Best Budget Phones Under $300

Finding a budget phone can become difficult nowadays, especially when you only have $300 or less to spend. The market is full of smartphones that are good for budget-friendly buyers. But it still gets confusing to tell which ones are good and which ones are not. However, now you don't have to worry about it anymore! We have searched for the best budget phones under $300 that provide a good balance of price and performance. Our team of experts has tested and reviewed many phones in this price range to give you the best choices that won't make you feel like you've settled for lower quality. Without any further delay, check out our list of the top budget phones under $300 in Australia. 

List of Top 8 Budget Phones Under $300

1) OnePlus Nord N30 5G

Want a good smartphone for less than $300? Consider the OnePlus Nord N30 5G. This device is cheap and has a 5,000 mAh battery, a 120Hz display, and 5G connectivity. It costs much less than other smartphones with similar features. 

The Nord N30 5,000 mAh battery can last a whole day with heavy use and sometimes even more. Besides that, the display is faster and makes animations and graphics look smoother. Lastly, The speakers and audio-boosting feature provide an excellent audio experience.

It is important to note that the Nord N30 will receive only one guaranteed update. That makes it outdated in terms of software. Besides that, the camera performance is inconsistent on the Nord N30, which has a 108MP main camera. Some photography enthusiasts might feel disappointed with the photos it produces. Like all smartphones, there are advantages and disadvantages to think about before buying one.

Pros:

• Great battery time 
• 120Hz display gives competitive visuals 
• Great sound for entertainment purposes 

Cons

• Limited Android OS updates
• Average camera performance

The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is a good option for those seeking a budget-friendly phone with long battery life and a responsive screen. If you want a really good camera or software that will be supported for a long time, think about other choices.

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2) Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

The second good option for a budget-friendly phone is the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G. This affordable device has excellent performance, a stylish design, and a long-lasting battery, making it unique compared to other options.

The Galaxy A14 5G runs on Samsung's Exynos 1330 chipset, providing good everyday performance comparable to more expensive devices. The phone has a high-quality display with a refresh rate of 90Hz, offering clear visuals comparable to pricier models.

Every phone is flawed, including the Galaxy A14 5G. The phone is affordable and valuable, but it doesn't have an IP rating, so it's less durable than other phones that are water-resistant and dust-proof. The macro and depth cameras could use some improvement.

Pros:

• Great value for the price with impressive performance.
• Modern and attractive appearance
• Long-lasting battery 
• High-quality display for a great viewing experience

Cons:

• No IP rating means no water and dust resistance.
• Macro and depth cameras have room for improvement.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a good option for those seeking an affordable smartphone. It has great performance, a beautiful display, and long battery life, making it a top choice. Its downsides are small and don't affect its overall worth.

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3) Moto G Power (2022)

Need an affordable smartphone that can handle your busy schedule? Consider the Moto G Power (2022)! This affordable phone has a strong battery that lasts all day and more. This phone has a battery life of over 13 hours in tests. You can use it for work calls, email, streaming movies, and music without worrying about running out of power.

Additionally, this phone has a large 6.5-inch screen and supports gestures, making it enjoyable to use while also being helpful for completing tasks. Whether you're browsing social media or watching your favorite show, you'll enjoy the vibrant, 6.5-inch display that enhances clarity. Moto Actions allows you to use hand gestures for common actions such as taking a screenshot or turning on the torch.

The Moto G Power may experience delays when opening or switching between apps, although it can handle basic tasks adequately. Moreover, The screen looks great indoors but is difficult to see in bright, sunny conditions.

Pros:

• Long-lasting battery  
• Big, pretty screen 
• Gesture support 

Cons:

• Performance issues 
• Dim display in bright light 

Overall, the Moto G Power is a good option for those who want an affordable phone with a long-lasting battery. Why not try it out and see?

Check Out: Australia's Top Places to Buy Refurbished Samsung Phones in 2023

4) OnePlus Nord N20 5G

You can also consider buying the OnePlus Nord N20 5G. This device is stylish and efficient, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a new smartphone.

The OnePlus Nord N20 5G has a big 6.4" AMOLED screen, which is quite impressive. Although the refresh rate is not as high as some expensive models, the bright colors and clear resolution provide a great viewing experience. This device is great for users who want convenience and practicality because it has a headphone jack and expandable storage.

The OnePlus Nord N20 5G stands out from the competition due to its battery life and charging capabilities. The device has a big battery of 4500 mAh and supports fast 33W charging, so you can use it all day without worrying about the battery. This phone has a Snapdragon 695 SoC and 6GB RAM, which makes it powerful for running multiple apps or playing games without any lag.

No device is perfect, but there are a few small drawbacks to consider. A 60Hz refresh rate may be better for serious gamers or those who want really smooth scrolling. But for most users, it's good enough, and the great price-to-performance ratio makes the OnePlus Nord N20 5G a great deal.

Pros:

• Stylish, appealing appearance
• Big, colorful OLED screen
• Great battery and quick charging
• Has a headphone jack and can support additional storage
• Great performance with Snapdragon 695 SoC and 6GB RAM.

Cons:

• Some users may find the 60Hz refresh rate limiting.

