Finding the Best Small Phone: A Guide for General Audience

In a world where smartphones seem to be engaged in a perpetual size competition, finding a compact phone with all the latest features can be quite a challenge.

Companies are inclined to believe that bigger is always better, with screen sizes on flagship phones steadily creeping up. The new iPhone 15 Pro boasts a 6.1-inch display, the Pixel 7 Pro stretches to 6.7 inches, and Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra dwarfs them all at a whopping 6.8 inches. It’s astonishing that Samsung’s original Galaxy Note, at just 5.3 inches, was once considered a giant in the smartphone world.

Indeed, larger screens have their advantages. They can accommodate top-tier specs and stellar cameras, making them ideal for watching videos or playing games. However, the downside is that they have become increasingly unwieldy for individuals with smaller hands, not to mention the struggle of fitting them into the pockets of your slim-fit jeans.

While larger phones may be preferable for video enthusiasts and avid mobile gamers, many still yearn for a smaller, more manageable phone that’s easy to operate with one hand and fits comfortably in their pockets.

Regrettably, the options for compact phones are dwindling, especially with Apple discontinuing its iPhone Mini line after the iPhone 13 Mini. Nonetheless, some smaller phones are still to consider, albeit with some trade-offs in features such as battery life, wireless charging, and camera performance. Keep in mind that everyone’s definition of “small” varies, so getting hands-on experience with a phone at your nearest store is advisable if you’re concerned about its size.

The Best Small Phone: Apple iPhone 13 Mini

When it comes to small phones, the Apple iPhone 13 Mini is the undisputed champion. Although it may not boast the high-performance processor or extraordinary camera capabilities of the latest iPhone 15 Pro, it offers exceptional all-around performance for everyday use. Its 5.4-inch screen is one of the smallest in the market today.

Best Small Phones of 2023

Apple iPhone 13 Mini

While Apple has bid farewell to the Mini line, the iPhone 13 Mini is still readily available online. Its 5.4-inch display is significantly smaller than any of the iPhone 15 range, making it the smallest phone Apple has produced in recent years. The iPhone SE 2022, with its smaller display, may seem like a contender, but its large bezels result in a slightly larger physical size than the iPhone 13 Mini.

Apple iPhone SE (2022)

The Apple iPhone SE introduced last year packs a robust single camera, a powerful A15 Bionic chip, and 5G support into a compact 4.7-inch body. This starkly contrasts the colossal size of the iPhone 15 Pro Max. While it retains an older design, its large bezels make it only slightly larger than the iPhone 13 Mini despite having a smaller display.

Google Pixel 7A

Google’s budget smartphone offering took a significant step forward in 2023 with the Pixel 7A. Although its 6.1-inch screen might not qualify as petite, it is among the smaller Android phones worth considering. With many of the same benefits as the Pixel 7 but at a more affordable price, it’s an attractive option for those seeking a smaller phone without compromising quality.

Google Pixel 6A

While the Pixel 7A is the latest offering, Google continues to sell the Pixel 6A, often at a reduced price of around $350, a substantial savings compared to its regular $449 fee. Despite its 6.1-inch screen, it still falls within what we consider small in today’s smartphone landscape.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4

At first glance, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4’s 6.7-inch screen may seem too large for this list. However, this foldable phone’s unique design allows it to fold in half, transforming its massive screen into a small, square form factor that comfortably fits into a jacket pocket.

In conclusion, while the trend in smartphones may be moving towards larger screens, there are still options for those searching for a compact device. Whether you prefer Apple’s ecosystem, Google’s budget-friendly offerings, or the innovation of foldable phones, there’s a small phone out there to suit your needs. When selecting the best small phone, consider factors like display size, design, performance, battery life, camera quality, and any additional features that matter to you. Remember, the perfect small phone is the one that comfortably fits your hand and your lifestyle.

We at Gamingideology evaluate every phone aspect, including its display, design, processor performance, battery life, camera quality, and additional features. Our comprehensive testing covers various conditions, from bright outdoor settings to dimly lit indoor environments and nighttime scenarios. We compare our findings against similarly priced models to provide valuable insights into a phone’s value. For more information on our testing methodology, visit our page explaining how we test phones.