
The best cheap unlocked mobile phones are hard to find and even harder to buy, especially in Australia. Sometimes, you may like the features, but the price might not satisfy you; sometimes, the price seems fine but not the features.
So how can you make an informed decision while getting satisfied with both the price and features? Well, do not worry. We have got you covered.
In this blog, we have not only listed the six best cheap unlocked mobile phones. But we have also revealed the best place to buy unlocked phones(revealed in the end). So without further ado, let's jump straight into it.
Looking for the best cheap unlocked mobile phone under $300? You’re in luck. All the phones in this list are under $300 except for Samsung Galaxy A51. Read on!
Having a shiny metal body, a responsive fingerprint scanner, and all the necessary specifications, Moto G5 is simply one of the best cheap unlocked mobile phones you will find in Australia.
The G series of Motorola is the company's best-selling series to date, and Moto G5 is their best budget phone in the market. Not only it is budget-friendly, but it also offers a premium design that hardly comes with the phone in this range.
Although G5's 5.0-inch 1080p screen is a bit smaller than that of G4's(previous version), it outperforms G4 in terms of processing speed. The base model of Moto G5 comes with 2GB RAM and offers two colour models, gold and grey. However, you can pay some extra bucks for a 3GB RAM model that supports a dual sim.
Moreover, its rear panel is made with aluminium which adds to its design and offers a satisfying heft. The 13MP back camera module of the Moto G5 is surrounded by a silver circle, making it stand out from other best cheap unlocked mobile phones.
This cheap android phone also has a 5MP front camera which can capture decent selfies and even selfie videos. Besides that, Moto G5 also supports fast charging and has a built-in NFC feature. Keeping the value Moto G5 provides in mind, we can say that it is the best cheap smartphone in Australia in this price bracket.
Y5p by Huawei, launched in 2020, is equipped with a good display and offers robust WLAN connectivity but lacks Google services. A potential turn-off? No, read along to see what other features it has to offer.
The screen resolution of Y5p is 720 x 1440 px, rocking an IPS 5.4 inches sharp display which offers a better viewing experience compared to the phones in the same price range.
The Huawei Y5p's RAM is 2GB, and the ROM is 32 GB which can be extended using a microSD card according to your storage needs. The device does not have high-quality glass or aluminium at the back. However, the plastic build looks and feels clean though not as strong.
When it comes to the camera, the module at the back might look big, but there's only one 8MP camera that can take decent images on a good day with proper lighting around.
Last but not least, Huawei Y5p comes with a 3020 mAH battery which can go up to 12.5 hours on a single charge. This means it can easily last you a day if your usage is not excessive.
If you can not compromise on the battery and want a premium-looking smartphone under a low budget, you can consider this OPPO Phone.
Although there's no metal body on the back, only plastic, the phone still looks ravishing, especially in the sunlight. And the best feature of this phone is its battery performance. By only charging it for one and a half hours, you can get the juice out of this phone for two days, making it a travel-friendly device.
The base variant of Oppo AX7 comes with 64GB of storage which is not what most of the best cheap unlocked mobile phones offer. Now when we talk about the processing speed and the performance of this device, it can handle all the day-to-day tasks quite easily. It may lag a bit while running heavy games like PUBG, but other than that, the performance is pretty decent as compared to other gaming phones.
Additionally, the Oppo AX7 has 6.2 inches bright display packing a 720p resolution which means that you will not face any visibility issues even if you are using this device under direct sunlight.
Moreover, the 13MP camera performs good, provided that there is enough lighting. However, as the sun starts to go down, the camera result becomes inconsistent and results in darker images, but again, it's justified for a phone in this price range.
All in all, with its power-packed features, Oppo AX7 is topping our list of the best cheap unlocked mobile phones for now. Read on to see what other cheap unlocked mobile phones have to offer.
The iPhone 7 was released back in 2016 and rocks a pretty similar design to the iPhone 6s. However, when it comes to the features, there are a lot of new improvements in the iPhone 7.
First of all, the cheap iPhone 7 comes with a super-fast A10 fusion processor, which means that the heavy apps, videos, and games will load even faster than the iPhone 6s.
Moreover, the second hand iPhone 7 has an IP67 rating, enabling it to fight water, splashes, and dust with increased efficiency. It also has a 4.7 inches retina IPS LCD screen which displays crisp graphics and takes the overall user experience up a notch.
As for the cameras, the iPhone 7 features a 12 MP primary(back) camera that also allows for 4K video recording. The front camera is 7MP which produces detailed images and allows you to capture sharp and clear selfies.
It may not be the cheapest device in our list of the best cheap unlocked mobile phones, but the storage capacity, camera quality, and design it offers are unmatchable and worth forking out some extra bucks.
If you want to buy a device with the latest technology and outstanding efficiency within a low budget, this Xiamoi phone is the phone of your dreams.
Its modern 6.53 inches full HD+ screen allows you to enjoy a full-scale and immersive viewing experience. The device does not have unnecessary notches and thick bezels, making it even easier for you to enjoy videos and games.
Running large applications and enjoying multimedia content through the internet has been made seamless due to Redmi 9AT's powerful MediaTek Helio G25 processor. Further, the phone rocks 2GB RAM and 32GB storage capacity and a MicroSD slot using which you can maximize your storage up to 256GB.
But do you know what the best thing about this smartphone is? It's battery life! It comes with a 5000 mAH battery, the highest on this list of the best cheap unlocked mobile phones. And on top of that, a 10 Watt charger comes inside the box so that you can quickly get your smartphone ready to go.
Finally, it contains a 13MP back camera and a 5MP front camera with IA beauty mode that makes your selfies look even more gorgeous. And guess what? The front camera also includes a face unlocking system. Amazing, isn't it?
The last phone on the list is from Samsung A seies. The build quality of the Samsung A51 is impressive, and it is made up of a material that Samsung refers to as "Glasstic." Sure the material feels higher quality than plastic, but it does not seem as premium as Samsung S22. But you must be wondering if it sits nicely in the hands? Well, it does and is not slippery at all.
Moreover, the rim of this device feels high-quality because it is made with aluminium. It also supports USB type C and comes with a dual sim system. You can also expand your storage up to 512GB using a microSD card.
When it comes to the display, Galaxy A51 is in a different league with a Full HD+(2400x1080) 6.5 inches large screen. It also offers an in-display fingerprint scanner which may not perform extremely well on certain occasions.
Talking about performance, it has 4GB of RAM, which means that it can perform well while launching and running apps. But you may feel a little lag while dealing with hefty applications.
Furthermore, it has a 48 MP main camera, 12MP wide-angle camera and 32MP front, along with a battery of 4000 mAH.
So these were the six best cheap unlocked mobile phones that you can find in Australia. Some of them might look outdated design-wise, but they offer the best value for money if you are on a shoestring budget.
So whether you are looking for the best cheap phones for sale or you want to get your hand on premium devices, PhoneBot has everything to offer. From fine quality iPhone 13 to Moto G5, you are provided with diverse choices to make your buying decision.
Posted byLiam Harris

