Mobile Device Selection
Choosing a mobile device for your CommCare project can be a hard decision. The Dimagi team has worked to make this decision a bit easier by testing numerous different phone models and documenting their performance. This page will provide you with the results of our testing as well as some general guidance on selecting your device.
Considerations for Selecting Your Device
CommCare requires Android OS 4.1 or higher, with a preference for devices on the higher end for extended support. Consider the following when selecting devices:
Local Support: Ensure quick replacement or repair options, compatibility with local standards (characters, dates, voltages, plugs).
Accessories: Check for SIM card compatibility, particularly in tablets, which may have SIM or WiFi-only models.
Battery Life: Critical for rural areas with limited power access. Test battery life to match project needs.
Device Longevity: Verify if the device model will continue to be available and supported in the target region for the foreseeable future (3, 5, 10 years).
Cost: Assess if the cost is reasonable and comparable to other devices in the area to avoid theft risks.
Performance: Consider device speed, memory, screen size, and resolution for app requirements, especially for multimedia use or users with poor vision.
Connectivity: Ensure at least 2G network compatibility, along with GPS, GPRS, and WiFi. Confirm compatibility with local telecom providers.
Language Support: Verify support for all necessary languages for your project by checking settings and language compatibility. (Potential tool here: http://www.unicode.org/charts/)
CommCare Compatibility: After narrowing down options, test your application on a potential device to ensure optimal performance, including language support, image quality, audio, and video functionality within the app.
Recommended Devices
Below is a list of recommended devices from Dimagi. These have all been gathered through partners over the years. Please note that this list is updated on an irregular basis. As such, we suggest testing the phone to ensure it meets your project requirements before procuring multiple phones.
Mobile phone or tablet?
While tablets are slightly more expensive than phones and have equal or worse battery life, they also have several benefits for certain projects. Consider using a tablet for projects with:
Heavy data collection: Tablets, with their larger screens, can display more questions at once (around 6 compared to phones' 4), reducing the need to swipe frequently.
Extensive use of multimedia: The larger screen of a tablet makes it better for viewing images and videos.
Stationary settings: Tablets are suitable for less mobile environments. Their size makes them more conspicuous and potentially more at risk for theft.
No need for traditional communication: Tablets lack the capability for calls and SMS, which could be a limitation depending on project needs.