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5) Blackview BV4900

If you want a budget phone that is also durable enough, then consider buying the Blackview BV4900. This tough phone is designed to handle bumps, drops, and spills without a bulky case. With a big battery of 5,580mAh, you can stay connected all day.

The BV4900 has decent specs, including a MediaTek A22 Helio MT6761 CPU, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage, which make it a capable device. Also, you can increase the storage using a microSD card. The phone has a 5.7-inch screen with Gorilla Glass 3 protection and a resolution of 720x1440. It is also IP68 water-resistant, making it suitable for beach trips and outdoor activities.

However, the BV4900 does have some disadvantages. It may have limited carrier band support, which could result in a weaker signal compared to other phones on the same carrier. Also, the Micro-USB port seems old-fashioned, and the software requires an update.

Pros:

• The design is tough and long-lasting. 
• It can resist dust and water (IP68 rating), making it great for outdoor activities.
• The big battery ensures all-day Connectivity.

Cons:

• Limited carrier and band compatibility
• The Micro-USB port is old-fashioned.
• Some older software may lack newer features.

Check Out: iPhone SE vs. iPhone 11: Which One Should You Choose?

6) TCL Stylus 5G

Want to have a phone that includes a stylus and comes under $300? Consider buying a TCL Stylus 5G! This affordable phone provides a good experience with improved colors and minimal Android 12 modifications. Also, the magnetic stylus easily fits into its designated slot on the phone and has very little delay.

The phone has software problems that make it hard to recommend. Some problems that have been reported are frequent restarts and issues with Bluetooth connectivity. The Bluetooth issue has been fixed with a software update. The phone is locked to T-Mobile and has T-Mobile apps that are difficult to uninstall.

The TCL Stylus 5G is a good option for people looking for an affordable stylus phone despite its drawbacks. The phone has a 6.81-inch LCD screen that is easy to use with the stylus it comes with. Its performance is similar to other affordable phones. The battery lasts a good amount of time, and it comes with Android 12 with a future upgrade to Android 13.

Pros:

• Dependable performance for everyday use.
• Long-lasting battery
• Great stylus usage

Cons:

• The software experience could have been improved.
• The cameras require improvement.
• The TCL Stylus 5G is a good choice for people looking for a budget phone with a stylus, but it has some software problems that need to be considered.

Check Out: Refurbished Google Pixel vs. Samsung: Comparison Guide

7) iPhone 8 Plus

If you want a strong and dependable smartphone, consider the popular iPhone 8 Plus. Especially for Apple lovers, this smartphone is the best choice. This phone is impressive with its sleek design, advanced camera features, and fast processing speeds.

The iPhone 8 Plus has a strong aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass protection on both the front and back. It is water-resistant and ideal for active people. This phone has a powerful Hexa-core CPU and Apple A11 Bionic chipset, making it capable of handling demanding apps effortlessly.

The iPhone 8 Plus has a great display. The big 5.5-inch screen can show 16 million colors and has a high 401-PI density. Images and videos appear clear and colorful with True-tone and wide color gamut support.

The iPhone 8 Plus has a great dual-camera system. This phone has two lenses, one for wide-angle shots and one for zooming in, making it great for taking beautiful pictures and videos. With features like OIS, PDAF, and 2x optical zoom, you can capture high-quality photos easily.

Every phone has its downsides. The iPhone 8 Plus has fast charging and wireless charging, but some users may not like that it doesn't have a headphone jack, and its battery life could be better than other phones in its class.

Pros:

• Two cameras are working together.
• Quick processing
• Design that resists water
• Ability to charge wirelessly
• Big, attractive screen

Cons:

• No jack for headphones.
• Short battery life
• Some people like phones with better LTE connectivity.

The iPhone 8 Plus is a great option for those who want a dependable and strong smartphone. This phone has great camera features, a beautiful display, and fast processing speeds, making it a durable choice.

Check Out: Refurbished Google Pixel vs. iPhone: Which One Is Best?

8) Oppo A16

Last on the list is OPPO A16s. This basic smartphone has a large 6.52-inch screen, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage. Although not a top-tier device, it provides dependable performance and a durable battery that can last a full day, even with heavy usage.

The OPPO A16s has a fast and accurate side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The phone has OPPO's Game Assistant/Game Space for better gaming performance.

The phone has three cameras on the back, one with 13MP and another on the front with 8MP. It can take good photos in good lighting, although not as good as a high-end smartphone.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Battery lasts a long time.
• The fingerprint sensor on the side of Game Assistant/Game Space for better gaming
• Three cameras with perfect results

Cons:

• Not enough RAM and storage
• Slow and unresponsive user experience.
• Cameras have limited abilities in low-light situations.
• Only occasional security updates are available.

The OPPO A16s is a good budget phone with lots of features for its price. Although not flawless, it provides decent performance, battery life, and camera quality. Consider the OPPO A16s if you want a budget-friendly smartphone with reliable performance and decent features.

