{"id":3190,"date":"2013-12-02T12:55:55","date_gmt":"2013-12-02T04:55:55","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.upgrademag.com\/web\/?p=3190"},"modified":"2013-12-02T12:55:55","modified_gmt":"2013-12-02T04:55:55","slug":"guide-picking-first-smartphone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.upgrademag.com\/web\/2013\/12\/02\/guide-picking-first-smartphone\/","title":{"rendered":"A how-to guide on picking out your first smartphone"},"content":{"rendered":"

Why does choosing a smartphone these days seem so overwhelming? That\u2019s because you’re drowning in a sea of information and devices and out of so many different products out there today – you only need to catch one fish.<\/strong>
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\nThere are a few important things to keep in mind before diving into getting your first smartphone. These three fail-safe tips will help you swim and navigate through the mobile market and lead you to your first smartphone:<\/p>\n

Step 1: Identify what you need<\/strong><\/p>\n

Figure out why you need a smartphone in the first place. These gadgets exist to serve specific audiences for specific purposes. Know your needs because they will help you weigh your options. Do you want to use it for browsing the Internet? For checking emails or to access social media sites?<\/p>\n

Ideally, people buy a smartphone so that they can do more on-the-go. Some use it for business. Some simply like to take selfies and stay connected with friends. Others use it for entertainment – watch videos, play games, and listen to music.<\/p>\n

Remember, be specific.<\/p>\n

You can’t just say you want a smartphone that does everything. You need to narrow things down and focus. You may want a smartphone for watching videos. You may want to play games. By doing so, you can identify the specs for your needs.<\/p>\n

For watching videos, a wide screen smartphone fits the bill. A 4.5-inch screen such as the Lenovo A516 provides a good movie experience with its 178-degree wide viewing angle. This smartphone has up to 23 hours of non-stop talking time. Half of your problem is solved.<\/p>\n

The other half is to find one that will allow you to play graphics-intensive games like 3D racing or zombie survival action games. This means you need a smartphone that runs a heavy-duty CPU. A movie junkie\/game addict will love the Lenovo A859. It sports a 5.5 inch screen display and runs on 1.3GHz quad core CPU with 4GB internal memory.<\/p>\n

How does being specific help you? Eliminated from your list are all smartphones without the specs that you need. By now, you should have shortlisted your options.
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\nStep 2:\u00a0 Set a Budget<\/strong><\/p>\n

You want a smartphone that has more bang for the buck. Why? Because that\u2019s your hard earned money. Now that you know the features you need, it is easier know your budget.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t overspend. But don’t buy an entry-level device that you\u2019ll regret later. Research and find out the price range of each smartphone on your list. You can do this over the Internet. Get the average price to have a rough estimate.<\/p>\n

Set a budget that is reasonable for you.<\/p>\n

More expensive doesn\u2019t automatically mean more quality. There are affordable smartphones that don\u2019t cut corners. You simply need to know where to look.<\/p>\n

Now you have a budget for a smartphone with the desired specs. With this amount in mind, you have to eliminate candidates from your list that go way above your budget. Again, your choices will be cut down into few.<\/p>\n

Step 3:\u00a0 Get Acquainted with the Units<\/strong><\/p>\n

Now you are just a step away from your first smartphone. The deciding factor will all depend on your experience when you get acquainted with the units. Don\u2019t neglect this part of the buying process. Go to a mobile store and check out the phones on your list. Make sure to play around with them. Know your future smartphone.<\/p>\n

Take your time.<\/p>\n

Figure out the physical features of the smartphone that you prefer. Does the phone comfortably fit your hand? If your hand is small, a smartphone that has 4-inch screen display may be more appealing to you. Are the keys and touch panels responsive? Do you like the overall look of the phone? See how it feels in your hand, in your pocket and in your purse. Find the right size for you. Check the ergonomics. Can your thumb or index finger reach the power button? Can you press the important buttons (if any)? Test these units. They will more or less give you an idea of its performance.<\/p>\n

With these three steps to follow, picking your first smartphone should be simple and practical.<\/p>\n

Good luck on your hunt!<\/p>\n

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