New Android Phone Suggestions under $700AUD

Hi Guys,

Looking for an android phone, below are the specs that I want.

  • Good Camera
  • Good screen
  • Should be supported for the next couple years(android updates)
  • SD card support - optional
  • Durable

I have had a look at the below models

  • S6 edge
  • Nexus 6p
  • Nexus 5x
  • Note 4

I can't really decide which offers the best value for money.. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Also, could you please recommend which online retailer should I look to for placing the order?(kogan, dwi, eglobalcentral)

Thanks in advance!

Cheers

Comments

  • +1

    Also consider the OnePlus 3? It's about $500 AUD if you take advantage of post-Brexit exchange rates.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6uv1kzN4vQ

    • +1

      I have used the one plus x before, I am not happy with the software. The updates they send out often have bugs, but things might have improved with op3

    • Where can you find it at this price and that ships to Australia? I've been looking at this, only option I have found is direct form OnePlus, for about $530, but would need to send to my brother and get him to post it which as about another $20-25.

      Definitely appears to be the best value at the moment. @saviour1108 - If you're not happy with software updates I suggest you also avoid Samsung, takes an age to get updates, my last two phones have been Samsung, and won't buy any more, the Nexus phones are significantly better value and will get updates for longer. All three of those retailers should be fine, I've not used Kogan but never had issues with the other two. eGLobal have 5% off everything for the next day or so.

      • Thanks Conan2000!

        Just a bit worried about the warranty if things go wrong. Do these sites provide after sales services?

        the best deal i can find at the moment.
        https://www.eglobaldigitalcameras.com.au/google-nexus-6p-h15…

        Any other suggestions for devices would be appreciated.

        • I've never had to use them for warranty luckily. Phones through them generally come with one year warranties. I think they have third parties they use on shore for repairs etc if they are necessary, but not 100% sure.

  • Also consider Windows 10 Mobile

    • +9

      Sorry mate! android and maybe ios. Windows 10 have really bad app support.

      • Oh well it was worth a shot. Thanks for the reply!

        Btw Welcome to OzBargain

        • +1

          First of all, lol
          Second of all… the HP Elite x3 looks like a good superphone (minus the support, of course).

        • @Kangal: Just checked it out and it looks like a very good phone. Has a Windows phone ever had 4GB of RAM before??? I can't believe how good the specs are!

          OP check it out here

      • Windows 10 have really bad app support.

        How many different talking cat apps do you really need???

  • -4

    Considering the Z5 Premium is ~$750 ATM you could take a look at the Z5. It's basically the same phone without the stupid resolution.

    Though I personally would avoid Sony due to poor build quality unless you have a compelling case to get one.

    And there is the One Plus 3 which is also worth consideration.

    • Thanks for the suggestion, but I myself am not a sony fan. What would you recommend from the phones listed above?

      Also, could you recommend any site where i can buy the one plus?

    • +2

      Poor build quality? I had a Z3 compact - it was fantastic. Good build quality, fantastic battery life (pushed it to about three days with heavy usage, 5 with less usage)

  • +3

    Hi saviour1108,

    You've come to the right place to ask this question. I will start off and simplify things into 3 categories:
    1) A device that will be good for a long time
    2) A device that requires you to get technical
    3) A device that is obsoleted within the first 3 months

    Choice 1)
    You're ONLY choice are Nexus devices. And there are only 2 devices to choose from; Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P.
    The old Nexus'es (Nexi ?) are getting dropped support by Google, they made an official announcement on it.

    Choice 2)
    Now this is where it gets a little muddy.
    These are devices that will get updates, unofficially, but with your effort. Sometimes its A LOT of effort.
    And usually there are conditions to it.
    On the top end you have the old Nexuses that are kept alive by third party accessories and dev community such as the Nexus 4, Nexus 7, Nexus 5, Nexus 6.

    On the middle end you have devices that are possible to unlock bootloaders, root, and have some* source code. And they have a budding developer community, but this is a community online, from third-party sources, not the OEM. So this support can cease at any time. A good example would be the OnePlus One, and SONY Z3.

