Good Android phone for €200

Kraft.l

Hi everybody,
Just wanted to ask some advice please.
I'm looking for an android phone for €200, with excellent battery life,
at least 64GB storage, and superior sound quality/clarity
listening to podcasts and music on Spotify.
Not bothered about the camera technology.
Wouldn't mind if it's the latest operating system.
I know with wi-fi on, all batteries run dow quickly, and I can download songs for offline with Wi-fi switched off.
I would however like a battery that doesn't waste after an hour after a couple months using the phone.
I'm partial to Sony phones but I'm not sure any Sony phones would fit satisfy all of the above,
Any suggestions?

Thanks

chrisire

https://www.honorbuy.com/1492-xiaomi-mi-a2-lite-official-global-version-4gb-ram-64gb-smartphone-black.html

highly recommend this phone,great battery,latest Android version,only thing lacking is a brilliant camera.

Kraft.l

chrisire wrote: »

https://www.honorbuy.com/1492-xiaomi-mi-a2-lite-official-global-version-4gb-ram-64gb-smartphone-black.html

highly recommend this phone,great battery,latest Android version,only thing lacking is a brilliant camera.

Thanks I'll have a look now

tedpan

I'd also look at the Mi A2 or redmi note 7 both around 200euro. I'd spend the extra over the lite version

Cina

https://www.amazon.co.uk/motorola-6-2-Inch-Android-Sim-Free-Smartphone-Black/dp/B07N8KXQLH/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2VD77HYRHBXF3&keywords=moto%2Bg6&qid=1558707533&s=gateway&sprefix=moto%2B%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1-spons&th=1

Moto G7 is also a really good shout.

chrisire

tedpan wrote: »

I'd also look at the Mi A2 or redmi note 7 both around 200euro. I'd spend the extra over the lite version

The battery is better on the lite version

Kraft.l

tedpan wrote: »

I'd also look at the Mi A2 or redmi note 7 both around 200euro. I'd spend the extra over the lite version

Why would that be now?

GBX

Kraft.l wrote: »

Why would that be now?

Better screen, camera.

tedpan

GBX wrote:

Better screen, camera.

Processor and storage too

Kraft.l

GBX wrote: »

Better screen, camera.

Oh sound for music and podcasts superior? Yeh grand I see you were saying the battery is better there, that's a big plus, not bothered about quality of camera, I'll have a read over that thanks.

Bacchus

OP, I've had the Redmi Note 7 for a couple of weeks now. Got it for just shy of €200 on Amazon Spain. 64Gb storage, 4Gb RAM. My priorities were battery life and a good screen. It has delivered in spades on both fronts.

I have my Redmi with WiFi and Bluetooth (connected to smart watch) on all day, and with light use I'll end the day on around 70% battery. With more regular checking various apps, web browsing, bit of YouTube, etc. I'll end the day at around 50%. I'd easily get 2 days out it. I'm not too bothered by the camera either but the camera here does a fine job, no complaints from me.

Wheety

As above the Redmi phones seem to have good reviews.

Redmi 6 for €85
https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/8677071.htm

Redmi S2 for €110
https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/8664819.htm

You would have to google the difference and look for reviews.

DopeTech

+1 for the xiaomi mi a2 lite. Excellent phone for the money.

jgbyr

Sir Dosser wrote: »

+1 for the xiaomi mi a2 lite. Excellent phone for the money.

How would you rate the camera on this. Looking at it as a replacement for herself, but she likes her pics. Reviews seem to be mixed. Thanks

Cina

jgbyr wrote: »

How would you rate the camera on this. Looking at it as a replacement for herself, but she likes her pics. Reviews seem to be mixed. Thanks

If the camera is the most important thing then get an Honor 10 Lite or Moto G6.

GBX

That camera is ok - not top spec. But if you want a phone with an amazing camera, you'll have to up the budget.

jgbyr

GBX wrote: »

That camera is ok - not top spec. But if you want a phone with an amazing camera, you'll have to up the budget.

I've the redmi note 5 myself & the camera is very good.
The general specs on Mi A2 Lite are very good for the price though. Plus it has Android One.

DopeTech

jgbyr wrote: »

How would you rate the camera on this. Looking at it as a replacement for herself, but she likes her pics. Reviews seem to be mixed. Thanks

Fine in day light but suffers at nighttime. If camera is important then I'd probably look at one of the new Samsung mid-range phones.

