STACK #196 Feb 2021

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Smartphones for less A feature-packed smartphone need not break the bank – even if you’re looking for storage, long battery life, a quad camera, a fast processor for gaming, or all of the above. These starter smartphones are rich in functionality and very attractively priced. You’ll be amazed at the choices on offer, and the change you'll get back from five hundred bucks!

Should I look at a smartphone with 5G? If your price range permits, it's worth considering a 5G smartphone, although they're much harder to find in the budget range. Not only are they compatible with the existing 3G and 4G networks, they're also able to tap into the low-latency, high-speed perks of the incredibly fast 5G network. Granted, 5G isn't as widespread as 4G yet, but expect that to change in the coming months. And by opting for a 5G handset, you're effectively future-proofing your device.

What about the cameras on a budget phone? It's impossible to compete with the big guys in the camera department, but don't discount the cheaper end of town – there's been a big step forward in tech and budget smartphones can certainly still deliver. Front and rear-facing cameras are standard and let you make video calls to family or friends, or record static pics or video for a budding Instagram channel.

Samsung Galaxy A11 ScreenSize: 6.4” Resolution: 720 x 1560 (HD+) CPU: 1.8GHz Octa-Core Storage: 32GB RAM: 2GB Rearcamera: 13MP(Main) / 2MP(Depth) / 5MP(Ultra- Wide) FrontCamera: 8MP Battery: 4,000 mAh The Samsung Galaxy A11 has face recognition as well as a fingerprint sensor at the rear of the phone for extra device security. The triple camera system will ably handle portraits right through to ultra-wide angles, with the 8MP front camera perfect for selfies. The Depth Camera feature lets you adjust depth of field after taking the shot. And you can enjoy your shots on a decent 6.4” screen. 32GB storage is expandable up to 512GB thanks to a microSD card port.

Nokia 5.3 ScreenSize: 6.55” Resolution: 720 x 1600 CPU: 2.0GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon™ 665 Storage: 64GB RAM: 4GB Rearcamera: 13MP(Main) / 2MP(Depth) / 2MP(Macro) / 5MP(Ultra-Wide) FrontCamera: 8MP Battery: 4,000 mAh

The Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU and 4GB RAM will come in handy if you plan to seriously game on your smartphone, as will the generous 6.55” screen. There’s 64GB storage, which is great at this price point, plus the Android One promise from Nokia means no bloatware, so you won’t be running out of room anytime soon. Storage is also expandable with microSD card. Impressively, Nokia claim their battery management AI will help the 5.3 stay charged for up to two days. Best of all is the quad camera, with macro and ultra-wide lens offering shot versatility – a differentiator at this price range.

26 FEBRUARY 2021

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