Should You Choose a Non-5G Phone in October 2020?
In the early months of 2020, the decision to purchase a non-5G phone over a 5G phone seemed to be a no-brainer, given the lack of 5G network availability in many regions, particularly India. However, as we move into October 2020, it's important to revisit this decision in light of the evolving technology landscape.
Understanding the Current Market
The primary factor to consider is the current state of the 5G market. In India, 5G auctions had not kicked off as of early 2020, leading to a limited 5G network presence. Additionally, the infrastructure required to support 5G networks, such as the deployment of necessary towers and the availability of compatible devices, was still in its nascent stages.
4G vs 5G: Key Differences
While the advancement from 4G to 5G promises faster speeds, lower latency, and more efficient network usage, it's crucial to evaluate whether these improvements are immediately relevant to your needs. For non-5G users, the key benefits of a 5G phone, such as faster download and upload speeds, are not as significant in regions where 5G networks are not yet available.
Current State of the Indian Mobile Market
As of October 2020, the Indian market for 5G smartphones was small but growing. Major smartphone brands such as Samsung, Oppo, and Xiaomi had released their 5G models, albeit at premium prices. In contrast, the market for non-5G smartphones was still strong, with many consumers opting for mid-range devices that offered high-quality cameras, reasonable battery life, and competitive pricing.
Best Camera Smartphones Under ?10,000
Given the current market dynamics, if you are specifically looking for a high-quality camera in your smartphone, there are several excellent non-5G options available under ?10,000, or about $130. Here are some of the top choices:
1. Realme C2
Comes with a 20MP 2MP rear camera setup Battery life of around 5000mAh Loaded with Android 10 with Realme UI Price under ?10,0002. Moto G 5S Plus (4G)
Equipped with a 12MP 2MP dual rear camera system 4000mAh battery that lasts a full day Available in various colors and styles Retail price often under ?10,0003. Vivo V15 (4G)
Features a 32MP front camera for selfies and 24MP 8MP rear camera for photos Battery life of around 3700mAh High-quality display with a fast, smooth operating system Price around ?10,000Conclusion
In October 2020, if you are choosing a mid-range smartphone and live in an area with minimal or no 5G coverage, it makes sense to opt for a non-5G phone. They offer a good balance of features, battery life, and affordability without the added cost of 5G technology that is not yet widely available. However, if you are planning for the future and anticipating moving to a location with 5G coverage, you might want to consider a 5G phone at a later point.
Final Advice
Before making a final decision, it's important to research the 5G market trends in your specific region and consider your long-term needs. If your area is expected to receive 5G coverage in the near future, a non-5G phone might be a good short-term solution. Otherwise, investing in a 5G phone could save you from the potential frustration of waiting for the technology to catch up with your hardware.