Which smartphone has the lowest electromagnetic radiation?

Whether or not electromagnetic radiation emitted from smartphones is harmful to humans is still a controversial issue, as scientists have not been able to draw a final conclusion despite conducting many different studies.

What is the SAR index?

Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is a measure of the amount of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the body when using a mobile phone. SAR is expressed in watts per kilogram of body weight (W/kg) and is usually measured under standard conditions with the device operating at its highest power level. Thus, the higher the SAR rating of a mobile phone model, the more electromagnetic radiation it emits.

Radiation emitted from mobile phones belongs to the non-ionizing radiation category of the electromagnetic spectrum. Unlike ionizing radiation (X-rays, gamma rays) which can damage human DNA, non-ionizing radiation does not have enough energy to directly break molecular bonds. However, this radiation can be absorbed by tissues, leading to the possibility of causing thermal effects.

The SAR value reported by mobile phone manufacturers is the highest value measured under standard test conditions. These tests typically involve placing the phone close to a simulator (made from a material that mimics tissue) and transmitting at maximum power.

Measurements are taken multiple times at different locations around the phone and the highest value emitted by the mobile phone is used as the SAR report result. This approach ensures a conservative estimate of potential exposure under real-world conditions.

Because the SAR index has the potential to affect human health, many international organizations have been interested in researching to set standards to limit the impact of SAR on human health.

The first SAR standard was issued in 1982 by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Subsequently, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the ITU, etc. all researched and issued SAR standards. The SAR limits in these standards include: applying a limit of 2 W/kg (for the head and body), 4 W/kg (for the limbs), and 0.08 W/kg (for the whole body).

20 Cell Phones That Emit the Least Electromagnetic Radiation

The OPPO Find X5 Lite has the lowest SAR among the 20 mobile phones that emit the least electromagnetic radiation with a measured SAR of 0.83 W/kg (head) and 1.01 W/kg (whole body). This is followed by the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G with a measured SAR of 0.84 W/kg (head) and 1.02 W/kg (whole body).

Tech giant Apple also has a mobile phone model on this list, the iPhone 11, which is ranked 8th with a measured SAR level of 0.95 W/kg (head) and 1.13 W/kg (whole body).

List of 20 mobile phones that emit the least electromagnetic radiation

How does cell phone use affect SAR levels?

It is important to understand that the reported SAR values ​​reflect only a worst-case scenario. In everyday use, a number of factors contribute to a reduction in actual exposure compared to the tested values, such as:

Mobile network signal strength:A strong mobile network signal means that the mobile phone emits less power, resulting in a lower SAR reading. Conversely, weak network signal conditions require the mobile phone to emit more power to maintain a connection, potentially resulting in a higher SAR reading.

Distance between mobile phone and body:The intensity of radio frequency radiation follows the inverse square law. That is, if the distance between the phone and the body is doubled, the SAR will decrease by a factor of 4. This principle emphasizes the benefit of using a headset or speakerphone to keep the phone away from the head during calls.

How to use mobile phone:Most users do not hold the phone to their head for long periods of time. Additionally, phone calls typically involve alternating talking and listening, thus reducing the average exposure compared to the continuous transmission simulated in the test.

Extensive research has been conducted to investigate the potential effects of radiation from mobile phones on human health. Although some studies suggest a possible link to certain health conditions, the evidence is still unclear.

Importantly, there is no scientific consensus on the health risks associated with exposure to electromagnetic radiation. Reputable international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified non-ionizing radiation, such as that emitted by smartphones, as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” However, other organizations, such as the Italian National Institute of Health, have concluded that there is insufficient evidence to say that electromagnetic radiation emitted by smartphones causes cancer.

It is also important to note that the SAR value is only a measure of the amount of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the body. Other factors, such as the frequency and duration of exposure, can affect the health risk.

Some ways to reduce the risk of exposure to electromagnetic waves from mobile phones

Although there is no conclusive evidence to date of a link between cell phone use and human health, it is important to take preventative measures. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted from cell phones:

Use speakerphone or headset when using mobile phone:This increases the distance between the phone and your head, which significantly reduces the SAR. When you are not using your phone, you should not carry it on your person.

When not in use, avoid carrying the phone directly on your person.Instead, choose a bag, purse, or backpack. This minimizes the constant close contact between your cell phone and your body.

Text instead of calling:Consider texting or using messaging apps to communicate in situations that require extended conversations. Texting reduces direct contact of the cell phone to the head.

Limit long calls:One way to reduce your SAR level is to limit the length of calls you make. When you make a phone call, your cell phone emits radio waves that are absorbed by your body. The longer the call, the more radio wave radiation you are exposed to.

Limit phone use in areas with weak signals:Whenever possible, make calls and use data services in areas with strong cellular signal strength. This is because when using a mobile phone in areas with weak signal strength, the phone must adjust its power to strengthen the signal, which increases the SAR.

Also, don't place your device next to your pillow or bedside table. If you use your phone as an alarm, turn it on airplane mode.