Some advice in choosing a new phone! (Android $300-$350)

CryssieJade on 26/12/2013 - 21:44

Hi everyone! After a series of issues that has presented itself after I 'took my phone snowboarding', I'm now in the market for a new phone.

It's been 2.5 years since I last bought a phone, and obviously things have changed. I'm not sure where to start. I'm a Mac head, but sadly budget doesn't allow for an iPhone.

However, I do need a phone that is suitable to run my business from (I'm a photographer). Something fast for emails and updating blogs.

I guess I'm looking for a phone with a big screen, speedy, front camera, and one that can CUT AND PASTE TEXT. My current phone cannot do that and it drives me insane.

Back camera with flash would be nice, but I have a real camera (:p), so that doesn't matter so much.

Android phone with budget of $300 - $350.

Thoughts?

Mobile

Comments

  • issh on 26/12/2013 - 21:51
    +6

    Nexus 5
    Samsung S3

    You can get then for approx $350

  • ozhunter on 26/12/2013 - 21:53
    +16

    I was going to recommend the Nexus 5 but it is $70($420 from Google Play) over your budget. It is the smoothest android phone imo.

      • zelda707 on 27/12/2013 - 08:40
        +10

        you'll need another few hundred for a new 5S :)

      • CryssieJade on 27/12/2013 - 22:34
        -6

        Yikes! I didn't mean to offend anyone lol

      • Tnetennba on 29/12/2013 - 13:39
        +9

        You mean $800. Twice the price for an inferior device. Nice.

      • CryssieJade on 01/01/2014 - 16:52

        Keep negging my comment guys, I want to set a new record!!

        • EnALup on 01/01/2014 - 23:08

          Users are negging your view on Nexus 5 and iPhone.
          You cannot buy a iPhone for $400 (Just $50 over your budget) and you asked specifically for an Android phone in your original post.

          So I don't know why you wrote that comment.

          At the end, Android vs iPhone is not Cheap vs expensive. Android mobile phones are much more sophisticated and good looking these days with better prices.

        • CryssieJade on 02/01/2014 - 18:45

          I don't take life very seriously. I just wanted to set a new record, is that too much to ask? It's funny, lighten up!

    • ProspectiveDarkness on 26/12/2013 - 21:59
      +4

      I was about to recommend it as well. I think it's worth the stretch.

  • CryssieJade on 26/12/2013 - 22:05

    What is so great about the Nexus 5? I hope that doesn't sound rude (wasn't meant to be!), and I know I could google it, but I'd like to hear what you all like about it :)

    • issh on 26/12/2013 - 22:58

      It's no super-phone

      But for the price you get, the specs for it are amazing

    • p1 ama on 26/12/2013 - 23:02
      +4

      It is the number one price-to-performance phone on the market at the moment, period. Maybe apart from the Nexus 4 if it's still available for like $299. It has essentially blown the need for a $500+ phone, given that the internals and specifications are similar to phones that cost 1.5x - 2x the price. On top of that, Android updates pretty much for the life span of the phone!

      • CryssieJade on 27/12/2013 - 00:25

        I do like the sound of that…
        If anyone has one, or has played with one, what do you like about it?

        • ProspectiveDarkness on 27/12/2013 - 00:51
          +2

          I've had mine (32GB, black) for about a week, and I'm really liking it. I haven't been using it as my primary device, but I'll still be able to give some insights. Just a quick note: I didn't make this purchase for the sole sake of wanting, so I'm not just prosthelytising about my new happy purchase. From a technical standpoint, the Nexus 5 is the best value Android device you'll find.

          • The performance is really, really good. There's no stuttering around the UI in general usage at all (things were a bit slower on first startup and initial app installation, but that cleared up pretty soon). Coming from my TouchWiz-laden Galaxy S2, it's very nice indeed.

          • Though a tad too big for my liking (its at the very limit of one-handed usage for me), the display is quite nice. I'm liking the more accurate colours compared to my previous phone (with the exception of black levels), and there's nary a pixel to be seen. The small bezels help make the phone fit a bit better in the hand, which is nice.