DaveyDave

If a camera is on the list the Galaxy A7 2018 can be had around €220 on Amazon.de. Dual camera setup with a wide angle lens on one of them, decent all around phone for the money.

It's €350 in the shops so even if you don't end up getting one it's probably worth saying to friends and family, I know some people aren't keen on Chinese branded phones so they'd still get their old reliable Samsung for a good price. Same with the Sony and Motorola.

closifer

I also reccomend the Moto g7. It's on amazon.co.uk for 179£ with free delivery so close enough to your budget. I have it. I previously had Samsung S7 ...don't feel a massive difference

Discodog

I bought my Redmi Note 4 two years ago & it's still excellent. I recommended the Note 5 to a friend & she loves it. My next phone will be another Xiaomi

beauf

closifer wrote: »

I also reccomend the Moto g7. It's on amazon.co.uk for 179£ with free delivery so close enough to your budget. I have it. I previously had Samsung S7 ...don't feel a massive difference

The G7 Power is 179 that's a slightly lower spec but a huge battery than the regular G7 which is 199. Better camera and screen mainly.

I have the cheaper power myself.

Jollyballs

Also looking in around the same budget, how good or bad are all these chinese phones never heard of half of the names mentioned here.

Is there still the same level of accessories, otterbox cover, Screen protectors etc?

Battery life is a big plus any recommendations?

Hoboo

Jollyballs wrote: »

Also looking in around the same budget, how good or bad are all these chinese phones never heard of half of the names mentioned here.

Is there still the same level of accessories, otterbox cover, Screen protectors etc?

Battery life is a big plus any recommendations?

I've a mi a2 lite. Android One, battery lasts around 30 hours with plenty of internet use. Would high recommend. Camera is ok, but not what I bought if for.

Bought some screen protectors and a dux ducis cover, dropped it now upwards of 20 times, not a scratch.

Bacchus

Jollyballs wrote: »

Also looking in around the same budget, how good or bad are all these chinese phones never heard of half of the names mentioned here.

Is there still the same level of accessories, otterbox cover, Screen protectors etc?

Battery life is a big plus any recommendations?

See my post above regarding the Redmi Note 7.

I've never bothered with covers or screen protectors. I do have the supplied cover for the Redmi though as it doesn't take away from the aesthetic of the phone and at least provides some protection.

It's hard to say "in general" as there are so many brands and price points. Huawei are fairly mainstream and reliable. Xiaomi offer a good range at the lower price point but IMO the quality is superb. When you can get a phone as good as (for example) the Redmi Note 7 for €200, I just don't see what the draw of the €800 flagship phones is. No doubt they have better specs, better cameras, and a couple of the latest features (ooooooh fingerprint scanner in screen) if you're into that but I'm perfectly happy with everything I get with the Redmi.

I think if I was into mobile gaming or if I wanted a killer camera, there'd be more of a lure to go for the flagship OnePlus/Samsung/Pixel phones. That doesn't apply to me though.

Jollyballs

Bacchus wrote: »

See my post above regarding the Redmi Note 7.

I've never bothered with covers or screen protectors. I do have the supplied cover for the Redmi though as it doesn't take away from the aesthetic of the phone and at least provides some protection.

It's hard to say "in general" as there are so many brands and price points. Huawei are fairly mainstream and reliable. Xiaomi offer a good range at the lower price point but IMO the quality is superb. When you can get a phone as good as (for example) the Redmi Note 7 for €200, I just don't see what the draw of the €800 flagship phones is. No doubt they have better specs, better cameras, and a couple of the latest features (ooooooh fingerprint scanner in screen) if you're into that but I'm perfectly happy with everything I get with the Redmi.

I think if I was into mobile gaming or if I wanted a killer camera, there'd be more of a lure to go for the flagship OnePlus/Samsung/Pixel phones. That doesn't apply to me though.

I did read it, its more the fear of the unknown, not worried about the camera or gaming, battery and durability are key, just always been Samsung. I know thats not to say I should buy only Samsung but it does give me piece of mind that its a well known brand name.

Having looked at the g7/power talked about here, i'll be looking that others too including the Redmi and a2.

advertsfox

From the support side of things alone, the Mi A2 is completely worth it. You can get 2 day delivery from Italy with Honorbuy for €180 at the moment, a bargain. Stock Android One, great display and excellent cameras and a solid battery too.

