Best Smartphones

His AND Hers: Picking the right Samsung foldable for you

Is it the Z Fold 3 or the Z Flip 3 that’s right for you?

Published

December 14, 2021

My husband and I have long been at odds with each other when it came to phones. As an iPhone user who’s chest-deep into the Apple ecosystem, getting an Android phone feels rather blasphemous to me. Meanwhile, as someone who enjoys using the Android interface, my husband Alvin has been quite the Samsung loyalist ever since he got one of the earlier versions of the Note.

But there was something about this year’s Samsung releases that got even my usually-Apple-focused-interest piqued. Let’s face it: Both of the third iterations of the Z Fold and Z Flip are good looking phones. When both models landed at home, all my former biases against foldables went out the window. Gimmicky? No, not anymore. You get a lot of function with form and it was hard not to get excited – even for me.

Her choice

My first instinct was to gravitate towards the Z Flip 3 right away because of its aesthetic. Yes, I used that word. How millennial of me. The phone is just absolutely chic, especially in the cream color way. However, I tried the Z Fold 3 first for the sake of getting a feel of it. You know what they say, don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it. Also, a friend from Samsung told me that I seem to be more of a Fold girl because of the kind of work that I do on the go.

And she’s right.

The Fold for a content creator

The Fold 3 gave me so much freedom in getting work done while outdoors or sitting in a car on the way to my appointments. Not gonna lie, having the option of a tablet-sized screen really makes a world of difference even when watching Netflix or reading an e-book in the middle of a traffic jam.

Typing up and editing articles while at a coffee shop is also easier with the Fold 3. I open it halfway to activate Flex Mode, using one side as a keyboard. If you have an S-Pen, you can even watch videos as you take notes on the lower half of the screen.

It’s truly a powerful phone and I love how you can really feel that as you use it. But with great power comes a bit more weight – I found it to be a little too heavy. Typing on the Fold 3 is a tad cumbersome for my tiny hands. Sure, there’s the front display but somehow, it’s too narrow and the keyboard feels a little cramped. I prefer using my messaging apps on the main screen with the phone resting on top of a table. The keyboard that’s split into each half of the screen works well for me and I’m fine typing longer messages on it as long as I don’t have to hold the phone upright too.

The Flip and nostalgia

The Fold can do so much for me and I love it. But truth be told, I do find myself leaning towards the Flip 3. Again, because of its looks, sure. Though there’s really something rather exciting about a phone that’s a lot more compact. A phone that gives you some nostalgia for that time when ending a call meant snapping a phone shut. I miss it. There was much more flair back then when it came to something as simple as ending a call.

I love how the Flip 3 helps me take photos in a more convenient way. Folding it at a 90-degree angle, I can let it stand on its own. No more lugging around a phone tripod. I also enjoy using the split-screen mode. Sure, I can also do this with the Fold where I can even have 4 apps on the screen at the same time but I find that splitting a screen into two is more than enough for me. I am, after all, easily distracted. Let’s not make it worse. I love browsing Instagram and opening up Google Chrome to search for places or clothing featured in some of my favorite influencers’ posts.

The size is also a huge plus. I do love big purses but with the latest trend being micro bags, it makes a lot of sense to have a phone that can fit in most of them – in women’s pockets too. Let’s face it, they’re always made to be much smaller with the Fold 3 hardly fitting in any of mine.

Using the Flip’s cover display to take selfies is also rather fun. It’s a good size to be able to frame shots better. The same cover display also helps me get to my notifications and read a bit of the messages I got without having to open up the phone’s main display.

His choice

As for Alvin, he was also a little torn between the two phones at first. But of course, we always have favorites. For him, a phone is also something that he needs a lot for his demanding job. He goes from managing one of the biggest teams in their department to going through thick and often times tedious paperwork.

He also needs to be in a lot of meetings, some via Zoom and some in person – with masks on, of course. Work even seeps through the weekend, even while we’re on our dates. So he really enjoys gadgets that allow him to quickly tend to work emergencies. Thankfully, I’m quite the understanding wife who’s also probably trying to squeeze in a few work emergencies of my own while he’s tending to his.

