Ever since the first mobile device was released in the 1980s, telecom providers have invested heavily in mobile networks in order to expand coverage, attract more users, and improve service. In the year 2018, these carriers finally deployed the fifth generation of mobile phone networks in an effort to meet the ever-increasing demand for data from industrial users and individual consumers.
This development has led to smartphone manufacturers across the world deploying 5G smartphones. Since this technology is still relatively new, you may be wondering how to go about choosing the right 5G phone.
Fortunately, we are here to help. Here are a few things you’ve got to take into consideration when buying a device that can support 5G.
Price
Although smartphone manufacturers have now begun to make more affordable 5G smartphones, these devices still cost more than the equivalent 4G LTE model. Given this, before you go ahead and buy a 5G smartphone, make sure you can actually access 5G coverage where you reside. If your carrier is yet to roll out 5G where you live, you are better off waiting for a few years to upgrade your phone, so you can actually enjoy the improved speeds.
Your Needs
While the cost of the handset is an important factor to consider, it is also necessary for you to think about whether you actually need the faster data speed. For instance, if you use your smartphone only to check your emails and browse your social media feed, you may not need the super-fast speeds that 5G offers.
Keep in mind that you also have to pay more for your 5G plan in comparison to a 4G plan. Case in point, Verizon charges $10 extra per month for 5G data — this means you’ll need to pay a whopping $120 more every year for something you don’t need.
Performance
If you can access 5G coverage where you reside and you really need the better data speeds, you can proceed to purchase a 5G phone for yourself. Like with any device, make sure to consider the smartphone’s specs like its processor, camera, screen size, etc. Remember that there are many options available in the market, so make sure that you test out different phones and pick the right one.