Bacchus

Jollyballs wrote: »

I did read it, its more the fear of the unknown, not worried about the camera or gaming, battery and durability are key, just always been Samsung. I know thats not to say I should buy only Samsung but it does give me piece of mind that its a well known brand name.

Having looked at the g7/power talked about here, i'll be looking that others too including the Redmi and a2.

You have the answers you're looking for already so if you've read this thread (and the Chinese Android phone thread).

It's up to you to take the leap (or not) and go for the lesser known brand. There is an element of you get what you pay for but I feel the gap between €200 phones and €800+ phones is far closer than the price tags suggest and there is good value in getting a cheaper phone that ticks the boxes that are important to you but won't necessarily have the latest and greatest of everything else. Plus, at a quarter the price of a flagship, you get to spend money elsewhere. The €300 I "saved" not going for phones in the €500-600 range has resulted in me purchasing a nice pair of Creative Air wireless earbuds and a Samsung Galaxy Watch Active.

If you're on fence about a particular phone btw, YouTube reviews are far better at getting a 'feel' of the phone than any written review or recommendation.

conlof

Guys great info there. I'm in the same market myself and will probably go for the Redmi note 7. Where is the best (cheapest place!) to get one? Thanks in advance

Bacchus

conlof wrote: »

Guys great info there. I'm in the same market myself and will probably go for the Redmi note 7. Where is the best (cheapest place!) to get one? Thanks in advance

At the time I bought it, Amazon Spain was €197. EGlobal possibly better price but I'd rather go with Amazon.

Kraft.l

Well now I'm at ta getting the Mi a2 lite, its early days but I'm already impressed with the storage for podcasts and music on spotify,
The sound quality is excellent pretty much the same as my Samsung tablet which has excellent sound.
Camera is grand, wasnt looking for much there anyway.
Battery saver option is good, switched off notifications from apps for longer battery life.
Trying to tether my phones wifi from the mi lite to my tablet, easy enough, didn't like that I had to switch on my bluetooth as well to do it, as it might eat up more battery, sure theres a more straightforward way, I'll check that out.
Battery life is superb.

Thanks everyone for the advice!

Kraft.l

Kraft.l wrote: »

Well now I'm at ta getting the Mi a2 lite, its early days but I'm already impressed with the storage for podcasts and music on spotify,
The sound quality is excellent pretty much the same as my Samsung tablet which has excellent sound.
Camera is grand, wasnt looking for much there anyway.
Battery saver option is good, switched off notifications from apps for longer battery life.
Trying to tether my phones wifi from the mi lite to my tablet, easy enough, didn't like that I had to switch on my bluetooth as well to do it, as it might eat up more battery, sure theres a more straightforward way, I'll check that out.
Battery life is superb.

Thanks everyone for the advice!

Just an update there had the tethering hotspot with mobile broadband and bluetooth connecting it to the tablet,
and the battery didnt go down that much, also the signal quality for speaking on the phone is crystal clear.

jgbyr

Where did you buy it from?

Kraft.l

jgbyr wrote: »

Where did you buy it from?

Amazon.co.uk SKARK UK, that must be the company I think.

DopeTech

Kraft.l wrote: »

Trying to tether my phones wifi from the mi lite to my tablet, easy enough, didn't like that I had to switch on my bluetooth as well to do it, as it might eat up more battery, sure theres a more straightforward way, I'll check that out.
Battery life is superb.

Thanks everyone for the advice!

You shouldn't need Bluetooth on as well to use wifi tethering. Although leaving Bluetooth on constantly won't drain your battery either, especially if it's not in use.

there is actually a bit of a bug with the a2 lite in that if you have bluetooth on the wifi speed/connection quality is reduced.

test it out and you should notice it

only real fault with it tbh.

boobazingaboo

Anyone know the best phone camera under 300?

boobazingaboo

boobazingaboo wrote: »

Anyone know the best phone camera under 300?