    On the lower end you have flagship devices (eg/ Samsung S7, Samsung Note7, HTC M10, LG G4, Moto X) and these devices are usually HARD (or impossible) to develop for. But since they are very popular, there's a lot of dev interest and some of these devices get some traction in terms of os development, usually at the cost of warranty and bricking.

    Choice 3)
    Then you have the rest of the Android ecosystem.
    These devices can come from someone as reputable as Samsung and Xiaomi, but basically you buy them as is, without any software updates. And since the source is missing, and documents not published, working on them becomes hard. Then they patch root-applications and hard-lock the bootloader. These are devices that are bought obsolete or become obsolete in a short time. And some of these devices are really expensive and flagship-tier.

    As an enthusiast I can tell you it's not worth buying a $700+ Samsung flagship when there are mid-tier $400 phones offering a similar/better experience.
    And because of the track record of all the OEMs, I can pretty much only recommend Nexus devices.
    (I used to recommend SONY and Moto flagships, but due to internal company changes, I cannot recommend them as I did before).

    IF you need a device NOW to get you by…. go ahead and buy a AUD$200 Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 (3GB/32GB).
    IF you want a device that will service you WELL for 2 years… Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P are ONLY options.
    IF you are an enthusiast like me… then by all means buy a Nexus 4 or OnePlus One etc etc
    IF you need a phone with a SPECIAL function (eg/ best camera) then buy knowing it would be a subpar overall and probably expensive.

    Feel free to ask me any questions.

    • Thanks for such a detailed reply! With all the information provided, I am now inclined on buying the Nexus 6p.. because of the long term updates and the premium build. I am assuming it can last the nature of updates and the 3 gigs of ram would suffice.

      Lastly, would you know which of the below retailers would offer the best service(dispatch and after sales)
      http://www.eglobaldigitalcameras.com.au/google-nexus-6p-h151…
      https://www.kogan.com/au/buy/huawei-google-nexus-6p-32gb-alm…
      http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/astore/Google-Nexus-6P-H…

      Can you also, advise if any local retailers can match the above prices or can provide local stock for similar or a little more pricing!

      Thanks for your reply. Really helped me swing towards the 6p

      • These are all grey-market vendors.
        So they have their fair share of criticism.

        Of these three, Kogan, has the biggest reputation so they would try better in terms of customer support than the other two.
        Especially if you buy from Kogan through eBay.

        That's what I did last month, and snagged a Nexus 5X (International model, H791, Unlocked, 32GB, Charcoal) for ~AU$350 quick shipping.
        I did want the Nexus 6P… BUT…
        It was more expensive, priced to compete with flagships but it has some problems like;
        -lacks OIS, throttling, lower battery life, bending issue, breakable plastics.

        So the Nexus 6P is not a premium Nexus 5X, its more like an upsized one.
        And until you can get one for <AU$550, I would recommend the Nexus 5X instead.
        Or wait until September/October and buy the new Nexus.

        • Quite some analysis! I know the 6p cost's a lot more, and the only usable feature it has above the 5x is the metal build..

          Frankly, i can go with the Nexus 5x, its the 2 gigs of RAM and the plastic build are something i worry would not last in the long run.

          Have you used the 5x?

        • @saviour1108:

          Yes, I bought it through eBay-Kogan:
          https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/250592

          The 2GB RAM is just enough. The plastic build is sturdy.
          For me the concern was the screen size, and I've realised 5.2inches okay, just at my threshold of small for me.
          I'd prefer a 5.7-5.8in size, but with slim bezels.

          I have compared it to my brother's S7, and honestly I prefer the it over his glossy and slippery phone.
          Not to mention those speakers. And the fingerprint location. Also pairs with my LG Urbane nicely.

          I'm not planning on upgrading soon… this device is fairly good and very well supported.

        • @Kangal: Cool! Although, Kogan doesn't list the h791 anywhere, I've heard that band 700 is recommended if to be used in Australia.

        • @saviour1108:
          Yes, read my previous posts on that same thread.
          Kogan, and practically all other grey-market vendors don't guarantee which variant you get.

          I was lucky to get a German-targeted H791, but YMMV.

        • @Kangal: any phone you recommend that is on par to the samsung s7 edge?

