How did the trend flip in just 8 years, where budget phones were once small, but now compact options come with a hefty flagship price, even if you only want a simple, reliable device like the Samsung J1?
Exactly, 8 years is a long time in tech. Market trends are driven by what the majority wants. As fewer people buy compact phones, companies focus on larger devices that sell better. Battery life is a huge factor too; smaller phones usually mean smaller batteries, which can be a deal-breaker for many users.
Do you think if battery tech improved, compact phones might make a comeback? Or is the demand for bigger screens just too strong now?
You’re right, the new S24, even with Exynos, has solid battery life now. Plus, with wireless chargers and power banks being so common, running out of battery is less of a worry these days.
But do you think those extras are enough to convince people to switch back to compact phones? Or is the convenience of a bigger screen still too appealing?
Exactly, that’s the main issue. If you’re spending a lot of money on a phone, it should cover your needs without extra gadgets. Carrying a power bank defeats the purpose of having a sleek, compact device. For many, the added bulk and hassle just don’t justify it.
True, it comes down to usage. Heavy users are better off with the Ultra or Plus models, while the base S24 suits those with lighter needs. But it’s interesting how people go for the cheaper option, and then expect premium performance—especially when battery life is a known trade-off.
Maybe it’s more about managing expectations than the phone itself, right?
I totally get that—everyone’s usage is different, and what works for one person might be a struggle for someone else. If the S23+ is barely making it through your day even with power-saving modes and managing connected devices, it really shows how much more demanding modern use cases have become.
You’re right, power banks and chargers aren’t always available or convenient, and a dead phone at the wrong time can lead to real problems, like missing an Uber or navigating a long walk. It highlights how battery life and reliability are still key, despite all the advancements in other areas of smartphones.
That’s a tough trade-off. The smaller size is super convenient for portability, but when it means sacrificing battery life, it’s frustrating—especially with a 4000mAh battery that struggles to last even 6 hours with regular use.
It’s a common dilemma: enjoying the comfort of a compact device but constantly managing battery anxiety.
It sounds like the convenience of portability might not fully outweigh the need for a longer-lasting battery in your case.
That’s fair. I just got the S24+, and while the battery life is phenomenal, one-handed mode is needed quite often. My old phone (OnePlus Nord) was a perfect size, it sits right between the base S24 and the S24+ (in size). I could use one-handed mode if I wanted, but I never needed it for the keyboard and I could shimmy my hand across the back of my phone to quickly avoid using one-handed mode (I never dropped my phone doing this either).