The Flip for the weekends

One thing my husband enjoyed with the Flip is its size when it’s folded. Sure, the Fold also fits in his pockets but the Flip is rather comfortable there. Also reminiscent of the days when everyone had a Motorola Razr – his was silver and I had the gold, Dolce and Gabanna limited edition – he admits that the phone really does bring you back to the early 2000s.

As someone who’s not that into selfies, the flex mode camera function is lost on him. However, he did note that Zoom calls on the Flip are great. It’s the perfect phone for people who use a lot of social media. He doesn’t really spend much time on such apps but loves to browse photos of dogs, nature, and buildings on Instagram to destress. He says the app fits perfectly on the screen which makes browsing even more pleasurable, unlike in the Fold which leaves a bit of dead space on either side of the main screen.

It’s a great smartphone to take with you on weekend errands simply because of the size. There’s no denying its convenience while being able to do a lot of things for the owner.

The Fold for the office guy

The Fold is not short of nostalgia either. “I remember when I had the Nokia Communicator,” he said, rather fondly while typing on Flex Mode. “Everyone wanted one and it really made you feel like a professional. This gives off a similar vibe – but much much better and advanced.” See? We do have our biases and unique personalities to tend to.

From multitasking on the main screen which doesn’t really feel too big in his massive hands, Alvin notes that the Fold also has a better battery life than the Flip. It’s something that he is truly particular with when it comes to phones as he also uses them for reading the news throughout the day. Weirdly enough, he also texts well in the narrow cover display.

Since his work requires him to go through a lot of documents – sometimes on the go – it also pays to have the big, main screen. It makes it harder to miss something. The under-display camera also works well on Zoom calls and the big screen has more space for you to see the people you’re in a meeting with.

Before, Alvin would have to bring his computer and later on his tablet with him whenever he needed to go out. Just in case work needs him and he needs to tend to things outside the office. Nowadays, it’s just him and the Fold 3 and it’s like giving him the best of both worlds.

Related Topics:Galaxy Z Flip 3 Galaxy Z Fold 3

Best Smartphones

2023 GadgetMatch Approved Smartphones

2023 smartphones that deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

Published

December 19, 2023

Vincenz and GadgetMatch

It’s the time of the year again!

ICYMI, we haven’t reviewed all smartphones released this year. Despite that, there are still 23 smartphones from 2023 (not intentional, btw) that were able to make the cut and bagged GadgetMatch’s very own Seal of Approval.

Reviewed by different members of the team with varying preferences and personalities, smartphones in this list weren’t limited to the premium line as it also tackles the budget and midrange segment, as well as foldables and flippables.

This list is in descending order from most recently published.

OPPO Find N3 / OnePlus Open

OPPO Find N3

“Some things are meant to be, but perhaps they aren’t meant to last. That’s how I view my time with the OPPO Find N3 – fleeting but filled to the brim with moments that will stick with me. It happened. It was great. But then, it was over.

I’ll likely find myself staring into empty space just reliving all of it every now and then. If I’d be given a chance to experience it all over again, I would say yes in a heartbeat.” — Rodneil

“Well the reviews are in, and overwhelmingly the consensus is clear — the OnePlus Open is the best foldable in the market today.

And after one month of having this phone in my pocket and in my bag, I can wholeheartedly say that I agree. It deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” — Michael Josh

OPPO Find N3 Flip

“A flip smartphone like the Find N3 Flip has a certain allure that you can only imagine. It’s time to flip your life around and open yourself to an array of experiences. There’s something special about it, and I can’t help but gush over a smartphone worthy of being in my pocket.” — MJ

vivo V29 5G

“Overall, the vivo V29 5G is a great gadget for those who love content creation, and those with the habit of using multiple apps in a single time. It’s a great choice as well for people who loves using their phone as accessory to match their OOTD.” — Martynne

Apple iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max

“Seriously, there is a lot to love with the new iPhone 15 series. That new Titanium build is sexy — it’s light and it’s definitely what I’ve been waiting for. That Action Button I believe is going to be a game-changer — and soon they’re opening it up to third-party app developers also. That USB-C port is going to open it up to a whole bunch of possibilities as well as compatibility.

And that new camera has set the bar for everybody else to beat. Plus, if you’re a Pro user, if you’re a content creator, a professional video creator, then you’re definitely going to want to leverage all of its new features as well. There’s no beating around the bush, the iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max is the best smartphone that you can get today.” — Michael Josh

Xiaomi 13T Pro

“The main draw of the Xiaomi 13T Pro, without a doubt, is how it lets you experience a Leica camera without it costing you an arm and a leg.

