Guide: How to choose a basic smartphone

Processor

There is no escape here: a Quad-core SoC it's the minimum. Although models with dual-core chips are even common nowadays, it is good to avoid them. The reason? They may even perform well in the first few weeks, but they are unable to offer a good user experience in the medium and long term. It doesn't really matter who the manufacturer is, by the way. It could be from MediaTek, Qualcomm ou Samsung, as long as it's quad-core.

RAM memory

A few years ago, even advanced models brought 1 GB of RAM. Currently, considering the new versions of Android, it is difficult to find a model that runs smooth with just that. Models like the LG K10, for example, bring a chip octa-core, but they don't match in performance exactly because they only bring 1 GB of RAM.

Some models bring 1,5 GB, which already helps a lot. But focus on models that bring at least 2 GB, which has already become common in more affordable models. The reason is the same as in the previous item. In the first few weeks the device will behave very well, but it will be unable to continue performing after that.

Internal memory

In 2015 the ASUS made an interesting campaign: “8 GB is not enough“. This is regardless of support for micro SD cards. models with 8 GB, at most, only provide 5 GB for the user. After a short time, the internal memory starts to fill up, which forces the user to prioritize their apps. Models with 16 GB are already more “future resistant”, in this sense, and opting for them saves a lot of headache in the medium and long term.

Cameras

Currently, it is quite rare to find a smartphone that does not have a rear camera of at least 5 megapixels, although the ideal is 8 megapixels. It's enough to take basic photos, as well as supporting Full HD videos. Less than that is almost unthinkable these days, even for the entry-level segment. The front camera must have at least 2 megapixels, although the ideal is at least 5 megapixels, enough to take quality selfies.

Other features

2016 models already bring LTE 4G by default, as well as batteries of at least 2000 mAh. Considering that the screens don't bring such high resolutions and the chips are more economical, it's already enough capacity to last a whole day with some ease. Another guaranteed issue is connectivity. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth e FM radio are virtually guaranteed. It is even possible to find 720p IPS screens quite easily.

We put together our list based on the models on sale in Brazil in recent months. A current base model manages to be faster than a 2012/2013 top of the line with some ease. Much of this is due to the rapid evolution of the smartphone market. Even so, some manufacturers still insist on selling bad models, often with prices that are not even interesting.

That's exactly why it's important to know how to differentiate a basic model from a low-cost one. In the coming days, we will publish a guide on how to choose a mid-range smartphone. Then an advanced model. And, of course, we will update them as time goes on, as this is an extremely fast-moving market.