        • +1

          @lettcaster:
          It depends, what aspects of the Samsung S7 Edge are most important to you?

          In terms of screen size, basically you're looking at the 5.2-5.7 in "phablet" market (Plenty of options).
          In terms of performance, basically anything with QSD 820 will do (plenty again).
          The camera? I must say the S7 probably has the best. The G5 is good. iPhones, HTC, Nexus's are okay.
          How about the hardware and software support?
          (Does it matter for you? Have you had bad customer service issues before?)
          In terms of VR, GearVR is currently the best, Google Carboard is meh, but Google's Daydream is coming.
          If its the curved screen, I don't know many devices with a 2.5D screen besides the S7/S7 Edge and latest iPhone models.
          (I personally prefer the straight/flat screens so I can use glass screen protectors)


          Definitely check out the:

          Nexus 5X
          Nexus 6P

          Also a competitor is:

          iPhone 6S Plus (64GB)

          Some of its closest competitors come from the same company:

          Samsung Galaxy S7, Note 5, Note 4 (due to removable backplate)

          Just as a short list look at:

          HTC One M10, LG G5

          Chinese competitors:

          OnePlus 3, ZTE Axon 7, Huawei P9 Plus, Xiaomi Note Pro, Meizu Pro 5,

          Some new devices to release soon:

          Nexus 6X (Sep 2016, HTC, rumoured)
          Samsung Note 7
          iPhone 7 Plus
          Lenovo's Moto X Force, Moto Z, Moto Z Force
          Xiaomi Mi Note 2 Pro

          Not sure if this has been helpful for you or not.
          Let me know if you want to know any specifics.

    • but basically you buy them as is, without any software updates

      Why are you explaining that phones do not get updated when phones do get updated?

      • -2

        Why would a Nexus shill give you correct information?

        • +1

          So does this shill work for LG or Huawei? Or maybe Motorola? Or perhaps HTC?

          Man I hate those Nexus shills!

    • Xiaomi weekly MIUI OTA updates and an insane amount of custom ROMs … not sure where you got "basically you buy them as is, without any software updates" from.

      • +1

        Most of the MIUI OTA updates are a joke.
        I don't know if you've had the experience of owning one before.

        Some MIUI devices are supported well by Xiaomi (hence they would be in category 2), but the majority of Android handsets out there never get (or get well) updates from OEM.

        You can walk in to Big W right now and buy a low-range LG Android device… and guess what?
        Precisely.


        Don't forget the scene of the mobile market share:
        Apple = 19%
        Windows Phone = 2%
        Blackberry = 1%
        Android = 78%


        Samsung = 33% market share of the 78%
        Huawei = 11%
        Xiaomi = 7%
        Oppo = 4%
        Lenovo/Motorola = 4%
        LG = 4%
        HTC = 2%
        SONY = 1%
        Others Total = <35%


        Of these Android devices:
        .>$500 = ~18% estimated of the 78% market share
        $200-$500 = ~38% estimated
        <$200 = ~44% estimated


        Then things start to make a bit of sense.

        • I own a Redmi Note 2. I'm not sure what your argument is though … looks like false attribution. How exactly does market share correlate with device updates?

        • but the majority of Android handsets out there never get (or get well) updates from OEM

          Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a company that makes a part or subsystem that is used in another company's end product.

          The original equipment manufacturer being the manufacturer of the constituent parts of the device. i.e. Qualcomm (not really as this is licensed and Qualcomm does not engage in the actual manufacturing process), Mediatek (SoC) Sharp, JDI etc. (Display) …

        • +1

          @kywst:
          The market share statistics was there to show that the majority of Android devices, even from reputable OEMs, are actually low-end models. And because of the profit margins, they don't have proper software and hardware support.

          No fallacy was intended.

          OEM:
          "However, the term is used in several other ways, which causes AMBIGUITY. It sometimes refers to the maker of a system that includes other companies' subsystems, AN END-PRODUCT PRODUCER, an automotive part that is manufactured by the same company that produced the original part used in the automobile's assembly, or a value-added reseller"

          If you buy a HTC One M10, yes, the processor is from Qualcomm, the display might be from Sharp, and several other components from other companies. But don't forget about the motherboard, the casing, boxing coming from HTC (they also are the OEMs of components of their products). Hell, the software is from Google, but it was made by HTC (it's not a skin, its more of a remixed OS).

