Please Help Me Decide On New Phone ($200-$300)

MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 09:23
Last edited 06/04/2017 - 12:13 by 1 other user

I'm in need of some objective advice on which phone to buy in the very near future (around $200-ish - if I have to go to $300 I will). I'd really appreciate some guidance. Below are some of the things that I want in a new phone.

I usually have a phone for a long time and it often takes the place of a laptop if I'm traveling. I prefer to have just one gadget (ie: I don't carry a camera, mp3 player, tablet, kindle, and I have learned to travel without a laptop (painful as being without a keyboard is). The phone will also be my sole entertainment unit so needs to be able to play mp4s well and with reasonable sound. (I don't do gaming).
I don't know how to flash a rom or root a phone and I don't want to try yet…In the future perhaps.
Sony Xperia was looking good until I saw the battery size.

Must have:
My gift to myself in this next phone is that it must be fast. Band 28 (even though I've read the comments I still want it), 2gb RAM (hopefully more) , battery 3000+ mAh, as much as possible internal memory, good for international use, expandable memory (as much as possible), google Play, usb OTG,

Would like:
not much bigger than 5".. Would go to 5.5" if it gives me more choice. prefer non-detachable battery (now that I've had one on my dying Huawei Ascend Mate 2), reasonable sound - I know I won't get fantastic for around $200. Fast charging would be a dream but isn't a deal-breaker if I have a big battery.
Something that could accommodate a foldable keyboard (f I can find a lightweight keyboard - I don't want a tablet with detachable keyboard), a decent camera (for digital not printed photos). Physical home button preferred but not essential, proximity sensor but not essential.

I don't care much about:
fingerprint scanner, NFC, compass, infra-red notification lights. if locked I need it to be easily unlocked by someone like Bagman, don't care much about dual sim unless 2nd sim is expandable memory,

I don't want to buy online - I prefer a B&M store as I'll be travelling soon and don't want the hassle of maybe having to return it by post overseas or a long waiting time.(sadly, as Xiaomi looks great)

I've been reading your comments on the sales for the phones here (thank you - I've learned a lot!) which is how I came to many of the conclusions above. I'm now also a bit confused and need guidance as my deep tech knowledge only goes so far.

I've got a Huawei Y560 as a faithful backup (has done well when I've needed it).

Thanks so much for your help

Mobile

Comments

  • Cheeper on 06/04/2017 - 10:42
    +1

    What are your local b&m stores? Look up what they have to offer and go from there.
    That could restrict your choice somewhat?
    You seem to have nailed your specs pretty well so you will be able to home in on your preferred phone.

    • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 11:05

      Thanks @xywolap. all the big stores are here in Adelaide. I don't want to rely on info from the salespeople tho. Just want to walk in with info, buy, walk out.
      My last experience in a B&M store to buy anything electronic was to buy a plug n play cd/dvd drive for a netbook. Salesman advised me to buy a dvd player (for a tv) . I don't have a tv, and I was stunned at his ignorance of products. I bought one online

  • Bappy on 06/04/2017 - 11:50
    +1

    I think you have very limited choice these days if you don't want anything bigger than 5-inch display.
    On top of this Band 28 compatibility will eliminate lots of Overseas based models.

    I guess Sony Z3 compact would be a good choice (although it is 4.6") but would be hard to get it under $300 brand new.
    You might try your luck on eBay

    Nexus 5x is another option (5.2" screen though) - but I wouldn't recommend buying Nexus 5x due to LG's bootloop issue

    However if you consider 5.5" phones (which is more standard choice these days) or Don't need Band28 then you will have plenty of options under $300

    Edit: Didn't notice that you want local stock from B/M store, so Xiaomi's are no good

    ~For example (I Picked Xiaomi Phones)~
    ~5 Inch Screen but No Band 28: Xiaomi Redmi 4 pro or Xiaomi Mi5~

    ~5.5 Inch Screen with Band 28: OZB favourite Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro SE.~

    • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 12:12
      +1

      Thanks Bappy. If it's limiting my choices too much, I'd go to 5.5". I'll edit my original post to reflect that.
      The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 pro caught my eye a few times. I just don't want the possible overseas purchasing wrangle prior to traveling

      • Bappy on 06/04/2017 - 12:26
        +2

        Great. I guess Another OZB favourite phone Moto G4 Plus would be the best pick at this moment.

        FYI - most of the BM stores only stock the 2GB/16GB version.
        However Mobilciti and some other stores (like: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/298873) stores 3GB/32GB versions which is also locally stocked.