Elsewhere, the Xiaomi 13T Pro is also a winner. The silky smooth display catches your attention immediately, and its general size and overall build makes you feel secure. You just have this peace of mind that what you’re holding is made with care and won’t break easily. There’s also something about it that’s hard to describe or quantify. You just know, you’re using a device that’s better than most.” — Rodneil

OPPO A98 5G

“The OPPO A98 5G has certainly made a mark in the midrange smartphone segment. With its eye-catching design, impressive display, and powerful battery life, it offers a well-rounded experience for a lot of users.

The device’s ability to deliver smooth performance and handle gaming well are really worth considering. And with its competitive pricing, I can say that the OPPO A98 5G is a strong contender in its category, earning an A+ for its overall offering and total upgrade from its predecessor.” — Tom

realme 11 Pro+ 5G

“It certainly has one of the best smartphones in its bracket. If dazzling cameras, design, and really quick charging are all you’re up for, the realme 11 Pro+ 5G is definitely your GadgetMatch. Having a flagship-like experience trumps all the imperfections and flaws you’ll encounter with this smartphone, especially the lack of IP rating.” — MJ

Nothing Phone (2)

“On its second iteration, has managed to build something special. A well-priced phone that delivers on all the right things.

Nothing says that their goal is to build something “fun”. And while I’m not sure if this phone is “fun” enough, I think it’s a great phone that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval” — Michael Josh

motorola razr+

“At just under a $1000, which is a fair price for a foldable, I definitely consider the motorola razr+.” — Michael Josh

TECNO Camon 20 Pro

“The TECNO Camon 20 Pro retails for PhP 9,999. A 5G version sells for PhP 12,999. Based on those prices, the series is a great example of getting a bit more than what you pay for. It’s not the best smartphone in the market in its price range.

However, if you’re shopping for a decent daily driver with a limited budget, the Camon 20 Pro deserves some attention.” — Luigi

ROG Phone 7 Ultimate

“If your smartphone priorities align with that of the ROG Phone, then it is an excellent product. It’s certainly a mobile gamer’s GadgetMatch. Is it newsworthy? In the general sense, not really. Not anymore. But is it a goddamn good product? Hell yeah it is. One that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” — Rodneil

Xiaomi 13 Pro

“The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a great smartphone meant for photographers, casual shooters, and aspirers alike. It’s a smartphone that isn’t gimmicky and actually offers the real deal compared to other smartphone photography contenders.

The Xiaomi 13 Pro (or any existing 1-inch-equipped smartphones around) can’t and won’t “replace” any professional cameras anytime soon. However, I can confidently say that the Xiaomi 13 Pro lives up to its professional photography promises.” — Vincenz

POCO F5 Pro

“The POCO F5 Pro does a lot of things right. Though the smartphone doesn’t offer one thing for users to exclusively focus on, it shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.” — Luigi

Redmi Note 12

“It’s a cheap phone that’s good but it also comes with its drawbacks. Yet, despite the sometimes inconsistent camera performance and inevitable bloatware, the Redmi Note 12 still impressed enough.

It’s a good smartphone, whether you’re trying to save up on a couple of bucks, or you’re just about to purchase your first device. It’s a good First Dance to have; a smartphone you’d be proud to call your GadgetMatch.” — Karlo

HONOR Magic5 Pro

“The HONOR Magic5 Pro is easily one of the Top 5 standard slate flagship smartphones of 2023. The specs, design, and overall feel of the phone is undeniably flagship.” — Rodneil

Samsung Galaxy A34

“If you’re someone who doesn’t have any special needs with their smartphone usage and you simply want an all-around smartphone that you can trust, then the Galaxy A34 is for you.

This phone won’t be a purchase of betrayal for you. This is something that can feel like family; a mid-range smartphone you can trust.” — Karlo

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G

“The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G is an upper midrange smartphone that can keep up and live up to its promises. It is a very recommendable midrange smartphone considering it has a less heavy price tag despite being heavy with features.