          So if you want, you can say ODM, but for the majority of people reading…. they 100% knew what I was communicating so your entire point is MOOT.

        • @Kangal: It's clear you have a preference for Nexus devices and that your knowledge isn't quite up to scratch or perhaps somewhat esoteric. Xiaomi actually operate on very low margins but have support above and beyond what you'll get with some of the more established players which further contradicts your statement.

          I'm done anyways … say and think what you will … it's the internet.

        • @kywst:
          No worries, to each is their own.

          I'm merely coming to this from the perspective of an enthusiast since 6 years (or more). And someone who tries to remain as least loyal/unbiased as possible, but can agree to say that the iPhone experience is better than Android in some respects whilst still "voting with my wallet" on the Android experience.

          Xiaomi makes a lot of money… from their monopoly-of-sorts in their services in China (which is a huge market).
          Apple, Google, Microsoft also have their own services, and wish to expand.

  • Have a look at the Xiaomi range. Love the Note 3 pro, but the Mi5 is everything you are after but cheaper.

    • Thanks for the suggestion, but although the MiUi looks great, i would prefer stock android as my daily driver. I love the build quality Xiaomi mi5 has come out with, but the software just does not cut it for me.

      • Run a different launcher.

  • -1

    LG G4 or G5 (it's the latest model). Hands down winner. My best experience with Android phone so far! I own G4. Look for reviews and you will have answers.

    • but bootloop issues tho. I really enjoyed the G4 while it lasted but sadly cannot recommend it.

      • What do you mean by bootloop issue exactly? I have been using it for about 3-4 months without any issue (I didn't change any major settings on phone). Btw, my G4 is Dec2015 model if that makes any difference.

        • The first batch were known to fall victim to a bootloop. It took some time for LG to acknowledge this was actually an issue. It would appear the problem has been fixed in recent revisions.

        • @kywst: Thanks. Is there a way to check if my exact phone was/is affected by it using its IMEI or model number, date, month, year etc? Just to be assured that my phone is ok.

        • @virhlpool: Apparently devices with serial numbers starting with 505-509 can be at risk. Others claim devices purchased (but probably manufactured if we are being realistic) pre-October 2015.

          See here for more info.

        • @kywst: I see.. My phone has serial number starting with 512.

        • @virhlpool: Looks like you dodged a bullet bud and can sleep soundly tonight.

        • @kywst: In that case its best to stay away from the G4

        • +1

          @saviour1108: You're my saviour … don't know what I'd do without you. Although given the issue has been acknowledged and resolved I wouldn't be too concerned.

        • @kywst: True that. I have been using this gem for some months and hopefully my phone doesn't have the issue. It's a great phone if you go for a recent model.

        • @kywst:

          I have a 505 from QD no issues at all.

        • +1

          @neonlight: I can definitively say your device will die some time between now and the end of ze world.

        • @kywst: Sorry don't mean to burst your bubble but newer ones are also at risk, simply look at this megathread https://www.reddit.com/r/lgg4/comments/4dibyz/bootlooped_pos…

          Just remember to back everything up on a regular basis in case it does occur to your phone.

          Honestly I'm still pretty devo, I'm reading up reviews on the S7 and the HTC10 and it makes me miss the G4 camera.

          edited to add: LG have done (profanity) all to address this issue by the way. They only came out and "acknowledged" it when some android blog emailed them about it (and said blog posted their response). They haven't really publicly gone out and said anything. Mine bootlooped a month ago, I sent it to LG via Telstra and they sent me some shit refurb (lens all scratched up, completely unacceptable as mine was in mint condition). I wasn't happy, Telstra sent it back and I swear LG sent back the same device but with a new IMEI. Yeah, great customer service.