        If you could wait, maybe wait for Moto G5 plus which should get released very soon
        http://www.androidcentral.com/moto-g5-plus-vs-moto-g4-plus

        You could also check Oppo F1s which I believe supports Band 28

        • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 12:33
          +1

          Thanks for this. I'll check out Moto4 on Mobilciti. Unable to wait for Moto5…Poor Ascend Mate is losing its mind. I want to trial out new phone for at least 2 wks before I travel.

    • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 12:28
      +1

      Sony Z3 looks good. I'll go do some research on user reviews. Static Ice tells me that Techrific in Vic have them for $279… Thank you for the tip 😊

  • battler on 06/04/2017 - 12:30
    +2

    Oppo F1S ? $260 at Target and Optus shops
    https://www.target.com.au/p/optus-oppo-f1s-4g-prepaid-mobile…

    Looks like it has band 28: http://www.oppo.com/au/smartphone-f1s#group_4

  • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 12:35

    Thanks so much Battler. Shall have a look at specs and reviews on Oppo F1S now.

    • branners on 06/04/2017 - 15:42
      +1

      I also recommend the F1S. I got one for the wife when it was on sale on eBay from Optus, for just over $200 delivered. Got it unlocked by Bagman for $18, and fitted a 32GB micro SD card to transfer her pics from her iPhone (which she had for 6 years!) for $15. So all up, $235.
      Cracking performance, good screen (not as good as an S7, but good enough). The Color OS is not buggy or bloaty. Once she got used to android she loves it, and some of her friends have already commented on how clear she sounds on the phone.

      • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 16:00

        Thanks Branners. I appreciate your personal feedback on this phone.

        • branners on 06/04/2017 - 16:52
          +1

          One thing maybe I should have mentioned.
          It was an online only deal, and was delivered (in a couple of days) FOC from eBay, and came with the appropriate invoice — from Optus. So, any problems, just pop into an Optus shop and sort it out.
          That may help with your preferred B&M.

      • wei13 on 06/04/2017 - 16:31

        Hi branner. Wonder how you would rate the photo quality?

        • branners on 06/04/2017 - 16:49
          +1

          The pics are really quite good. They advertise the F1S as the selfy phone, and my wife and I are too old for all that tish but the images so far are just fine. Not quite as razor sharp as my OnePlus but that cost a lot more $$$.

        • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 18:46

          @branners:
          Thanks for this branner. Can you tell me about the sim ejector tool? Is it annoying? Is it attached or could it be lost? If lost, what then?

        • branners on 06/04/2017 - 19:21
          +1

          @MishyMoo: It's really no drama.
          I have switched Mrs B twice since she had the F1S, first because the company she had been with for 6 years wanted to charge her $20 for a nano SIM (so I got a Voda one for $1), and then because I got a spare recharge on another phone account by mistake and I did not want it to go to waste (which would have been very unOzbargain!)
          It was just a matter of making sure you put it back in the box, and then keep in the right place (we have a spot in a drawer for that stuff). And the Voda SIM came with a spare ejector tool for free, and that worked fine as well.
          Unless you change all the time (like I do) it's no problem.

        • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 19:46

          @branners:
          Thanks for that. If ejector sim was lost and no spare Vodafone key is it possible to get the sim out without wrecking the phone?

        • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 20:18

          @branners
          I:
          I poked around online. Can now see how it works. It's doable. Thanks Brenner.
          All the best. M

        • shortblack9 on 07/04/2017 - 09:33
          +1

          @MishyMoo: I keep my sim ejector tool on my keyring. It's come in handy a few times and doesn't get damaged or lost. When I'm travelling, I keep my keyring on a little hook in my backpack. That might help if you're not sure.

        • MishyMoo on 07/04/2017 - 09:47

          @shortblack9:

          Thank you! I hadn't heard of an ejector tool prior to yesterday for some reason. I didn't realise it would be so tough. For some reason I thought it would be flimsy and easily bent out of place. My backpack has hooks. Everything has its place when traveling.. I was starting to invent all kinds of ways to keep it safe on the road. Now I've got the place :)

  • Bappy on 06/04/2017 - 12:47
    +1

    If you don't mind the lack of full HD display, maybe the Sony Xperia XA is a good choice?
    You missed this deal
    But its still under $200 and has 5inch screen plus bad28 support.

    http://shop.vodafone.com.au/mobile-details/sony-xperia-xa-bl…

  • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 12:57

    Oppo F1S… Just now researching… The Sim ejector tool on Opps F1S. I wonder if this is annoying? What happens if the tool is lost!… Or is it attached somehow?

  • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 13:34
    +1

    Hi Bappy. I'm liking the Moto G5 a lot. I truly appreciate your suggestions. Does anyone know exactly when it will be in Au? It just might be worth the time squirm for the deal.

    • Bappy on 06/04/2017 - 13:45
      +1

      More likely end of April

  • kywst on 06/04/2017 - 13:40
    +4

    I know you're hesitant buying a Xioami device online but can tell you if you buy from a reputable dealer and pay the $20-$30 for DHL delivery you'll have it in under a week. I've ordered tablets and phones and every time I've gone with DHL it's been 3-4 days from order to delivered. I once ordered a tablet late on a Friday night from China and it arrived Tuesday morning. DHL and sellers handling time are the key points here.Careful though because the option of Toll expedited delivery usually takes 2 weeks and so does EMS contrary to it being advertised as an expedited service. I'm unsure about UPS expedited, FedEx or TNT though … one would assume similar to DHL but can't verify on experience.

    In terms of receiving a DOA … you'd have to be unlucky to the point that you'd better put the lotto on cause it's your turn to win. Most sellers will check the device for DOA prior to shipping anyway. Some will even change settings and flash roms for you on request. Checking out some previous threads you'll find people who have shared their experience.

    You will get far better value from a Xiaomi device than anything you can get at a B&M store for the same price; even double that price and you'd be very hard pressed.

    • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 14:52

      Thanks kywst.. For taking the time to reassure and inform me, especially on the delivery suppliers.
      Much appreciated. ☺

      I've had bad luck buying overseas and combined with what I've read about suppliers' apathy and lousy aftersales service… I'm hesitant.
      With faulty goods it's taken me 4 to 6 weeks to sort it out.
      Obviously with BM I can walk in, hand it over, get money back, walk out.

      If I was to buy a phone from an overseas supplier, I'd like to buy via PayPal so I'd have some comeback and logical/unbiased support if needed.

      Which suppliers could you recommend (with PayPal preferred ) for Xiaomi?
      I wouldn't hold you responsible if perchance it didn't work out for me.

      I'm getting to the point of confusion again, so I'll go and do some more homework.

      • kywst on 06/04/2017 - 15:38
        +1

        GizChina Store but out of stock on RN3 International :(
        GearBest they may have had some scathing reviews but have always delivered for me. Keep in mind that a majority of complaints are from group buy deals with no expedited shipping.

  • MishyMoo on 06/04/2017 - 23:17
    +2

    Long update (tia for reading)

    As my old Ascend Mate (a very good mate it has been too) slowly dies (or I get tired of the struggle of it's dying processor - (yesterday, I reinstalled it from scratch to ascertain if it's a software or hardware issue - alas it appears to be hardware, or my ineptitude at tech)

    ….so……..

    to give me some breathing space while 'maybe' holding out for the Moto 5, closing my eyes and gritting my teeth in the hope that an online purchase could work well for me - or just waltzing into the OPTUS store, having a look at Oppo f1s and buying it from them or Big W or Target….(and therefore have a decent working phone by tomorrow night - (now that excites me)

    ….and….

    • on the finding some breathing space re above-mentioned saga and needing something resembling a phone/phablet in the interim - Trying to get an old ASUS fonepad working after being locked up in storeage for some time. AVG won't let me open it due to simcard change, and many attempts to reinstall from scratch have failed. Fobbed off by AVG call centre(s), and have raised a ticket with their online crew (which don't allow you to unless you have (or lie that you have) a paid subscription with them …..(is this a scam to have to pay to get my stuff unlocked? If so, bye bye AVG forever)
      (if you have any clues on this, I'd be grateful - I've spent waaay too many hours on it)

    My point is: about procuring goods (like amazingly cheap and fast phones) and services (such as AVG) in other countries that don't have the same (or anywhere near the same - morelike - none usually) consumer protection that Au does - I'm starting to feel that ol' nagging concern about buying anything over 50bucks online…..

