Hi guys!
So I’m trying to get a super low cost phone to do literally the bare minimum. This is, to be able to use Whatsapp. Maybe FB messenger, but this would be an afterthought. What would you recommend? Living in Asia, so Asian brands might be cheaper/easier to get.
Thanks!
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Xiaomi’s Redmi series is great as a low-budget phone. It has long-lasting batteries and charges quickly.
Thanks! Not sure I’ll be able to go as low with a Redmi, but I’ll check.
FB Messenger is an unoptimized ressource hog, I doubt you’ll be able to get a brand new $150 phone that will handle it.
I’d say look on the second hand market for an old S10
Go used. Your experience used or refurbished will be much better than a new phone at that price point.
2 ago I got a OnePlus 8 Refurb from Amazon with all of it’s protections for $300. It just got it’s last Android update, but has a very active ROM scene, so I potentially have another 2 years out of this.
Even buying this exact phone, and I’m sure you can do better, you’ll have a better experience than a new sub $200 phone. I’ve seen people buy new Samsung J series phones and barely be able to use them.
Just don’t get a branded phone. Usually can’t ROM them and they only work on the one carrier
Thanks! I should add that this is for a very inexperienced older user. I’m being told 2nd hand is out of the question, so…yeah. Needs to be 1st hand as well. Thanks!
If you’re helping set it up, check out Mere Launcher. I made it partly for my wife’s grandmother who has trouble with fancier UIs. If they’re looking for simple, it might help.
Thanks a lot! This actually might be useful for my mom. As for me, I’m kinda trying to replace Nova’s functionality.
What’s your used market like? You’re probably better off getting something from a couple years ago
Exactly this. I got a Moto Stylus 5G recently for $180 refurbished and it has been fantastic so far. Sure it’s nothing crazy or special, but its new enough that it’s still feels faster than my old phone (pixel 3a xl) and has a high refresh rate display so it “feels” smoother
Thanks. They’re trying to avoid second hand, so it’s a bit of a tricky issue, but definitely second hand market is livelier.
You can get a Renewed Pixel 6 for $190 off Amazon.
If you were in the US I’d recommend a pixel 5 from swappa. Maybe used oppo/oneplus might be available for you? https://swappa.com/listings/google-pixel-5/unlocked
I would say a Pixel, not sure what prices are like on a used Pixel 6a where you are but those are solid.
Either way I always recommend buying a higher end ‘premium’ phone used, instead of buying a new budget phone, since even a 2 year old premium phone is way better.
Yeah…I kinda agree with you. It’s the “new” part that kills me. I’ll try to negotiate around this.
If you’re in the US (or another area where it’s used) check swappa.com - I got a brand new older phone for a really good price. And I just sold my old Pixel 4a on there (there are lots more for under $100).
