New phone time

OK - it's been a while since I updated my phone (I have a OnePlus 7t - it's almost 5 years old!) and the poor thing is starting to creak at the seams.

That said - I don't need a £1000 orbital laser that can melt a chicken at 500 meters. I need something equivalent, perhaps with a bit more storage.

The important things to me are:

It just works
It has to be Android
It has to be supported now and for a few years yet
Minimal bloat

Tell me about the phones you love?

Created at 3:43pm, 3rd May, 2024. Page last updated at 2:44pm, 16th May, 2024.

Makster 5/3/2024, 3:50:01 PM

It has to be Android

Whelp- that's my suggestions out. Like my namesake, I've been a Apple guy most of my life. I've heard really good things about the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra though. My dad has one and I don't think he's said anything bad about it and he's of the age where he'll complain about EVERYTHING

Michael 5/3/2024, 3:54:28 PM

Makster

Makster's Dad approved, I don't think I could ask for a better seal of approval 😍

Roo 5/3/2024, 3:52:31 PM

I've always be an iPhone guy but I tried Android out in 2021 with a Google Pixel 6. It took a bit of getting used to and, after my contract was up, I switched back to Apple but, once I switched back, there was a lot I missed. It did a lot more for me without having to be asked than an iPhone ever did and, aside from the fingerprint reader being in the middle of the screen which made getting a good screen protector difficult, I'd switch back to the Pixel tomorrow

Sturmer 5/3/2024, 4:08:00 PM

I recommend monitoring Samsung's official deals (just register, drop a phone into the basket, and abandon on the last step); they often combine discounts, buybacks, and cashbacks, slashing initial prices by about 40%. You could score an S23-S24 for around £500. Mobile carriers might have some offers too. Here’s why I prefer the 'S' series:

Powerful Features: Robust CPU, camera, battery, and sensors.
Longevity: Supported for 3-4 years, with potential to last 2-3 more.
Compact Size: More manageable compared to other high-tier brands.
Water Resistance: IP67 rating, ideal as I'm often cycling in the wet.
Manageable Bloatware: Easily disabled, uninstalled, or ignored.

I use my phone primarily for rendering 360 videos, which is why CPU and memory are crucial. Upgrading from S21 to S23, I saw a 60% improvement in render times. Previously, I used a second-hand S9 for two years.

I avoid the Ultra and S+ models as they’re bulkier, pricier, and don't offer much more in comparison. Next on my list to consider is the Google Pixel.

Lanah Tyra 5/3/2024, 5:46:43 PM

I used to buy Samsung but the prices went up quite a bit and I can't justify £1000 for a phone. Bought a Motorola Moto g82 about a year ago I think? Very reliable, takes nice pictures, battery lasts long, haven't had storage problems and apart from a few motorola apps it's clean Android. Cost me around £260. There might be a newer version now but I can recommend Motorola in general.