        • @ippy: Checked thread … CTRL+F 510 511 512 didn't find too many apart from "New Serial Number" as in they were issued a replacement/refurb … perhaps acceptable failure rates? I've seen DOAs in some products with higher prevalence rates. Hit Telstra up and tell them it's unacceptable and you demand a new phone. In any case I don't own one so I'm not going to lose any sleep over it. I just had a quick read and helped out where I could.

          edit: I use the term acceptable very lightly … there is data to suggest that 7.5% of iPhones will malfunction within 2 years for example.

        • +1

          @ippy:
          I hear you G4 has the best camera on all my android phones I had for several years

        • @kywst:
          Funny. I think everything die at end of the world, no? Passed 13 months and I don't care if it breaks I will just get a G5. I got full backups anyway.

          The thing is I'm very sure I'm not the only one with 505-511 serial numbers with no issues.

        • @neonlight:

          I think everything die when at end of the world no?

          Everything on this world, sure.

          It was a tongue in cheek reference to this

    • Dont think LG updates their software often.

      • Good and bad! Less annoying.

      • G4 was one of the first non nexus phones to get M

        • I mean the more important security update. Is it still on February?

  • +1

    Hi mate,
    I highly recommend lenovo vibe p1.

    I am using for last 6 months and it has exceeded all my expectations.

    Best if all its only $350 and 5000 mpa battery which will last at least 2 day.

    http://m.gsmarena.com/lenovo_vibe_p1-7539.php

    Good luck with your search.

    Cheers

  • Huawei P9 + Huawei Watch from $52/Per Month @ Optus.
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/256258

    Min $1248 (52 X 24)
    Huawei P9 worth $700 & Huawei Watch around $400.

    But really. In term of security update.
    Nexus is the best and Xiaomi second as I heard they update monthly.

    You can ask other people what security patch they are from other brands, if they are still on May security patch or earlier than you should not put too much hope on them as Nexus should have July patch by now and it makes them at least 2 months slower.

    Note: May security patch is important as it patched a security breach.

    Wroth mention: Sony z3+ or Mobiles with good cyanogenmod support

  • Wow, I wish I got such detailed information on my only post about a similar topic, maybe because I asked about a cheaper good android phone.
    Good luck to you I hope you find what you're looking for. I will keep my eye on this thread as it will be of interest to me also. I still had some lovely people reply & help me which was much appreciated
    Thankyou to everyone as it was my first post Cheers
    Good luck saviour1108

    • You dont get as much advices its because you were only asking review of a mobile…
      https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/255447

      • Oh, ok fair enough windwai, like I said all new to me. I appreciate your reply.
        Cheers :)

  • I'd just like a phone that's battery don't last a day, even when I don't do any social media.
    I did get some tips about turning data off, GPS off and the vibration, which I have done, but don't seem to made any difference, it's bloody annoying!
    Maybe I should go on a plan and not bother every couple years having to buy a new one? Worth thinking about

  • HTC10? Great build and clean stock interface. Probably over your budget but I haven't checked prices myself.

  • ZTE Axon 7, coming out this month. Great specs and I reckon it will be within your budget.

  • If your looking for something unique then look no further

    http://www.dx.com/p/yotaphone-2-32gb-rom-black-852435316?tc=…

    Only downside is there's no card slot.

  • LG V10, can't recommend G4 as it has bootloop issue. Never liked Nexus you can always get those if you prefer.

    Don't go Samsung because their price simply not worth it.

  • Mobileciti just posted some Sony deals , maybe be useful for you.

  • Moto G4 plus. Will be released soon in Australia.
    http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2016/07/motorolas-new-moto-g4-plus…
    I am a recent convert from a windows 640 to this. (got the g4 plus in India). Really good screen and camera. Stock android, likely early updates.
    Dual sim, reasonable cost, full high def 5.5 inch screen, 16MP camera, 3gb ram, 32gb storage etc. Only gripe is that it does not have a compass-I find it useful for some apps. It has sd card support but only "rainproof" not waterproof.
    Great value for money.

    • Already selling http://www.harveynorman.com.au/moto-g4-plus-16gb-black.html

      Are these dual sim as I can not see it anywhere?

    • As a Moto X Style owner, I can tell you their update is not that good.
      Have been stay in February security update until June when we received May update, and we have not receive 6.0.1 yet.

