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General discussion

NEW BUDGET phone or USED FLAGSHIP phone?

Apr 16, 2017 5:51PM PDT

I'm looking for a new or new-to-me phone and it seems like I can get either a used older-model high end phone (eg, Galaxy S6) or a brand new budget phone (eg, Moto G4) for about the same price.

Any thoughts on the pros and cons of each option? I'm really hoping for general advice on this topic since it trips me up every time I need a new phone!

Discussion is locked

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Cnet reviews
Apr 16, 2017 6:19PM PDT
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G4 worth a try
Apr 17, 2017 1:00AM PDT

No personal experience but I've seen lots of good reviews with G4, should worth giving it a try.

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New Budget Phone.
Apr 19, 2017 5:14AM PDT

Moto G4 is a good option, but since i like the OS of Samsung more i would like to suggest Samsung phone, why don`t you go for Samsung Galaxy A7 (2017). Its a great looking phone also the feels really light and good when hold it in the hand. Also it has really good camera that is 16mp primary and secondary camera with water and dust proof as well. Exynos 7880 Octa is installed with 3gb of ram, which are really good specs for a budget phone.

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Ask yourself...
Apr 22, 2017 8:55AM PDT

Why do people sell Flagship phones? OK, yes, Apple Fanbois will buy anything new with a half eaten apple on the back but that apart, you might conclude that there is something wrong with the used phone or its real life performance doesn't live up to its specifications. So, yes, I'd be in the new phone camp.

You can check out Amazon, obviously, great deals there, Costco, if available in your location, or if you are adventurous, take a look at Everbuying.com (I have no connection with this outfit nor am I recommending them - do your research)!

Watch also for clearance sales for last year's models at your local phone suppliers - I picked up a very good Huawei 4G/LTE 4.8" screen 8 GB plus micro SD slot prepay on clearance at a local store for $45 Australian, $2.50 to unlock it - what's not to like?

If you like iPhones there are refurbs available but only buy them from Apple.

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Aus has rules, law about unlocking.
Apr 23, 2017 8:27AM PDT

Here it's not so clear. Folk have been BURNED by buying a phone that is locked and the carrier will not unlock because it's still under contract. There are sellers that will tell you this isn't a problem.

Know your country's stance on this.

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Look at the Samsung S5
Apr 25, 2017 11:06AM PDT

Last year I bought 2 "new"* unlocked Samsung S5 900A (AT&T version) phones from 2 different eBay dealers to replace our old HTC1x models.

I picked them because they are a good size, have replaceable batteries, and liked the waterproof feature. They have performed well, no problems. I bought the extended warranty, but have not needed it.

*They are called "New" by many sellers, but appear to be returned or refurbished units, but nevertheless were in like new condition except one had a back where the plastic was brittle and broke, but a replacement was cheap on Amazon. I am surprised that the prices have not dropped on them in the last year, still around $200 so they must be popular.