The smartphone made in the UK continues today to take market share against the giants of communication such as Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, etc.. Indeed, for the past few years, French brands have put a lot of effort into improving their products. But do French smartphones really live up to our expectations in terms of robustness and performance? Do French smartphone brands show as much ingenuity as others? Let's talk about it in this buying guide.
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"A 5G connection, an 8000 mAh battery, 120 GB storage and a 6.67-inch display, the Archos X67 5G is well deserving of the label of…"
"A major French smartphone brand, now known throughout the world, Wiko offers the View4 Lite, a fairly basic model in itself, but one that seduces…"
A 5G connection, an 8000 mAh battery, 120 GB storage and a 6.67-inch display, the Archos X67 5G is well deserving of the label of high-end French smartphone.
530 £ on DartyArchos, a French smartphone manufacturer, intends to participate in the democratization of the 5G connection and has designed, in this sense, the X67 5G. The speed of connection is no longer in doubt, especially since this smartphone has a mini 5G modem. Such speed requires great performance, so the Archos X67 5G is equipped with 8 GB RAM and a MediaTek Dimensity 800 Octo-Core processor. The whole system is powered by an 8000 mAh battery with a battery life of 48 to 72 hours.
On the technical data sheet of this French smartphone, it is attributed a 6.67'' screen with a FullHD+ definition. In all, the device embeds 4 main cameras, including a 48MP primary module, and a 16MP front camera. Sharing many similarities with the Crosscall Core M5, the Archos X67 5G also has a rugged design and is fully waterproof. Also, this French smartphone can be used even if you wear gloves.
A major French smartphone brand, now known throughout the world, Wiko offers the View4 Lite, a fairly basic model in itself, but one that seduces from the outset by its autonomy.
114 £ on AmazonThe main arguments of the Wiko View4 Lite are two words: autonomy and storage. Of course, with the current evolution, a 4000 mAh battery in a smartphone is almost a matter of course, but if this Wiko model can last 48 hours, even with a 4G internet connection, it's because its Octa-Core MediaTek A25 processor is not very energy-hungry despite its great performance. The 2GB RAM supports this processor for a smooth and pleasant use of this French smartphone.
For photos and videos, the Wiko View4 Lite comes with a triple rear camera and a front camera. As for the screen resolution, the 1600x720 px for a 6.52-inch LCD screen seems to promise a FullHD+ definition, but this French smartphone only displays 269 px per inch; which is quite nice, but nothing more. Otherwise, for the design, the Wiko View4 Lite remains quite classic and sober, but at least it fits all tastes.
Any specific needs?
The best French smartphone in 2021
The best cheap French smartphone
The best high-end French smartphone
An excellent French smartphone from Wiko
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| Editor's Choice | LOW COSTS | EXCELLENT | ||
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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Crosscall Core M5
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Logicom Prime 32Go Noir
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Archos X67 5G
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Wiko View4 Lite
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A 5G connection, an 8000 mAh battery, 120 GB storage and a 6.67-inch display, the Archos X67 5G is well deserving of the label of high-end French smartphone.
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A major French smartphone brand, now known throughout the world, Wiko offers the View4 Lite, a fairly basic model in itself, but one that seduces from the outset by its autonomy.
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6.67 inches
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6.52 inches
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Android Stock
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Android 10
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120 GB
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32 GB
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48 Mpx-13Mpx / 16Mpx
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13 MP+5 MP+2 MP / 8 MP
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8000 mAh
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4000 mAh
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This first criterion will define the comfort of use of your French smartphone. Generally, to facilitate the reading of email, to be more comfortable when handling the keyboard and for more realism when viewing multimedia files, we prefer screens between 5 inches and 6.5 inches. It should be noted that the size of the screen does not define the resolution of the smartphone. For this point in particular, you will have to choose between OLED and LCD.
The LCD screen, which relies on liquid crystals, is found more in French entry-level smartphones. The resolution is acceptable, but not more. On the other hand, OLED screens gain in finesse, brightness and contrast thanks to the light-emitting diodes. But if the OLED screens of French smartphones are not equal, it is because not all brands have the same level of mastery of this technology.
The definition of the screen of a French smartphone is related to the width of the screen, expressed in pixels.
French smartphones generally use Google's Android operating system. Here, the choice to be made concerns the version of the system that best suits your activities. For an entry-level French smartphone, we find an Android 4, 5 or 6 system. This system is suitable for basic applications and most 2D games.
However, as you move up to the mid-range and high-end range, you are entitled to demand more recent versions of Android. Streaming platforms and recent apps are generally only compatible with versions later than version 7. In 2021, version 11 remains the most recent declination of Android found in high-end French smartphones.
Although you can always expand the memory of your French smartphone by investing in a good micro-SD card, it's important to choose a model with a substantial internal memory. Just for apps, some digital platforms, photos and videos, you need at least 16GB. Admittedly, this may seem like a lot, but if the memory starts to saturate, your French smartphone may slow down.
The performance of the camera is measured in megapixels and determines the quality of the shots and videos you will take. The principle is simple: the higher the resolution, the better the quality. Currently, some French smartphone brands have integrated an optical stabilization system and have chosen to add two or three more cameras to allow wide-angle shots or even a dual-lens shot.
