Every year, big-name manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus, and Huawei compete to be the greatest brand in Android smartphones. Every year, these companies introduce a new flagship Android phone to outperform the competition or to replace an older flagship model. In such a setting, consumers are presented with a plethora of options, making it tough for the uninitiated to make decisions. Fortunately for you, we are here to help you with these issues.
Online reviews could go on and on about the specifications, storage capacity, and camera capabilities, but the best way to pick is to compare them. Below are our top 10 selections for Android smartphones (some of which are under SGD1,000), a comparison table with specs, and a buying guide to assist you to choose a handset among the many manufacturers on the market today.
How to Choose an Android Smartphone – Buying Guide
Let’s have a look at some helpful information and pointers on how to pick the best model for your needs. You’ll have a better understanding of why we picked the goods on our list below after reading our guide!
Battery Life and Charging Method
The capacity of a smartphone’s battery is taken for granted by many users. If you can only use your gadget for a short length of time, having the latest CPU and the most RAM is pointless. It will be continually hooked into a charger, and if you’re usually on the go, it won’t last a whole day. Furthermore, modern components, such as those found in an Android smartphone, demand a lot of electrical operation.
Battery Life Matters
Power smartphone users should constantly prioritize battery life. To keep up with your everyday usage, get a smartphone with a battery capacity of at least 4000mAh. Other manufacturers go above and above, with cutting-edge technology that enables rapid charging. The smartphone can be completely charged in just over an hour using the charging brick that comes with the device.
If you’re going to use your phone for gaming, photography, or video conferencing, you may need a larger battery, or you may want to pack a portable power bank if you’re often on the road.
Charging Method
Some brands have the capacity to charge other gadgets through wireless charging or reverse charging. Keep in mind that charging ports for wireless devices are usually supplied separately.
Others just offer wired charging, which isn’t a big deal if you’re usually near a power socket or have gadgets with USB connections. You may charge your smartphone in whatever way you choose, but if you want to be future-proof, get one with a Type-C USB port.
Smartphone’s Performance
The processor, RAM, and storage capacity of a device will always be the determining factors in its performance. When shopping for the greatest Android device, these two features should be at the top of your list.
Processors Dictate How Your Device Works
In this post, we’re not going to get into the nitty-gritty of how a processor works. But, in the simplest words, everything that happens on your smartphone is dependent on the processor’s capabilities. Snapdragon, MediaTek, Kirin, and Exynos are just a handful of the processors used by different smartphone manufacturers.
It’s worth noting that the graphics processing unit, or GPU, can be made by a different company and is almost usually pre-installed on the CPU to allow it to fit into a smaller device. Nano review has provided the most recent rating of CPUs for mobile devices as of January 2021.
On that list, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 with Adreno GPU is now the most popular CPU. Following that are Samsung’s Exynos 2100 with Mali-G78, HiSilicon’s Kirin 9000 with Mali-G78, Dimensity 1000 Plus with Mali-G77, and MediaTek’s Helio G95 with Mali-G76. These are the finest CPUs you should consider for your new mobile device.
A faster device has more RAM
Random Access Memory, which is used in PCs, is also used in cellphones. A larger amount of RAM allows you to run numerous processes at the same time without slowing down the machine. On top of Google’s software, the Android operating system is renowned for having a lot of bloatware from smartphone manufacturers.
Bloatware is a type of software that runs in the background and consumes a lot of RAM, restricting your phone’s capacity to run several apps. To have a good experience on your mobile device, you need to obtain at least 4GB of RAM.
Storage Matters
Everything you put on your phone takes up storage space. All of your applications, images, videos, and documents are saved directly to your ROM (Read-Only Memory). Cheaper versions have 16GB of storage, however, this is insufficient for the number of essential programs that a user may want. Overcrowding a smartphone’s storage can cause slowness and a disagreeable experience.
For light users, a 32GB space should do; however, individuals who use their cellphones for work or pleasure should choose a 128GB model. When it comes to purchasing a mobile device, you get exactly what you pay for.
The size, kind, material, and resolution of the screen should all be considered
The display type and screen size are two of the most important elements that buyers evaluate. Because all current smartphones feature touchscreens, it’s only natural to make them more responsive, durable, and high-resolution.
Larger displays provide a more immersive experience
Consider viewing your favourite Korean drama on a small screen, where you must squint to see the minuscule subtitles below the screen. Isn’t it difficult?
A large screen allows for improved social media interaction and streaming. When you’re intending to play online games or watch the next episode of your anime series on Netflix, anything larger than 5.5 inches should be your desired size.
An AMOLED Display Lives Up to the Hype
AMOLED, IPS LCD, and LCD are the three types of displays now available on smartphones. By far the best form of display available is AMOLED (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode). Samsung smartphones have a Super AMOLED display on their top models. It has the greatest viewing angle, the brightest display, and the finest colour contrast, among other features.
