Is it worth getting a Chinese phone? Proprietary software and additional functions

The range of mobile devices is updated with new products almost every year. Even within the same line, a manufacturer can release several models that will have different names, some differences in characteristics, but almost the same design. Sometimes, among this abundance it is not so easy to choose good device, which is really worth the money. And sometimes you may even encounter gadgets that are best avoided for a number of reasons. This article contains basic recommendations that are designed to help the reader make right choice when buying a smartphone, and also warn against unnecessary purchases.

Fakes, replicas and copies

The reader probably thinks that this is quite obvious: who would buy a fake? But the most interesting thing is that some legally registered stores are not shy about selling copies popular models. Moreover, the prices for copies are simply sky-high. You need to be extremely careful, because such devices are 100% not worth the money they want for them.

You can also refrain from purchasing smartphones that are intended exclusively for the domestic Chinese market. They can only be designed to work with 3G/4G frequencies of Chinese operators. There may also be a problem with the localization of the firmware; services from Google, such as the application store, may be missing. At Lenovo, such models have a “t” prefix at the end of their names, for example, Lenovo S898t.

How to avoid getting scammed by marketers

The task of marketers is to attract the attention of buyers and make them empty their wallets. And for this purpose, all methods are good.

Branded smartphones

If we're talking about about mobile devices from well-known, top world-class manufacturers - never believe your eyes. Especially if they see inspiring ads on TV or on the Internet. The official websites of the manufacturer cannot be trusted either: in Samsung description The Galaxy J1 mini says it has an "Excellent camera" and produces "Bright and clear photos even in low light." Considering that the budget camera module is not equipped with either a flash or autofocus, you understand that the description did not just embellish the reality - this is the height of cynicism.

Another neat trick is to place smartphone images in the background of high-quality photos. It looks like these are actually pictures taken with his camera.

And here is the smartphone page HTC Desire 626G, also on the official website.

Let's start from the beginning: "Featuring a best-in-class 13MP camera." It’s a proven fact that this smartphone is not even close to the best camera in its class. The expression “typical, unremarkable” is more appropriate. Moving on: “Enjoy unrivaled performance...”. As you know, the HTC Desire 626G uses a processor MediaTek MT6592 is not the top of the line for the mid-range and also only has 1GB of RAM. So what kind of “unsurpassed” performance are we talking about?

Also, when buying a smartphone from a top manufacturer, you automatically agree to a huge overpayment for the brand. Even the most budget models will cost a pretty penny, and in terms of their capabilities they will be inferior to their counterparts from China. In this case, it is better to buy a good Chinese smartphone.

Chinese smartphones

Many Chinese manufacturers in technical specifications indicate inflated data. Most often this concerns the camera and battery capacity. In fact, the camera may have 8 megapixels, but it will say 13 megapixels. This is neither true nor a lie: it’s just that the resolution of the image is increased programmatically, using interpolation, to the right size. And with the battery, everything is generally simple: lying at 200-300 mAh is the norm for manufacturers from China. But not for everyone: some of them have reached the international level, and therefore do not allow themselves such liberties.

"Verified" manufacturers

You should not buy a new model just because you or someone else has previously used products from this manufacturer and are happy with everything. Sometimes it happens that new model may not be entirely successful. This can happen to any manufacturer. Let's take for example HTC one M9: the model is clearly a failure, given the design that even fans are tired of, severe overheating due to the processor, and other factors. And the Doogee company, famous for its ultra-budget X5, soon after released failed models that bring owners complete disappointment.

Way out of this situation

How not to overpay for overrated smartphone specs

Often, when buying a mobile device, people study its characteristics. But rely only on numbers - typical mistake. Sales consultants, taking advantage of the buyer’s ignorance and naivety, push the product at a higher price, using numbers in the characteristics. The following describes the most common misconceptions regarding technical specifications.

Number of cores in the processor

Most people associate the number of cores in a processor with performance, that is, “the more cores, the faster the smartphone runs.” In reality this is not the case. The performance of the hardware is simultaneously influenced by several factors: the amount and speed of RAM, the speed of reading and writing flash memory, the characteristics of the processor and graphics accelerator, and optimization of the software component. Also an important role is played by the bit capacity of the processor and the technical process by which it is made.

Descriptions usually indicate the maximum frequency at which the processor operates. But no one says that a smartphone is normal mode does not use the processor power to its fullest, otherwise the energy consumption would be prohibitive. And in the interface and ordinary non-gaming applications, the chip operates at the lower permissible frequency. And most importantly, the lower frequency in different models processor is different. It is this indicator that determines whether the interface will work smoothly.

So that the buyer does not have to delve into all these details, they came up with benchmarks - synthetic tests, such as AnTuTu and Geekbench. With their help, you can roughly determine the performance of the device and compare it with other smartphones. You can also watch video reviews and “by eye” evaluate the speed of the device in various modes.

