You are about to buy a new smartphone and are not sure whether it has to be the latest flagship model? There is a trend in the smartphone world that prices are rising, especially for high-end smartphones keep increasing. This justifiably raises the question of whether this investment is really necessary. Spoiler: It doesn't always have to be the most expensive smartphone to enjoy satisfactory performance and good features.
In this article, let's take a closer look at what defines the middle class. We clarify what technical features and functions you can expect and what a mid-range smartphone has to do these days to be considered as such. In addition, we will guide you through a selection of current models that prove that you can still get a lot for less money.
What defines a mid-range smartphone?
What exactly characterizes a mid-range smartphone? These devices are usually priced between 400 and around 600 euros. They often have a lot to offer: New models like the Google Pixel 8a, for example, come with high-quality features such as AI software and processors that are usually only found in expensive flagships. On the other hand, there are also older flagship models, such as the iPhone 13 (Pro), which slip into the middle class after a few years and become real bargains - perfect for everyone who is looking for top technology at fair prices!
You should pay attention to this before buying
Mid-range smartphones now offer many high-end features, including advanced camera systems, fast processors and impressive battery life. In addition, many of these technologies are integrated into the devices, which until recently were only found in the most expensive models.
Before making a purchase, however, you should be clear about what you primarily want to use your cell phone for. Be it for gaming, photography or a cell phone with a long battery life. Every model has its strengths, but you also have to accept compromises, especially in the middle class. Mid-range smartphones are worth considering if you're looking for a good balance between cost and modern technology.
Processor and performance comparable to flagships
One of the crucial factors in the performance of a cell phone is a good combination of processor and memory. In the mid-range, processors often offer considerable performance that can easily handle both everyday tasks and more demanding challenges.
These processors can be found in the middle class
Many mid-range smartphones are now equipped with high-end processors. Occasionally, manufacturers also rely on the top processor from the previous year, which was only reserved for the premium models.
A current processor that can be found in many mid-range cell phones is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3. The processor offers strong performance that is comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is found in the flagships is used. The 7+ Gen 3 processor offers similar performance in everyday life, but is not as powerful as its bigger brother in intensive applications or games.
At Apple, however, the situation is somewhat different: the middle class mostly includes processors that have been around for a few years and were once used in flagship smartphones.This also includes the A15 Bionic chip, which is used in smartphones such as the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini and the iPhone 13 Pro. Of course, the A15 Bionic is less powerful and less efficient compared to Apple's new chips - in comparison, this chip still performs well and handles all standard tasks effortlessly, and the A15 Bionic can also handle more intensive tasks such as video editing or gaming without any major problems.
Smooth performance in everyday life
Users can expect smooth performance from a mid-range smartphone that supports almost all daily requirements such as surfing the Internet, playing high-quality videos and playing current games with appropriate settings. Devices should be able to load apps quickly and run smoothly without experiencing lag or stuttering. Even more demanding applications such as image or video editing software should work without any problems on cell phones in this price range.
Mid-range smartphones have improved significantly in recent years and are increasingly catching up with the upper class in terms of processor performance. This makes it an excellent choice for technology enthusiasts who don't necessarily need the latest flagship model but still value good performance.
Storage options RAM and internal memory
Memory and RAM play an important role in mid-range smartphones. Nowadays, most of these smartphones have enough RAM, so you usually don't have to worry too much about the technical details. If you still want to pay attention, you can search for terms like "LPDDR5-RAM", which indicates a more efficient and powerful memory variant.
With iPhones, however, you don't need to worry about RAM because Apple doesn't disclose this information and their systems are very efficient overall. As long as you don't buy an older iPhone (older than two to three years), you don't have to worry about it.
When it comes to internal memory, you should make sure that at least 128 GB is available. 256 GB or even 512 GB are nice, but not absolutely necessary in the mid-range. These capacities offer additional convenience, but are not absolutely necessary for most users in this price range.
