The year 2016 was an exciting time for smartphone enthusiasts, with numerous flagship devices released by top manufacturers. Each device boasted innovative features, improved performance, and sleek designs. In this article, we will delve into the world of 2016’s best smartphones, exploring their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. By the end of this review, you will have a clear understanding of which smartphone reigned supreme in 2016.
Introduction to 2016’s Flagship Smartphones
2016 witnessed the launch of several groundbreaking smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy S7, Apple iPhone 7, Google Pixel, and OnePlus 3. These devices set new standards for the industry, with enhanced camera capabilities, faster processors, and extended battery life. The competition was fierce, with each manufacturer striving to outdo its rivals.
Design and Display
When it comes to design and display, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Apple iPhone 7 were two of the most impressive devices of 2016. The Galaxy S7 featured a stunning 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display, while the iPhone 7 boasted a 4.7-inch Retina HD display. Both devices had sleek, waterproof designs, with the Galaxy S7 having a slight edge in terms of overall aesthetics. The Google Pixel, on the other hand, had a more modest design, but its 5-inch Full HD AMOLED display was still a treat to behold.
Comparison of Display Features
The display features of these smartphones were truly remarkable, with each device offering something unique. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had a higher pixel density than its competitors, resulting in a sharper and more vibrant display. The Apple iPhone 7, however, had a wider color gamut, making it ideal for watching movies and browsing photos. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had a lower pixel density than the Galaxy S7, but its display was still highly responsive and easy to navigate.
Performance and Hardware
In terms of performance and hardware, the 2016 flagship smartphones were extremely powerful. The Samsung Galaxy S7 was powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a proprietary A10 Fusion chip. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, was equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor. The OnePlus 3, on the other hand, had a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, making it a strong contender in the performance department.
Comparison of Processor Speed
The processor speed of these smartphones was incredibly fast, with each device capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. The Apple iPhone 7 had a quad-core processor, resulting in exceptional performance and efficiency. The Samsung Galaxy S7, however, had a quad-core processor with a higher clock speed, making it slightly faster than the iPhone 7. The Google Pixel and OnePlus 3 also had quad-core processors, but with slightly lower clock speeds.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life and charging were also essential factors to consider in 2016’s flagship smartphones. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had a 3000mAh battery, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a 1960mAh battery. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had a 2770mAh battery, and the OnePlus 3 had a 3000mAh battery. In terms of charging, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and OnePlus 3 supported fast charging, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a proprietary charging system.
Camera Capabilities
The camera capabilities of 2016’s flagship smartphones were truly exceptional. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had a 12-megapixel rear camera with a wide-angle lens, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a 12-megapixel rear camera with a telephoto lens. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had a 12.3-megapixel rear camera with a wide-angle lens, and the OnePlus 3 had a 16-megapixel rear camera with a wide-angle lens.
Comparison of Camera Features
The camera features of these smartphones were highly impressive, with each device offering something unique. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had optical image stabilization, resulting in sharper and more stable photos. The Apple iPhone 7, however, had a telephoto lens, allowing for stunning portrait shots. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had exceptional low-light performance, making it ideal for capturing photos in dimly lit environments.
Front Camera and Selfie Capabilities
The front camera and selfie capabilities of these smartphones were also noteworthy. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had a 5-megapixel front camera, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a 7-megapixel front camera. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had an 8-megapixel front camera, and the OnePlus 3 had a 16-megapixel front camera. In terms of selfie capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Apple iPhone 7 had advanced software features, including beauty mode and facial recognition.
Software and User Interface
The software and user interface of 2016’s flagship smartphones were highly intuitive and user-friendly. The Samsung Galaxy S7 ran on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, while the Apple iPhone 7 ran on iOS 10. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, ran on Android 7.1 Nougat, and the OnePlus 3 ran on Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
Comparison of Software Features
The software features of these smartphones were highly impressive, with each device offering something unique. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had advanced multitasking capabilities, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a simplified user interface. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had Google Assistant integration, making it ideal for users who rely heavily on virtual assistants. The OnePlus 3, however, had a highly customizable user interface, allowing users to personalize their home screen and notification shade.