Number of megapixels in the camera

Often in descriptions of smartphones, even in reputable online stores and on the official websites of the manufacturer, manipulation of numbers is allowed. The buyer is accustomed to believing the numbers: if it has 8 megapixels, then the smartphone takes good photographs. And if it’s 13 or 16, that’s absolutely wonderful. It's important to understand simple truth: The number of pixels affects the final resolution of the photo, but not its quality. In addition to resolution, the photographic module has a number of specifications, such as aperture, noise reduction, autofocus speed, and much more.

Determine how well a smartphone takes photographs best “by eye” by looking at reviews with photo examples in different conditions shooting. As a last resort, you can navigate by matrix models from various manufacturers. But we must not forget that the results of the same camera module in different smartphones may differ. Here the camera driver plays a role - software installed by the smartphone manufacturer.

Screen resolution

Manufacturers constantly have to come up with something so that the consumer sees progress and pays money for the opportunity to take advantage of its “fruits”. The constant increase in display resolution is clear proof of this. For example, in flagship models It is now fashionable for smartphones to install displays with 2K resolution (2560 x 1440 dpi). Following them were devices with 4K resolution (3840 x 2160). To interest the buyer, marketers come up with various stories where they explain the benefits and advantages of such a solution.

In practice, it is very difficult to see the difference in image between 2K and 4K. But you can feel the difference in the final cost of the product. Also, as pixel density increases, the load on the processor increases, and battery power is consumed faster. Below is information that will help you decide on a resolution that is comfortable for the eyes in relation to the display diagonal:

• for smartphones with a screen diagonal of 4 to 4.5 inches, 854 x 480 and 960 x 540 pixels are sufficient;
• for 5-inch displays, optimal HD resolution (1280 x 720);
• for a diagonal of 5.5 inches or more FullHD (1920 x 1080) the resolution is enough for the eyes. 5.5-inch models with HD screens are usually classified as budget segment. But pixels at this resolution are visible only when studying the image in detail from a very close distance.

Which places are better not to buy smartphones?

Based on real customer experience, a list of not the best places to buy a smartphone was compiled. Familiarize yourself with it to protect yourself from unpleasant moments.

Markets, kiosks, underground passages

In big cities there are radio markets where you can find almost any electronics. Selling mobile devices in subways and small kiosks is also a common practice. But buying a smartphone in such a place is not the best decision. Firstly, there is no guarantee that the device has not been disassembled, has not been repaired, and has all “original” parts. Secondly, you can forget about the service. As for the prices, they are not much different from store prices.

China

Surely, many people know that in China you can order a smartphone a little cheaper. Those who have experience in ordering from Chinese online stores know what difficulties they have to face. Firstly, delivery can take from 2 weeks to 3 months, and this is no joke. Secondly, problems may arise when the parcel passes through customs due to a mismatch in the description of the product and/or its cost. But that's not the saddest part. The product may arrive defective, in which case you will have to send it back to China, and again wait a long time to receive a refund. Sometimes the seller simply fools himself by not sending the goods. And then it turns out that the buyer just wasted his time. And sometimes international parcels get lost on the way, and then it is very difficult to find the last one. Well, the last thing is the lack of warranty. More precisely, if there is one, the smartphone, if anything happens, will have to be sent to the manufacturer, directly to China.

However, this does not always happen; often people receive parcels on time, with a fully working product. But the risks are very real, so when buying a mobile device in China, you need to be aware of them and be prepared for any situations. Sometimes it’s easier to overpay, but save your time and nerves, especially if we are talking about an expensive purchase.

Small towns and towns

Residents of provincial settlements the hardest thing. In local stores, the assortment is quite poor, there is practically nothing to choose from, and the prices are not the most attractive. And if you go into any of these stores, consultants immediately begin to “circle” potential buyer like vultures over their prey. Making an informed and correct choice in an environment where you are under pressure from all sides is quite difficult. In this case the best option- order your favorite smartphone through good online store cash on delivery, and pay for the goods upon receipt.

Air sellers

There are small online stores that do not have their own warehouse, which buy one item of goods from the supplier upon receipt of the order. This is done for the sole purpose of saving money. But because of such savings, the buyer most often suffers, since a lot of time can pass from the moment of placing an order to receiving the parcel. In addition, it is naive to expect high-quality service from such sellers.

Bottom line

When buying a smartphone, you need, first of all, to think with your own head. Don't listen to advice from consultants or trust advertising. Otherwise, the buyer risks overpaying for the brand and for overvalued characteristics. Also don't neglect detailed study device by reading reviews about it on specialized forums, and reading text and video reviews from reputable, unpaid authors.

Is it worth buying smartphone made in China ? It’s unlikely that anyone would have asked such questions just a few years ago. After all, what reasonable person would throw away money for something that is obviously of poor quality? And even a significant difference in price did not appeal to people who understood that a proven brand means reliability, functionality, and, in general, the right choice. Today the situation has changed dramatically.

From one factory

Few people know, but there are no longer manufacturing facilities around the world: virtually all smartphones are made in China. And not just in China, but in only two or three large enterprises that use the same production technologies. For example, the most expensive mass-produced smartphones in the world from Apple are made at the already world-famous Foxconn, an enterprise with well-established technology for the production of a wide variety of expensive smartphones.