          • The design is quite nice and solid, if a little plain. The ceramic buttons and soft-touch back feel nice in the hand. I don't particularly like the protruding camera or recessed lettering on the back though, for practical reasons (as well as aesthetic, I suppose). I have a case on it anyway, so those complaints are minimised. It has on-screen buttons, which I quite like (other than the fact it makes the phone a bit harder to wake when lying on the tablet, or something)

          • Latest version of Android was available to download as soon as I started it up. Doesn't sound like much, but you'd really appreciate it if your previous phone was left behind a couple of versions ago.

          • On the negative side, the camera isn't quite as good as other flagships (though the 4.4.1 update helped, reportedly) and the speaker is crap, apparently. Luckily I don't particularly care about either. Supposedly battery life can be inconsistent (not great, but good, apparently), but since it's not my primary, I can't really provide any personal advice regarding that.

          Next to other flagship devices, most areas other than performance (which is really great), can be regarded as 'really good', but not 'great'. To put it in perspective, though, that's compared to devices twice the price.

          Hope that helps.

        • Tnetennba on 29/12/2013 - 13:37
          +1

          I have one and all my friends with iPhones want one.

        • Tnetennba on 29/12/2013 - 13:38
          +1

          4.4.1/2/3 updates have improved the camera focus problems significantly, it's a good enough camera for a phone. I don't know anyone who uses their phone as a DSLR ;)

        • CryssieJade on 29/12/2013 - 20:28
          +1

          Try telling that to half my clients lol

    • scrimshaw on 27/12/2013 - 00:22
      +1

      The Nexus 5 gives you a pure Android experience — basically what Google intended Android 4.4 to be. Because it runs stock (no bloatware, no additional unneeded apps) it'll run zippy and software updates will come to your device first (unlike some manufacturers who lag behind on updates).

      You could consider other phones in the similar price range (e.g Xperia Z, Samsung Galaxy S3) however you will get a customised experience for each different brand — (this may be a good thing or a bad thing).
      The Samsung will have the TouchWiz interface, Sony will have the Sony UI interface etc.

      • CryssieJade on 28/12/2013 - 08:32

        Hefty article, but I read it all!

    • HRipper on 27/12/2013 - 06:08

      Unadulterated software, top hardware, 1080p resolution. So, 9/10 people may find it great.

    • EnALup on 28/12/2013 - 01:16

      Nexus 5

      Pros:
      Full HD 5" IPS screen, 4g, 2.3 Quad core Processor and great GPU, 2 GB RAM, Latest stock Android Operating system 4.4, light weight, NFC enabled ( might be very useful. search youtube for all benefits)

      Cons:
      No Expansion in memory with MicroSD card.

      I don't remember any other fault. It is a great phone and is available over $500 with online retailers or Gumtree or Ebay. Get it direct from Google play for $420 and you will be surprised with what you get.

      • [Deactivated] on 29/12/2013 - 20:12
        +1

        Non replaceable battery.
        Questionable build quality from LG (going by N4 issues)

        • EnALup on 30/12/2013 - 12:17
          +1

          Yes. Missed that out. Non replaceable battery is not a problem for me as I have micro usb charger in the car and in the office.
          I dont want to use this phone for over 2 years and for this time the main battery runs fine.

          For quality, please bear in mind you cannot get a better quality phone for $419 delivered. Even the specs are the best for top end phones.

        • Tnetennba on 30/12/2013 - 22:56

          I have a nexus 5 (i may be biased)

          Non removable battery is annoying in the long run of the phone, say later on it will probably have a less great battery, however mine lasts a full day so I don't really need a replaceable one anyway (others may).

          Build quality is actually very nice. The soft touch back makes it feel very well-finished. Much better finish than the samsung S series in my opinion (looked at s3/s4 before buying the nexus 5).

        • [Deactivated] on 30/12/2013 - 23:14
          +1

          I said the same thing about my N4 after coming from a S3 4G. 4 months later I hated the N4 when the problems started kicking in and the back shattered after I dropped a teaspoon on it.

  • CryssieJade on 27/12/2013 - 09:12

    I've never had a phone that is the top of the range, or even close to it, so the Nexus is tempting. But I'll do my rounds at the telco stores and play with a few :)

  • Janko on 27/12/2013 - 10:03
    +1

    I seriously considered the Nexus 5 but couldn't find any evidence the excessively fragile screen problem had been fixed. Has it?

