Latest news with #affordabletech
Phone Arena
04-07-2025
- Phone Arena
Samsung has the right idea for a cheaper foldable, but it needs to change this one thing
Samsung has spent years refining its clamshell foldables into the most popular phone in their segment, but now, with the rumored upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, the company is finally taking a shot at something everyone has been waiting for: a more affordable Z Flip!At first glance, the new foldable Fan Edition has everything it needs to succeed. It carries over the design of Samsung's premium Z Flip models and shares much of the same hardware, all while targeting a rumored price between $700 and $800 — a much more accessible entry point into the foldable price would also put it in direct competition with the Motorola Razr (2025), a phone that has enjoyed near-absolute control over the budget foldable space, mostly because Samsung never had anything to offer at this price point. But if Samsung really wants the Z Flip 7 FE to matter, it has to stop holding it back like it's been doing with previous Z Flip models. With an Exynos 2400 chip and premium build, the Flip 7 FE punches well above its price class. | Image credit — PhoneArena For a budget foldable, the Z Flip 7 FE sounds like it has a lot going for it. Given that we believe the rumors saying it will come in the same body as the Z Flip 6 , that means we can expect the same build quality, displays, and hinge design. That means an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the outside, a 6.7-inch 120Hz inner display with HDR10+ support, and a 3.4-inch OLED cover screen. Not too bad of a spec Samsung really pulls ahead is performance, though. The Z Flip 7 FE is said to pack the Exynos 2400, a 4nm chip also found in the Galaxy S24. This gives it a huge edge over the Razr's MediaTek Dimensity 7400X, which we found underwhelming in both CPU and GPU benchmarks, as well as in our real world experience with the phone. On top of that, the Z Flip 7 FE is also expected to include faster and more power efficient LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Even when compared to the older Galaxy Z Flip 6, the FE model doesn't show its 'budget' nature that much. Yes, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Flip 6 is still faster, and it comes with 12 GB RAM versus the FE's expected 8 GB. But unless you're pushing your phone with demanding tasks, there probably wouldn't be that much of a difference in the user experience. The Razr (2025) nails the cover screen experience, while Samsung sticks to frustrating limitations. | Image credit — PhoneArena Despite its strong foundation, it almost seems like Samsung is being lazy with how it utilizes the foldable form factor of its Z Flip series. I am talking about the cover screen, and more specifically — making it truly useful and intuitive. In contrast, Motorola is well aware of the strengths of its Razr phones. The Razr (2025) features a larger 3.6-inch cover screen with better resolution and one big advantage: it lets you run any app without any additional workarounds on your side. In contrast, the Z Flip 7 FE is expected to inherit the same limitations as the Flip 6, where the outer display is restricted to a handful of widgets — unless users go out of their way to install Samsung's Good Lock app. It's an awkward solution to a self-imposed problem, and it undermines the appeal of having a foldable phone in the first place. Its flagship Z Flip 7 is rumored to get a larger 4-inch cover display, but like previous models, it too is rumored to lack native full app functionality on its cover display. The Flip 7 FE risks getting overshadowed by the discounted, more capable Z Flip 6. The Z Flip 7 FE also faces an odd internal competition: the discounted Galaxy Z Flip 6 . Last year's model will likely drop in price once the Galaxy Z Flip 7 launches, putting it closer to the FE's expected $799 price tag. That makes me wonder why would anyone go with the budget version when you can get a flagship-tier experience for possibly the same, or at least a similar price? The Z Flip 6 uses the more efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which has better GPU performance, and already supports Samsung's AI features like Generative Edit and Live Translate. Unless Samsung gives the Flip 7 FE something meaningful to differentiate it — like better cover screen usability or more aggressive pricing — the Fan Edition might not turn out to be as popular as the company hopes. Despite these caveats, there's still a strong case to be made for the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE. For one, its arrival signals a shift in the market: Motorola will no longer have monopoly over the affordable foldable phone market. In fact, this could be the start of something great for foldable fans out there. Even though I myself am not one, it's always great to see innovative tech become more affordable, as it means we are progressing. And if Samsung comes out with its usual software promise of seven years of updates, One UI 8 out of the box, and foldable-specific features that utilize this form factor, the FE could become the go-to choice for customers. But that will only happen if Samsung treats it like more than just a budget placeholder. The hardware is there. The design is there. The performance is there. What's missing is the willingness to give users the full experience. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