An IPS LCD (in-plane switching liquid crystal display) can match AMOLED performance, but the viewing angle isn’t as good and the brightness isn’t as high. Because of its reduced cost, several manufacturers continue to employ this display in their flagship products.
LCD displays are at the bottom of the display hierarchy. Budget and older phone models with smaller screens and lower resolutions are likely to feature these displays.
Go for a Corning Gorilla Glass cover if possible
The majority of smartphones from at least six years ago feature a toughened glass screen cover. For careless users, this protects the display from scratches, nicks, and bumps. Currently, companies employ four types of glass on their smartphone models: 2.5D, Sapphire, Asahi Dragontail Glass, and Corning Gorilla Glass.
On curved screens, a 2.5D is employed, whereas other companies explored Sapphire glass, which is extremely durable yet fragile. Dragontail glass is an alkali aluminosilicate manufactured in Japan that has similar qualities to Gorilla glass. Chinese smartphone manufacturers choose this design to generate bigger and thicker displays.
Corning Gorilla Glass is the gold standard in terms of durability, scratch resistance, and clarity as of this writing. This firm claims to have passed fifteen one-meter drop tests without being damaged.
Get a Screen with a High-Definition Resolution
The amount of pixels on a display is defined by its resolution, which is important when you have a large screen. The photos will be more distinct and sharper if it has more pixels.
If your screen is huge yet the resolution is low, the image will appear pixelated and unappealing to look at. There is no discernible difference between full-HD, full-HD+, and Quad HD resolutions.
Examine the Back and Selfie Cameras
A greater megapixel camera does not always imply higher-quality photographs or movies. When shopping for a smartphone that promises to have excellent photographic skills, do your homework. On today’s flagship handsets, the trend is to place as many cameras as possible on the back to allow for as many pictures or video-shooting configurations as possible. Selfie cameras aren’t an exception either.
You’ll need a 16MP primary camera on the back and an 8MP selfie camera at the very least. Unfortunately, any user’s primary worry should be the camera sensors. Even if the manufacturer advertises that the camera can shoot at 108MP, if the camera sensor is of poor quality, you may be deceiving yourself into thinking that you’re shooting at high MP quality.
Any camera program can customize and manipulate photographs and videos if that’s all you’re interested in. Before making a purchase, check the quality of the camera sensors once again. If you’re not sure, you can always watch a YouTube vlog review to get more information.
Now that you have the tips for buying an android phone, selecting the proper android phone for you will be no sweat, let’s go to Singapore’s finest android phone.
The Best Brands of Android Phones in Singapore
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Display: 6.8 inches Weight: 227g Processor: Exynos 2100 (5 nm) – International Front Camera: 40 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/2.8″, 0.7µm, PDAF Rear Camera: Quad Camera Storage: 128GB – 512 GB, 12/16 GB RAM OS: Android 11, One UI 3.1 Battery: Li-Po 5000 mAh | Larger surface area compared to previous Samsung models Top of the line camera Dynamic AMOLED display Comes with 12 or 16 GB RAM |
When it came to top-of-the-line Android phones, Samsung set the bar with the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra introduced last year. In fact, we find it astounding how the S21 Ultra has everything you need in a smartphone. For example, whether it’s an excellent pair of cameras, a larger display, or exceptional specifications, this smartphone has it all!
The Snapdragon 888 chip from Qualcomm enables smoother operation, faster reaction, and better performance. The Dynamic AMOLED display, on the other hand, provides a brilliant and vibrant resolution. Given all of these excellent specs, you’ll certainly find the finest companion for your binge-watching and gaming demands.
Product Review: Delivery was okay, the phone was delivered and packed well in good condition! Though the outer plastic has tears and scratches, the phone is sealed.
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Display: 5.9″” 2400×1080 FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz Weight: 0.17 kgs Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 888 SM8350 Front Camera: 12 MP, f/2.5, 28mm (standard), 1/2.93″, 1.22µm, dual pixel PDAF Rear Camera: 64 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 12 MP, 14mm (ultrawide) Storage: 256GB UFS 3.1 / 8GB LPDDR5 OS: Android™ R™ Battery: Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable | Compact but delivers outstanding performance Classic design and color Great even for long hours of usage |
While some individuals like larger screens and larger phones, others prefer tiny ones. As a result, if you want a smartphone with a smaller screen but good performance, the ASUS Zenfone 8 is an excellent alternative. Despite its small size, this smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 888 5G Mobile Platform, which provides excellent performance. Aside from that, the 120 Hz AMOLED display provides crystal-clear images. Of course, we must not overlook the 64-megapixel rear camera, which will provide you with natural-looking photographs. But, most importantly, we adore how this small device has a 4000 mAh battery that can last for hours on end! This ASUS Zenfone 8 does indeed blend convenience with excellence.