    • ozhunter on 27/12/2013 - 11:06

      This is the first time I'm hearing about it. Only the front is glass and it is Gorilla glass 3.

      • Janko on 27/12/2013 - 11:28

        There was a huge thread on Google's forums someone on OzB referenced once which had lots of people finding very minor drops (2 feet) would crack the screen. Apparently LG were supposed to be addressing the problem.

        • ProspectiveDarkness on 27/12/2013 - 15:08

          'Huge' isn't quite right. There was half the number of unique posters in the Google forums that the OzBargain commenter claimed there was, and not all of them had issues. Less than 200, out of how many Nexus 5's sold? Whether it's a batch fault, or a widespread problem, remains to be seen.

          Google have put out a revised hardware model, but I don't know if it involved the glass of the display.

        • p1 ama on 27/12/2013 - 16:06
          +4

          I just find that silly though, is it that hard to not drop your phone or to just get a case.

        • Janko on 27/12/2013 - 17:22

          I just found it easier to get a different phone. Needed something straight away too so got an S4, but didn't realise about the e-fuse until later so half regret not going for the Nexus 5.

    • _Bruce_ on 27/12/2013 - 16:38
      +1

      I know a lot of people with Nexus 4s and a lot of people with various iPhones. Almost everyone I know that has even owned an iPhone has broken one side or the other (or both). I don't know anyone who broke their Nexus 4.

      Sure this isn't hard statistics, but I wouldn't stress over it. I broke the screen in my 'rugged' Defy, but haven't broken my Nexus 4.

  • epicaricacy on 27/12/2013 - 18:36
    +3

    I have the nexus 5 and would strongly recommend it. Best bang for buck without a doubt

  • freakitude on 27/12/2013 - 23:21

    Nexus five is the fastest phone I ever owned. Plus art runtime made it even faster and smoother.

    I convinced one of my friends to buy Nexus 5 after his iPhone 4s died. He is stunned by the speed and screen quality and said he is never switching back to Apple. Plus 2 of his Workmates are buying Nexus 5 after trying his.

  • KoNpHuSeD on 28/12/2013 - 00:00

    The Motorola Moto G is supposed to be released in Australia in January 2014.
    Unless you need certain features (uSD, 4G, etc.) seriously consider it, it competes with the best phones according to some reviews I've read online.

  • netsurfer on 28/12/2013 - 01:07

    There isn't a stand out phone in the $300-$350 price range. I've been trying to find a great phone in this price range for a mate, but no luck so far.

    Some candidates:
    Sony Xperia SP: $299 @ MSY (limited stock)
    Nokia Lumia 920
    Motorola Moto G (if you don't care about the camera)

    Like others pointed out, if you are willing to spend more, than Nexus 5 would be a better buy.

  • [Deactivated] on 28/12/2013 - 08:33

    Just noticed that HardlyNormals are still selling the 16GB Nexus 4 for $419, which is more than the 16GB Nexus 5 from Google for $399 (+ postage). That's HardlyNormal!

  • EnergicAU on 28/12/2013 - 12:03

    If it's for business, might have some tax concessions. Unsure what u meant by "snowboarding".. But if it was damaged by water the sony xperia z1 is waterproof but a bit over your budget

    • CryssieJade on 28/12/2013 - 14:13

      Yes, damaged by water when I went snowboarding in pouring rain. Got into my phone through my pockets! Last time I take my phone for a joyride without a waterproof pouch!

      • EnergicAU on 29/12/2013 - 01:20
        +1

        im with you here.
        ive always been an apple person since the ibook days
        ill never be caught with a windows phone or pc! haha

        ive got a nexus 4 as a second phone as well as the nexus 7 tablet. ive since sold the nexus 7 (tablet) and bought the sony tablet z (all running android)

        i looked at the nexus 5 as an upgrade for my iphone 4s but after much research ive decided to get a sony xperia z1 phone. it suits me for what i like about android. good performance, bigger screen and it's waterproof.. (so no need for a pouch!)

        as an apple fanboy, i would liek to say i was disappointed by the 5s)