Geeky Gadgets
03-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Summer 2025: Top Budget Smartphones Revealed
The summer of 2025 offers a diverse range of budget smartphones that combine affordability with impressive features. Whether you prioritize display quality, battery life, gaming performance, or camera capabilities, there's a device tailored to meet your needs. The video below from Tech Spurt explores the top budget-friendly smartphones available this season, helping you make an informed decision based on your preferences. Watch this video on YouTube. Nothing Phone 3A: Stylish and Versatile The Nothing Phone 3A stands out as a stylish and functional option, priced at just over £300. Its OLED display delivers vibrant and sharp visuals, making it ideal for media consumption. The telephoto camera ensures decent photography performance, while the Nothing OS introduces the Essential Space feature, which enhances multitasking for productivity-focused users. A unique feature of this phone is its flashing back panel, which doubles as a notification system, adding a distinctive and practical flair. With solid gaming performance, the Nothing Phone 3A is a versatile choice for users seeking a balance of design, functionality, and performance. CMF Phone 2 Pro: Durable and Customizable For those who prioritize durability, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is a compelling choice. This rugged smartphone combines a customizable design with reliable performance, all at a lower price than the Nothing Phone 3A. It features an AMOLED display, a basic telephoto camera, and dependable battery life. While it may not excel in heavy gaming, its sturdy construction makes it an excellent option for users who need a tough yet stylish device. The CMF Phone 2 Pro is particularly suited for individuals who value resilience without compromising on essential features. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G: Affordable Premium Features The Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G offers premium features at an affordable price of under £300. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, delivering an immersive viewing experience for streaming and gaming. The phone also features water resistance and decent battery life, making it a reliable companion for everyday use. While it handles moderate gaming effectively, its camera performance can be inconsistent, especially in low-light conditions. This device is an excellent choice for users seeking advanced display technology and solid overall performance without exceeding their budget. Xiaomi Poco F7: Built for Gamers The Xiaomi Poco F7 is a powerhouse designed for gaming enthusiasts. It features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8S Gen 4 chipset, and a massive 6,500 mAh battery with fast charging capabilities. These specifications ensure smooth gameplay and extended usage. Additionally, the phone includes IP68 water resistance, enhancing its durability for everyday use. However, extended gaming sessions may cause the device to heat up, which could affect comfort for heavy users. For those who prioritize gaming performance above all else, the Xiaomi Poco F7 is a top contender. Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro: Unique Design with Reliable Performance The Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro appeals to users who value both aesthetics and functionality. It's Iron Man-themed special edition offers a distinctive design that stands out from the crowd. The phone is equipped with an AMOLED display, a Dimensity 8400 Ultra chipset, and IP68 water resistance, ensuring reliable performance and durability. The 6,000 mAh battery provides ample power for daily tasks, making it a practical choice for users who want a blend of style and performance. OnePlus Nord C4 Lite 5G: Balanced and Practical The OnePlus Nord C4 Lite 5G delivers a well-rounded experience for everyday use. Its OLED display, stereo speakers, and headphone jack make it an excellent choice for media consumption. The 5,100 mAh battery supports 80W fast charging, ensuring minimal downtime and convenience for users on the go. While its Snapdragon 695 chipset limits gaming capabilities, the phone excels in handling routine