Buying a smartphone: Why mid-range is enough for most and when a flagship is worth it

The differences between mid-range and flagship have become smaller. A good mid-range smartphone today takes sharp photos, lasts a full day and receives updates for years. The premium for a flagship mainly buys camera zoom, materials and performance headroom.

Updates: The most important criterion

A smartphone without security updates is a risk after two years. Check how long the manufacturer guarantees operating system and security updates. Since June 2025, the EU requires at least five years of updates for newly released smartphones, and several manufacturers offer seven. Older and cheaper models released before that often get only two to three years. This determines the actual usable lifespan and resale value.

Display

• OLED is now standard down to the mid-range: deep black, vibrant colours, power-efficient with dark content.
• 120 Hz makes scrolling smoother. A difference you won't want to miss after a week.
• Brightness: For sunlight, at least 1000 nits peak brightness is needed.
• Size: 6.1 to 6.4 inches for one-handed use, 6.7 inches and larger for videos and text.

Camera: Sensor beats megapixels

The megapixel count says little. What matters is sensor size, optical image stabilisation (OIS) and the manufacturer's image processing. A 50-megapixel sensor with a large surface and OIS delivers better night photos than a 200-megapixel sensor without it. An ultra-wide camera is useful, a 2-megapixel macro camera is spec sheet cosmetics. Optical zoom (telephoto lens) remains the flagship's distinguishing feature.

Battery and charging

5000 mAh is standard in the mid-range and lasts a full day. Pay attention to charging speed and whether a power adapter is included. Wireless charging is convenient but not essential. Every battery degrades after two to three years; an affordable battery replacement from the manufacturer is a plus.

Processor and storage

For everyday use, social media and photos, a current mid-range chip is enough. Games with high graphics and video editing benefit from flagship chips. For storage: 128 GB is the minimum, 256 GB is comfortable, since fewer devices have a memory card slot. 8 GB RAM is fine, 12 GB is more future-proof.

Small details that matter in daily use

• IP68 protects against rain and drops into the sink.
• eSIM makes travel and switching providers easier.
• NFC for contactless payment is missing from some budget models.
• Stereo speakers and a good vibration motor distinguish mid-range from entry-level devices.

What to look for in deals

• Previous-year flagships are often the best deals: same update promise, only about one year less remaining support, barely noticeably slower, significantly cheaper.
• Compare storage variants: the markup from 128 to 256 GB is sometimes almost nothing in an offer.
• Contract-tied models only make sense if you need that plan anyway.