High-resolution and fluid displays
The display is one of the most important elements of a smartphone. Mid-range smartphones have undergone significant improvements in this area in recent years, making them even more attractive.
Mid-range resolution
Smartphones in this price range are often equipped with Full HD displays that offer a resolution of at least 1920 × 1080 pixels. This resolution is ideal for watching videos, surfing the web and playing games as it delivers clear and sharp images. Some models even offer a higher resolution with QHD (2,560 x 1,440), which enables an even more detailed display - making these displays very close to flagships.
Refresh rate: Importance for an optimal display experience
Another important aspect of a good display is the refresh rate. A higher refresh rate ensures a smoother display of movements, which is particularly beneficial when scrolling through websites or playing graphics-intensive games.It not only improves the visual experience but also makes the interaction with the device more reactive. In the mid-range, most Android smartphones have a refresh rate between 90 and 120 Hz. Unfortunately, Apple still has a refresh rate of 60 Hz as standard in mid-range smartphones. An insider tip: Take a look at older Pro series, because since the iPhone 13 Pro, these devices have all had a very good display with 120 Hz.
Battery life and charging speed
A good battery life is an advantage, especially on long days. In the middle class today you can find devices that are not only equipped with large batteries, but also offer advanced charging technologies. As a rule, the larger the battery, the better the battery life.
Typical capacity and charging speeds for mid-range smartphones
Most mid-range smartphones today come with a battery capacity of up to 5000 mAh. This high capacity allows users to easily run their device for a full day of average usage without having to search for a power outlet. If used sparingly, the running time can even be up to two days.
Modern smartphones, even in the middle class, are now quite large and therefore offer space for larger batteries. This ensures impressive battery performance that meets the demands of everyday use.
A lot has happened in the last few years when it comes to charging. Many mid-range models support fast charging technologies, which significantly speed up battery charging. However, there are differences between the manufacturers:
Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and OnePlus often offer extremely fast charging speeds, which can be up to 67W or more. At such speeds, the battery can be charged from 0 to 100% in well under an hour.
In contrast, other manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung and Motorola also offer fast charging, but at slightly slower speeds. Charging speeds of 18W to 25W are typical here. These differences mean that charging takes a little longer on these brands, but this is offset by other benefits such as software optimizations and brand quality.
The five popular smartphones in the mid-range
Now in this section we take a look at five of the latest mid-range smartphones. We highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each model and help you make a well-informed purchase decision.
Google Pixel 8a (unveiled in May 2024)
Advantages:
- Powerful Google Tensor G3 processor: This chip offers excellent performance and efficiency, ideal for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Improved camera quality: Equipped with the same main camera as the Pixel 7A as well as an ultra-wide-angle camera, the Pixel 8a enables impressive photos. It has already held its own in blind tests against other top flagship smartphones.
- Updated Display: The 6.1-inch pOLED display offers 40% higher peak brightness and a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, ensuring a smooth and clear visual experience.
- Long-term software support: Google guarantees seven years of updates, including operating system, security and feature drop updates, increasing the longevity and security of the device.
- Versatile color options: The Pixel 8a is available in new, vibrant colors such as Aloe and Bay, in addition to the classic colors Obsidian and Porcelain.
- Increased storage capacity: Available in a new 256GB variant, alongside the standard 128GB version, it offers more storage space for users.
Disadvantages:
- Inconsistent Assistant Integration: The Pixel 8a introduces the new Gemini Nano Assistant, which leads to some inconsistency with the existing Google Assistant. This could be confusing for users until Google consolidates the various Assistant services.
- Value for money compared to the Pixel 8: Priced at $500, the Pixel 8a isn't much cheaper than the Pixel 8, which retails for $550 and better Specifications such as a higher quality display, larger sensors and faster loading times.
- No significant advantage over previous models: Since the improvements are rather small compared to the Pixel 7A, users may feel that the upgrade is not significant enough to justify the higher price.
