7 Factors To Consider When Choosing the Ideal Gaming Smartphone 

Gaming smartphone.
Gaming smartphone. Source: Shutterstock

Thanks to technology, mobile gaming has become very popular over the last few years. With hundreds of new devices being released yearly, players can enjoy all their favourite mobile games with just the click of a button. But choosing the best smartphone for gaming can prove more challenging than you can imagine. If you’re entirely new to mobile gaming and looking to choose the ideal gaming smartphone for your needs, there are a few factors you need to consider. These factors include:  

Pricing

There are no two ways about it. The best smartphones can cost quite a lot. You might need to fork out at least $1,000 to lay your hands on premium handsets like iPhone 14 Pro Max and Galaxy S22 Ultra. But don’t fret because average smartphones have proved to be capable alternatives. Even a $200 smartphone will easily handle most of your gaming needs, including playing at top online casinos. However, you may have to contend with numerous drawbacks like overheating, low refresh rates, etc. 

Processor 

The processor is a smartphone’s Central Processing Unit (CPU). If you don’t get it right with the processor, you might experience overheating and unnecessary lags during your gaming sessions. The best gaming handsets should have at least an Octa-core chipset. However, more cores don’t necessarily mean raw processing power. After all, most mobile phones only use half their cores at a time. Instead, it gives your phone more room to switch to a higher-power chipset when doing something more intensive, like playing games and streaming videos. 

RAM 

RAM (Random Access Memory) directly correlates with the processor. This memory stores the operating system and other app data that users cannot change. With that in mind, more RAM means your phone will load faster and offer efficient gaming sessions. Think of it like this; RAM is simply a space where your phone’s OS runs. So, a bigger RAM space allows the OS more wiggle room to operate. These days, mid-range phones have at least 4GB RAM, although 6GB is best for intensive gaming

Display

We’re pretty sure most people already know a thing or six about this requirement. When choosing a smart TV, one critical requirement is the type of display. Apply the same analogy when selecting a gaming smartphone. For the resolution, go for a 4K UHD display for a crisper view during your gaming sessions. Also, consider a higher refresh rate of 90Hz, although most premium smartphones will clock 120Hz. And, of course, a bigger display is always better for gaming. Anything above 5.7 inches should be excellent.

Mobile Data 

In this technological age, any smartphone that doesn’t support at least 4G mobile data is a big no. You won’t find those in the market anyways. In short, the best gaming smartphone should support 4G and 5G connections. Most 5G internets can clock up to 10 Gbps download speeds faster than most home Wi-Fi. This means a shorter time to download data over the internet. And remember to avoid roaming charges with an eSIM. These inbuilt SIM cards allow users to switch between mobile networks without necessarily incurring extra calling or browsing charges.  You also get unlimited data access without cap with your eSIM!

Battery

Gaming can transform your smartphone into a serious resource hog. You’ll notice your battery juice draining faster than usual when playing an online multiplayer game. While there’s little you can do to prevent this, choosing a smartphone with a significant battery capacity is a no-brainer. This has been a long-standing problem for most iPhone users, although Apple is gradually addressing that with recent upgrades. But even if you have a 5000mAh battery capacity, arming yourself with a power bank is critical if you’re an avid gamer. 

Operating System

There are two primary smartphone operating systems – Android and iOS. Unless you have a personal favourite, you should be satisfied with the game experience of both phones. For example, Apple’s A1 Bionic chipset is considered the best in the game. But on the flip side, most premium Android phones have bigger battery capacities, and the Snapdragon chipset is no slouch either. So, in simple words, playing on both platforms has its pros and cons. It’s just about brand preference and allegiance. 

Summary

And that’s how to choose the ideal gaming smartphone without breaking a sweat. Remember, most average smartphones can efficiently handle your gaming need. But for the ultimate gaming sessions on your mobile phone, you may need to pay up to enjoy features like faster refresh rates, bigger RAMs, 4K displays, and more. 

As an Amazon Associate, Scoop Canada earns from qualifying purchases.
Available for Amazon Prime