      • EnergicAU on 29/12/2013 - 01:21

        ill also note that as a photographer.. (i am as well..but not pro in anyway), you would be glad to know that with an OTG cable and an android tablet, you can copy photos off your memory card..and edit on the go (snapseed or vcso cam)

      • highdealer on 29/12/2013 - 15:43

        You could get a xperia z for around $420. No need for that waterproof pouch.
        http://www.scorptec.com.au/computer/50832-xperia-z-c6603

  • branners on 28/12/2013 - 13:28
    +1

    After more than a month with my Nex5, I love it. UI runs like a blur, all of its comms (email accounts, social media and SMSs) are easy to use and FAST. Great screen and 32gb is enough memory for me. Good but not flashy build, though I did not use it until I put a bumper case and a screen protector on it.
    The camera is not that great, even after the 4.4.2 upgrade (which went really smoothly, BTW) but I am not one to take a lot of pics.
    If a good camera and business software integration are a priority though, I agree with Netsurfer and would take a peek at a Nokia 920. Great design and build, excellent camera and it allows you to have Microsoft software in your pocket. It's not Android but it is right in the sweet spot of your budget. Also, it has brilliant GPS and travel apps.

    • CryssieJade on 28/12/2013 - 14:08

      As I said in my original post…I'm a Mac head, and a photographer. For me to want an Android phone is one thing, but a Windows phone? Blasphemy. And I don't use Microsoft programs for my business.

      But thanks for the great insight into your Nexus, I'm taking notes :)

      • netsurfer on 28/12/2013 - 14:38
        +1

        Nokia added their maps and navigation software to their Phone 8 phones. Unlike iOS (Apple) and Android (Google), Nokia Here Drive and Here Map are offline maps. This means you don't need 3G to download the map when you use GPS. While you can get TomTom, Sygic etc… for Android and iOS, they are paid apps.

        Also, Nokia put a decent camera in Nokia 920 (in phone's standard). However, phone 8 needs more apps for sure.

        If you are a Mac person, then you should look at phones like: Nexus 5, LG G2, and Sony Xperia Z1. No point buying a mid range Android phone and then get the wrong impression Apple phones are way better.

        I am disappointed with iPhone 5S. I wish Apple give me a choice to run iOS 6 on iPhone 5S. iOS 7's useless animation annoys me (it makes the phone less smooth and I don't like it when I double click home buttons, the phone does not respond because it is still doing the animation). The only reason I still have iPhone is because of the apps. Though, I have a large collection of paid Android apps so hopefully no more new iPhone for me in the future. iOS 7 is a huge disappointment for me. And, the screen does need to be bigger - and we all know iPhone 6 will have a larger screen.

        • itsfree on 31/12/2013 - 16:19

          iOS 7's useless animation annoys me

          I disabled the animations by going to Settings > Accessibility > Reduce Motion > On

          voila!

        • itsfree on 01/01/2014 - 11:11

          Btw, iOS 7.1 has greatly improved the animations' speed – see here for a side-by-side comparison.

          It's currently in its second beta, but it should be released very soon.

  • bohn on 28/12/2013 - 13:37
    +3

    Nexus5 is fantastic and worth spending another $70 or whatever you are short.
    I used to use an iPhone and don't miss it one bit :)

  • robotdad on 29/12/2013 - 13:18
    +1

    What about the Xperia ZR? It has great specs, is smaller in size, plus is water resistant and can be had for $379 shipped (using PayPal code) when on special (every few weeks). http://www.kogan.com/au/buy/sony-xperia-zr-4g-lte-c5503-whit…
    The C5503 has LTE and a good range of bands suitable for Australian mobile networks. http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_zr-5421.php

    Review: http://www.pcworld.idg.com.au/review/sony/xperia_zr/461702/
    Whirlpool thread: http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/2099269

    • CryssieJade on 29/12/2013 - 20:31

      I'm looking for a big phone.

  • Brick50 on 29/12/2013 - 17:06
    +2

    You could easily pick up a second hand iPhone 4S for that, and possibly an iPhone 5 if you look in the right places

    • CryssieJade on 29/12/2013 - 20:33
      +1

      Thanks, but everyone on this forum has now convinced me against iPhones.
      No easy task for me, so you should all be proud lol

      • Brick50 on 30/12/2013 - 10:36
        +1

        Yes, I'm not sure why I got negged though. This is why i'm no longer proud of OzBargain…

        OP Says:

        I'm a Mac head, but sadly budget doesn't allow for an iPhone.