The smartphone market is a whirlwind of innovation, with each year bringing cutting-edge advancements from giants like Apple and Samsung. While this rapid evolution is exciting, keeping up with the latest models can be daunting, let alone expensive. This is where refurbished mobile phones offer a compelling alternative. As the demand for high-quality pre-owned devices surges, refurbished phones have emerged as a smart choice, offering significant savings without compromising on performance. No longer do you have to ponder, "Should I fix my phone or get a new one?" Reconditioned mobile phones provide a reliable solution that blends quality with affordability. Whether you're upgrading your current phone or purchasing your first smartphone, opting for a refurbished device is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
At Phonebot, we are pioneers in the refurbishment market, dedicated to transforming second-hand phones into high-quality, like-new products. Our rigorous refurbishment process includes comprehensive inspections and advanced repair techniques. In this article, we will dive into the detailed steps we take to restore each device, from initial inspection to final quality control, highlighting the advanced tools and methods we use to restore each device to its optimal condition.
At Phonebot, refurbishment goes beyond simple repairs. Each device undergoes a comprehensive 72-point inspection, covering critical aspects such as hardware integrity, software functionality, battery health, and cosmetic condition. We focus on key areas like screen repairs, battery replacements, and overall performance optimization to ensure every device meets our high standards. This rigorous process ensures that all refurbished phones, including popular models like the refurbished iPhone, Samsung, and Google Pixel devices, deliver like-new quality and reliability.
Our 72-point inspection and grading system ensures accuracy - here's what customers experience:
"Purchased 2 iPhone XS mobile phones. Both phones were in as new condition as stated and both phones 100% battery when stated battery would be 85% and over. Very happy with the phones and aftersales service. I rate them as a 10/10 for quality and service."
Phonebot Customer Review - Reviews.io
Detailed Refurbishment Process
The first step in our refurbishment process is the comprehensive 72-point inspection. This thorough evaluation is designed to assess and verify the overall condition and functionality of each device before it undergoes further refurbishment. This comprehensive process is divided into three critical phases:
We begin by thoroughly evaluating the device’s exterior for any signs of damage. This involves checking the phone screen for cracks, scratches, or other visible defects. The device’s casing and buttons are inspected to ensure they are intact and functioning properly. Any cosmetic imperfections are noted for correction during reassembly and polishing. This step is crucial for identifying issues that could affect the device's appearance and user experience.
After assessing the physical condition, we turn our attention to the internal components. This includes checking the battery health, charging ports, and connectors for any signs of wear or damage. We employ advanced diagnostic tools such as the JCID BLE X-12PM Baseband Logic Chip EEPROM Data Reading and Writing Programmer. This tool is essential for reading and writing data from baseband logic chips, ensuring their proper functioning. It helps us identify any potential faults within the internal circuits that could impact the device’s performance.
The final stage of the inspection focuses on software performance. We run a series of diagnostic tests to check for software updates and ensure that security patches are up-to-date. Comprehensive testing is conducted to verify that all applications function correctly and that connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data are operating as expected. This step is vital for confirming that the device is not only physically sound but also fully operational from a software perspective.