    I'm done for today - so many phones, so little time :)

    Thank you Ozb people for your kind help today - I may be back with more questions or fears, and a shorter update. :)

  • Brendoo on 07/04/2017 - 12:19
    +1

    I bought the Oppo F1s from JB Hi-Fi for my Nephew after similar research in a similar price range. It was around the $300 when I bought it about 4 months ago. Both myself and him were pleasantly surprised at what a good phone it is. It's fast, screen is great, very clear and bright. Photos are great, only negative comment on the photos is that when light is quite low there can be a bit of noise showing, but low light is the enemy of most phone cameras. And although you aren't a gamer, it's been great for games too. Sound volume is also good, again we were pleasantly surprised on that too.

    It also came with a nice clear rubberised case inside the box as part of the standard package.

    It has not skipped a beat since purchase and it's very heavily used. Battery life is also fairly decent for a teenager who is on the phone non-stop all day. It lasts him the day as long as he charges it before he goes out. We are quite impressed overall. It was the first time we tried Oppo but I know it's massive overseas.

    • MishyMoo on 07/04/2017 - 16:02

      Thank you Brendoo. This is great feedback!

  • [Deactivated] on 07/04/2017 - 12:58
    +1

    Homtom HT17 Pro $115. Superb. 5.5" display. 4G. Fingerprint technology. Android 6. Everything you need.

    I own it. I love it.

    http://www.xiaomitoday.com/homtom-ht7-pro-4g-review/

    • MishyMoo on 07/04/2017 - 21:52

      Thanks Mr Gradgrind. I'll do some research on Homtom. Hows the sound and video on this phone? M

      • [Deactivated] on 09/04/2017 - 23:18
        +1

        I am yet to find an Android phone which matches Apple for pure volume. (I like punk) Otherwise sound is good. Unless you bluetooth to a speaker don't buy as an MP3 player. Video, excellent.

        Look no further than Chinese retailers on eBay. Some say Android 5.1 - but comes with 6.0 now.

  • ozbjunkie on 07/04/2017 - 19:36
    +1

    Asus ZenFone 2 deal active on ozbargain right now. 190aud delivered approx.

    Or nexus 5x.

    • MishyMoo on 07/04/2017 - 21:54

      Thanks ozbjunkie. Yes, I saw this briefly last night. Thank you for reminding me..
      Wish I could physically live them all up and play with each one. If I bought phones regularlyit wouldn't matter so much.. ☺

  • likang-c on 17/04/2017 - 18:18
    +1

    Galaxy S5 is great, bit old, price $367 officeworks, ebay goes brand new for much less at your discretion. I'm after one atm after my beloved S3 broke after 6 years….

    • MishyMoo on 18/04/2017 - 13:31

      Thank you likang-c. It looks good but oug of my price range at this point in time..

      • [Deactivated] on 21/04/2017 - 10:59
        +1

        Seriously GET THE HOMTOM!

        • MishyMoo on 21/04/2017 - 17:16

          I hear you and your enthusiasm for this phone 😊 and for the price it sure looks good. Is this the same as the Doogee X6 Pro by any chance? Doogee is big in Asia. I'm wondering if I should wait until I'm in Asia and buy there…. It's getting late, I prob will. The Moto 5 is looking too expensive for me. I've dug out some slow old gadgets to keep me afloat so I can take some time

        • [Deactivated] on 23/04/2017 - 22:24
          +1

          @MishyMoo:

          I think the brands come out of the same factory. You'd need to check the specs. One tip if you do buy though is get a nice case at the same time. Avail if you search on Aliexpress.

        • MishyMoo on 06/07/2017 - 23:03
          +1

          So I did!
          I love it too. Got it today after doing a ton of homework.
          It's so fast that I feel like
          I'm The Flash!

          Thanks Mr G. Great tip :)

        • [Deactivated] on 07/07/2017 - 09:23
          +1

          @MishyMoo:

          Fantastic!!!!! How good is the fingerprint scanner!!!!

          You can get moulded cases for it on aliexpress too!!!

        • MishyMoo on 07/07/2017 - 09:54
          +1

          @Mr Gradgrind:
          It's pretty cool. For the price it's amazing! Thanks for being persistent :)

        • [Deactivated] on 07/07/2017 - 10:48
          +1

          @MishyMoo: I'm just glad you had the guts to try it. Samsung and Apple have lost another customer. :-)

        • MishyMoo on 07/07/2017 - 10:59
          +1

          @Mr Gradgrind:

          Thanks to you :)
          It probably would have been Huawei or Xiaomi, but I'm very happy with it (yes it did take guts but your recommendation gave me the courage)

  • [Deactivated] on 07/07/2017 - 09:24
    +1

    Note to all - HOMTOM Rules!!!

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