tasks and casual use. This device is ideal for users seeking a practical and balanced smartphone for daily activities. Motorola Moto G56 5G: Dependable and Durable The Motorola Moto G56 5G is a reliable option for users who prioritize durability and dependability. It features an LCD display, IP68 water resistance, and stereo speakers, making sure a robust and enjoyable user experience. The phone's Dimensity 7060 chipset may restrict gaming performance, but its dependable battery life makes it a trustworthy choice for general use. This device is particularly suited for individuals who need a rugged smartphone that can withstand everyday challenges. Motorola Moto G35: Simplicity and Longevity The Motorola Moto G35 focuses on delivering essential features with a clean and straightforward Android experience. Its excellent battery life ensures long-lasting performance, making it a reliable option for users who value simplicity over advanced features. While its performance and camera capabilities are basic, the Moto G35 is an ideal choice for those who prioritize longevity and ease of use. Motorola Moto G05: Affordable Secondary Option For users on a tight budget, the Motorola Moto G05 is an excellent secondary phone or a suitable choice for children. It offers basic functionality at an extremely affordable price, making it ideal for users with minimal requirements or as a backup device. This phone is perfect for those who need a simple and cost-effective solution. HMD Fusion: Sustainable and Repairable The HMD Fusion stands out for its emphasis on sustainability. Its repairable and expandable design makes it an environmentally friendly choice for buyers who prioritize longevity. Running on stock Android, it provides a user-friendly interface and dependable battery life. However, its low-resolution screen and limited performance may not satisfy users seeking advanced features. The HMD Fusion is a great option for environmentally conscious individuals who value sustainability and practicality. Unlock more potential in Best budget smartphones by reading the previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Tech Spurt Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Yahoo
These are the 5 best laptops under $500, recommended by a tech expert
Need a new computer, but don't have a healthy budget? You may be surprised what you can snag today, for a fraction of the price of a higher-end PC or Mac. In fact, despite rising global computer costs, you can find a handful of stellar laptops or Chromebooks for under $500 that are designed for work, school, or play. They're ideal for basic tasks, like web browsing and online shopping, reading email, accessing social media, word processing or spreadsheet creation, and some light gaming. If you're a university or college student or taking notes in high school, the prices are also digestible. We tested a handful of laptops under $500 from Lenovo, Acer, Dell and ASUS, and chose the following five as worthy are the 5 best TVs under $500, according to a tech expert The best headphones of 2025 for every budget, tested by a tech expert The best robot vacuums and mops we've tested in 2025
The Sun
21-05-2025
- The Sun
Our tech experts reveal best budget-friendly mobiles to buy that will save you HUNDREDS – even if you're an iPhone fan
SMARTPHONES don't have to cost the Earth - and going cheaper doesn't necessarily mean making huge compromises either. Consumers are so spoilt for choice these days, it's almost hard to pick. But our crack Sun Tech team has chosen their top budget mobiles, revealing a slick handset that costs under £250 and a budget iPhone you've probably missed (with 26 HOURS of battery life, no less). 5 Too often people tend to stick to what they know when upgrading, rather than considering more budget-friendly options that are just as good. The Sun's tech team gets their hands on loads of smartphones all the time, from the big, fancy devices to the cheap handsets. Technology has now got so good that even the cheaper phones pack a punch, with many of the must-have features you would expect in an expensive mobile. This includes fantastic battery, great cameras and tools that are actually useful to you. Here are the three we recommend buying this year so far. CMF Phone 2 Pro Jamie Harris - Assistant Technology and Science Editor Chances are, you've never heard of CMF nor its parent brand Nothing. The company only came about in 2020 and has shaken up the scene with much cheaper Android smartphones that do away with the usual bland designs. I've not long reviewed the CMF Phone 2 Pro and I was impressed with the rugged look and how tough it felt in my hands. The battery is also really good for a brand new phone this cheap, going well into the second day with regular usage. Apple shows you tips and tricks on the new Iphone 16e with Apple Intelligence So how much is it? A