Interestingly, Apple's direct Chinese competitor, Xiaomi, produces its products in a nearby workshop. Well, perhaps it was the global brands that contributed to this development by investing a lot of money in the development of production. So now China does not offer fakes of horrendous quality, but develops its own brands, made using well-established technologies.

Is there a difference with the brand?

And yet, one cannot help but say that when buying a Chinese device like xiaomi or Lenovo, you risk getting firmware cluttered with various advertising junk. In addition, rapidly developing brands have already begun to lock bootloaders, taking away from the user the opportunity to flash firmware and further customization. And yet, this is also the sin famous brands, so it's a draw here.

Second important point- guarantee. If you purchase a device for the domestic markets of China, you can forget about local technical support. On the other hand, official A-brands will still not offer such characteristics for such a price as some Chinese. So, in the event of a breakdown, it will be easier to repair it for money or even buy a new device.

The third point is reliability. Paying attention to the brands Huawei, ZTE, Meizu, Lenovo or Xiaomi, you are unlikely to encounter significant defects or problems in the operation of the device. Other Chinese devices do not yet boast of this.

And the last most important point is localization. The brand always tries to provide high-quality firmware with local localization, so that when you purchase a smartphone, you will use it in the official Russian-language localization. China most often comes with poorly developed amateur firmware translated into Russian.

So, given all the troubles that a Chinese user may encounter, he should also look at the positive sides.

Same iron

If you look at the specifications of the Chinese and the brand, you will notice that they use the same processors from Qualcomm or Mediatek. Wherein powerful filling in China, with the same Sony and Samsung cameras, the same processors and gigabytes of RAM, it will be offered at a much more tempting price.

Same programs

Imagine that you want from your phone navigation, photos, Skype for calls, games, browsers for surfing the Internet, connection to Wi-Fi, social networks, in a word, all the same applications that a modern person needs from a smartphone. So, all this is available both in a hundred-dollar device and in a device for 600 USD. There is no difference in price, as well as in the quality of components. However, you should carefully approach the price-quality ratio: after all, the most cheap chinese gadgets will not provide proper performance, and sometimes stability is poor. But on the other hand, you shouldn’t chase cheapness. Yes, and branded smartphones are low price category will find themselves at an even greater disadvantage in terms of productivity.

Over the past couple of years, the Chinese smartphone market has grown significantly and at the beginning of 2019 there was a clear oversaturation of offers. It is not difficult to guess what consequences this will cause in the future - sales of leading manufacturers will decrease in 2019, which is a fact.

For the leading players, these are not critical changes, but the percentage and fraction of percentage drop in sales is a serious signal to companies such as Samsung, Apple, Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo, which occupy the first positions in terms of the number of smartphones released in the world.

These changes will affect everyone Chinese manufacturers, for some this will be a chance to strengthen their positions, but for some, on the contrary, they will find themselves with nothing, it will be difficult to say.

We will consider all worthy representatives of the Chinese market, both from the first league and lower ranks. All smartphones are interesting in their own way and are the best in their price categories.

Blackview BV9600 Pro

• CPU:
• Screen:
• 16 + 8 Mpix / 8 Mpix
• 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 5580 mAh

Price: from 30,300 rub.

Doogee S90

• CPU: 8-core Helio P60, clocked at 2 GHz
• Screen:
• Cameras (main / front): 16 + 8 Mpix / 8 Mpix
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 5050 mAh

Price: from 25,000 rub.

Very interesting new product, which has received the maximum degree of protection that generally exists on this moment plus a case with titanium elements. True, this affected the thickness and weight of the device, but its indestructibility is off the charts. The rest of the smartphone is also not bad.

Confident performance, high-quality screen and optimal battery capacity. For the money, it’s a very good option for extreme sports enthusiasts, who will certainly benefit from the SOS functions, walkie-talkie, and modular design. A magnetic mount on the case allows you to attach various add-ons: a night vision camera, a battery, a digital walkie-talkie, a gamepad and a 5G communication module.

Advantages:

• Acceptable price.
• High quality IPS display.
• Good performance.
• Powerful battery with fast and wireless charging.
• Protection IP69K, MIL-STD-810G and Gorilla Glass 5.
• NFC function.

Flaws:

• Case thickness - 14 mm, weight - 300 grams.
• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Elephone A5

• CPU: 8-core Helio P60, clocked at 2 GHz
• Screen: 6.18 inches, resolution 2248 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 12 + 5 + 0.3 Mpix / 20 Mpix
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 4 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Price: from 13,400 rub.

HUAWEI HONOR 8X

• CPU: 8-core Kirin 710, clock frequency 2.2 GHz
• Screen: 6.5 inches, resolution 2340 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 16 + 2 Mpix / 16 Mpix
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 4 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 3750 mAh

Price: from 14,500 rub.

Successful model Huawei smartphone, offering a low price tag with fairly good parameters. The performance is enough for absolutely everything, including games that will look great on a large, high-quality display.

The device also has decent cameras, but the front camera for selfies with AI functions will especially please you. Autonomy is also excellent.

