Did you know that 1 in 5 smartphone users spend upwards of 4.5 hours on average on their phones daily? It’s true! With the wide variety of smartphone uses, it’s no wonder they’ve taken over the world.
While smartphones are great, they still need to be purchased wisely. If you’re in the market to buy a new one, there are a few common smartphone purchasing mistakes that you want to avoid.
Don’t worry, though! We’re here to give you a few tips! Keep reading to learn about the things you should avoid doing when buying a new smartphone.
1. Unclear Understanding of Carrier and Plan Options
One of the most common mistakes people make when purchasing a smartphone is an unclear understanding of carrier and plan options.
This mistake can result in investing in an incompatible phone, being unable to access certain services, or even needing to pay extra for overages. To avoid this, research all your carrier options and plan options and compare all of the available features.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check with the store if the phone is compatible with the carrier and plan you are considering.
The reps are there to provide expert advice and assistance, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and get clarification. Purchasing the right phone for your needs and budget will save you a lot of headaches down the road.
2. Underestimating Data Usage Needs
One of the people’s most common mistakes when purchasing a smartphone is underestimating their data needs. Many users assume that their device’s basic features and low-intensity activities will require only a small data plan.
However, streaming music or videos, playing games, and downloading apps can all eat up large amounts of data.
To avoid this mistake, calculate how much data is likely to be used over a month and purchase a plan that fits your needs. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and buy a plan with more data.
3. Underestimating Battery Life Expectancy
Many smartphone purchasing mistakes begin with overestimating the battery life of the phone. Many buyers often assume that their phone will last them an entire day without needing a charge; however, many phones have shorter battery lives than expected.
To ensure the right battery life expectancy, buyers should do their research and find out the actual battery life of the device they plan to buy.
This can be done by looking for device reviews to get an idea of how long the average battery life of the device is.
4. Spending Too Much on Unnecessary Features
One of the most common mistakes is spending too much on unnecessary features. Many smartphones come with bells and whistles that may not be necessary for you.
Before buying a smartphone, take a step back, consider what you need from the device, and weigh up the cost of these features versus the overall price.
5. Skimping on the Quality of Materials and Components
When purchasing a smartphone, focusing on price and features can be tempting. However, skimping on the quality of materials and components when it comes to phones can often lead to a product that only holds up well over time.
Consumers should be mindful of the type of materials used to construct the device. Check for information on the battery life, processor, RAM, and other internal components – look for names of leading manufacturers, such as Qualcomm and Apple, rather than generic parts.
It’s also wise to read user reviews as they can provide insight into the overall quality and durability of a device.
6. Ignoring Activation Fees, Insurance and Repair Costs
Smartphone purchasing mistakes are all too common and can be costly, both financially as well as with your time. First, activating a new phone can come with activation or roaming fees.
Ignoring these fees may put you in for a surprise when your phone bill arrives. Second, insurance or warranty plans are often overlooked but could save you from the repair cost if an accident occurs.
Third, repair costs can add up quickly. Make sure to research any repair options and their fees before purchasing a smartphone.
Try to purchase a phone like Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 from a reputable retailer so it can be easily repaired if an issue arises. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can be sure you’re getting the best deal and the best protection for your new smartphone.
7. Selecting the Wrong Storage Capacity
Common smartphone purchasing mistakes can be easily avoided. One mistake often made is selecting the wrong storage capacity. This is done when the buyer needs to realize the amount of storage he needs for all his apps, media, and files.
To avoid this mistake, research the device features and read reviews. Further, take a look at the specs and see how much internal memory is available and if a microSD card is an option.
If this is an upgrade, add the device’s current memory to the new purchase and consider the new capacity relative to the current activities on the device.
Finally, if this is something you need to learn to calculate, speak directly to a sales representative and get advice on the best storage capacity for your needs. Making the right storage choice can mean enjoying the phone for longer and avoiding regret.
8. Buying Too Early Without Inspection
Buying a phone without researching its features and inspecting the condition of the phone can lead to costly repairs and upgrades in the future.
Additionally, if the phone does not meet your needs, you could be stuck with a device that does not provide the needed features.
To avoid this mistake, research the device prior to purchasing, look for customer reviews, check the specs, and, if possible, inspect the device in person.
Additionally, be sure to understand all the options regarding warranties and insurance to ensure that you are covered should something go wrong with the device in the future.
Avoid These Common Smartphone Purchasing Mistakes Today
Overall, it is important to avoid making common smartphone purchasing mistakes. Research the model, compare prices, and read the warranty information before buying to ensure you make the best purchase.
Lastly, remember to protect your device with a reliable case. With a little bit of research, make a smart buying decision today!
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