Finding the right mobile phone: the most important criteria to help you choose

Every year, countless new mobile phone and smartphone models are released. And with this ever-increasing choice comes uncertainty: which device is really the right one for my needs and requirements? What functions do I need in everyday life? And what should I pay particular attention to when buying? To help you find a mobile phone that will reliably accompany you through everyday life, we show you the most important criteria you should consider before making a purchase decision.

1. Price: What investment makes sense?

The price usually determines which devices are even worth considering. More expensive does not automatically mean better. The decisive factor is how you actually use your smartphone. For simple applications such as telephony, messaging, photos and everyday apps, a device in the mid-price range is sufficient. If you record a lot of videos, use your smartphone for gaming or need very high camera quality, you will have to invest a little more.

2. Operating system (and brand): Android or iOS?

The choice of operating system has a major impact on the user experience. Here is a brief overview of the advantages, disadvantages and differences between Android and iOS:

Android offers:

• a wide range of devices (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google, etc.)
• freely customisable user interfaces: Unlike iOS, the system is open and can be customised by users and manufacturers
• greater price variety
• more choice in apps and settings: The Google Play Store is less strictly controlled than the App Store on iOS devices, but may also contain fraudulent apps and is therefore less secure.

iOS (iPhone) offers:

• a closed system
• a uniform, consistent user experience
• Long update support
• High security in app selection, as the App Store is strictly controlled (but potentially less choice)
• Easy integration with other Apple devices

It is important that you feel comfortable using it. People who already use a smartphone often stick with the operating system they are familiar with, as switching to a new mobile phone is usually less complicated in this case.

3. Usability: How easy is the mobile phone to use in everyday life?

A smartphone can have as many functions as you like, but if it is complicated to use, it is not much fun in everyday life. Therefore, pay attention to:

• Easy-to-read font (size)
• Simple navigation
• No superfluous menus
• Quick access to the most important functions

An intuitive user interface is crucial, especially for people who value clarity and don't want to get bogged down in complex settings. For older people, usability is often the most important criterion. Complex menus or icons that are too small can quickly lead to uncertainty. If you are looking for a suitable mobile phone for senior citizens, we recommend that you also consider the following criteria:

• Large, easily recognisable icons
• Clear contrasts (for better readability)
• Clear home screens without unnecessary apps
• Comprehensible menus that are logically structured
• Easily accessible emergency call or speed dial functions
• Physical buttons that are easy to use
• Optional simplified interfaces (e.g. large home screen, reduced view)
  

Seniors benefit particularly from devices that are deliberately uncluttered and clearly designed.

4. Camera: What image quality do you need?

Cameras are a key purchasing criterion today. But megapixels alone don't mean much. More important are:

• good performance in low light
• fast shutter speed
• natural colour reproduction
• easy operation without overloading the camera app
• Image stabilisation for sharp photos

Consider whether you will mainly use your smartphone for family and travel photos, video calls or for work purposes. This will determine how high-quality the camera should be.

5. Battery and charging time: How long does the device last?

The battery determines whether the smartphone will last a whole day or need to be charged in the afternoon. Before buying, pay attention to details such as:

• Battery capacity
• Energy efficiency of the system
• Fast charging function
• Wireless charging (optional)

Your usage behaviour also plays a role: navigation/GPS, mobile data and large displays consume more energy. If you are on the go a lot, you should choose a device with a powerful battery.

6. Storage space: Is there enough space for apps, photos and videos?

Modern smartphones store more and more data – whether it's apps, photos, voice messages or updates. That's why storage is a crucial criterion.

Important factors here are:

• The basic size of the internal memory
• The option to expand the memory via microSD card
• The actual free memory after system installation

For many users, 64 GB is a good amount. If you take a lot of photos and videos, it's best to choose 128 GB or more.

7. Security and updates: How long will the device remain protected?

An important criterion that is often overlooked when buying a mobile phone is the security aspect. Regular software updates are not only practical, but also an important security factor. Check how long the manufacturer provides updates. The following are particularly important:

• Security updates
• Android/iOS version updates
• Data protection functions
• Access rights settings

A smartphone should be reliably supported for several years so that you can stay safe on the go in the long term.

Found the right mobile phone?

We have now taken a detailed look at the most important selection criteria when buying a mobile phone: price, operating system, usability, camera, battery, storage space and security. If you know your personal priorities, it's easier to find a device that suits your needs.

emporia deliberately focuses on the criteria that are most important to many people – especially senior citizens: clear usability, modern technology, clear menu navigation and a fair price. At the same time, essential features such as good battery life, solid cameras, expandable memory and classic connections are not neglected. Emporia thus offers smartphones that focus on the essentials without excluding the advantages of modern technology. This combination is particularly appealing if you are looking for a device that is reliable, logically designed and easy to use in everyday life.