Advantages:

• Acceptable price.
• High-quality and large IPS display.
• Good performance.
• Not a bad battery with fast charging.
• Metal body.
• Availability of Face Unlock.
• NFC function.

Flaws:

• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Lenovo Z5s

• CPU:
• Screen:
• Cameras (main / front): 25 + 8 + 5 megapixels / 16 megapixels
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 4 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 3300 mAh

Price: from 16,800 rub.

Meizu 16

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 710, clock speed 2.2 GHz
• Screen: 6 inches, resolution 2160 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 20 + 12 MP / 20 MP
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 3100 mAh

Price: from 17,300 rub.

One of the bestsellers of 2018 with a powerful configuration and high-quality build. The smartphone has a nice design made of glass and metal, a bright, detailed display and a powerful processor. Everything is optimal and relatively inexpensive.

As in previous model Here we didn't pay enough attention to the battery. You can praise the cameras, but not very good things about the battery. Overall, the model is very worthy.

Advantages:

• Acceptable price.
• High quality IPS display.
• In-display fingerprint scanner.
• Gaming performance.
• Face unlock available.

Flaws:

• There is no NFC function.
• Weak battery.
• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Nubia Z18

• CPU:
• Screen: 5.99 inches, resolution 2160 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 24 + 8 Mpix / 8 Mpix
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 3450 mAh

Price: from 26,400 rub.

OnePlus 6T

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 845, clock speed 2.8 GHz
• Screen: 6.41 inches, resolution 2340 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 20 + 16 MP / 16 MP
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 3710 mAh

Price: from 37,000 rub.

Everything is known about this smartphone; there is absolutely no doubt about the quality and performance. OnePlus is quite unique, since it provides all its support to what is essentially a single smartphone in slightly different variations.

This is where the producer phenomenon lies. The model is one of the most productive in 2018 and does not need any special advertising.

Advantages:

• Flagship performance.
• The display case is covered with Gorilla Glass 6.
• Powerful AI cameras.
• Availability of NFC function.
• OS Android 9.0.

Flaws:

Oppo R17 Pro

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 710, clock speed 2.2 GHz
• Screen: 6.4 inches, resolution 2340 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 20 + 12 + TOF 3D MP / 25 MP
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 3700 mAh

Price: from 56,900 rub.

Oppo has never been known for its low prices, but the company cannot be blamed for the lack of quality and premium quality. The smartphone has something to offer, albeit at an expensive price: pre-flagship performance, powerful AI cameras with support for measuring spatial depth, and an excellent battery in terms of quality lithium-ion cells.

In addition to the above, there is a premium design and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. With such prices, the company risks losing all its fans in the current competition.

Advantages:

• High quality Super Amoled display.
• In-screen fingerprint scanner.
• Gaming performance.
• Nice design.
• Powerful cameras AI.
• Good battery with fast charging.
• Availability of NFC function.

Flaws:

• Extremely high price.
• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Oukitel U23

• CPU: 8-core Helio P23, clock speed 2 GHz
• Screen: 6.18 inches, resolution 2246 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 12 + 2 Mpix / 8 Mpix
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 3500 mAh

Price: from 13,100 rub.

Ulefone Armor 6

• CPU: 8-core Helio P60, clocked at 2 GHz
• Screen:
• Cameras (main / front): 21 + 13 MP / 8 MP
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 5000 mAh

Price: from 22,200 rub.

Another Chinese smartphone with the maximum protection that can be assigned at all mobile device. At the same time, the weight of the model is one of the smallest considering the massiveness of the body, and all thanks to durable and lightweight polycarbonate. In terms of performance, everything here is also very good and will even suit gamers.

The battery and camera are also excellent, the smartphone turned out to be successful and attractive in price.

Advantages:

• Acceptable price.
• High quality IPS display.
• Gaming performance.
• IP69K, MIL-STD-810G and Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
• There is an NFC function.
• Design and light weight.

Flaws:

• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Vernee M8 Pro

• CPU: 8-core Helio P60, clocked at 2 GHz
• Screen: 6.2 inches, resolution 2246 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 16 + 8 megapixels / 13 megapixels
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 4100 mAh

Price: from 14,900 rub.

Vivo V11

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 710, clock speed 2.2 GHz
• Screen: 6.3 inches, resolution 2280 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 16 + 2 megapixels / 25 megapixels
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 128 GB
• Battery capacity: 3250 mAh

Price: from 27,500 rub.

Vivo is twinned with Oppo (both sub-brands are owned by BBK) and offers similarly high prices. The smartphone received pre-flagship performance for any modern tasks. We can praise the fairly advanced AI cameras and the clearly high-quality display.

Overall decent quality smartphone With simple design, but very expensive.

Advantages:

• High quality IPS display.
• Gaming performance.
• In-screen scanner function.
• Good cameras especially for selfies.

Flaws:

• High price.
• No NFC function.
• Weak battery.
• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

XIAOMI REDMI NOTE 7

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 660, clock speed 2.2 GHz
• Screen: 6.3 inches, resolution 2340 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 48 + 5 megapixels / 13 megapixels
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 4 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Price: from 13,900 rub.

