The Best Small Smartphones in 2016: Why Size Matters
Have you ever heard of a smartphone that is only 5.2 inches? It's almost as big as my face, making it challenging to fit it in your pocket or use it with one hand. We've come a long way from the 3.8-inch smartphones of the past. Is there even a need for such gigantic phones? Some might refer to this as a "fetish" for larger displays, but in reality, smaller screens can offer a more portable and manageable user experience.
The Dispute Over Screen Size: Do We Really Need Bigger Phones?
In the early 2010s, there was a surge in the development of larger smartphone screens, which is understandable as the desire for bigger and better displays grew. However, in 2016, companies started to realize the importance of balance between display size and portability.
Some might argue that bigger screens are necessary for better viewing experiences or for actions like watching movies or playing games. While these are valid points, smaller screens can still offer exceptional performance and user-friendliness, particularly for those who value portability and efficiency.
Exploring the Top Picks for 2016
The smartphone market in 2016 was marked by significant competition and innovation. Let's take a closer look at some of the best small smartphones available that year:
Lumia 950
The Lumia 950, designed by Microsoft, was praised for its sleek design and high-quality build. It boasted a 5.2-inch display, ensuring a comfortable and readable screen, even for users with smaller hands or when holding the phone with one hand. The camera on the Lumia 950 was noteworthy for its excellent image quality, making it a significant highlight for photography enthusiasts.
Xiaomi Mi5
The Xiaomi Mi5 was a groundbreaking device that combined affordability with impressive performance. It featured a 5.15-inch display, making it a small but powerful smartphone. With a strong focus on user experience and battery life, the Mi5 was a hit among tech enthusiasts seeking a balance between price and quality.
Xperia Z5 and Z6
Sony’s Xperia Z5 and Z6 series offered a robust and stylish design, with the Sony Xperia Z5 featuring a 5.2-inch display. These phones were known for their superior water resistance and durability, setting a new standard for indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, they provided a great balance between functionality and portability.
Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge
The Galaxy S6 and its variant, the S6 Edge, offered a 5.1-inch and 5.5-inch display respectively. Although slightly larger than the Lumia 950 and Xiaomi Mi5, they still remained within a manageable size. Both devices featured cutting-edge technology and excellent build quality, making them top choices for those who wanted the latest in smartphone innovation.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Apple's iPhone 7 and 7 Plus presented a 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch display respectively. These devices were celebrated for their user-friendly interface, high-quality camera, and stylish design. However, the 5.5-inch version was pushing the boundaries of portability, making it more suitable for those who could handle the larger size.
Conclusion: Embrace the Small but Mighty
When choosing the best small smartphone for 2016, consider your needs and preferences. While larger screens do offer certain advantages in terms of display size and multitasking, smaller devices like the Lumia 950, Xiaomi Mi5, Xperia Z5, Galaxy S6, and iPhone 7 provide exceptional performance, battery life, and portability.
Ultimately, the best phone for you depends on how you intend to use it and what features are most important to you. Whether you prefer a more compact design for on-the-go convenience or a larger screen for better viewing experiences, there is a small smartphone in 2016 that can meet your needs.