shocking £249. Yes, there are some parts of it that aren't as good, such as its resistance to water, with a lower rating compared to other phones. And while the camera isn't as impressive as others on the market you can still get some fairly decent shots. You can read my full review on the CMF Phone 2 Pro here. iPhone 16e 5 Sean Keach – Head of Technology and Science Every year we all complain that the latest iPhone doesn't look all that different to last year's iPhone. Or even the one before that. Well friends, that's a good thing. It means most smartphones are now extremely good – even if you're buying a properly cheap model, or one that's a bit old. Please don't feel like you have to splash out on the flashest mobile with a four-digit price tag. You almost certainly don't need one. Enter the iPhone 16e, which is currently the cheapest model in Apple's line-up. It came out earlier this year (so you can say it's new) and – to the untrained eye – looks just like the iPhone 16 (so you could feasibly pretend that it is one to your mates). The battery life is wild. Apple says you'll get 26 hours of video playback from it – and I struggled to run it down in my iPhone 16e review. In fact, it serves up four more hours of use per charge compared to the pricier iPhone 16. It looks the part with an all-screen design (including a posh 6.1-inch OLED display that's probably better than your telly), Face ID scanning, and an Action Button that can be mapped to identify a song playing nearby or remind your daughter to feed the dog. It's even sort of future-proofed because it supports Apple Intelligence AI tricks (even the iPhone 15 doesn't have that) thanks to the speedy processor on board, and also includes a USB-C charging port, for which cables are now extremely common. And the upside is that this model costs £599, which is a whopping £200 less than the entry-level iPhone 16. Bargain. That means you can get some very low monthly prices. We covered a Sky Mobile iPhone 16e deal recently that was £19 a month for the phone plus an extra £11 for 40GB of 5G data. And let's be honest: when the new iPhone 17 comes out later this year, you can probably pretend you've got that too. Samsung Galaxy A56 5 Millie Turner - Senior Technology and Science Reporter While I'm an Apple girl through-and-through, the Galaxy A56 5G is a good enough deal to tempt even me. This budget handset enjoys most of what's good about the main Galaxy S25 phones, without the eyewatering price. For just £499, consumers can get a glossy new smartphone jam-packed with Galaxy AI features. The A56 runs on Android 15 with Samsung's very latest One UI 7 on top. That means it comes with some of Samsung's biggest AI tools, some of which only just landed on the much more expensive Galaxy S25 series. Like the magic eraser, for example, which can remove objects from photos. Or, the AI-powered auto trim tool that quickly cuts videos to their best moments. Samsung has also pledged to offer up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, as well as six years of security updates. This is an increase from the four operating system updates and five years of security updates offered on the A55. It means you get two extra years of not needing to upgrade your device, while still getting to enjoy some clever AI tools.
Geeky Gadgets
12-05-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
M4 MacBook Air & Mac Mini: Apple's Top Budget Picks for 2025
Apple has made a decisive move in the tech industry by unveiling two devices that redefine the standards of budget computing. The $850 M4 MacBook Air and the $500 M4 Mac Mini combine affordability with the high performance and quality Apple is known for. These new offerings signal a strategic shift, positioning Apple as a strong competitor in the budget PC and laptop markets while maintaining its reputation for innovation and premium design. The video below from Max Tech gives us more details about Apple's budget-friendly Macs. Watch this video on YouTube. M4 MacBook Air: Redefining Budget-Friendly Laptops The M4 MacBook Air sets a new benchmark for what users can expect from a budget laptop. At its heart is the innovative M4 chip, which delivers faster processing speeds and enhanced energy efficiency. With 16GB of RAM—double that of its predecessor—it handles multitasking, productivity software, and demanding applications effortlessly. The decision to lower the price from $1,100 to $850 makes this device a standout option for budget-conscious consumers. Battery life is another area where the M4 MacBook Air excels, offering extended usage that outperforms many competitors in its price range. This makes it an ideal choice for users who need a reliable device for work, study, or travel. Combined with macOS, which is optimized for seamless hardware-software integration, the MacBook Air provides a smooth and intuitive user