There is no particular need to introduce the manufacturer; Xiaomi always offers the most low price for very good parameters and this model is no exception. Balanced performance good screen, sufficient autonomy and powerful cameras.

Looking at the price tag you are simply surprised by this model. Plus you will definitely be pleased with the current operating system.

Advantages:

Flaws:

• No NFC function.

ZTE Axon 9 Pro

• CPU: 8-core Snapdragon 845, clock speed 2.8 GHz
• Screen: 6.21 inches, resolution 2248 x 1080
• Cameras (main / front): 12 + 5 megapixels / 20 megapixels
• Memory (RAM/built-in): 6 GB / 64 GB
• Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Price: from 43,100 rub.

ZTE is still losing its position in the smartphone market, but still offers powerful flagship devices in the form of this model. A basic top-end build at a fairly high price will not attract many people, but it will probably attract fans of the vendor.

The device boasts a waterproof case and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. Also worthy of praise is the volumetric high quality sound Dolby Atmos speakers.

Advantages:

• High-quality Amoled Gorilla Glass display.
• In-display fingerprint scanner.
• Flagship performance.
• Not bad cameras.
• Battery with wireless charging.
• There is an NFC function.

Flaws:

• High price.
• Outdated Android 8.1 OS.

Removed from selection

Meizu M3 Max

• CPU: MediaTek Helio P10, 8 cores, 2000 MHz
• Display: 6 inches, IPS, 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Main camera: 13 MP, f/2.2
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 22,990 rub.

An excellent smartphone for those who need a large amount of memory. You can upload a lot of music, photos and other media files here. And if 64 GB of internal memory seems not enough, then a microSD card slot will come to the rescue. On the front panel of the device there is a 6-inch screen with Full HD resolution. Underneath you can find physical key, which has a built-in fingerprint sensor. On the back wall there is a 13-megapixel camera lens. The smartphone also includes a 4100 mAh battery that supports fast charging.

The device is powered by an eight-core processor from MediaTek. The available power is quite enough to run any modern game. Everything is in order here with the RAM, the volume of which is 3 GB. An interesting feature of the smartphone is the port - now Chinese flagships have also begun to receive it. And the buyer will also have the opportunity to install two SIM cards here.

Advantages

Flaws

• The front camera could be better;
• No support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard;
• Fairly high cost;
• Many people will find it too big.

Alcatel Shine Lite

• CPU: MediaTek MT6737, 4 cores, 1300 MHz
• Display:
• Main camera: 13 MP, f/2.2
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 10,290 rub.

Some people use their smartphone very often to take selfies. Sometimes this process is carried out in a cafe, club or somewhere else. Usually these places are quite dark, which makes the pictures look terrible. However, the Alcatel Shine Lite smartphone does not have this problem. His front-camera It does not have the highest resolution (5 megapixels), but it is supplemented with a flash.

Otherwise, this is a typical mid-budget smartphone created by TCL Mobile. The body of the device is made of metal and glass. Support LTE networks allows you to upload photos to a social network almost instantly. 2 GB of RAM allows you to run a large number of programs in the background. There is even a fingerprint sensor - a rare guest in smartphones in this price category! You can only complain about the not very capacious battery, lack of GLONASS support and only one slot for a SIM card. However, the last two shortcomings are unlikely to serve as a serious obstacle to purchase.

Advantages

• High-quality case;
• Not very high price;
• 2 GB RAM;
• Not a bad display;
• good rear camera;
• Both cameras have a flash;
• There is a sound amplifier;
• Not very heavy weight (156 g);
• Latest version operating system.

Flaws

• Not very long lasting autonomous operation;
• Slippery body;
• Not the best navigation module.

OnePlus OnePlus3 64Gb

• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 820, 4 cores, 2200 MHz
• Display: 5.5 inches, AMOLED, 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Main camera: 16 MP, f/2.0, optical stabilization
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 29,990 rub.

The best Chinese smartphone according to many buyers. This device stands out from its competitors, at least due to its colorful and energy-efficient AMOLED display. But there is also a 16-megapixel camera with a wide aperture. And the front camera is good here - it has a resolution of 8 megapixels. Fast data transfer is carried out via LTE-A category six. There is also support for GLONASS, thanks to which the positioning accuracy in Russia is very high. There is also 6 GB of RAM. Although this is already a marketing ploy, since Android in its current state is simply not capable of working with such a volume.

Advantages

• There is a fingerprint scanner;
• Maximum amount of RAM;
• 64 GB permanent memory;
• Two SIM card slots;
• A large number of wireless modules, including Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Fast charging technology supported;
• Very good cameras;
• The display is made using AMOLED technology and has high resolution.

Flaws

• No memory card slot;
• Not everyone can afford it;
• Not very high battery capacity (3000 mAh).

Alcatel PIXI 4(6) 8050D

• CPU: MediaTek MT8321, 4 cores, 1300 MHz
• Display: 6 inches, IPS, 540 x 960 pixels
• Main camera: 8 MP
• Operating system: Android 5.1

Price: from 6,490 rub.

