Best Mid-Range Smartphones of 2021 – Tech Advisor’s Top Picks

Testing Methodology for Mid-Range Phones

When it comes to evaluating mid-range phones, our approach focuses on real-world usage scenarios. We immerse ourselves in using each device as our primary phone for a minimum of one week, often extending this period for a more comprehensive assessment.

This extended timeframe allows us to gather insights that go beyond surface-level observations, including in-depth camera performance analysis across various settings and long-term battery durability assessments. While we do conduct standardized benchmark tests on all mid-range phones for comparison purposes, our final judgments are not solely based on these results.

For more details on our smartphone testing process, please refer to our comprehensive guide.

Why Trust Tech Advisor for Mid-Range Phone Reviews

Having covered mid-range smartphones since their inception post the debut of the original iPhone in 2007 and the subsequent introduction of Android, Tech Advisor boasts a rich history in evaluating phones from a wide range of manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus, Motorola, Nothing, Xiaomi, Honor, and others.

Mid-range phones occupy a crucial niche in our coverage spectrum, bridging the gap between budget-friendly options and premium flagship models. Our team regularly reviews new mid-range devices, drawing on the collective expertise of seasoned in-house professionals and trusted contributors.

Authorship

Our dedicated Mobile Editor, Anyron, spearheads the compilation of top mid-range phone recommendations. With a primary focus on testing, reviewing, and reporting on the latest phone models, Anyron possesses extensive industry experience and is often among the first to get hands-on with cutting-edge devices. Assisting in this endeavor is our Managing Editor, Chris, a veteran with 15 years of phone testing experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mid-Range Phone

When evaluating mid-range phones, key considerations include build quality, design aesthetics, display performance, overall speed and responsiveness, camera capabilities, battery longevity, software functionality, and value proposition.

At Tech Advisor, we categorize mid-range phones as devices priced between £300/$300 and £700/$700 for outright purchases, with contract terms varying based on factors like network availability and data requirements.

If budget constraints are a concern, we recommend exploring our curated list of top budget-friendly phones before delving into mid-range options. Opting for an outright purchase typically offers the best value, although we understand that financial constraints may necessitate considering installment plans. In such cases, it’s essential to factor in both the device cost and associated plan expenses.