What is the Ideal Smartphone Size?

Smartphone screen sizes continue to fluctuate. Back in the day, the average screen size for iPhones was 3.5 inches, and Androids were 4.5 to 5 inches. Then smartphone screen sizes evolved and people decided that bigger screens were better. In fact, Consumer Reports show that sales for smartphones with displays 5.5 inches or larger rose 2.5 percent in 2016.

Smartphone Size

The introduction of smartwatches has caused some people to rethink smartphones with bigger screens. The only solution is to decide for yourself which size works best. Let’s examine six things you’ll want to consider when determining what smartphone size to buy.

Determine Your Hand Ergonomically

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It’s tough to decide which smartphone size best fits your hand. Phones that are too large are clumsy, and you don’t want to keep dropping your phone. Take a second to measure your hand; measure your thumb and the length of your grip. Your grip is the space between the crease in your thumb and your index finger’s middle joint. Once you get the measurement, there are resources available to help you choose the perfect fit.

Consider Proper Storage Needs

Nowadays everyone has a smartphone with them at all times. Even when we work, we keep our phones in our pockets. Too large of a phone won’t fit into your pocket. Perhaps you’re a paramedic and always mobile, so you need your smartphone with you always. What if there’s a family emergency? Frequent stooping and bending can also be uncomfortable if your smartphone is too big.

There are plenty of smartphones on the market that meet your storage needs. For example, the iPhone 8 has a large screen, but still fits most pockets’ sizes. You won’t have to worry about your smartphone fitting into those skinny jeans.

Decide if Your Phone is for Work or Personal Use

Are you a salesperson and use your phone for business purposes? If the answer is yes, then you should consider a phone with a large screen. Perhaps you’re a writer and use your phone to jot down notes while you’re mobile. Phablet screen sizes used to start around 5 inches. Commuters love phablets. Well, some smartphones are invading the phablet territory.

If you use your phone to check your emails and do Google searches, then consider a screen that’s easy on your eyes. Larger screens work well to watch videos on YouTube and Netflix.

Avoid Vision Issues

If you have a condition that affects your vision, then carefully consider what smartphone size to buy. Tiny screens can cause significant eye problems like muscle strains and dry eyes. Computer vision syndrome is real and also applies to smartphone screens. We usually blink about 15 times per minute, but this decreases when you stare at smartphones. Computer syndrome is temporary, and you don’t want to exacerbate any current vision issues.
The good news is that if you have vision issues, there are resources available like self-correcting displays for smartphones. If you have children who use smartphones, teach them to take at least 15 minutes. Their eyes will appreciate it.

Remain a Die-Hard Sports Fan

You’re a die-hard sports fan and use your smartphone often to watch your favorite sports. You want a screen size that supports multimedia and entertainment. Most large screens boast eye-popping, full-screen HD displays. Getting a smaller screen may steer you away from watching your favorite sport.

Know Your Budget

A few years ago larger-screen smartphones were extra expensive, but they are now more budget-friendly. Downsizing a screen to 3.5 or 4 inches will drop the price even more. Now customers can choose from more screen sizes that are affordable. Smartphones with smaller screens are still cheaper and ideal for children.

At some point, there will be a limit to the size of a device that’s acceptable to consumers. For now, the truth is that people love big phones, and when the phone fits into their pocket, that’s like hitting the jackpot. It’s easy to appreciate a smartphone that’s flexible, durable and provides exceptional visibility. Just remember, whatever smartphone you choose, make sure it matches your lifestyle.