One of the cheapest smartphones with a 6-inch screen. To reduce the cost, the creators had to save a lot on components. As a result, the resolution of the LCD panel has decreased greatly. The pixelation is clearly visible, but many buyers are not disappointed at all. There is also no 4G module, which is much more frightening. Fortunately, no one prohibits accessing the global web via Wi-Fi. The capacity of the battery installed here is 2580 mAh. As you might guess, there is no support for fast charging technology. In short, this is a good device, but with a lot of compromises. Its main advantage is reliability - this smartphone fails a rare buyer.

Advantages

• Availability of two slots for SIM cards;
• Stable operation;
• High reliability;
• Very low cost;
• A good set of equipment, including a stereo headset;
• Relatively small thickness and weight.

Flaws

• Not the latest version of the operating system;
• Low screen resolution;
• No LTE module;
• Small memory capacity by modern standards;
• This may seem very large to some people.

CUBOT Dinosaur

• CPU: MediaTek MT6735, 4 cores, 1300 MHz
• Display: 5.5 inches, IPS, 720 x 1280 pixels
• Main camera: 13 MP, f/2.0
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 7,630 rub.

A very simple smartphone in appearance. It is very inexpensive and has two SIM card slots. Its screen has HD resolution, and the camera creates good pictures for social networks. The front camera also does not cause serious complaints, since it has a resolution of 5 megapixels. But buyers are even more pleased with the support for LTE networks, thanks to which very fast transfer data. But the navigation chip let us down here, since it is capable of recognizing signals only from GPS satellites, whereas in our country it would be nice to have GLONASS support.

Advantages

• Capacious battery(4150 mAh);
• Two SIM card slots;
• There is support for fourth generation networks;
• Many useful gauges are present, including a barometer;
• Good rear camera;
• Latest version of the operating system;
• 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of permanent memory.

Flaws

• A little-known brand in our country;
• Not very high resolution LCD display;
• There are English language items in the settings.

Huawei Ascend P7 Dual sim

• CPU: HiSilicon Kirin 910T, 4 cores, 1800 MHz
• Display:
• Main camera: 13 MP
• Operating system: Android 4.4

Price: from 19,490 rub.

Huawei has installed a processor of its own production in this smartphone. This means that she placed a bet on this model, expecting high level sales As a result, the customers were truly satisfied. There are excellent cameras here, and LTE support allows you to use the Internet on high speed. But most of all, the device surprises with its thickness, which does not exceed 6.5 mm. The creators also managed to reduce the weight to 124 grams. But because of this, the battery capacity has also decreased, which is why you will have to charge the device every evening. And yet it makes it into our top - not least thanks to the one included in the kit. What is important is that the device’s navigation chip is capable of recognizing signals from GLONASS satellites.

Advantages

• Powerful processor;
• 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of permanent memory;
• Support for 4G networks and NFC;
• Rich equipment;
• Possibility to install two SIM cards;
• Very high pixel density;
• Excellent main camera;
• The front camera resolution is 8 megapixels;
• Small size and weight.

Flaws

• Not very high battery capacity (2500 mAh);
• Old version operating system;
• The interface may not be completely Russified.

Xiaomi Redmi 4 Pro

• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 625, 8 cores, 2000 MHz
• Display: 5 inches, IPS, 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Main camera: 13 MP, f/2.2, optical stabilization
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 13,590 rub.

IN Xiaomi smartphone It's hard to see any flaws in the Redmi 4 Pro. The resolution of the 5-inch screen installed here has been increased to Full HD, resulting in a very high pixel density. The body of the device is made of metal, which indicates its high reliability. The camera is complemented by optical image stabilization - this is also good news. There is also support for fourth generation networks. The amount of RAM installed here is 3 GB, which will be more than enough for anyone. If this device is not the most powerful, it is certainly one of the best-selling. This should not be surprising, because with such characteristics it costs significantly less than any flagship.

Advantages

• Latest version of the operating system;
• Excellent IPS display;
• The 13-megapixel camera is complemented by an optical stabilizer;
• Two SIM card slots;
• Large amount of RAM and permanent memory;
• Powerful eight-core processor;
• Battery capacity increased to 4100 mAh;
• Fourth generation LTE-A support;
• There is a fingerprint scanner.

Flaws

• Low microphone sensitivity;
• Firmware doesn't work in the best possible way;
• There is no support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac and NFC.

Xiaomi Redmi 3S 16Gb

• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 430, 8 cores, 1200 MHz
• Display: 5 inches, IPS, 720 x 1280 pixels
• Main camera: 13 MP, f/2.0
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 11,990 rub.

This smartphone is close in price to the budget segment. However, this did not stop it from getting an excellent rear camera and a very powerful processor from Qualcomm. The device also boasts support for fourth generation networks. Other wireless modules worth noting include an infrared transmitter that helps you change channels on your TV. The amount of RAM here can be called standard - it is 2 GB. Distinctive feature The device has a fingerprint sensor - it is usually found only in more expensive devices.

