As the world of smartphones is rapidly advancing, with new cutting-edge technology every year, so are the costs of manufacturing phones. So, the price of purchasing a phone is also rising.
This is where budget phone models come in. Various phone manufacturers, like Google, Samsung, and Apple, offer a line of more affordable devices alongside their mainline flagship phones. This includes Google’s Pixel ‘Xa’, Samsung’s Galaxy A range and the iPhone SE.
Budget phone models are a great way to stay up to date with the latest technology and a company’s product ecosystem at a fraction of the cost—especially if you buy refurbished. They also make great first-time phones for children.
Companies like Samsung and Apple also support their budget phone lines with the latest software updates and security patches. The only difference between these devices and their flagship, premium models is usually the materials and performance.
For example, the latest iPhone SE model runs the Apple A15 Bionic instead of the A16 Bionic—however, considering the price, it’s fantastic value for money. There’s also the trade-off that the battery capacity is slightly smaller, and the camera isn’t as high-quality.
Key Features of Samsung Galaxy A Series
The Samsung Galaxy A range of devices was designed to provide the reliability and features of the flagship phones, like the S24 and Galaxy Z Fold, at a fraction of the price.
Along with the affordable price, another appealing factor about the Samsung Galaxy A series is that in every generation, Samsung releases multiple models. For example, for the Ax5 generation released in 2023, they released 7 different phones.
The 7 different phones allow for many options depending on how much money you’re willing to spend and what components are important. For instance, one Galaxy A series phone might focus more on the camera than the processor or offer more RAM.
So, variety is one of the key features of the Galaxy A series of phones. On top of that, the devices still run the latest operating system featured in the S-series of Galaxy devices, OneUI Core, complete with the customisability options and sleek UI Samsung is known for.
In addition, the Galaxy A series is known for having one of the best cameras available for budget phone models. The latest Galaxy A phones, released in 2023, feature high-megapixel cameras backed by strong software support.
In 2023, Samsung also introduced a few first-time features for its budget models. These include ‘Super Fast Charging’ (25W), a Super AMOLED display, and a metal frame.
Many Galaxy A-series phones are also planned to receive long-term support with updates and software. Depending on the model, Samsung promises either 3 or 4 years of support.
Key Features of The iPhone SE Series
The iPhone SE is Apple’s least expensive iPhone model and is an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem. It runs the lightning-fast A15 Bionic chip, one of Apple’s latest mobile processors.
The A15 Bionic chip was the same chip that was in the iPhone 13 and has only recently been succeeded by the A16. The A15 offers incredibly smooth graphics and performance for gaming, as well as running intensive apps.
The latest iPhone SE also supports 5G for fast downloading and uploading speeds. It also offers more battery life than previous SE models, with 15 hours of video playback, compared to 13.
Like the higher-end iPhone options, the SE also features a durable design and IP67 water resistance. It also runs on the latest version of iOS, so users won’t need to worry about being left out of the loop.
The iPhone SE also features a gorgeous 4.7-inch Retina HD display. Its colours look crystal clear, and the pictures are sharp. It’s also a great size if you want a more portable, pocket-sized device.
There’s also variety available for the iPhone SE model when it comes to storage. There are 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options available.
Apple has reportedly also given the iPhone SE the ‘toughest glass’ available for a smartphone. The device uses a toughened, custom glass for the touchscreen.
Apple is also well known for supporting its devices long-term. They usually support their hardware, including iPhones, for 7 years after it is discontinued, so there’s no concern about longevity with the iPhone SE.
Which Phone Is Better Value For Money?
Samsung’s Galaxy A devices and the iPhone SE are both incredible value for money. Determining which phone is right for you will come down to preference regarding what features are most important to you and the operating system.
The Galaxy A phones are fantastic if you’re looking for a budget device that offers a higher-end camera. The camera quality, features, and lens are nearly on par with Samsung’s flagship devices, like the S24—it’s the best for its price range.
On the other hand, the iPhone SE is great value as an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem. It also excels at performance when it comes to intensive apps and gaming compared to other similarly priced budget phones.
There is no clear winner when it comes to which phone is better value for money. Where the iPhone SE excels with its sleek design, user-friendliness, and performance, the Galaxy A phone wins with the camera, better battery life, and larger display.
Ultimately, it’ll come down to which phone suits your requirements better. For instance, if you want a budget phone for gaming or you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone SE is ideal.
If you’re looking for a device that offers a high-end camera at a reasonable price, a long-lasting battery, and customisability, Samsung’s Galaxy A phones are perfect. They just feel like a ‘lite’ version of the pricier Galaxy S devices.
When deciding which device is right for you, we also recommend considering the storage options, as well. The iPhone SE currently offers more variety when it comes to internal storage sizes, but some Galaxy A phones do support external SD memory cards.
Buy Affordable Refurbished Phones At OzMobiles
If you’re looking to buy into Samsung or Apple’s budget range of phones, purchasing them refurbished is even more affordable. At OzMobiles, we stock the latest Galaxy A and iPhone SE devices in our store.
All our devices, including our budget phones, come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy. So, if you run into any issues or simply have a change of mind, you can return the product.
We also ensure that all of our refurbished devices go through a comprehensive, 72-point process. This includes testing all the components to ensure the phone is fully functional and running optimally.
If you have any questions about our refurbished phones, or need help choosing between the Galaxy A or iPhone SE, our team would love to hear from you. Contact us today with any questions you may have.
