A feature-packed smartphone need not break the bank – even if you’re looking for storage, long battery life, a quad camera, a fast processor for gaming, or all of the above.

These starter smartphones are rich in functionality and very attractively priced. You’ll be amazed at the choices on offer, and the change you’ll get back from five hundred bucks!

If your price range permits, it’s worth considering a 5G smartphone, although they’re much harder to find in the budget range. Not only are they compatible with the existing 3G and 4G networks, they’re also able to tap into the low-latency, high-speed perks of the incredibly fast 5G network. Granted, 5G isn’t as widespread as 4G yet, but expect that to change in the coming months. And by opting for a 5G handset, you’re effectively future-proofing your device.

Samsung Galaxy A11

  • Screen Size: 6.4” Resolution: 720 x 1560 (HD+)
  • CPU: 1.8GHz Octa-Core Storage: 32GB RAM: 2GB
  • Rear camera: 13MP(Main) / 2MP(Depth) / 5MP(Ultra-Wide)
  • Front Camera: 8MP Battery: 4,000 mAh

The Samsung Galaxy A11 has face recognition as well as a fingerprint sensor at the rear of the phone for extra device security. The triple camera system will ably handle portraits right through to ultra-wide angles, with the 8MP front camera perfect for selfies. The Depth Camera feature lets you adjust depth of field after taking the shot. And you can enjoy your shots on a decent 6.4” screen. 32GB storage is expandable up to 512GB thanks to a microSD card port.

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It’s impossible to compete with the big guys in the camera department, but don’t discount the cheaper end of town – there’s been a big step forward in tech and budget smartphones can certainly still deliver. Front and rear-facing cameras are standard and let you make video calls to family or friends, or record static pics or video for a budding Instagram channel.

Oppo A53

  • Screen Size: 6.5”
  • Resolution: 720 x 1600
  • CPU: 1.8GHz Qualcomm SM4250
  • Storage: 64GB RAM: 4GB
  • Rear camera: 13MP(Main) / 2MP(Depth) / 2MP(Macro)
  • Front Camera: 8MP Battery: 5,000 mAh

The Oppo A53 is a perfect viewing platform for bingers and gamers alike, thanks to the 6.5” screen size and 90Hz Neo-Display. Most models in this price range have 60Hz refresh, so the 90Hz is a nice step up and fast paced games will benefit with a smoother look on the A53. The A53 is also no slouch when it comes to photos, with a triple camera system and 15 filters to choose from. The 5,000 mAh battery capacity will provide enough juice for a whole day of heavy use, with 18W fast charge ensuring minimal downtime for the A53. Storage is expandable to 256GB with microSD.

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Vivo Y30

  • Screen Size: 6.47”
  • Resolution: 720 x 1560
  • CPU: 2.3GHz Mediatek MT6765
  • Storage: 64GB RAM: 4GB
    Rear camera: 13MP(Main) / 2MP(Depth) / 2MP(Macro) / 8MP(Wide)
  • Front Camera: 8MP Battery: 5,000 mAh

The Vivo Y30 has a respectable set of features at this price point. The quad camera will cater to all use cases. For gamers, the Vivo Y30 introduces their Multi-Turbo 3.0, which employs predictive technology to smooth out any problems that might pop up from third party apps. There’s also Ultra Game Mode, which optimises for gameplay.

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As 5G is rolled out, you’ll soon have access to a super fast network across Australia. While most 5G-ready smartphones are top in price range, Samsung’s most affordable 5G model offers a compelling feature set. Even on a budget, it’s well worth considering, as it might mean longer before your next upgrade.Content goes here

Samsung Galaxy A42 5G

  • Screen Size: 6.6” Resolution: 720 x 1600
  • CPU: 2.2GHz, 1.8GHz Octa-core
  • Storage: 128GB RAM: 6GB
  • Rear camera: 48MP(Main) / 5MP(Depth) / 5MP(Macro) / 8MP(Ultra-Wide)
  • Front Camera: 20MP Battery: 5,000 mAh

You need a bit under the hood to bask in 5G, and that starts with a 5,000 mAh battery for handling the rest of the bumped up hardware specs. The 48MP main camera records in 4K UHD (3840×2160), so it’s pleasing to have 128GB of storage. You also get a 20MP front camera to present your best self in 5G. And a 6.6” AMOLED screen ensures that all the added content you’ll be streaming and sharing is seen at its best.

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