You’ll get that rich audiovisual experience, a not-so-typical Redmi design and premium-like build quality, satisfying performance, more than sufficient battery life, rapid charging speeds, and cameras that are enough for your needs day and night.” — Vincenz

OPPO Find N2 Flip

“The OPPO Find N2 Flip is certainly my GadgetMatch, and it could be yours, too. It has flagship experience, exceptional imaging capabilities, flexibility in use cases, and versatility as a travel camera.

There’s something remarkable about this smartphone that will make you want to have it. For me, it has an appeal that only you would experience if you have your hands on it. That certain allure can keep you hooked, just like how I can’t keep it off my hands.” — MJ

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

“The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a fantastic device. But there are certain things about it that may not be your cup of tea. The devil, after all, is in the details. It has a fantastic set of cameras. Easily one of the best today.” — Rodneil

WATCH: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: One Week Later

HONOR Magic Vs

“What HONOR has with the Magic Vs is a challenger-in-the-making. They only need to stay the course and work out the software issues in order to truly stand against the reigning champion of foldables.” — Rodneil

realme 10 Pro 5G

“It’s safe to say that realme has one-upped themselves yet again. Even if their number series phones are technically mid-rangers, they thrive in the perception of being realme’s de facto “flagships”.

With the realme 10 Pro 5G, users will get an ultra-reliable phone with numerous enhancements for shelling out just a little extra.” — GadgetMatch

POCO X5 Pro 5G

“At first glance it won’t impress, but its value as a smartphone is all about what’s under the hood. It’s a powerful device that gets the job done. The POCO X5 Pro 5G is a great choice to have if you’re looking for a weapon that will bring you victory in whatever battles you’ll face.” — Karlo

Best Smartphones

Best Smartphones of 2023

Which one is your GadgetMatch?

Published

December 8, 2023

GadgetMatch

Year after year, it gets tougher and tougher to make Best Smartphones lists. The smartphones keep getting better with only a few differences here and there. And the deciding factor being one’s own preference – making it your ‘match’.

But we still tried. Here’s our Best Smartphones 2023 picks, with quotes lifted from the content we produced on the smartphones we had the privilege of using throughout the year.

Best Overall — iPhone 15 Pro

Michael Josh on the iPhone 15 Pro/ Pro Max

If you own an iPhone 13, iPhone 14, no matter what you want to hear, I’m here to tell you, you do not need one. Is the iPhone 15 Pro worth it? Sure, yes it is.

But at the same time, I know a lot of you have already made up your mind and are coming here to get validation. Sure. Go ahead. If you have the money, upgrade. If you’re an iPhone forever plan, why not. Upgrade.

But seriously, there is a lot to love about the new iPhone 15 Pro Series. That new titanium build is sexy, it’s light and it’s definitely what I’ve been waiting for.

That action button, I believe, is going to be a game changer. Soon they’re going to open it up to third-party app developers also. That USB-C port is gonna open it up to a bunch of new possibilities as well as compatibility. And that new camera has set the bar for everybody else to try to beat.

Plus, if you’re a Pro user, if you’re a content creator, a professional video creator, then you’re definitely going to want to leverage all of its new features as well.

There’s no beating around the bush, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the best smartphone you can get today. I highly recommend that you go out and get it.

Honorable mention: Pixel 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, OnePlus Open/OPPO Find N3

Best Foldable — OnePlus Open/OPPO Find N3

Rodneil on the OPPO Find N3

The connection I had with the Find N3 went beyond my sense of touch. The way its software worked almost as seamlessly as the Galaxy Z Fold5 did, tickled my other senses.

I can go from folded to unfolded without missing a beat. Opening two apps in a split screen is a two-finger swipe down gesture.

It is, by all intents and purposes, the exact kind of device I once dreamt of using when I was much, much younger, imagining myself attending to online work while staying present in my immediate vicinity.

My wish of having the Galaxy Z Fold5’s software running in a better smartphone-to-mini-tablet form factor appears to have been granted. The OPPO Find N3’s software and hardware combo is a lot closer to the sweet spot I personally prefer

Every second I spent with the Find N3 was pure bliss.

Honorable mentions: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, HONOR Magic Vs/V2

Best Flip — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the Find N3 Flip

The OPPO Find N3 Flip is an excellent flagship smartphone. Everything good about its predecessor was retained, and the rest were made better. It’s not just an accessory to make a statement anymore; it’s a functional device that can keep up with whatever lifestyle you have.