      And if you are looking at Moto G4, you should check on Moto X Play as well if you can get one, better spec at similar price. But nothing beat local warranty.

      • As a fellow Moto X Style owner, it was such a great phone let down by disastrous battery life. Ended up selling it and moved to a 6S.

        Same usage as with my X Style, by 10am I still have 91% battery whereas the Motorola would be at 70%.

        • You must have some apps draining the power.
          Normally, I have 90% plus power around that time, assuming its fully charged before I went to bed.

        • @windwai:

          Possibly, but I always tried to close apps down when I can. But I think it mostly boils down to Android power management in general. I've owned a few Android phones and they have been all rubbish in the battery department, except for Sony Xperia's which are the best even compared to IOS devices.

        • @ozeebee:

          Actually, Many people have that issue on X Style including me. It is because something in the mobile keeping the phone awake. I solved it by Setting > apps > show system apps > reset app preferences than restart the phone.

          http://imgur.com/a/5Z4hP

  • If you can deal with the size Nexus 6P.
    Takes great photos, smooth as silk, will stay updated.

    I swapped my 6P for my partners Samsung S6 as she liked the photos on the 6P. What a terrible phone the S6 is. Full of bloat, random battery drains, rare updates (not even security!), and web pages STILL scroll laggy after 1/2 a decade of "progress". Photos ARE quite decent however.

    • Hi, Thanks for the advice. Going for the N5x..

  • It does depend how urgent is the need.

    If you can wait till the new Nexuses are out, then I would. Hopefully the prices would be sane, and if not the 6P will drop in price.

    If you need it now, then the 5X or 6P, or the LG G5 would be my bet.

  • -1

    LG G5 for 620 on eBay. Aussie stock!

    Maybe wanna have a look at Lumia 950 which trends around 400?

    Enjoy your new phone.

    • Don't think windows phone is a good option. It's pretty much dead in the water. Lack of apps and development. Microsoft killed the Nokia brand yet again…. Shame

      • Windows Phones are not dead. MS won't drop support or stop releasing phones. Yes, the other 2 have more apps, but not everyone really needs or uses them. I do think Lumia 950 is a great option for this price tag and features.

        • But…But try telling kids that you can't play Pokemon Go because its not on Windows lol

        • @neonlight:

          I never said it competes app-wise but doesn't mean WP are dead. I'm not an app-person, had been using iphones for years but WP won me. At the end of the day,it comes to the like and needs of somebody.

  • Nexus 6p would be my recommendation. I value OS update and support.

  • Moto X Style is quite good. Battery isn't fantastic but should be adequate, and performance isn't quite cutting edge (Snapdragon 810) but I love mine. Got the 299 ozbargain deal awhile ago.

  • Hi Guys! First of all, thank you all for providing such response to the post! It was my very first one and the suggestions and advice which came along were pure gold!

    I've decided to go ahead and get the Nexus 5x purely because of the below reasons
    -Same Camera as the 6p (minus the better slo mo mode)
    -Security updates directly from google
    -NO BLOAT
    -Easy on the pocket
    -Google support till mid next year(read that somewhere)

    If you guys could be kind enough to point me to the correct, tried and tested online retailer which provides the h791 model(for 4g use) I would be immensely grateful!

    A big THANKS once again!! :D

    Cheers!

    • Mobileciti is doing a deal on 6P, Australian stock/local warranty. They have a physical store in Parramatta, NSW.

  • Don't buy from eGlobal.

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/254493#comment-3808490

    I am still going with my RMA. Been over 10 weeks now. Recently, I hadn't heard from them for over ten days. I opened a papal dispute and immediately got a response saying the could fix my phone in 4-6 weeks BUT I have to close my Paypal dispute first. Interesting, considering they said they couldn't fix my phone.

    They are quick with the sale but if something goes wrong then you will have a mixed bag of an experience with RMA. Some people say they are great. Many say they are crap.

    My experience is the latter. They aren't particularly following their own terms and conditions. Seems that they make it up as they go.

    As far as I am concerned now, it is in Paypal's hands. I hope it gets resolved. I will not be buying grey from them again.

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