Advantages

• Capacious battery that supports fast charging;
• There is a fingerprint scanner;
• Latest version of the operating system;
• Powerful processor;
• Decent amount of memory;
• Excellent rear camera;
• Category 4 LTE-A support;
• Two SIM card slots;
• Reliable metal case;
• Optimal price tag.

Flaws

• Absent NFC support and Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Low microphone sensitivity.

Meizu MX6

• CPU: MediaTek Helio X20, 10 cores, 2300 MHz
• Display: 5.5 inches, IPS, 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Main camera: 12 MP, f/2.0
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 22,990 rub.

Meizu MX6 has a metal body. However, this does not make it heavy - the weight does not exceed 155 g. The device also has a very good main camera at its disposal. But this is not why they actively ask for it in stores. The fact is that the device has a large number of high-speed wireless modules. For example, there is support for the Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard, which should appeal to owners of new routers. The device also includes 4 GB of RAM, and this is still the maximum that the operating system can recognize Android system. There are also many smart sensors, including a barometer and a fingerprint scanner. The device seems to have absolutely no flaws. But that's not true. Almost all smartphones from Chinese manufacturers have a memory card slot. Here, the buyer will have to limit himself to 32 GB of internal memory, which some may think is not enough.

Advantages

• Available Wi-Fi support 802.11ac and LTE-A Cat. 6;
• High resolution display;
• Fresh Android version;
• The battery supports fast charging technology;
• Connector present USB Type-C;
• Not a bad main camera;
• There is a fingerprint sensor;
• Two SIM card slots;
• Large memory capacity;
• Very powerful processor.

Flaws

• Battery capacity - only 3060 mAh;
• No memory card slot.

Huawei P9 Lite

• CPU: HiSilicon Kirin 650, 8 cores, 2000 MHz
• Display: 5.2 inches, IPS, 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Main camera: 13 MP
• Operating system: Android 6.0

Price: from 16,290 rub.

This model is included in our ranking of the best Chinese smartphones thanks to its screen. It was created according to IPS technology, which indicates wide viewing angles. But the main advantage of the installed LCD panel is high resolution. Individual pixels here can only be seen under a microscope! The remaining components of the device will also pleasantly please any buyer. For example, the processor power is quite enough for the built-in camera to record video at a frequency of 60 frames/s. Everything is fine here and with wireless modules- they include NFC and LTE.

Advantages

• Two SIM card slots;
• Excellent rear camera;
• Good front camera (8 MP);
• There is support for NFC and 4G networks;
• Powerful processor;
• Decent amount of memory;
• Not the highest cost;
• There is a fingerprint scanner;
• The screen has a very high pixel density.

Flaws

• The Wi-Fi module is limited to the 802.11n standard;
• The body is mostly made of plastic;
• The battery capacity is only 3000 mAh.

There is an opinion that Chinese smartphones or phones are not worth buying. Is it really? I have my own opinion on this matter.

Once upon a time, Chinese inventions were mainly related to garbage, and the indigenous people of Central America could come up with something that the inhabitants of Central Europe could not even imagine.

Galaxy Note with a TV antenna instead of a stylus, iPhone with three slots for SIM cards. These examples can be continued, but it is enough that there are brands such as Xiaomi, ZTE, Huawei, Meizu, LeTV, UMI, Oppo and many others.

If you are new to this topic, you may be really skeptical about these brands, but the above companies are no longer synonymous - cheap Chinese knockoffs.

Many have already noticed that Chinese companies started to really care about their products.

More and more often we have to deal with a situation in which a “Chinese smartphone” is better made than that of a popular manufacturer.

Why is this happening? Xiaomi, ZTE, Huawei or other mentioned manufacturers are actually still fighting for their image.

Yes, these are less recognizable companies than Sony, Samsung, Apple and so on, but we don't pay a lot of money for a logo and a not very well thought out product, although of course there are exceptions.

That's why I decided to collect some reasons why you should buy Chinese smartphones.

Maybe sometimes it's worth staying away from the main manufacturers and seeing what the Chinese have to offer?

Chinese smartphone - great appearance

Although the Chinese still like to “look” at competitors, we are increasingly dealing with devices of their own design.

Here it must be said that Asian manufacturers do not lose ideas. Chinese smartphones are becoming more and more interesting in design, and you can really get the impression that you are holding something twice... expensive.

There are really many examples, starting with OnePlus X and ending with Huawei P8.

Chinese smartphone - lower price

Since I already raised the issue of price above, it's worth mentioning it again. At the beginning I mentioned the cost of the brand that we pay for, etc.

This means the final price of the product, which is much cheaper than competitors, with the same functionality.

The first example is that the much-lauded Xiaomi Mi4c costs half the price of the Nexus 5X, offering a similar specification.

Chinese smartphone - Dual sim

Yes, this is probably the most big advantage Chinese smartphones. My last three phones have had a dual slot, and I'll tell you honestly - I can't imagine a smartphone with a single SIM card.

