Top 3 Key Points:
- Flagship Features on a Budget: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE offers high-end specs like a telephoto camera, high-resolution video recording, and water resistance at a discounted price compared to traditional flagships.
- Pixel Choice: The Google Pixel 7a remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability over the latest upgrades found in the Pixel 8a.
- Honor’s Budget Powerhouses: Honor offers two compelling options in the sub-£200 and sub-£300 range, boasting large displays, powerful batteries, and impressive cameras.
Looking for a phone with top-of-the-line features without breaking the bank? This article dives into some of the latest deals on smartphones alongside a budget-friendly smartwatch option. We’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, Google Pixel 7a, and some exciting offerings from Honor.
Finding the Right Balance: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE vs. Alternatives
While the recently discounted Samsung Galaxy A55 might seem attractive, its price has bounced back above £400. This presents a great opportunity to consider the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, which offers features typically found in flagships for a more competitive price.
The S23 FE boasts a telephoto camera, 4K/60fps and 8K/30fps video recording capabilities, wireless charging, and superior water resistance. However, battery life is a weak spot, with the S23 FE falling short compared to the A55. Additionally, the lack of a microSD slot limits storage expandability.
Pixel Power: Deciding Between the 7a and 8a
A month ago, the Google Pixel 7a bundled with a 30W charger was a hot deal. While the 8a has since launched, the 7a remains available with the charger, albeit at a slightly higher price point of £300.
The Pixel 8a offers several advantages over its predecessor, including a more powerful Tensor G3 chip, a faster 120Hz OLED display, extended software support, and the option for 256GB storage. However, the primary reason to consider the 7a is its lower price tag, costing significantly less than the 8a for the same base configuration.
Honor’s Budget Options: Power and Value
For those seeking a powerful phone under £200, the Honor 90 Smart is a compelling choice. It boasts 5G connectivity, a large display with a 90Hz refresh rate, and a powerful 108MP camera. The 5,330mAh battery with 35W charging ensures extended use and fast charging times.
If you have some extra room in your budget, the Honor Magic6 Lite offers an even more impressive package. It upgrades to a faster Snapdragon processor, a stunning OLED display with curved edges and a higher resolution, and an IP53 water resistance rating. The camera setup includes the same 108MP main sensor but adds a basic 5MP ultrawide lens. The battery remains largely the same with 5,300mAh and 35W charging.
Rounding Out Your Tech Arsenal: Sennheiser and Huawei
We recently reviewed the Sennheiser Accentum Plus headphones, impressed by their performance surpasses their price point. The Sound Personalization feature was a standout, offering a more sophisticated experience than a simple equalizer. However, comfort might be an issue for some users, and getting the most out of them practically requires creating an account.
In the smartwatch category, the Huawei Watch Fit 3 offers a lightweight and capable option at an affordable price. Usually priced at £140, you can currently find it bundled with the Huawei Freebuds SE 2 earbuds for the same price, making it an even more enticing deal.
