I'm helping my Mum upgrade to a smart phone so she can get around more using Google Maps navigation.
I know a bit about the high end phones but she can't afford anything over about $300.
Does any one have any recommendations for me?
Android Phone under $330? (used mainly for GPS navigation)
LPerson328231 on 26/04/2016 - 15:45
Comments
Otherwise if you are willing to take a bit more of a risk you can get Xiaomi
Care to elaborate what kind of risk are you referring to?
Warranty?
Yep, as with all imported products/phones, chasing up a fix or replacement if something fails will be a tough ask as you will need to contact the original seller and ship it back to them (at your cost). Whereas phones purchased locally will be protected under consumer law and sellers or the manufacturers are more obligated/motivated to help you out.
Also, depending on what you get, the firmware could be broken and you won't get any support. Although Xiaomi seems to be one of the better ones.
Apparently it's possible to get something decent delivered from overseas for under $300…
https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/244786
Or this might be good too for under $180…
Motorola Moto G 2015.
Either Nexus 5x or Moto G.
Motorola Moto G 2015.
If it's just going to be Call, SMS, and Google Maps, any cheap Android will do the job, see Android deals
This $49 looks decent: Optus Alcatel Pixi3 4.5 4G $39 @ Australia Post
If she needs good camera, frequent use of social media, etc.: Xiaomi as cuteseal mentioned aboveNexus 5p, good phone, frequent security updates.
is it under $330?
optus cheapie https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/244373
telstra cheapie https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/245006Is your mum on a plan, on prepaid, what provider?
I used my Lenovo K3 note a week ago for GPS and was impressed with its GPS capability. previously I had used a Samsung S3 for GPS but the Lenovo was much much smoother.
A Lenovo K3 note can be bought from Aliexpress for ~US$105 delivered AUD$135
here is one for US $98.99/ AU$127.96 delivered. Seller has great feedback.
Some people say the camera is OK-ish. out of all the china droid phones that I've bought I've found this one to be the best camera. Everything is else really good.
A lot of positive feedback on Ozbargain for these phones.
Thanks for everyones comments. I have added a few to the list.
Just to be clear I'm specifically looking for an Unlocked phone to use a prepaid sim. Something between $250 - $330. I want it to last her for a while.
And also preferably from a retail store or online within Australia from a well known company like Kogan.
Motorola G seems to be a good budget phone that most people here like.
Otherwise if you are willing to take a bit more of a risk you can get Xiaomi (e.g. MI4 or Note 3 Pro) with flagship specs under $300.