If you’re open to trying a new form factor and you’re ready to jump, I’d say take the leap of faith and see where the affair will take you. A flip smartphone like the Find N3 Flip has a certain allure that you can only imagine. It’s time to flip your life around and open yourself to an array of experiences.

Did I find my GadgetMatch for the year? Highly likely, it’s a yes. After all, the OPPO Find N3 Flip earns the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval. There’s something special about it, and I can’t help but gush over a smartphone worthy of being in my pocket.

Honorable mentions: motorola razr+, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Best Design — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the Find N3 Flip

The Find N3 Flip felt like the partner I’ve been looking for. It fits my palm, it’s compact enough to be tucked inside my pocket, and more importantly, it can keep up with my active and busy lifestyle.

I was able to take the Find N3 Flip to the great outdoors. It was robust enough, despite having a glass body. As someone fond of extreme activities, I’d admit that a flip smartphone looks delicate as a daily driver.

But somehow, it felt sturdy enough to accompany me. Perhaps, thanks to its aircraft-grade stainless steel core.

The IPX4 rating, although a bit low, allowed me to continually use the Find N3 Flip even when it’s drizzling.

Honorable mentions: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Best for Overall Photography — OPPO Find X6 Pro

Michael Josh on the Find X6 Pro

You know how if a smartphone has like 3 cameras. You can expect the main camera to be super good. And the rest to be…not as good? Well OPPO hopes to change that with the Find X6 Pro.

They’re saying, this phone has 3 main cameras. Instead of just one. And while that doesn’t mean they all have the same sensor and specs.Compared to its competitors. This phone is way closer to that.

All 3 main cameras whether that be wide, ultra wide or telephoto are all 50MP shooters. All have large sensors. And all have wide apertures.

Earlier this month I took a photo trip in Malaga and Granada in the south of Spain to test out this camera phone. But before I show you my favorite photos from that trip let’s take a look at comparisons to see why the idea behind 3 main cameras makes a difference.

Honorable Mentions: Huawei P60 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro

Best for Overall Videography — iPhone 15 Pro Max

From our iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max Review

When it comes to the iPhone 15 Pro Series’ Cameras there’s a lot more to cover. Like being able to record videos in LOG and being able to apply your own Lutz, external recording to an SSD, or being able to use the a USB-3.2 cable to shoot and immediately transfer 48MP ProRes RAW files to a Mac using Capture One — just like they do in pro photography studios.

Cinematic Mode also gets an update and while filming you can now zoom in. So here’s a quick video montage that we shot all with Cinematic Mode.

Honorable Mentions: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best for Selfie Photos — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the OPPO Find N3 Flip

What I loved the most about the Find N3 Flip is how it fits everything together. The best-in-class cameras work hand-in-hand with various form factors that you can do while shooting and recording.

You can put it up like a tent, let it stand like a tripod, take photos like the usual slate phones, or fold it and use the cover screen.

Let the rear cameras do their magic. After all, it uses a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 sensor for its main shooter; a 48-megapixel Sony IMX581 ultra-wide camera; and a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto lens.

Inside, you can find a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 selfie shooter. While I will never be fond of its selfies due to padded beautification even if you turn it off, the Find N3 Flip takes gorgeous selfies if you’d like to look fresh even when you just woke up.

Honorable Mentions: HONOR 90

Best for Selfie Videos — Infinix Zero 30 5G

MJ on the Infinix Zero 30 5G

Not a lot of smartphones prioritize their front cameras. All eyes are on its rear cameras capable of up to 100x zoom or something like that. While they’re nice to have when you’re traveling and out and about, I appreciate the efforts Infinix put into the ZERO 30 5G.

It’s equipped with a 50-megapixel front camera that’s capable of recording 4K videos at 30 or 60fps, and 1080p at 30fps.

Having that camera system allowed me to film my fitness journey, especially at a time when I was hitting almost rock bottom and I was only living life between home and the gym.

Here’s a reel stitched from 4K videos, all taken using the Infinix ZERO 30 5G.

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A post shared by maybe: jaye (@hemjaye)

Best Zoom Photo — Huawei P60 Pro

Rodneil on the Huawei P60 Pro

The Huawei P60 Pro does a great job of capturing multiple types of scenes. The main camera is great for capturing general scenes and quick snaps.