Mi 9 se

https://www.kimovil.com/en/where-to-buy-xiaomi-mi-9-se

Or Spend a bit more for the pixel 3a

mi 9 se here for 300 euro just about. delivery through europe in a few days so no customs. long-established site well-regarded on this forum

https://www.honorbuy.com/1647-xiaomi-mi-9-se-6gb-64gb-global-version-smartphone-blue.html#/option-global_version_664gb_blue

3 cameras - main 48mp, wide angle, zoom

boobazingaboo

glasso wrote: »

mi 9 se here for 300 euro just about. delivery through europe in a few days so no customs. long-established site well-regarded on this forum



3 cameras - main 48mp, wide angle, zoom

thank you, any warranty with that site?

boobazingaboo

boobazingaboo wrote: »

thank you, any warranty with that site?

1 year. very few production problems with modern smartphones and no known big issues with that phone so you should be alright.

nice phone - good cpu, AMOLED screen. good camera. best value mid-range phone out there imo at the moment.

Kraft.l

Sir Dosser wrote: »

You shouldn't need Bluetooth on as well to use wifi tethering. Although leaving Bluetooth on constantly won't drain your battery either, especially if it's not in use.

Yeh just found out there don't need Bluetooth on just hotspot for tethering.

Kraft.l

Hmmm, just found out when trying to use my mi a2 lite phone as a wifi hotspot for my Samsung tablet it can be tenous if behind a couch, and I have to move it close in line of sight.

glic83

glasso wrote: »

mi 9 se here for 300 euro just about. delivery through europe in a few days so no customs. long-established site well-regarded on this forum

https://www.honorbuy.com/1647-xiaomi-mi-9-se-6gb-64gb-global-version-smartphone-blue.html#/option-global_version_664gb_blue

3 cameras - main 48mp, wide angle, zoom

Pity the battery isn't 4000mah, how you finding the battery life?

moonboy52

John Lewis UK has the Xiaomi Mi 8 for £200.

Saw a comment on HUKD about no NI shipping(no idea if true) so AddressPal possibly or maybe they might not ship there, but sure is a good deal for around the 200e mark

eh i dunno

Any recommendations for a phone in the 200-300 price bracket that I can buy in store?

eh i dunno

eh i dunno wrote: »

Any recommendations for a phone in the 200-300 price bracket that I can buy in store?

not really. value so much better online.

this is very good for the money €280 if you're willing to take the big online plunge.

https://www.eglobalcentral.eu/xiaomi-mi-9t-6gb-64gb-dual-sim-redmi-k20-carbon-black-1.html

amoled screen, decent cameras (incl a wide angle and zoom camera), strong cpu, 6gb ram, 64gb storage, no notch on front. in-screen fingerprint reader.

allow 10 to 12 days delivery. no customs.

massy086

glasso wrote: »

not really. value so much better online.

this is very good for the money €280 if you're willing to take the big online plunge.

https://www.eglobalcentral.eu/xiaomi-mi-9t-6gb-64gb-dual-sim-redmi-k20-carbon-black-1.html

amoled screen, decent cameras (incl a wide angle and zoom camera), strong cpu, 6gb ram, 64gb storage, no notch on front. in-screen fingerprint reader.

allow 10 to 12 days delivery. no customs.

Or 6 weeks.i just waited 6 weeks for a mi 9 from these.shocking customer care as won't answer emails.would only answer when I got PayPal involved.avoid avoid avoid.honorbuy are 100% better

atilladehun

Anyone ever heard of the Cubot?

Seems the speaker and casing aren't great but the rest of the specs look good for the price?

https://www.laptopsdirect.ie/cubot-power-blue-5.99-128gb-4g-dual-sim-unlocked-sim-free-cub-pow-blue/version.asp

GBX

atilladehun wrote: »

Anyone ever heard of the Cubot?

Seems the speaker and casing aren't great but the rest of the specs look good for the price?

https://www.laptopsdirect.ie/cubot-power-blue-5.99-128gb-4g-dual-sim-unlocked-sim-free-cub-pow-blue/version.asp

Specs are ok. Not many reviews. I'd rather get something like this

[url]Https://www.honorbuy.com/1538-xiaomi-redmi-note-6-pro-4gb-ram-64gb-rom-official-global-version-smartphone-black.html[/url]

atilladehun

Thanks for your reply.

The hard drive is smaller and the battery is smaller, which is what brought me to the Cubot in the first place.

Is it the better known reputation of the xiaomi that's the deciding factor for you?

I don't know much about the processors and band receptors, I could be missing something completely obvious there.