Perhaps the greatest division in our country today isn’t Republican versus Democrat or Red State versus Blue State, it’s Apple versus Android. Recently, I entered into those turbulent waters as I sought a new smartphone. To be fair, I’ve usually bought Apple products in the past. But, as I sought a phone to replace my iPhone 6, I really wanted to explore something different. So, I did a good bit of research on switching over to a Samsung product. I read a number of tech articles and talked to about a half a dozen tech store employees. The end result of most of that research was this: it’s really a matter of personal preference (although an overwhelming majority of the employees carried Samsungs).
When I finally decided to pull the trigger, I opted for the iPhone 8 plus. I chose that model over the iPhone X because there was no way I was going to drop a grand on a phone. In addition, I prefer the fingerprint sensor to the facial recognition. As far as why I chose Apple over Samsung, I did so for these reasons:
The iPhone was cheaper. On my carrier (AT&T), the iPhone 8+ was slightly cheaper at the time I purchased the phone.I’m fully aware that this reason fluctuates based on carriers and sales, so this may not be a factor for you.
I had existing iPhone accessories. This was connected to the cost factor for me. I wasn’t going to need to purchase new car chargers or the like if I stuck with iPhone. Again, this may not be a factor for you if you already own different accessories.
The fingerprint sensor. It may just have been familiarity, but I couldn’t get my brain (or my hand) around the location of the fingerprint sensor on the Galaxy line of phones.Again, maybe it’s just what I’m used to, but it was a factor in my decision nonetheless.
The iPhone did what I needed. When I spoke with one particular tech employee, he asked me what my current phone didn’t do that I needed. I struggled to find an answer. So, even though I know you may be able to customize the Samsung and perhaps even do more with it in the long run, the iPhone met my needs.
The Apple Store. Although I didn’t purchase my phone at an Apple Store, I have been into our local on several occasions. And, as good as some other tech stores are, I haven’t experienced anything like the care I get at the Apple Store.
So, I chose Apple. I still miss the headphone jack, and the whole “batterygate” (Apple slowing older phones down) does put a sour taste in my mouth, but for now I stuck with the iPhone. I might jump ship next time around, but I’m happy with what I have for the moment.
What factors went into your choice?