingerprint reader and facial recognition. good fingerprint reader (on screen or on the side) It allows you to unlock your phone quickly and securely without patterns or passwords. Facial recognition is very convenient, but it's a good idea to check that it can't be unlocked with a photo or with your eyes closed, to avoid any surprises.
In terms of connectivity, almost every new mobile phone today offers 4G and dual-band WiFiBut it's already very common to find 5G and WiFi 6 even in affordable models. 5G offers very high download speeds and better performance on congested networks; it's not essential for everyone right now, but it's a plus for the future if you're buying a phone that will last for several years. To improve call quality, you can also activate VoLTE.
If you like music, check if the device is compatible with high resolution audio And what version of Bluetooth does it have? Newer versions (5.2 and higher) offer better stability and support for higher-quality codecs, which is key if you use wireless headphones. Some phones still have the 3,5 mm headphone jack, while others rely solely on Bluetooth or adapters.
Also important are aspects such as water and dust resistance (IP certifications)The materials used in its construction (glass, aluminum, plastic of varying qualities), the design, weight, and thickness are all important factors. A very heavy or slippery phone can be uncomfortable, no matter how powerful it is. And if you're going to use it in more demanding environments, you might be interested in a robust model or one with specific certifications.
10. New model or model from previous years
Another very common question is whether it's better to buy the latest model recently launched or one from the previous generationThe answer here depends a lot on your budget, how much you value the latest features, and the operating system.
If you're aiming for an entry-level or low-end mobile phone, it's usually advisable that it be relatively recent, because that way It comes with a modern version of Android out of the box. And it starts with a bit more development time in terms of updates, although the manufacturer doesn't put much effort into it later.
In the mid-to-high-end and high-end ranges, buying a model from one or two years ago can be very appealing. It's common for a high-end model from last year to offer... a superior processor, better cameras, and better materials than a new mid-range phone at a similar price. Furthermore, high-end Android models tend to drop in price considerably over time, making them excellent bargains if you don't need the very latest model.
The tricky aspect with older models is, again, update support: it's possible that fewer years of official life remain And that the manufacturer stops releasing security patches sooner. If that's not critical for you and the price is right, it could be a great deal. If staying up-to-date is important to you, it's best to look for something newer or confirm the brand's support schedule.
In the case of iPhones, their value remains more stable and they drop less in price, but also They enjoy many years of updatesSo a previous generation model can remain a very current purchase for quite some time.
11. AI, service integration and ecosystem
In recent years another ingredient has been added to the equation: the integration of artificial intelligence into the system and native appsMajor manufacturers (Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, OPPO, etc.) compete to offer smarter assistants, automatic photo editors, text summaries, real-time translations, and advanced camera or gallery features powered by AI.
This means that not only does the power of the hardware matter, but also What kind of smart tools does each layer of customization offer? (One UI, MIUI/HyperOS, ColorOS, etc.) and to what extent you'll take advantage of them. For some users, it might be a simple add-on, but for others who create content, travel, or work extensively on their mobile devices, it can be a clear advantage.
Furthermore, it is worth considering the brand ecosystemIf you already own a smartwatch, tablet, headphones, or computer from a certain brand, you might be interested in staying within the same ecosystem to take advantage of continuity features, integrated backups, on-the-fly file sharing, or answering calls from multiple devices.
Between AI, software support, and the ecosystem, the mobile phone ceases to be just an isolated gadget and becomes a central piece of everything you do connectedWork, study, entertainment, communication, or creation. Therefore, when evaluating hardware, it's important to consider this broader context as well.
Ultimately, choosing the right smartphone comes down to knowing yourself: understanding how much you'll use the camera, what level of power you need, how important updates or durability are to you, and what your realistic budget is without going overboard. With these factors in mind, and by focusing on battery, screen, processor, RAM, storage, operating system, camera, sensors, connectivity, and support, it's much easier to find a well-rounded phone that suits you, not just the latest trend.