Security Features
The security features of these smartphones were also highly advanced. The Samsung Galaxy S7 had a fingerprint sensor, while the Apple iPhone 7 had a Touch ID sensor. The Google Pixel, meanwhile, had a fingerprint sensor and Google Assistant integration, making it highly secure and convenient to use. The OnePlus 3, however, had a fingerprint sensor and advanced encryption, resulting in exceptional security and privacy.
| Smartphone | Display Size | Processor | Rear Camera | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S7 | 5.1 inches | Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 | 12 megapixels | 3000mAh |
| Apple iPhone 7 | 4.7 inches | A10 Fusion | 12 megapixels | 1960mAh |
| Google Pixel | 5 inches | Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 | 12.3 megapixels | 2770mAh |
| 5.5 inches | Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 | 16 megapixels | 3000mAh |
In conclusion, the best smartphone in 2016 was a highly subjective matter, depending on individual preferences and needs. However, based on our comprehensive review and comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S7 stands out as a top contender. Its stunning display, powerful processor, and advanced camera capabilities make it an exceptional device. Nevertheless, the Apple iPhone 7, Google Pixel, and OnePlus 3 were also highly impressive, each offering unique features and advantages. Ultimately, the choice of the best smartphone in 2016 depends on your specific requirements and priorities.
What were the key factors considered when reviewing and comparing the best smartphones in 2016?
When reviewing and comparing the best smartphones in 2016, several key factors were considered to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. These factors included the smartphones’ display quality, processing power, memory and storage capacity, camera capabilities, battery life, and operating system. Additionally, the design and build quality of each smartphone were also taken into account, as these aspects can significantly impact the overall user experience. The reviews and comparisons aimed to provide readers with a detailed understanding of each smartphone’s strengths and weaknesses.
The consideration of these factors allowed for a thorough assessment of each smartphone’s performance, features, and value. For instance, the display quality was evaluated based on factors such as resolution, brightness, and color accuracy, while the processing power was assessed through benchmarks and real-world tests. The camera capabilities were also thoroughly evaluated, with consideration given to factors such as image quality, low-light performance, and additional features like optical zoom and image stabilization. By considering these key factors, readers could make informed decisions when choosing the best smartphone for their needs in 2016.
How did the top smartphones in 2016 differ in terms of their operating systems?
The top smartphones in 2016 differed significantly in terms of their operating systems, with the main options being Android and iOS. Android smartphones, such as those from Samsung and Google, offered a high degree of customization and flexibility, with features like widgets, live wallpapers, and expandable storage. In contrast, iOS devices, such as the iPhone, provided a more streamlined and user-friendly experience, with a strong focus on security and ease of use. The choice between Android and iOS ultimately depended on individual preferences and needs, with some users valuing the openness and customization options of Android, while others preferred the seamless integration and ease of use of iOS.
The differences between Android and iOS also extended to their respective app ecosystems, with the Google Play Store offering a wider selection of apps, but the App Store providing more stringent quality control and security measures. Furthermore, the operating systems differed in their update cycles, with Android devices often taking longer to receive updates due to the complexity of the Android ecosystem, while iOS devices typically received updates more quickly and uniformly. These differences had significant implications for users, with some preferring the flexibility and customization options of Android, while others valued the security, ease of use, and seamless integration of iOS.
What were the most notable camera features of the best smartphones in 2016?
The best smartphones in 2016 boasted a range of impressive camera features, with many devices offering high-quality image sensors, advanced autofocus systems, and robust image processing capabilities. Some of the most notable camera features included optical image stabilization, which helped to reduce camera shake and blur, as well as advanced modes like HDR, panorama, and slow-motion video. Additionally, many smartphones in 2016 also offered high-quality front-facing cameras, making them well-suited for selfies and video calls. The camera capabilities of these smartphones were often comparable to those of dedicated point-and-shoot cameras, making them a viable option for photography enthusiasts.
The camera features of the best smartphones in 2016 also extended to software enhancements, with many devices offering advanced image editing capabilities and features like object tracking and facial recognition. For example, the iPhone 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera setup, which enabled features like portrait mode and telephoto zoom, while the Samsung Galaxy S7 offered a advanced autofocus system and low-light mode. These camera features and capabilities helped to set the best smartphones in 2016 apart from their competitors, and provided users with a range of creative options for capturing and editing images.
How did the battery life of the top smartphones in 2016 compare?