The fact is that the second slot in my case belongs to the Internet, but this does not change the fact that it is difficult for me to find an operator with calls and the Internet that suit me.

As you might have guessed, almost every device from China has Dual SIM(two SIM cards).

However, I would like to point out that the product you are looking for must offer national frequencies, otherwise the smartphone you buy may fall into the darkness of the telecom industry.

Chinese smartphone - innovation

If in the foreseeable future you hear in the media about the theft of information on mobile market, then an iris scanner will come in handy.

Not yours latest iPhone, nor Galaxy will be the first. One of the precursors of this innovation is... UMI. Have you heard about UMI Iron and Iron Pro? This is just an example, but expect more and more.

Try something new

Today, more and more people are turning to young companies. More often than not, I even see flattering comments from my readers.

Recently I have noticed the growing popularity of Meizu and some other devices in the CIS countries, which is very encouraging.

Maybe it's time for you to stop tormenting your “Korean”... and finally try something new?

Of course, this text is my subjective opinion about Chinese smartphones. However, if you prefer to stay with branded manufacturers, it's up to you. Good luck.

The starting price of the new “Chinese” Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 is almost three times lower than that of the iPhone Xs Max, and the technical characteristics are very similar. The displays of both flagships are similar in many ways. The iPhone Xs Max has a 6.5-inch screen with a resolution of 2688*1242 pixels, while the Mi Mix 3 has a diagonal and a slightly smaller resolution: 6.39 inches and 2340*1080 pixels per inch. The cameras on both smartphones are 2-module with a resolution of 12 megapixels and the ability to shoot video at up to 60 frames per second. In terms of the number of cores in the processor, Xiaomi has surpassed Apple: the Chinese flagship is equipped with 8 cores, while the Apple model has only 6. But due to new technology machine learning The iPhone is not inferior to the Mi Mix in performance and is even slightly superior to it.

At the same time, in terms of overall performance, Chinese smartphones have been keeping pace with both Korean and American ones for several years now. And although the latest iPhone is still in the lead in the AnTuTu ratings, this does not mean that in a few months the Chinese will not catch up with it. Currently, in the list of the most productive Android phones, 9 places in the top ten are occupied by models from Chinese and Taiwanese companies, whose hegemony was broken only by Samsung Note 9 (he is in 9th place).

The change of leaders in the market is happening gradually; the trend has been observed for several years. According to Gartner analysts, this is happening for several reasons: firstly, due to the availability of components for smartphones, all manufacturers have seriously caught up with the leaders. Secondly, and this applies primarily to Huawei and Xiaomi, Chinese companies have resolved all their issues with the distribution of products in various markets, and also increased the recognition of their brands. By increasing the level of consumer confidence, they managed to increase sales. In addition, against the backdrop of high prices for Apple and Samsung devices, the Chinese allow themselves to carry out aggressive pricing policy, almost dumping.

China vs USA/Korea

Just a few years ago in Russia, Chinese smartphones were treated as cheap and low-quality replicas of American flagships. The very definition of “Chinese” was synonymous with “poor quality.” However, gradually everything began to change. According to RBC, in 2015, smartphones from Chinese companies (in particular, Lenovo and ZTE) became sales leaders on the Russian market for the first time. In 2016, according to the analytical company TrendForce, Chinese brands released 629 million devices, which accounted for 46% of the total number of smartphones on the global market, while Apple and Samsung - slightly less (519 million). In the same year, Apple experienced the first decline in sales in its history, which amounted to 15.3%. Most analysts believe that the reason was the lack of innovative features in the then new models: iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

Today, the profit of the world market leader, Korean Samsung, whose share is 20%, has begun to decline. In the second quarter of 2018, the company sold 10% fewer smartphones than a year earlier. Against the backdrop of such a recession among the Koreans, Chinese companies, on the contrary, are strengthening their positions. By mid-2018, Huawei already occupied 15.8% of the market (sales increased by 40.9% compared to last year), followed by Apple with 12.1% (0.7% increase), followed by Xiaomi (9.3%). % and 48.8% sales growth).

One of the reasons for this redistribution of buyers’ attention is the decrease in demand for “fashion” goods. People no longer want to overpay for a logo and " latest model”, because they do not see significant functional changes from model to model. Even Apple, the company with the most loyal fan base of customers, can no longer rely solely on its reputation. After all, in technically new Apple flagships in some ways inferior to their Chinese competitors, as stated by AiF.ru Eldar Murtazin, owner and leading analyst of Mobile Research Group.

“In principle, iPhones have never been the best, most of the technologies they show in last years, are needed only to differentiate from competitors. In a technical sense, Apple is even lagging behind. But if we talk specifically about Xiaomi, then this is a very ambiguous company: it can be good, it can be bad. Their products are very heterogeneous in quality, that is, it depends on your luck. By technical specifications In general, Chinese smartphones are no worse than iPhones. Of course, there are certain points: for example, technical support not so “smooth”. But I don’t see the point of spending that kind of money on an iPhone, except for the sake of image. In terms of price-quality ratio, the best option is probably Huawei and Honor.”