Product review: Delivered in 3 days. Packaging could use a bit more padding. The fingerprint reader is slower than back-mounted. Not much choice if looking for smaller phones.
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Display: 6.71 inches 1440 x 3120 pixels Weight: 210 g Processor: Google Tensor (5 nm) Front Camera: 11.1 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1.22µm Rear Camera: 50 MP, f/1.9, 25mm (wide), 48 MP, f/3.5, 104mm (telephoto), 0.8µm, PDAF, OIS, 4x optical zoom, 12 MP, f/2.2, 17mm, 114˚ (ultrawide) Storage: 128 – 512 GB / 12 GB RAM OS: Android 12 Battery: Li-Ion 5003 mAh, non-removable | Available in three striking colours Features a Magic Eraser for photos Smartest and fastest Pixel in the market |
We think it’s amazing that the Google Pixel 6 Pro now has Google Tensor, the company’s first custom-built processor. You should expect nothing less than a speedy and secure mobile device as a result of this. In addition, the Pixel 6 Pro is proud of its powerful camera, which claims to shoot professional-level sparkling and colourful photographs.
Plus, this phone comes with a Magic Eraser that makes photobombers vanish in an instant! You may also rest assured that the item is as attractive as it is robust. The display, for example, is made of Corning® Gorilla® Glass VictusTM, which is scratch-resistant! But, perhaps most importantly, Google improved the Pixel 6 Pro’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for uninterrupted gaming and streaming.
Product Review: “Very fast delivery. And the phone is working perfectly. With no physical defects at all. Highly recommend.”
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Display: 6.62 Inch 1080×2400 FHD+ Weight: 200g Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G, 3.2Ghz CPU Clock Speed Front Camera: 16MP In-display Selfie Rear Camera: 64 MP Primary Camera, 119° Wide-angle Camera Storage: 12GB + 256GB OS: Realme UI 2.0 Based on Android 11 Battery: 5000mAh Massive Battery, 65W SuperDart Charge | Scratch-resistant, environmentally friendly, and anti-fingerprint surface Makes gaming a breezy activity thanks to its processor Effective and efficient temperature control |
On that front, the Realme GT NEO 2 is a mid-range smartphone that will impress you with its capabilities without breaking the bank. To begin with, the Snapdragon 870 5G Processor and 120Hz E4 AMOLED Display provide a wonderfully smooth and bright experience. Furthermore, because this device has a 5000 mAh battery, you won’t have to worry about binge-watching for long periods of time!
Aside from that, we appreciate the GT NEO 2’s design and vibrant colour palette, which wonderfully symbolizes boldness. On top of that, the smartphone features an all-new Stainless Steel VC Cooling Plus that enables long-term performance even when gaming or watching for lengthy periods of time.
Product Review: CS chat is very responsive, fast shipping from China, bought during 12.12 in very good price. Overall very satisfied.
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Display: 6.44inches 2400×1080 pixels Weight: 189 g Processor: MediaTek MT6893 Dimensity 1200 5G (6 nm) Front Camera: 32MP+8MP w/ EIS Rear Camera: 50 MP, f/1.9, 24mm (wide), 1/1.56″, 8 MP, f/2.3, 119˚ (ultrawide) Storage: 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM OS: OxygenOS based on Android™ 11 Battery: 4500 mAh | Gamers will love the PAC-MAN edition Can record videos from the rear and front cameras simultaneously Fast Charging and reasonably priced |
We prefer the OnePlus Nord 2 because it comes in two colours: a refreshing Blue Haze and a sophisticated Grey Sierra. Aside from that, it’s also available in a cute PAC-MAN version! Furthermore, this device comes with a genetically engineered rear camera, a clone of the OnePlus 9’s ultrawide lenses! You may expect greater resolutions, improved zoom features, and detailed detail in your images as a result of this. Aside from that, this model includes a Warp Charge 65.
On that topic, after just 15 minutes of charging, the Nord 2’s 4,500 mAh battery can be recharged to last another day. But, best of all, owing to the MediaTek Dimensity 1200 AI Chip that runs Nord 2, you’ll get nothing less than clearer, higher-quality photographs and a speedier gaming experience.
Product Review: Good and fast delivery. Received in good condition. Nice product. Purchase @ a good price. No complaints.
More information on features and performance is needed since some individuals on a restricted budget find it difficult to pick a gadget. We hope that our buying guide and the suggested list will be useful to anybody seeking high-end equipment on the internet. Notably, reading online product rankings or viewing reviews are two more strategies to learn how to select the greatest smartphone for you.
Perhaps you are looking for a gaming phone as well? Check out our best gaming phone in Singapore.