Google Pixel 7a
Advantages:
- Powerful Google Tensor G2 processor: Perfect for users who value an optimized Android experience and excellent camera performance.
- Bright and smooth 90 Hz OLED display: Provides a pleasant visual experience, even in direct sunlight.
- IP67 dust and water protection: Offers increased protection against environmental influences and ensures additional longevity.
Disadvantages:
- Fingerprint scanner: The authentication scanner offers security, but works slower than comparable models.
iPhone 13 – The flagship of 2021 that is still impressive today
Advantages:
- Powerful A15 Bionic Chip: This chip ensures lightning-fast performance and high efficiency, ideal for games and demanding apps.
- High-quality camera: Equipped with functions such as night mode and portrait mode, it enables impressive photos in a wide range of lighting conditions.
- Long battery life: Optimized for extended use without frequent charging.
- Attractive, modern design: Available in various color versions that suit every taste and guarantee a stylish appearance.
Disadvantages:
- No 120 Hz display: In contrast to the Pro models, the iPhone 13 only offers a refresh rate of 60 Hz.
Samsung Galaxy A54
Advantages:
- Robust design: The device impresses with a high-quality design, protected by Gorilla Glass 5.
- Good camera equipment: With a 64 MP main camera as well as additional ultra-wide-angle and macro lenses, the A54 offers versatile photographic possibilities.
- Long-term software support: Samsung guarantees four years of Android updates and five years of security updates, increasing the longevity and security of the device.
- IP67 certification: Provides protection from dust and water, further increasing the durability of the device.
Disadvantages:
- Heavy case: At 202g, the A54 is one of the heavier models.
Nothing Phone (2a)
Advantages:
- Unique design with Glyph interface: The eye-catching and innovative design stands out clearly from other smartphones and offers a distinctive aesthetic.
- MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro 5G: A powerful mid-range processor that ensures a smooth user experience and offers excellent value for money.
- Excellent camera equipment: The 50 MP main and ultra wide-angle camera enable versatile and high-quality photographs.
- Sustainable design: Reduced carbon footprint and long software support contribute to sustainability and make the device more environmentally friendly.
Disadvantages:
- Plastic casing: The lack of premium materials such as metal or glass may deter some users who prefer a premium feel.
- No eSIM support: The lack of this technology could be detrimental to frequent travelers who rely on the flexibility of eSIM.
Conclusion: Why a mid-range smartphone makes sense
The mid-range smartphone concept offers an attractive alternative to more expensive flagship models by representing a balanced compromise between cost and advanced technology. These devices often feature high-end technologies that were recently only available in the most expensive models, such as advanced camera systems, powerful processors and impressive battery life.
This is what makes the middle class:
- Price range: 300 to 600 euros, accessible to a wide range of buyers.
- Performance: Suitable for everyday tasks and more demanding applications such as gaming and multimedia.
- Storage options: Up to 16 GB RAM and up to 256 GB internal storage - sometimes expandable with microSD cards.
- Display: Models with Full HD or higher resolutions. Refresh rates of up to 120 Hz for smooth display and operation.
Although mid-range smartphones may have disadvantages compared to some flagships in some areas such as loading speed and flexibility in the operating system, they impress with their excellent price-performance ratio and their wide accessibility. They are an excellent choice for users looking for advanced technology at a reasonable price without having to purchase the latest and most expensive models.
Personal opinion
In my opinion, mid-range smartphones are often one of the best decisions. They offer a pleasant combination of modern technology and an affordable price. Advances in processor technology and improved display features make them extremely useful for everyday tasks as well as multimedia applications.
While the lack of fast charging technology and the often missing charger in some models can be seen as disadvantages, these are small compromises compared to the high cost and limitations of the flagship models. Ultimately, mid-range smartphones are more than sufficient for most users and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, powerful and affordable smartphone.
