Modern smartphones have come a long way, and manufacturers are busy innovating to add even more features to their already impressive devices. Not long ago, if you wanted a device with a better user experience, flagship phones were the go-to devices.
Fast forward to 2022, and most of the bleeding edge specs of old-time flagship phones are now mainstream. In other words, cheap phones have gotten better, which may lead you to ask, do you really need a flagship phone from now on? And, you would be right, this is a common situation.
A look at the flagship smartphone market
At the beginning of the last decade, flagship-grade smartphones had what we no longer consider bleeding-edge specs. All the essential features we overlooked were only available for top dollar. And it has been the same not only for smartphones but also for any other tech gadget.
If, for example, you want a device with at least 32GB of internal storage, an HD screen, 4GB or more of memory, you’ll have to dig deep in your pocket.
case in point; Samsung’s Galaxy Note 5 debuted in 2015 and was one of the best smartphones on the market at the time, aimed at phone enthusiasts. It had a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED display panel, 4GB of memory, 3000mAh battery, and three storage options, 32GB, 64GB and 128GB.
makeup video of the day
image credit: samsung
By the end of the decade, most of those bleeding-edge specs had fallen to mid-range and, in some cases, entry-level phones. As a result, it should come as no surprise that you may find yourself in a dilemma, whether to buy an old flagship or a new budget phone. Because there is no significant difference.
But since flagship phones tend to be the most profitable, companies have developed more features to make their best devices more attractive. The LTPO QHD AMOLED display, build quality, longevity, extended software support and wireless charging support are what make the flagship phone stand out.
You also get a few other bells and whistles like more memory and storage, USB-C 3.2 charging port, faster-charging speeds, and an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. Here are the various smartphone price points where we compare budgets and what you should expect.
Benefits of buying a flagship phone
While flagship phones are overkill for many people, there are also some benefits to buying them. Here are some of the advantages of flagship smartphones.
1. Impressive Build Quality
One of the key factors that makes a flagship phone worth it is the build quality. Flagships are the strongest phones in the market. Rugged phones are certainly tough, but they are niche smartphones.
Samsung’s high-end Galaxy S22 Ultra has an aluminum frame, while Apple’s iPhone 13 Pro Max uses a stainless steel frame, and both have Gorilla Glass on the front and back. Moreover, both the devices have water and dust resistance assuring you that your phone can survive even a drop in water.
2. Extended Software Support
Smartphone makers tend to support high-end phones for more extended periods. For example, Google will update the Pixel 6 series for four years, and Samsung will update the Galaxy S22 series with the four major Android versions.
Apple, on the other hand, is known to update its devices for five to six years. More extended support also means you can use your device for many years with more peace of mind. In most cases, you’ll have to spend more if you want such software support.
3. Versatile Camera System
Unlike mid-range phones that only take good pictures in good lighting conditions, flagship smartphones rarely disappoint when shooting in the dark. Of course, don’t expect DSLR-esque pictures, but they’re better in poor lighting conditions than cheaper smartphones.
4. Excellent display quality
Lastly, another important consideration when buying a premium one is the great display quality. One of the best features of the Galaxy S22 Ultra and any other high-end smartphone is the display quality. And it’s not just about high refresh rates.
All around, premium phones have the best displays you can find on a smartphone. Whether it is in terms of resolution, pixel density, peak brightness level, better contrast ratio, you name it, they have them. This ensures that you can comfortably view your display while out in the sun.
Most midrange and, arguably, all entry-level phones cut corners with regards to display quality. Granted, they may offer a higher refresh rate AMOLED panel with FHD+ resolution, but they compromise on other areas that add premium oomph to make the display flagship-level. And one of the most afflicted areas is the visibility of daylight under the sun.
Disadvantages of buying a flagship phone
Despite being way ahead of the masses to spend top dollar for a smartphone, it’s not worth the trouble for many. One obvious reason not to buy a flagship phone is the premium price. It has become a norm that premium smartphones are priced well above the $1000 mark, or at best, somewhere around that price.
The second most practical reason is that these phones usually offer little value for your money. Paying $200+ extra for a 120Hz display is definitely not worth it for many people. The mid-range segment of the market is where the real value is, as it has always been. On top of this, the law of diminishing returns applies.
image credit: samsung
For example, a QHD (1440p) panel is better, but for the average consumer there isn’t much of a difference relative to an FHD+ (1080p) display. The same case applies to refresh rates. There’s a noticeable difference in smoothness when scrolling as you jump from the standard 60Hz to 90Hz and 120Hz.
But take it up a notch to 144Hz, or even 165Hz, and there’s not much difference from 120Hz due to diminishing returns.
Flagship phones are packed with features that you will not find anywhere else. But, truth be told, there are some flagship phone features you don’t need on a smartphone, or at least not yet. And most of them are touted as the major selling points for flagship phones.
Also, the flagship has made some controversial moves in the recent past. For example, it’s hard to find one with a headphone jack, microSD card slot, or even a charging brick.
Are flagship phones worth it?
In general, flagship phones are overkill. In 2022 and onwards, flagship phones have only a few extra-good-for-alls and lots of extra features that you’re barely used to after months or even years. Mid-range phones are good enough, and there’s no reason to go any further as you hardly get any improvement in the overall user experience.
But, like anything else, it always depends. Different people have different needs. So, it always depends on individual needs, and how you use your device. You might get the added cash value of flagship phones for their bleeding-edge specs, while others might prefer to save some money on their purchase.
5 reasons why the iPhone X is still a great buy in 2022
Read further
About the Author
Alvin Vanzala (228 articles published)
Alvin Vanzala has been writing about technology for over 2 years. He writes about various aspects, including but not limited to mobile, PC and social media. Alvin loves programming and gaming during downtime.
Other Alvin Vanzala Movies-TV Shows
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join our newsletter for tech tips, reviews, free eBooks and exclusive deals!
Please click here to subscribe
