Choosing a mobile phone can feel overwhelming, with dozens of models, screen sizes, camera systems, and price points. But, because you use your phone so often, it’s one of the more important purchases you can make.
Buy the best smartphone for your needs
Looking to buy a smartphone? Compare price, performance, battery life and more to decide whether you want a cheap phone, the best phone available or something in between. Our research will help you choose the right one.
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What you need to know when buying a mobile phone
Smartphones pack in a lot of technology. Learn about the key features to look out for so you can choose one that's right for you:
Connectivity: Do you need 5G? What about WiFi 7? And don’t forget the physical ports, like an audio jack for your wired headphones.
Storage: If you have a lot of apps, photos and videos, you may need more storage. Find out what storage size to look for when buying a phone.
Is it time to switch mobile providers?
When it comes to mobile providers, New Zealanders like a “set and forget” approach. But you might be spending more than you need to.
Get the most out of your mobile phone
See our top tips on protecting your smartphone.
Smartphone security: Which phones are supported the longest?
A lack of software support can cut short a phone’s lifespan, even if it’s still functioning perfectly. Different phone brands also have radically divergent approaches to software updates.
How to choose the best case to protect your mobile phone
Learn what you need from a phone case, why you don't need to spend a lot, and what "military grade" really means.
Best basic phones
Some people just want a simple phone that won’t break the bank. Find out which are the best basic smartphones under $500, ranked solely on texting, calling and battery life.
More technology
How we test smartphones
We test a range of mobile phones that are available in New Zealand to find the best models for you.
The test involves scoring:
Camera quality - across a variety of scenes and all camera modes
Processing performance - using standardised benchmarking tests
Durability - including drop testing, water resistance and scratch resistance
Battery life - how long it takes for the battery to drain to 0%
Read our full guide to testing below, or watch our lab footage to see the test in action.
