We come up with our best buys for under 400 quid in this months smartphone review. The midrange smartphone market is competitive, offering devices packed with features like vibrant displays, capable processors, and advanced cameras.
Top Picks with Detailed Reviews
All 3 recommendations have been swapped out this month from last
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.4-inch AMOLED (2340x1080; 120Hz)
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- RAM: 6GB/8GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Rear Cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 8MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 10MP
- Battery: 4,500mAh
- Operating System: Android 14
- Price: Around £399
- Strengths: Offers solid performance and impressive battery longevity.
- Weaknesses: The phone's design feels bulky【4:0†source】【4:1†source】.
Google Pixel 7a
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Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED (2400x1080; 90Hz)
- Chipset: Google Tensor G2
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Rear Cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide
- Front Camera: 10.8MP
- Battery: 4,385mAh
- Operating System: Android 14
- Price: Around £399
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Strengths: Known for its exceptional camera performance and fluid software experience.
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Weaknesses: Lacks some high-end features【4:0†source】【4:1†source】.
Honor Magic 5 Lite
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Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED (2400x1080; 120Hz)
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G
- RAM: 6GB/8GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Rear Cameras: 64MP main, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP depth
- Front Camera: 16MP
- Battery: 5,100mAh
- Operating System: Android 13
- Price: Around £199.99
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Strengths: Offers a high-quality display with superb battery life.
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Weaknesses: Limited audio and no 4K video【4:0†source】【4:1†source】.
Key Takeaways
| Phone | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S23 FE | Powerful performance, strong battery | Chunky design |
| Google Pixel 7a | Superior camera, smooth software | Fewer premium features |
| Honor Magic 5 Lite | Excellent display, great value | Low speaker quality, no 4K |
Product Comparison Table
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S23 FE | Google Pixel 7a | Honor Magic 5 Lite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.4-inch AMOLED | 6.1-inch OLED | 6.67-inch AMOLED |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Google Tensor G2 | Snapdragon 695 5G |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 6GB | 6GB/8GB |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB | 128GB/256GB |
| Battery | 4,500mAh | 4,385mAh | 5,100mAh |
| Price | £399 | £399 | £199.99 |
Buying Guide
Key Considerations
When selecting your next budget-friendly phone, focus on display quality for daily interaction, battery life to ensure all-day usage, and camera performance for capturing memorable moments. Software support is also vital for keeping your device up-to-date and secure.
Tips
Balance your personal needs with the phone's specifications. Consider the brand's reputation for customer service and after-sale support. Remember that sometimes spending a little more upfront can save you from headaches later on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while all three phones offer great value, the Google Pixel 7a shines as the most well-rounded option available. Its camera performance and smooth software provide a superior experience, making it an excellent choice under £400. However, if you seek maximum battery life and a lower price, the Honor Magic 5 Lite remains a compelling option【4:1†source】.
References