        By this statement I belive OP would enjoy Apple products, never said they are better than android. I use android myself. I just thought OP may enjoy iphones.
        I simply told him that his budget did allow for iphones if he wanted, And everyone negs me?

        OP Was not asking which phone is better, He was asking advice about what his next phone could be

        • EnALup on 30/12/2013 - 12:21
          +1

          Gave you a plus :) I am a Android Fan and getting Nexus 5 as my next phone.
          But, I do agree with Mattwilko.
          If OP loves iPhone or Mac, there is no point investing in Android where you keep on comparing the features with IOS and finding issues with Android.

          Better invest in a second hand iPhone than getting a phone you won't love later.

          As explained earlier or by most of the users, you won't get a phone with high end specs and price as Nexus 5.

        • CryssieJade on 30/12/2013 - 16:33

          Ummm…OP is me

          And 'He' is a 'She'

          And pretty sure I broke the record on how many people negged my comment at the top of this post lol

        • ProspectiveDarkness on 30/12/2013 - 16:41
          +1

          I didn't neg you (@mattwilko), but an iPhone 4S wouldn't really fit the stated criteria as well as a Nexus 5 could. It doesn't have a big screen (3.5" vs 5"), it doesn't have 4G and is getting long in the tooth (vs 4G, recently released Nexus 5) - therefore isn't as 'speedy'. Also, as a second hand phone, it's hard to tell how well it's been treated, and if that next drop will be it's last. Not exactly the reliability you'd be looking for, if you're running your business from it.

          It's a matter of practicality; would you enjoy the phone more if it were an iPhone, or would the Nexus 5 be more useful?

        • Brick50 on 30/12/2013 - 16:53

          What if she doesn't want a 5" screen though?
          It might not be practical for her to pull out a huge phone when shes really busy and something she can hold easily in 1 hand.

          It sounds as she is already running he business off a macbook, So in my opinion it would probably be easier to run the business off it because she would be familiar with Apple products.

          Although the reliability is debatable I guess….

        • ProspectiveDarkness on 30/12/2013 - 16:56

          Just going from what's in the OP.

          I guess I'm looking for a phone with a big screen

          However, I do need a phone that is suitable to run my business from

        • CryssieJade on 30/12/2013 - 17:03

          I do want a big screen. Not Samsung Mega sized screen, but I need a big screen.

          I will test drive the Nexus 5 to see if the size is good, but in theory it would work great.

          And although I'm familiar with Apple products, I'm also very used to Android.

        • [Deactivated] on 30/12/2013 - 18:45

          Go the whole hog and buy a Note 3 for big screen and excellent camera. It also has excellent battery, S Pen stylus (this has a lot of productivity uses from editing images to quickly saving items of interest) and excellent build quality. You also get the option of expanding memory via SD card (I have 32GB internal + 64GB MicroSD) and swapping out batteries or upgrading to a higher capacity battery. It's a business expense anyway so write it off. I love my one, it too is a business expense.

      • itsfree on 31/12/2013 - 16:32

        everyone on this forum has now convinced me against iPhones

        Out of sheer curiosity, what factors have caused you to be convinced against iPhones?

        • itsfree on 01/01/2014 - 11:12
          +1

          It's nice to get negged for simply asking a harmless question.

        • CryssieJade on 01/01/2014 - 17:04
          +1

          Welcome to my world lol

        • Cheeper on 02/01/2014 - 23:07

          ITunes for a start… massive bloatware so the phone can do a basic function like interface with a computer. Windows phones are the same.
          Android just connects… no junk software needed.

  • [Deactivated] on 29/12/2013 - 20:34
    -3

    I'm not sure what the consensus of Kogan around here is since I'm a relatively new member, but the Kogan Agora HD+ is great if you really want to save money. It goes beneath your budget by a good $100 at $199 (was free shipping two days ago but I don't think so anymore). Primary specs are: Quad Core processor, 5" 720p HD screen, 8GB internal storage with up to 32GB expandable SD slot, Dual Sim and an 8MP back camera with flash. If you're willing to spend the extra $70 though, the Nexus 5 definitely won't disappoint although of course it all depends on how much you're willing to fork out. Good luck! www.kogan.com/au/buy/agora-50-hd-pro-quad-core-smartphone/
    EDIT: Added link

    • CryssieJade on 29/12/2013 - 23:51
      +2

      My own consensus of Kogan just got thrown into the toilet tonight, after discovering that a product I bought from them is a joke, and I may have a non-existent returns policy…

      I had half considered the Agora HD a few days ago, but I won't be buying Kogan branded products ever again.