experience. Additionally, its high resale value ensures that your investment retains its worth over time, further enhancing its appeal. The M4 MacBook Air also retains Apple's signature design, featuring a sleek, lightweight build that prioritizes portability without sacrificing durability. Whether you're a student, professional, or casual user, this laptop offers a compelling mix of performance, reliability, and affordability. M4 Mac Mini: Compact Powerhouse at an Unbeatable Price For desktop users, the M4 Mac Mini delivers a remarkable combination of performance and affordability. Priced at just $500, it offers capabilities that rival more expensive mini PCs and custom-built desktops. Powered by the M4 chip, the Mac Mini handles a wide range of tasks, from productivity and web browsing to media editing and light creative work, with effortless efficiency. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a space-saving desktop solution. Despite its small size, the M4 Mac Mini does not compromise on build quality or performance. The device is built to last, with robust hardware that ensures long-term reliability. Additionally, macOS integration enhances its usability, providing a stable and consistent performance over time. The M4 Mac Mini is particularly appealing for those setting up a home office or looking for a secondary computer. Its affordability and versatility make it a practical choice for a wide range of users, from professionals to casual users who need a reliable desktop solution. Apple's Strategic Pricing and Market Disruption Apple's pricing strategy for the M4 MacBook Air and M4 Mac Mini represents a calculated effort to disrupt the budget computing market. By offering premium hardware and software at lower price points, Apple is challenging competitors like Microsoft and other Windows-based PC manufacturers. Devices such as the Microsoft Surface Laptop and Snapdragon-powered PCs struggle to match the efficiency, performance, and resale value of Apple's new offerings. This aggressive pricing approach also broadens Apple's appeal to a wider audience, including budget-conscious consumers who may have previously opted for Windows PCs. By aligning prices with market demand and inflation, Apple is making its products more accessible without compromising on quality. This strategy positions the company as a serious contender in the budget segment, traditionally dominated by Windows-based devices. Key Strengths and Considerations The M4 MacBook Air and M4 Mac Mini excel in several critical areas, making them standout choices in their respective categories: Performance: The M4 chip delivers industry-leading speed and energy efficiency for budget devices. The M4 chip delivers industry-leading speed and energy efficiency for budget devices. Battery Life: The MacBook Air offers extended usage, ideal for users who need portability and reliability. The MacBook Air offers extended usage, ideal for users who need portability and reliability. Build Quality: Both devices feature Apple's signature durability and sleek design. Both devices feature Apple's signature durability and sleek design. Software Optimization: macOS ensures seamless integration, stability, and reliability. However, there are some limitations to consider. Gaming support on macOS remains limited compared to Windows PCs, which may deter users seeking a device for high-performance gaming. Additionally, while the M4 Mac Mini offers impressive performance for its price, users requiring advanced customization or specialized hardware may find it less suitable than custom-built PCs. Despite these considerations, both devices are well-suited for a wide range of applications, from productivity and creative work to everyday computing tasks. Reshaping the Budget Computing Landscape Apple's introduction of the M4 MacBook Air and M4 Mac Mini marks a significant shift in its market strategy. By delivering high-quality devices at competitive prices, Apple is not only challenging its competitors but also reshaping consumer expectations for value and performance in the tech industry. This move could influence future innovations, with potential updates like the M5 and M6 chips likely to build on this momentum. These devices highlight Apple's commitment to making premium technology more accessible. Whether you're a student, professional, or casual user, the M4 MacBook Air and M4 Mac Mini offer exceptional value, combining affordability with the performance and reliability that Apple is known for. As Apple continues to expand its presence in the budget computing market, these products stand as a testament to the company's ability to innovate and adapt to evolving consumer needs. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on M4 MacBook Air. Source & Image Credit: Max Tech Filed Under: Apple, Laptops, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
