In today’s tech-driven world, smartphones are an essential tool for everyday life. Whether you are using them for communication, work, or entertainment, having the right device makes a world of difference. If you’re wondering which smartphone to buy for €400, this guide is here to help. Let’s dive deep into the best smartphones under €400, their features, and everything you need to know before making your purchase.
Why Choose a Smartphone Under €400?
Buying a smartphone for €400 provides an excellent balance between performance and affordability. You’re no longer stuck with low-end options but are still avoiding the high costs of flagship models. These mid-range phones often offer features borrowed from premium models, making them ideal for most users.
Best Smartphones for €400 in 2024
With several options available, narrowing down the best smartphone for €400 can be overwhelming. Here’s a list of the top contenders that offer fantastic value for your money.
Apple iPhone 12, 128GB (Refurbished)
The Apple iPhone 12 is a refurbished device that retains its premium appeal and top-tier features. With 128GB of storage, iOS’s smooth interface, and Apple’s elegant design, this is one of the best options for those looking to get into the Apple ecosystem without breaking the bank.
Key Features of the iPhone 12
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR
- Processor: A14 Bionic chip
- Camera: Dual 12MP system for high-quality photography
- Operating System: iOS with access to millions of apps
- Battery Life: Lasts up to a day with moderate use
Apple iPhone 12 Pro 128GB (Refurbished)
For an extra touch of luxury, consider the iPhone 12 Pro. It has the same sleek design but adds a bit more power and camera functionality, making it ideal for those who love photography or require a little more performance.
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB (Refurbished)
Moving up a generation, the iPhone 13 features a more powerful A15 Bionic chip, improved battery life, and enhanced camera capabilities. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a more future-proof device at a reasonable price.
Samsung Galaxy A55
The Samsung Galaxy A55 is one of the best Android devices available under €400. It’s sleek, feature-packed, and offers solid performance for daily tasks, gaming, and multimedia consumption.
Key Features of the Galaxy A55
- Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED with Full HD resolution
- Processor: Exynos 1280
- Camera: Quad camera system with 64MP main sensor
- Battery Life: 5000 mAh battery offering long endurance
- Operating System: Android 14
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro offers a massive 512GB of storage and 12GB of RAM, making it an excellent choice for those who love to store a lot of media or play high-end mobile games.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Smartphone for €400
Now that you have an idea of the best smartphones available, it’s important to understand the features you should focus on when making your choice.
Display Quality
Your smartphone’s display is one of the most critical features, especially if you use it to stream videos, play games, or browse the web.
Resolution and Refresh Rate
- Resolution: A Full HD display (1080p) is essential for crisp visuals.
- Refresh Rate: Look for at least a 90Hz refresh rate for a smoother experience when scrolling or gaming.
Processor and RAM
The performance of your smartphone depends heavily on its processor and RAM. For a budget of €400, you can expect processors like the Snapdragon 765G or Exynos 1280 paired with at least 6GB of RAM.
Why This Matters?
A faster processor ensures your phone can handle multitasking, apps load faster, and games run smoothly. More RAM helps with smoother performance, especially when running multiple apps at once.
Camera Quality
Smartphone cameras have come a long way, and mid-range phones now offer impressive photographic abilities.
What to Look For in Smartphone Cameras
- Megapixels: While megapixels matter, sensor quality and software optimizations are just as important.
- Night Mode: Phones like the iPhone 12 and Samsung Galaxy A55 have exceptional night modes for low-light photography.
- Video Recording: Look for 4K video recording capabilities if you’re into vlogging or capturing high-quality videos.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
A good battery can last you through a full day of use. Aim for a battery with a minimum capacity of 4000 mAh.
Fast Charging
Quick charging technology has evolved, with some phones offering up to 120W fast charging, giving you hours of use from just a few minutes of charge.
5G Connectivity
Most smartphones in the €400 range now come with 5G support. This future-proofs your phone and ensures faster internet speeds for browsing, streaming, and downloads.
Dual-SIM Functionality
Many phones in this price range also offer dual-SIM support, which is great for those who want to separate work and personal numbers on the same device.
Android vs. iOS: Which One to Choose?
One of the first decisions you’ll make when buying a smartphone is choosing between Android and iOS. Both platforms have their pros and cons, but ultimately, it comes down to your preferences.
Advantages of iOS
- Security: Apple devices are known for their strong security protocols.
- Smooth Ecosystem: Seamless integration with other Apple products like the iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
- Longer Software Updates: iPhones receive updates for up to 5 years, making them more future-proof.
Advantages of Android
- Customization: Android gives you more control over how your phone looks and operates.
- More Variety: A wide range of devices at different price points.
- Google Integration: Android works smoothly with Google services like Google Drive, Maps, and Gmail.
Conclusion
Choosing a smartphone under €400 gives you access to devices that balance affordability and quality. Whether you’re a fan of iOS or Android, there are fantastic options available for everyone. The models listed in this guide offer great performance, excellent cameras, and solid build quality. Make sure to consider your personal needs, whether it’s camera quality, processing power, or battery life, to find the best smartphone for you.
FAQs
1. Can I get a flagship-level performance for €400?
While smartphones in this range borrow features from flagship models, you might not get the same level of performance as devices priced over €1,000. However, you will still get solid performance for everyday tasks.
2. Are refurbished phones worth buying?
Yes, refurbished phones are a great way to get premium devices at lower prices. Just ensure you’re buying from a reliable source.
3. Do €400 smartphones support wireless charging?
Some models, like the iPhone 12, support wireless charging, but it’s not a common feature in all devices at this price point.
4. How long will the battery last on a €400 phone?
Battery life depends on usage, but most smartphones at this price point can last a full day with moderate use.
5. Are these phones water-resistant?
Some smartphones, especially refurbished premium models, offer water resistance. However, always check the device’s specific IP rating.
6. Is 5G available on €400 smartphones?
Yes, many smartphones in this range support 5G, which future-proofs your device for faster internet speeds.
7. Can I use dual SIM cards in these phones?
Yes, many mid-range smartphones, especially Android models, support dual SIM cards.
8. How much storage do I need?
For most users, 128GB of storage is sufficient for apps, photos, and videos. However, if you store a lot of media, opt for models with 256GB or expandable storage options.
