Tech buying FAQ

For most Android users, 8 GB is enough today. If you plan to keep the phone five years or rely on on-device AI features, 12 GB gives more headroom. iPhones manage memory differently, so their lower RAM figures are not directly comparable.

Often yes. With six to seven years of updates now common from Apple, Samsung and Google, a discounted previous-generation flagship usually offers better cameras and build than a new mid-range phone at the same price. See our budget guide.

Yes — scrolling and animations look noticeably smoother. LTPO panels that drop the refresh rate on static content also save battery, so a high refresh rate no longer means a big endurance penalty.

Under the IEC 60529 standard, the 6 means fully dust-tight and the 8 means protection against continuous immersion beyond 1 metre, under conditions the manufacturer specifies. It does not cover salt water, pools with chemicals or high-pressure jets, and most warranties still exclude water damage.

16 GB for general use, 32 GB for photo, video or software development work, and 64 GB for heavy 3D, large datasets or local AI models. Our laptop guide has a full table.

Modern phones control charging speed and temperature to limit wear. Heat is the main cause of battery ageing. Using optimised or adaptive charging, which holds the battery at 80% overnight, does more for longevity than avoiding fast chargers.

For most people, yes — browsers, Microsoft Office, Adobe apps and video calls run natively on Snapdragon X laptops. Check any specialist software, older games and anti-cheat systems before buying.

No. Sensor size, lens quality and image processing matter far more. High-megapixel sensors usually combine pixels into 12 MP or 50 MP images anyway. Read our camera ranking method.

Shortly after a successor launches, or during major sales such as Black Friday and Prime Day, when previous models drop sharply. Avoid buying a phone in the month before its replacement is expected.