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Good Things You Can Expect from a Phone under $300

Smartphones in Australia are expensive, but there are still affordable options available for those who need more money. A phone that costs less than $300 can still give you a great experience without being too expensive. There are many great features to enjoy, like a good display, long battery life, great cameras, and reliable performance. It's about finding the right balance between what you need and what you can afford. Here's what you can usually get from a phone that costs less than $300.

1) A Nice Viewing Experience

Enjoy a great viewing experience with Full HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate display. 

2) Averagely Fine Battery Life

Additionally, you will receive a sizable battery that supports fast charging up to 30W, allowing for prolonged usage without the concern of quickly depleting battery life.

3) High-End Performance 

For good performance, you can rely on Snapdragon 6 or 4 series SoC or mid-range SoCs from MediaTek. 

4) Competitive Cameras

Additionally, you will have the option of quad or triple rear cameras to capture beautiful photos, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy documenting their lives with pictures.

Check Out: Top 7 Refurbished Mobile Phones in Australia

The Hidden Trade-Offs of Phones Under $300: What You Need to Know

Is it worth compromising quality for a lower price? For phones under $300, expect to compromise on certain features. These devices may appear good, but they often need more software support, carrier restrictions, and unnecessary pre-installed apps.

1) Short Lifespan:

Budget-friendly phones only last for a short time. After a couple of years, security updates stop, and the device might become unsafe. Cheaper phones need advanced features like facial recognition or 5G connectivity, which can enhance the user experience.

2) Carrier Issues

Another thing to think about is that a lot of these devices can be bought at lower prices through carrier subsidy deals or included in the overall cost of your wireless service. Be cautious because hidden fees and additional charges could make this deal more expensive in the future.

If you want a new phone but have a small budget, remember that cheaper devices under $300 will have some drawbacks. With some research, you can find an affordable device that suits your needs.

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Choosing the Perfect Budget Phone Under $300: Things to Keep in Mind

Do you want to purchase an inexpensive phone? You might need a backup device temporarily or want to save money on a new phone. Before buying something, there are a few things you should think about.

1) Important Features

First, determine which features are necessary for you. Which is more important to you: a bigger screen, a better camera, or a longer battery life? Every phone has advantages and disadvantages, so your decision will depend on your priorities.

2) Use duration: Short-term or long-term?

Consider if you need this phone temporarily or for a longer duration. If you only need it temporarily, you can make some compromises on features. If you want to use it for a while, get something of higher quality.

3) Latest OS

Choosing an old operating system may result in needing assistance for certain apps that have basic security and software needs. Check the phone's Android update frequency to stay updated.

4) Additional Features

Phone protection requires accessories like cases and screen protectors. When purchasing a cheap phone, keep in mind that the selection of accessories may be limited compared to more expensive models.

5) Warranty

Knowing the warranty for your phone is important, regardless of its low price. Australian consumer law applies to inexpensive phones, but it's important to be aware of potential issues if there are any problems.

6) Camera, Storage, & Battery

Consider the camera's features beyond the megapixels and the phone's storage options of 64GB or 128 GB. Please verify the phone's battery capacity. Prefer batteries with a capacity of 4,500 mAh or higher.

7) Fast Internet Connection

All inexpensive phones can connect to 5G networks. Some cheaper 5G phones only work with sub-6GHz 5G networks, while C-band coverage is superior.

It's hard to find a cheap phone. Consider these factors before buying to get a good phone that fits your budget.

Check Out: Refurbished iPhone vs. Samsung: Detailed Guide in 2023

Why Choose Roobotech for Refurbished Phones Under 300 AUD?

Looking for a cheap and dependable refurbished phone? Take a look at Roobotech!

At Roobotech, we know how important it is to have a phone that fits your lifestyle and budget. We have a variety of refurbished phones priced below 300 AUD. Each phone goes through rigorous testing to meet our quality standards.

Our experts choose the best refurbished phones and test them thoroughly to make sure they work like new ones. Our phones are high quality and come with 6-12 months of warranty for your peace of mind.

Roobotech not only sells cheap refurbished phones but also focuses on delivering great customer service. We are here to help with any questions or concerns you have, and we provide quick and dependable shipping for your convenience.

When you pick Roobotech for your used phone needs, you can be confident that you're buying from a trustworthy and dependable source. Choose Roobotech for a cheap and reliable phone option today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's a reasonable cost for an affordable phone?

A "budget" phone is typically priced below $500, either initially or after some time. Phone prices, including Android phones, usually decrease over time. That means that it is common to find phones that were originally priced between $500 and $1000 now available in the budget market.

Which 5G phone is the most affordable in Australia, priced below $300?

The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is a top unlocked phone in Australia for under $300. This Samsung A series phone has good internal components that are not commonly found in phones at this price. It has an attractive body with comfortable color choices.

How can I determine if my phone supports 4G or 5G?

To be certain, search the model and check the vendor's website. It's important to keep in mind that while some overseas models may be given as 5G-capable handsets, this is only sometimes the case with locally provided counterparts. Some phones have "5G" in their name, which makes it obvious.

Is there a phone that can call and text?

There are options for phones that focus on calling and texting, but they are mostly feature phones rather than smartphones. Nokia offers various old-fashioned models, like the 2660 Flip, which are mainly used for calls and texts but may have some additional features.