My personal favorite is the telephoto lens. Something about it just adds character to the shots you take. It’s great for closing in on your subject, whether that’s architecture or food.

Our member Vincenz even took it to a K-Pop super group TWICE’s concert and came out with stunning photos.

Honorable Mentions: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best Zoom Video — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Rodneil on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra might not be king when it comes to overall video. But it’s undisputed in Zoom Videos.

Here are a few samples, not just of zoom, but also of its overall video shooting prowess.

@gadgetmatch

29Rooms is an experiential funhouse and it was an absolute blast to experience. Here’s a quick look #ShotOnGalaxy S23 Ultra. More info on 29rooms.sg #artinstallation #art #galaxys23ultra #samsunggalaxy #galaxys23ultra #galaxys23

♬ original sound – GadgetMatch – GadgetMatch

Momo dancing to MISAMO “Do Not Touch” while BDZ was playing 🫶#READYTOBE_IN_BULACAN #TWICE_5TH_WORLD_TOUR_BULACAN pic.twitter.com/rg3vRMXKYe

— rodneil (@rodneilquiteles) September 30, 2023

“HOT” featuring Momo, Mina (Sharon), and Nayeon #READYTOBE_IN_BULACAN #TWICE_5TH_WORLD_TOUR_BULACAN pic.twitter.com/ktxNRQznqi

— rodneil (@rodneilquiteles) September 30, 2023

Best Portrait Shooter — iPhone 15 Pro Max

Michael Josh on the iPhone 15 Pro Max

The other big change that I think is going to be a game changer is called Next Gen Portraits.

I love portrait mode. That blurry background can really bring a subject into focus. But previously the quality hasn’t been as good as just using the main camera. That’s addressed this year.

For the first time on an iPhone — Portrait Mode is now powered by the Photonic Engine.

So you get all the benefits of Deep Fusion and Smart HDR. Even better, you don’t even have to turn Portrait Mode on.

Honorable Mentions: Huawei P60 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Pro, HONOR Magic5 Pro

Best Travel Companion — Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

MJ on the Galaxy Z Flip5

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is more than just a flip smartphone requiring delicate care. It’s already worthy of being a daily driver that can match any of your lifestyle — even if the one you chose is an extreme one. I’ve seen people carrying either a flip or a fold on a trail run, and it always amazes me how daring they are until I’ve experienced using one.

Best Gaming — ROG Phone 7

Rodneil on the ROG Phone 7

With the ROG Phone, you know what you’re getting: A gaming smartphone with gaming-specific features. There’s the distinctly gamer look with a bunch of lines that evoke a mech-vibe.

Literally no one else is doing it quite like the ROG Phone. From form to function, it’s THE undisputed gaming smartphone of choice. And the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate continues that tradition. It’s the best that the ROG Phone has ever been and that’s something we’ve come to expect year in and year out.

Honorable Mention: iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max

Best Value-for-money — POCO F5 Pro

Luigi on the POCO F5 Pro

The POCO F5 Pro does a lot of things right. Though the smartphone doesn’t offer one thing for users to exclusively focus on, it shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.

Is your match not on the list? It’s likely we just didn’t get a chance to use it. Tell us what your GadgetMatch is!

Best Smartphones

2022 GadgetMatch Approved Smartphones

Smartphones that deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

Published

December 15, 2022

Vincenz and GadgetMatch

Admittedly, we haven’t reviewed all of the greatest and latest smartphones this 2022. That said, fifteen (15) of those smartphones were able to make the cut — particularly those with GadgetMatch’s Seal of Approval.