It is always possible to make some modifications through apps, but it would be better to have a camera with pre-built filters to optimize the quality of photos and videos taken from your French smartphone.
Those who require two phone lines should go for French smartphones with dual SIMs. Switching from one number to another is very easy and it is also possible in this case to subscribe to two plans with two different operators. Of course, French single SIM smartphones remain topical and show a lower energy consumption than its dual SIM counterpart with the same settings.
You have to understand one thing: the battery life of a French smartphone always depends on the usage in general. Some applications are more voracious than others, an uninterrupted internet connection will affect the autonomy, even the time spent in standby mode is to be taken into account.
Nevertheless, you can always choose a French smartphone with a powerful battery of 3000 to 4000 mAh, especially if the model you are interested in has a 6 or 6.5 inch screen. Also remember to check the charging time and tab for models where the battery is full in less than 2 hours.
If you feel like changing a bit from the traditional models or unlock code, know that high-end French smartphones take up the facial recognition system and / or the fingerprint system. Be aware that, even in Samsung or Apple smartphones, facial recognition is not 100% reliable: a test conducted by consumers showed that 50% of the models tested could be "fooled".
The same applies to the fingerprint system. First, the choice of its location is still not ingenious (some fingerprint readers are placed on the back of the French smartphone). Then, the system is not always very responsive and you have to make sure your hands are clean for it to work.
All this to say that you should not be too demanding with these locking mechanisms, but it is clear that these systems put the French smartphones in the highly technological devices.
There is nothing more unpleasant than a battery that gives out when you need it most. You should know that some simple gestures will allow you to extend the battery life of your French smartphone. Note, however, that even the most powerful batteries drop in performance over time.
Just after purchasing a French smartphone, take the time to read the manual that comes withWiko to learn the steps for optimal battery calibration. This usually involves charging for one or a few hours before the very first use. From time to time, redo the recalibration process outlined in the manual to keep the battery at peak performance.
By browsing the Settings menu, you will discover different ways to optimize the battery life of your French smartphone. Among them, the choice of an automatic adjustment of brightness according to the surrounding light or even switching to sleep mode after a few seconds of inactivity.
It is also advisable not to permanently activate Bluetooth and mobile data, because otherwise you will receive incessant notifications from the applications. Basically, it's like with appliances: you should "turn off" what you're not using to save money. You can even turn on the power saver from time to time.
There are some reflexes you can adopt to extend the battery life of your French smartphone. As much as possible, get into the habit of using WiFi instead of activating mobile data. In the same vein, be aware that configuring your French smartphone as a hot-spot will make it consume a lot of power.
Another reflex to have: choosing a darker than light screen background, disabling GPS as much as possible, etc. Also remember not to charge your French smartphone too often, but don't wait until the battery is completely dead before recharging either. As soon as the battery is full, unplug it.
If you use a single phone line for all your activities (personal and professional), you will find your happiness in a good French smartphone with a single SIM. No need to subscribe to 2 plans and no need to be affiliated to several operators.
Moreover, many tests have shown that when using the same applications and making the same configurations, a French smartphone with a single SIM card has a better autonomy than a model with dual SIM. This is a real advantage, especially if you are often in places where you may not have access to a power source.
If you use two separate lines for personal use and business activities, it would be wiser to choose a French smartphone with dual SIMs. This will save you from having to buy a second phone. The second major interest of this type of French smartphones lies in the possibility of not having to change your phone when you travel, as you only need to put a SIM issued by an operator in your home area and another one for the country you are visiting.
In most cases, you have to subscribe to two plans with two different operators; either two operators working in the same area or two operators in two different countries if you travel often. This means additional expenses and administrative procedures.
Should you choose a French smartphone or turn to a famous foreign brand like Samsung, Apple, Redmi...?
For a few years now, French smartphone brands have emerged and proved to be as innovative as foreign brands. Whether in terms of originality of creation or in terms of proposed technologies, they have nothing to be ashamed of in the face of competition. Admittedly, there are still few smartphones manufactured in the UK, but the design and modeling phase is carried out in the UK and only the actual manufacturing is outsourced.
Nevertheless, French smartphones do exist, and they offer just as many opportunities as those of other brands. In terms of cost, smartphones made in the UK are offered at very attractive prices, which is normal given that this trade is part of a short circuit, even if the manufacturing is sometimes delocalized.
The global smartphone market is dominated by two giants: Samsung and Apple. Of course, other Chinese manufacturers are starting to compete seriously with them, but until now, these two brands hold the first place. This success is undoubtedly the result of a reputation built up over decades, as the Korean Samsung has now been in existence for more than half a century, while the American Apple is five years away from its 50th anniversary.
Technological innovation, the search for better performance, again and again, have contributed to the reputation acquired by these international giants. On the other hand, the French smartphone brands have barely two decades under their belt, which proves that they still have a long way to go.
Those who advocate protectionism and have a patriotic streak will turn to French smartphones without hesitation. However, it is not just a matter of patriotism, it is also necessary to recognize that even if they are relatively young, French smartphone brands design devices that can almost compete with those of international giants.
