Why budget smartphones can be high-tech smart buys

The world’s biggest smartphone maker launched a new flagship device earlier this year, with multi-megapixel cameras, a massive screen, and a surprise stylus.

A few weeks later, it launched this model: a capable phone commanding less than half the price.

And that’s why the Samsung Galaxy A53 is worth considering.

What is likely to keep you thinking about it are the advanced features you get for that cash.

Some of the best additions to Samsung’s pricey S22 series have filtered into this $699 version like well-kept hand-me-downs.

The Galaxy A53 comes with a 6.5-inch screen, for example, and one with a 120 hertz refresh rate that makes scrolling easier on the eyes.

It also uses an upgraded, five nanometre chip and a 5000mah battery this year, can connect nnect to 5G signals, and offers IP67 P67 water-resistance to rebuff uff splashes and spills.

The handy-in-facemask-times addition of an in-screen fingerprint scanner also makes an unexpected appearance this budget phone, and proves surprisingly efficient.

And when it comes to phone cameras, the A53 news is mostly positive. This smartphone offers cameras on its rear panel: a megapixel snapper, a 12megapixel ultra-wide camera, a five-megapixel model for macro closeups, and a depth camera to find focus fast.

There is no telephoto option, unfortunately, and cameras’ performance in lowlight is not as good as pricier peers. This photographic hardware is capable of sharp shots, though, and its portrait mode is much improved.

Naturally, there are compromises to saving so much on your smartphone spend.

The A53 comes without wireless charging, there’s no wall plug in the box, its body feels less premium than top models, and it only comes in two colours: blue and black.

Regardless, smartphone buyers with a pocket to fill but no deep pockets should appreciate the value it brings.