This list is in descending order from most recently published.

iQOO 11

iQOO 11 5G

“The iQOO 11 5G is one of those phones that’s easy to recommend to just about anyone. It’s a borderline flagship smartphone. It looks sleek, it performs like a champ, and it captures photos you can be proud of sharing. Personally, I’m ready to crown this as the upper midrange king, usurping the OnePlus 10T for that title.” — Rodneil

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4

“The Galaxy Z Flip4 is a pure refinement of what was already a great piece of hardware. Being able to pack a lot of punch in such a compact and precisely-crafted piece of engineering marvel makes this phone stand out from the crowd.” — Vincenz

HONOR Magic4 Pro

“No doubt, the HONOR Magic4 Pro is one among 2022’s best all-rounder smartphones around. It offers the quintessential triple set of rear cameras that other “flagships” fail to deliver.” — Vincenz

“The HONOR Magic4 Pro and its accompanying devices are just tiny steps forward in what is an early phase to complete independence. As they are now, these are devices worthy of your attention.” — Rodneil

– GadgetSnaps: HONOR Magic4 Pro in Boracay

– Bringing Back HONOR with Magic

realme 10

“The realme 10 is solid. It’s certainly a 10 given the price to performance ratio. You’re getting a package that may not be stacked, but is undeniably solid. The realme 10 is a head turner, a good performer, and a decent moment capturer. It’ll take care of your needs with no problems whatsoever.”

POCO M5

“For its price point, the new smartphone is a worthy purchase if you’re looking to game on a budget. And that’s without the additional frills you’re enjoying.” — Luigi

iQOO 9T

“The iQOO 9T provided more than what was expected in this price range: a flagship-grade mobile processor, fast and vibrant display, loud-enough stereo speakers, modest battery, fast AF charging, and even a decent set of cameras that other phone brands refuse to supply in their gaming smartphones.” — Vincenz

POCO X4 GT

“MVP voting will continue to be contentious, especially in the world of mid-range smartphones. At the end of the day, you just need a candidate you won’t regret voting for. The POCO X4 GT is that kind of candidate, a smartphone you’d be very happy to be choose as your GadgetMatch from day one.” — Karlo

OnePlus 10T

“Starting at $649 it’s in a unique position because it offers top notch specs and backs it up with a well thought out design and great features. The OnePlus 10T is very competitive.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: OnePlus 10T Review: Lots to love, nothing to hate

Google Pixel 6a

“Just like the phones that came before it the Pixel 6a still remains one of the best devices for folks who want an affordable Android smartphone. And it’s especially true this time around thanks to its high-end Tensor Chip from Google and more premium-looking design. Apart from that you’re also getting Pixel exclusive Android features, 3 years of guaranteed Android updates and 5 years of security updates.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: Google Pixel 6a Review: Best Android for Less?

vivo X80 Pro

“The updates on the X80 Pro aren’t flashy or gimmicky, but solid improvements across the board. And alongside the likes of Samsung and Google, I can confidently say that vivo is another major player in the Android space. And the X80 Pro deserves even more attention.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: vivo X80 Pro Unboxing and Review: Totally Underrated

Samsung Galaxy S22+

“The Galaxy S22+ is a smooth amalgamation of many other standout phones. It has the breathtaking display of Samsung phones, an overall footprint that feels like an iPhone 12/13 Pro Max, cameras that rival those that partner with notable camera brands, and much, much more. All of that comes in this package that looks and feels well-built on a phone that is easily an all-rounder performer.” — Rodneil

realme 9 Pro+

“The creative options brought by the Street Mode, the detail the Sony IMX766 sensor captures and stellar night shots it can produce, the realme 9 Pro+ proves that you don’t need fancy equipment to take good photos. For the most part, this phone is a decent daily driver. But when talking about photography, the realme 9 Pro+ can surely unleash the photographer in you.” — Andre

realme 9 Pro

realme 9 pro

“If it still isn’t obvious, the realme 9 Pro is a great catch. It brings some flagship-level features in the midranger segment.

It also has outstanding cameras along with photography modes that lets you create visual content that you can straight up use on your social media feed. You can’t go wrong with its ultra smooth display, highly competent processor with 5G connectivity and sufficient battery life. Even more-so if you’re into photography or content creation.” — Apple

Redmi Note 11

“The Redmi Note 11 is a champ. At its price range, you’d be hard pressed to find anything better. It performs a tier higher than what it’s pricing suggests. It might just be the best under PhP 10,000 (around US$ 200) phone you can buy today.” — Rodneil

Huawei P50 Pro

“If you’re that eager to own a smartphone with a superior set of cameras, astounding display and speakers, slim and lightweight design, flagship-grade performance with an efficient battery life, the P50 Pro is no doubt the best option for you. For now, the Huawei P50 Pro has one of (if not the) best cameras in a smartphone today.” — Vincenz