Your essential guide to buying a smartphone
Scott Hocking
STACK Senior Editor
Ready for a new phone, or buying one for the very first time? Consider these important questions to find the model that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
What do I want from a smartphone?
Modern smartphones are essentially pocket-sized computers boasting an amazing suite of functions and features, and the more advanced the phone, the higher the price tag, so it pays to first check that the features you want fit your budget.
From web browsing, photography and content creation, to gaming, streaming and contactless payments and live language translation, there’s a smartphone to suit every lifestyle.
Many newer phones now integrate generative AI that can help you compose emails, summarise long documents, transcribe voice recordings, and translate languages in real time.
Most phones can also be linked with compatible devices like smartwatches and earbuds, so that they all seamlessly work together for greater convenience.
How does it look and feel?
Size, shape and style vary depending on the model, and the kind you choose is a matter of personal preference.
Make sure it fits comfortably in you pocket and has a display that suits your needs. The average smartphone has a screen size of 5.5–6.2 inches, which is ideal for general web browsing, apps and photography, while larger displays can be 6.5-inches and above for more immersive gaming and streaming.
Your phone is an integral part of your life, so it should reflect your style and personality. Smartphones are available in a wide variety of different (and often exotic-sounding) colours and displays are often fully customisable.
Flip and foldable phones offer the flexibility of hands-free use for photography, video calls and streaming and also provide a dual display experience with a cover screen for quick access to notifications and a main screen for multitasking across multiple windows and apps.
What features and functions should the camera have?
We probably take more photos than calls with our phones, and consequently most smartphones now boast a triple rear camera system that generally comprises a main camera, wide-angle and telephoto/zoom – plus a front or ‘selfie’ camera. Why so many? Three lenses will capture the same shot and then combine them into one high-resolution image for the perfect snapshot.
The number of megapixels a camera has determines the amount of detail in a photo, and multiple cameras can have different MP counts. The higher the number, the better the image quality, so aim for 12MP and above.
Phone camera systems also feature a range of inbuilt editing tools and dedicated shooting modes, including night settings for capturing clear and colourful shots in low-light conditions. OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation) is a useful function that eliminates shaky cam, and cameras with optical zoom will capture better close-ups than ones with only digital zoom.
Most smartphone camera systems have everything you need for general photography and basic image editing, while more specialised features will benefit photographers and content creators.
How much internal storage do I need?
A phone’s memory can quickly fill up with saved content and apps. Many brands offer a 128GB or 256GB base model, while premium phones can boost that to 512GB – and even 1TB. 128GB should suit general usage, but go bigger if you have a large photo album, music library, and lots of apps. Many phones also support memory expansion via a microSD card.
How long does the battery last?
A fully charged battery should last all day with general use, however, lengthy streaming binge sessions and app usage can quickly deplete it. Phones with a surfeit of functions and a high-resolution display will also consume more power, but many have energy-saving modes to prolong battery life. Battery capacity is measured in mAh (milliampere hours) and the higher it is, the longer it will last. Many smartphones support fast charging to deliver a handy top-up when you really need it.
What is Qi wireless charging?
Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) is the name of the wireless charging standard, and phones and chargers that support it carry a Qi or Qi2 certification logo.
It works by transferring power from a charging pad to a device using electromagnetic induction. Qi charging is more energy efficient and can even make the battery last longer. It’s also reduces wear and tear caused by the constant plugging in and unplugging of cables – simply place your phone on the charging pad and let it power up!
Is it durable enough?
Most phones are tough enough to withstand everyday wear and tear, accidental knocks and drops, splashes and spills (water resistance is indicated by an IPX rating). Many premium models have super-strong glass and tough aluminium frames, and for extra peace of mind, a sturdy case and screen protector will further increase a phone’s durability.
Do I need 5G?
The 5G network continues to expand worldwide and most mid-range and premium phones are ready to connect if it’s available in your area. And if it’s not, a 5G phone will still work on the 4G network. 5G connectivity effectively future-proofs your phone and delivers lightning-fast data speeds, plus a bigger bandwidth to handle network traffic in congested areas like big events.
What should I do with my old phone?
Do the planet a favour and recycle it. MobileMuster provides a free phone recycling service of the highest environmental standard.
Recycling is 100% carbon neutral, and all brands and types of smartphones are accepted, along with batteries, chargers, sim cards, and accessories. There are public drop-off points nationwide, along with a free postal option – simply pick up a MobileMuster satchel from your local JB Hi-Fi store.
^Discounts apply to previous ticketed/advertised price prior to the discount offer. As we negotiate, products will likely have been sold below ticketed/advertised price prior to the discount offer. Prices may differ at airport stores.
