Smartphone Buying Guide: Narayan's Recommendations for 2023

With the rapid advancement in technology, choosing the right smartphone has become a daunting task. As an SEO expert, my mission is to provide you with an insightful and actionable guide to help you pick the perfect phone for your needs. This article is based on my personal experience and the insights I've gathered over the years. Let's dive in!

Define Your Budget

In today's market, you won't find a decent smartphone below 15,000 INR. For a phone that you'll use for more than a couple of years, 20,000-30,000 INR is the bare minimum. If you're looking for a long-lasting device that won't break the bank, you might consider purchasing a second-hand phone that's not older than 6 months.

Define Your Needs

When it comes to smartphones, there are numerous options available. The most important factor to consider is your use case. Do you prioritize gaming or are you more interested in photography? Alternatively, do you need a device with the latest computing power?

Operating System

For me, Android has been the most reliable platform. However, there are different brands like ROG Phone, IQOO, and Xiaomi that cater to specific needs. Each OS has its strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that the chosen device meets your daily requirements.

Camera

Camera quality is essential to many users. Focus on the megapixel count and additional features like night mode, optical image stabilization (OIS), and zoom capabilities. A high-resolution camera can significantly enhance your photography experience.

Chose Your UI Experience

The User Interface (UI) plays a crucial role in your overall experience with a smartphone. I prefer clean and clutter-free interfaces without excessive bloatware. Options like Funtouch OS, MIUI, and others may not align with my preferences. Always try the UI before making a purchase to ensure it meets your needs.

Refresh Rate

Modern smartphones offer various refresh rates, which can greatly affect your user experience. While 90Hz and 120Hz are reasonable choices, 120Hz is highly recommended as it provides smoother scrolling and gameplay. It's a significant upgrade from the previous 60Hz standard, especially for gaming enthusiasts.

Weight and Balance

The weight and build quality of a smartphone are important considerations. Pay attention to the weight, thickness, and build materials to ensure the device suits your preferences. A phone that feels well-balanced in your hand can greatly enhance your overall usage experience.

Brands to Avoid

Certain brands may not offer the quality or service you need. Micromax, Techno, and Itel are among the brands I recommend avoiding. These brands do not always provide the best user experience or after-sales support. Do your research and choose a reliable brand.

Offline vs Online Buying

When it comes to purchasing a smartphone, the price difference between online and offline stores can be substantial. I often find that buying offline can save you a substantial amount. However, make sure to check the seal and packaging thoroughly to avoid purchasing a refurbished or defective device.

Resale Value

Consider the resale value of your phone, especially if you plan to upgrade frequently. The offline market is a great option for selling your old devices. Before selling, ensure you take necessary steps such as backing up data, deleting your personal information, and performing a factory reset. This can help in getting a better resale value.

My Personal Experience

I previously owned a OnePlus 6 (2018) and OnePlus 8T (2020), both of which had significant scratches and minor damage. I managed to sell the OnePlus 6 for 6,500 INR and the OnePlus 8T for a better price offline. As a result, I was able to purchase a new OnePlus 11R for 24,000 INR, saving approximately 16,000 INR from the original cost of 40,000 INR.

I charge my phone with a 65W charger, as a 100W charger caused it to heat up excessively. The OnePlus 11R performs well with this adapter.

Phone Suggestions

My personal preference is to buy mid-range flagships from OnePlus, Motorola, Google Pixel, or IQOO. If you're not willing to spend more than 40,000-45,000 INR, stick to these brands. However, if you're looking for a top-of-the-line device, you can consider Samsung Android or iPhone models that cost over 60,000-70,000 INR.

It's worth noting that unboxing videos are entertaining but often biased. Venders sometimes receive retail units or get paid to endorse the brands. Be cautious of such endorsements in your decision-making process.

Upgrading Caution

For OnePlus fans, I suggest avoiding software updates. I experienced green lines on my OnePlus 8T after updating it. OnePlus does not respond to such complaints, as I discovered too late. This is a cautionary tale about potential issues with updates.

In conclusion, my upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro Max was a happy one, and I'm thoroughly satisfied with the purchase. Happy shopping!

Note: This guide is based on my personal experience and may not be comprehensive. If you have any doubts or need further assistance, please feel free to comment below. Your feedback may help others make informed decisions as well.