Buying a new smartphone is a relatively straightforward process, but if you are like me and always wonder if the one you purchase is the right device for you, don't panic—you're not alone.

I often wonder if it's time I tried a completely different brand or operating system. Still, I always settle for something I'm familiar with and usually just go for the latest model similar to my current device.

If you're currently in the market for a new smartphone and want to know which components, apart from the price and whether it's an Android or iOS device, are worth comparing, you've come to the right place.

Here are the key factors to consider when comparing smartphones after deciding it's time for an upgrade.

Which key components should I consider when choosing a new smartphone?

Android smartphone iStock

For most people, myself included, the cost of a new smartphone is often the deciding factor on which devices I can comfortably afford. Today, you can purchase new smartphones upfront or pay in monthly installments.

Before deciding which smartphone to buy, I would suggest devising a reasonable spending budget or finding out what payment plans are available so you can spread the cost.

Having a rough budget for your new smartphone can help you filter your options and find devices that fit within it.

When you are looking at smartphones, some of the other key technological components that I always pay close attention to are the following:

• Screen size and resolution – I prefer devices with a decent-sized screen because I always use my handset to play online games and watch movies on sites like Netflix and Prime. Therefore, I was the resolution to be of the highest standard to improve my viewing experience.
• Battery – a decent smartphone battery should have a minimum of 3,000 milliamp hours of capacity and support fast-charging
• Storage – some of you will need more stage space than others, but I recommend getting a device with at least 64 GB of storage
• Connectivity – the best thing to do would be to get a device that is capable of connecting to the fifth generation wireless mobile phone network (5G)
• Security—It's also important that your new smartphone has plenty of built-in security features to prevent unauthorized access. Examples include fingerprint, voice, and facial recognition features.
• Camera – if you plan on taking plenty of pictures or video footage, then you need to make sure your new device has a solid camera capable of capturing decent-quality images and videos
• RAM and processor – I would also suggest only considering getting a new smartphone if it has at least 8GB of RAM (which helps your device carry out multiple tasks simultaneously) and it has a decent processor, which essentially controls the device's operations

I am interested in playing digital content, so which smartphone is best for these activities?

Pplaying digital content on a smartphone Getty Images

If you are like me and enjoy playing highly sophisticated live dealer titles or feature-rich online fruit machines with high or above-average RTP% payout rates from award-winning software providers such as Evolution and Blueprint, then you want a smartphone designed specifically to handle content like this.

Whenever I log in to play my favorite titles on any of the iGaming sites I have joined with the best RTP% slots, as recommended to me by the experts on the official johnslots.com/en/ review site, I always use my Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

However, I've found that almost any decent modern smartphone works well to run these games smoothly.

Alternatively, you may prefer playing graphically demanding blockbuster triple-A titles, such as Assassin's Creed, Asphalt 9: Legends, or Final Fantasy VII. The important thing is to get a device that won't disappoint you.

Suppose you are specifically looking for a high-end smartphone to play the more demanding titles. In that case, I suggest considering the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro, the OnePlus 12, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5m, or the Nubia Red Magic 9S Pro Gaming device.

Other trusted devices to consider include the Google Pixel 8a, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra 5G, and the OnePlus Open.

Final thoughts

Before spending money on a brand-new smartphone, the best thing to do is to shop around and never purchase the first device you find from the first website you visit. Shopping around and comparing the prices can potentially save you a chunk of money.

I also recommend reading expert reviews and examining each device's specifications to determine which new smartphone might be more suitable for your daily needs.

There is a lot to consider when choosing a new smartphone, so try not to rush into things and take your time to consider all of your options.