Turn an impressive number into a useful question
| Specification | What it can change | What to test before paying more |
|---|---|---|
| Display size and shape | Readable workspace and carrying comfort | The same document, keyboard and case |
| Battery capacity or runtime claim | Charging requirements under particular conditions | A normal working day on the proposed network |
| Camera hardware | Framing, detail and usable images | The photographs and upload process the role needs |
| Processor | Performance in demanding tasks | The exact app, file or export rather than the chip name |
| Storage | Room for apps and local files | Current usage, offline needs and planned retention |
| Pen or folding display | Input method and application layout | A recurring task that becomes easier |
| Support and repair package | Downtime and useful ownership period | End dates, cover, excess and replacement process |
A higher number is not automatically more useful. More storage will not improve an application that already has enough room. A larger display will not help someone who finds the device uncomfortable to carry.
Four real examples of an upgrade premium
At the 256GB reference prices checked on 10 September 2026, including VAT:
- S26 to S26+: £220 more. Screen size and typical battery capacity increase; both UK models use Exynos 2600.
- S26 to S26 Ultra: £400 more. The Ultra adds specialist pen and display privacy features, along with other hardware changes.
- iPhone 18 Pro to Pro Max: £100 more. The display and Apple's quoted video runtime increase, as does weight.
- Fold8 to Fold8 Ultra: £200 more. Larger displays and a different camera package are the main things to evaluate.
Samsung figures are launch RRPs and Apple figures are advertised UK prices. Use current supplier quotes to establish the actual premium offered to your business.
Read battery comparisons carefully
mAh measures capacity; hours describe a particular runtime test. Neither guarantees an employee's working day. Different display settings, signal conditions, applications and test methods can reverse a simple ranking.
For Apple and Samsung comparisons, use the published numbers as context and run the same work pattern on the shortlisted phones. Avoid claiming a percentage improvement by dividing unlike measurements.
Multiply the premium before approving the fleet
A £400 handset upgrade becomes £4,000 across ten devices and £20,000 across fifty. Dividing £400 over 24 months gives a £16.67 monthly budget equivalent per device. That is arithmetic for planning, not a finance offer or mobile contract.
The calculator uses unrounded totals before formatting the results. It includes VAT in the reference figures and does not add airtime, annual increases, accessories, management or repair services.
For a mixed fleet, calculate each staff group separately. Five specialist devices can be a different purchasing decision from fifty identical premium devices.
Compare the supplier's complete payment schedule
Request upfront charges, monthly payments and all scheduled changes over the same term. If a quote already includes handset and airtime, do not add the handset reference price again. That would double-count the device.
Keep the VAT basis consistent. Compare the same storage, condition, data allowance, network requirements and support package. Check whether licences, setup and accessories are included or additional.
Write a one-line reason for each exception
Use a brief such as: “Five surveyors need pen input for marking photographs; compare five Ultra handsets and fifteen standard devices.” It gives the supplier a clear quantity and purpose.
Then record a pilot result and obtain the full quote. The phone comparison desk helps build the shortlist; the final proposal establishes the actual business cost.
Common buying questions
Does a higher specification always mean better value?
No. An upgrade has value when it improves a required task or reduces a real operating cost. Compare the finished work and the full price difference.
Are the monthly figures contract offers?
No. The calculator divides a handset reference price or premium by 24 or 36 months for budgeting. It does not quote finance, airtime or a payment agreement.
Should I add handset RRP to a monthly phone contract?
Only if the contract excludes the device and you will buy it separately. Adding RRP to an inclusive handset-and-airtime quote would double-count it.
Why use 256GB for every model?
Matching storage removes one avoidable difference. The phones still differ in hardware and platform, and other storage tiers need their own price comparison.
Sources and price basis
Manufacturer specifications and UK reference prices checked 10 September 2026. Prices include VAT at 256GB, without trade-in, temporary promotions or airtime. Our buying advice interprets the specifications; it is not a hands-on benchmark or a live inventory feed.