What do you gain by choosing a French smartphone? The advantages are numerous, here are some of them.
Like any smartphone, the French smartphone will allow you to keep a link with your entourage and even with the world. Whether through phone calls, SMS, social networks, emails and various forums, you take part in the construction of the world around you and you can stay in touch with your loved ones.
The French smartphone is a powerful digital tool for students and professionals. Indeed, beyond all the disadvantages of this digital tool, especially in terms of cyber security, we must recognize its practical advantages in terms of research, documentation, information or competitive intelligence, communication with colleagues and collaborators, etc.
If you invest in a good French smartphone, you will be able to take nice pictures and videos, but you can also watch them with a high resolution. When you want to keep track of the highlights of your life, nothing beats good photos and videos that you can keep with you and watch at any time.
The entertainment function of a good French smartphone should not be minimized. Indeed, you can download a whole range of applications with games of chance, skill or reflection. You can also connect to streaming platforms to listen to your favorite music and watch movies and series, no matter where you are. Just be careful with your battery life!
If you choose a French smartphone instead of a foreign model, you participate in the capacity building of French industries and you contribute, at your level, to the improvement of the national economy. And then, we must recognize that it is a strongly patriotic gesture to choose products designed at home. Since we advocate the fact of consuming French, why not extend it to smartphones?
In our opinion, the best brands of French smartphones in 2022 are :
Wiko is the first French smartphone brand. Founded in 2011 by a man from Marseilles, it has two branches: one for design and marketing based in the UK, and another for manufacturing in China. High-quality French smartphones at the best price, that's the challenge Wiko is trying to meet.
Born in Aix-en-Provence in 2009, Crosscall is known for designing highly resistant and waterproof French smartphones. It's easy to see why the brand has been chosen to equip the police and national gendarmerie in 2021.
Although it claims to create smartphones made in the UK, Archos does not have a factory in the UK. In any case, the brand claims to be a designer of mid-range and high-end models.
Unlike its competitors, the Kapsys brand designs all its digital products here; it is truly a 100% made-in-France smartphone brand. Its uniqueness: it makes French smartphones for the elderly and those with visual impairments.
Logicom claims to be a "French specialist in cheap high-tech". Founded in 1993, it only started designing French smartphones around 2013.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
To protect your personal data on your French smartphone
To protect your personal data stored on your French smartphone, remember to disable the geolocation of the applications you install. Similarly, and as much as possible, try not to accept cookies, or even set them to communicate only the bare minimum about you. Other geeky tips on the use of French smartphones: systematically cleaning up your connection history and regularly changing your password (emails, social networks, forums, etc.).
To better secure your French smartphone
The safest way to secure your French smartphone remains the choice of a not very obvious password that will be difficult to crack. Of course, a 4-digit code is also a good solution, while the level of security offered by models with connectable dots remains quite minimal. If you have a high-end French smartphone, you can resort to facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, keeping in mind that these systems are not 100% foolproof.
To extend the life of your French smartphone
To prolong the life of your French smartphone and to preserve its structure, we highly recommend the use of a shell and screen protector. This way, in case of a fall, the latter will absorb most of the blow. Note however that if the fall is really violent, no shell will be able to fully protect your French smartphone.
To extend the battery life of your French smartphone
Prolong the battery life of your French smartphone by regularly recalibrating the battery and setting your smartphone so as not to waste too much energy. Other reflexes will also allow you to save the battery: choosing a dark screen background, not using the French smartphone when the charger is plugged in or not waiting until the battery is completely flat before recharging it.
To clean the screen of your French smartphone
Did you know that there are more bacteria on a phone than in a toilet bowl? So, consider cleaning your French smartphone regularly with a solution of 80% water and 20% alcohol. Spray this solution on the screen, edges and back of your smartphone and wipe with a very soft cloth or paper towel.
In 2019, a survey conducted by Arcep showed that 77% of English people have a smartphone and 94% of them use it every day. No statistics currently show the proportion of English people who use a French smartphone, but in any case, it is an encouraged initiative. Especially sinceby observing certain criteria, you can find a French smartphone that will amply satisfy you.
Wiko is a French smartphone brand born in Marseille in 2011 thanks to its founder, the Marseille-based Laurent Dahan. Partnerships were forged between Wiko and the Chinese company Tinno; that's why Wiko smartphones are designed and modeled in the UK to be manufactured in China. Today, Wiko has become an international brand and we have tested one of its products in this comparison.
Archos smartphones are manufactured by the Archos brand itself. Although it was founded in 1988, it was only in 2013 that it started designing French smartphones. You should know that by choosing a French brand, you will enjoy many benefits and, at the same time, you will contribute to the development of the national economy thanks to this gesture of support towards local industries.
There are a few techniques that will increase the battery life of your French smartphone: regular recalibration of the battery, automatic adaptation of the screen brightness with the surrounding light, switching to standby mode after a few seconds of inactivity, choosing a dark screen background, not using the French smartphone when the charger is plugged in, not waiting for the low battery alert to recharge it, etc.
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