      • [Deactivated] on 30/12/2013 - 11:49

        which one did you buy?

        • CryssieJade on 30/12/2013 - 16:34

          Which Kogan product? Their version of GoPro. Don't do it!

        • CryssieJade on 01/01/2014 - 17:06

          Well, their returns policy is actually really good, as long as you are firm about what you want, and what is wrong. Their customer service emails have been great the last couple of days

  • CryssieJade on 30/12/2013 - 16:40

    So, an update.

    1. I'm no longer sold on an iPhone (that is a lot for me to admit!)

    2. From everyone's advice, I'm interested in the Sony Experia z1 and the Nexus 5.

    3. Probably will end up with a Nexus 5

    4. Going to go and play with both those phones in store after New Years

    5. Will let you all know what I pick, and why

    Thanks for all the advice! Keep it coming if you feel you want to let me know more :)

    • EnALup on 30/12/2013 - 17:20
      +1

      Z1 ?
      Hmm. But you said your budget is upto $350 and Z1 is over $500.
      Sony Z can be had from $400 and Z1 is not worth the extra cost. (Better Camera, little fast processor and battery. But is a little heavy)

      Anyway, best of luck with your search.

      • CryssieJade on 30/12/2013 - 17:38

        Oh awesome, I had no idea how much the z1 was. Thanks for letting me know

      • Phoebus on 30/12/2013 - 22:33

        LG Optimus G Pro can be had for about $400 delivered. (imported).

  • iNeedMoreMoney on 30/12/2013 - 22:10

    huawei ascend mate 6.1 inch screen $344 from jb, just within budget…! Cant really compare performance with Nexus 5 but is ok. It's got a big screen and the battery is HUGE…

    I would still go for N5 hands down if budget and screen size wasnt an issue.

  • yesiamcheap on 31/12/2013 - 11:05

    Take a look at the Nokia Phones. Not Android (Windows) but overall really well suited for your needs, e.g. suited for business, well built, nice price, good camera…

  • Pumpkin_rrr on 31/12/2013 - 11:48

    So what did you end up with Cryssie? I own a N4 and love it to bits! Hubby has iPhone and my N4 is his envy.

    • CryssieJade on 01/01/2014 - 19:24

      Nothing yet! Going to have a play with a couple tomorrow, and probably won't actually purchase it for a couple of weeks…but I will let ou know as soon as I know what I've decided on!

  • bonezAU on 31/12/2013 - 13:56

    If you can stretch the budget to $399 plus shipping, the Nexus 5 is a really nice phone for the price. Very fast shipping from Hong Kong via Toll priority. (2-3 business days tops).

  • aromaticsnail on 01/01/2014 - 12:18

    Nexus 5 is worth the extra $49

  • netsurfer on 01/01/2014 - 12:21

    It is worthwhile spending the extra $50+ to get a flagship Android phone. The advantages are:

    • 16GB or more storage space (vs 8GB storage space which you get at most 6GB usable space).
    • 1080p display
    • 4G / LTE support
    • 802.11 ac support (though not quite the proper 802.11 ac speed)
    • (already have or pretty much will have support of) Android Kitkat
  • CryssieJade on 02/01/2014 - 18:49

    I played with the Nexus 5 today.
    Very impressed!

    Zippy, perfect size, I liked the camera's functions (for a phone)….I think we may have a winner :)

    Will play more when I get the chance

  • EnergicAU on 04/01/2014 - 13:47

    Give the z1 a try too.. A bit above budget but you won't have water damage!

    • Feepitee on 04/01/2014 - 19:27
      +1

      Or just the regular old Z which is the same price as the Nexus 5. It might be slower than the Nexus 5, but the waterproofing is definitely a huge plus.

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