Tech Column: 2015: the year to buy inexpensive, unlocked smartphones
Ring in the new year with a new phone
Logan Krupa
Tech Columnist
The large majority of smartphones sold in Canada are subsidized by wireless providers in exchange for two year contracts, and they are sold “locked,” which only allows those smartphones to function with that same provider.
But, purchasing an unlocked, unsubsidized smartphone often results in sticker-shock. New models can potentially sell from $700 and up.
If you wish to avoid contracts and you still desire a phone with great performance, 2015 could be the year for you. Here are a few upcoming Android smartphones that should be a great value. All prices stated are for unlocked, unsubsidized phones.
Blu Studio Energy: Incredible Battery Life
Price: $179 USD
Expected release date: End of January
Do you find yourself charging your smartphone every day? I think most of us have to deal with this. Blu is a low cost phone manufacturer from the US that is trying to change that. The Blu Studio Energy has an incredible 5,000 mAh battery, by far the biggest I’ve heard of in a five-inch smartphone. Blu claims the Studio Energy can last for up to four days of standard usage. However, with every pro there is a con. In this model, it’s that the phone lacks in the specs department. With only a 720p screen, 8GB of storage and 1GB of RAM, there are better options on the market. It all depends on whether you prefer battery life more than raw power. If that is the case, this phone might be the one for you!
HTC Desire 826: Brighter, Better Selfies
Price: Currently Unknown
Expected release date: End of January
The price of the HTC Desire 826 was not announced at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, however the smartphone should be a good value, as HTC has touted it as being an “entry-level” model.
What makes the Desire 826 intriguing is that HTC is using the company’s Ultra Pixel technology in the front facing camera. Ultra Pixel cameras from HTC generally perform well in low-light, so the Desire 826 is expected to be great for selfies. The rear camera on the phone is pretty good too, with a 13-megapixel camera.
All the specs on the Desire 826 seem good, with a 5.5-inch 1080p screen, 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage.
Asus ZenFone 2: Great Specs for a Small Price
Price: $199 USD
Expected Release: April – June
Asus is a brand better known for computers, but the company is turning heads with the latest ZenFone model. The base model ZenFone 2 will feature a 64-bit Intel processor, a full high-definition Gorilla Glass 3 display and fast-charging technology, along with 2GB of RAM and 16GB storage. Models are configurable with up to 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage space for an increased price. What does all that mean in practical terms? The Zen Fone 2 should prove to be a durable and fast phone that will be a solid value.