The battery life of the top smartphones in 2016 varied significantly, with some devices offering all-day battery life, while others struggled to last a full day. Factors such as screen size, resolution, and brightness, as well as processor efficiency and software optimization, all played a role in determining battery life. Some smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy S7, offered large batteries with capacities upwards of 3000mAh, while others, like the iPhone 6S, had smaller batteries with capacities around 1700mAh. Additionally, features like power-saving modes and quick charging also impacted battery life, with some devices offering more advanced power management capabilities than others.
The comparison of battery life between the top smartphones in 2016 was often influenced by individual usage patterns, with heavy users requiring more battery capacity and power-efficient devices. For example, users who frequently played games, watched videos, or used resource-intensive apps required devices with larger batteries and more efficient processors. In contrast, casual users who primarily used their smartphones for basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and texting may have been able to get by with devices offering less battery capacity. By considering factors like battery size, processor efficiency, and software optimization, users could choose a smartphone that met their specific needs and provided adequate battery life.
What were some of the most significant design and build quality trends in the best smartphones of 2016?
The best smartphones of 2016 exhibited several significant design and build quality trends, with many devices featuring sleek, premium materials like metal and glass. The use of curved screens and edges also became more prevalent, with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and the iPhone 7 Plus offering a more immersive and ergonomic user experience. Additionally, many smartphones in 2016 also incorporated water and dust resistance, with features like IP67 and IP68 ratings providing added protection against the elements. The attention to detail and focus on build quality helped to elevate the overall user experience, with many devices feeling solid and durable in the hand.
The design and build quality trends in the best smartphones of 2016 also reflected a shift towards more minimalist and refined designs, with many devices featuring clean lines, simple shapes, and subtle branding. The use of premium materials and attention to detail helped to create a sense of luxury and craftsmanship, with devices like the iPhone 7 and the Google Pixel XL offering a high-end feel and aesthetic. Furthermore, the emphasis on durability and water resistance also reflected a growing awareness of the importance of build quality and reliability, with many users demanding devices that could withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environments. By incorporating these design and build quality trends, the best smartphones of 2016 set a new standard for the industry and raised expectations for future devices.
How did the top smartphones in 2016 handle multitasking and performance-intensive tasks?
The top smartphones in 2016 handled multitasking and performance-intensive tasks with varying degrees of success, depending on factors like processor speed, memory, and software optimization. Devices with high-end processors like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 and the Apple A10 Fusion chip offered fast and efficient performance, with the ability to handle demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling. Additionally, many smartphones in 2016 also featured ample memory and storage capacity, with some devices offering up to 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The combination of fast processors, ample memory, and optimized software enabled many devices to provide a seamless and responsive user experience, even when handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
The performance of the top smartphones in 2016 was also influenced by the efficiency of their operating systems and software optimizations. For example, devices running Android 6.0 Marshmallow and later versions offered features like Doze mode and split-screen multitasking, which helped to improve performance and battery life. Similarly, iOS devices like the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus offered a highly optimized operating system, with features like Metal and Core Animation providing fast and efficient graphics rendering. By leveraging these software optimizations and hardware capabilities, the top smartphones in 2016 were able to provide a fast and responsive user experience, even when handling demanding tasks and multitasking. This enabled users to enjoy a wide range of activities, from gaming and video streaming to productivity and creativity.
What were some of the most innovative and unique features of the best smartphones in 2016?
The best smartphones in 2016 offered a range of innovative and unique features, with many devices incorporating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and biometric authentication. For example, the iPhone 7 introduced a new capacitive home button, which used haptic feedback to simulate the feel of a physical button. The Google Pixel XL, on the other hand, offered a built-in Google Assistant, which provided a personalized and intuitive user experience. Other devices, like the Samsung Galaxy S7, featured advanced sensors like heart rate monitors and pulse oximeters, which enabled users to track their health and fitness goals. These innovative features helped to differentiate the best smartphones in 2016 from their competitors and provided users with new and exciting ways to interact with their devices.
The innovative features of the best smartphones in 2016 also extended to areas like display technology, with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge offering a curved screen and features like Always-On Display. The LG G5, on the other hand, introduced a modular design, which allowed users to swap out components like batteries and cameras. These unique features and technologies helped to push the boundaries of what was possible with smartphones, and provided users with a wider range of options and choices. By incorporating these innovative features, the best smartphones in 2016 helped to drive the evolution of the smartphone industry, and paved the way for future innovations and advancements. As a result, users were able to enjoy a more immersive, interactive, and personalized user experience, with a wider range of possibilities and possibilities.