Once the initial 72-point inspection is complete, we move on to the component repair and replacement phase. This step is essential for addressing any defects identified during the inspection and ensuring that each device operates at its best. One of the essential tools in our refurbishment process is the 2UUL Mini Electric Grinder Engraving Pen.

This tool is instrumental for detailed repair work on integrated circuits (ICs) and CPUs. Its precision allows our technicians to perform intricate repairs and adjustments, which are essential for fixing delicate components without causing additional damage. Whether it’s repairing minor chips or enhancing connections, this tool ensures high-quality, reliable repairs.

For repairing and replacing other internal components, we utilize the Relife RL-936W Spot Welder. This machine is designed for securing connections on circuit boards, which is crucial for fixing issues related to solder joints and component attachments. Its precision ensures that repairs are reliable and durable, maintaining the integrity of the device’s internal systems.

For devices that require a phone screen repair, the LCD Screen Separator Machine is an invaluable tool.

This tool is used to remove old screens and install new ones safely. The machine uses heat to soften the adhesive holding the screen in place, allowing for a clean separation without damaging the device. This ensures that the new screen is perfectly aligned and free from bubbles or imperfections.
The data recovery and software reinstallation phase is critical in the refurbishment process at Phonebot. This stage ensures that every device not only functions correctly but also has up-to-date software and firmware, enhancing performance and security.
The first step in this phase is to address any data recovery needs. We use advanced tools to extract and recover any valuable data that may be present on the device. This is particularly important if the device was previously in use and had data that needs to be preserved or transferred. Our technicians handle this process with the utmost care to ensure that no data is lost or corrupted during recovery.

Once data recovery is complete, we proceed with firmware updates and software reinstallation. Keeping the device's firmware up-to-date is essential for ensuring compatibility with the latest applications and security protocols. For this, we utilize the JCID P13 NAND Read/Write Programmer. This advanced tool enables precise reading and writing to NAND flash memory, ensuring that the firmware is updated accurately.

Following the firmware update, we reinstall the device's operating system and essential software. This step involves setting up the latest version of the OS to enhance performance and ensure all system functionalities operate smoothly.
After the rigorous component repair and software reinstallation processes, the next crucial step is reassembly and polishing. This phase ensures that the device not only functions flawlessly but also looks as pristine as when it was first manufactured.
Reassembling a device requires precision and care to ensure all components fit together seamlessly. Our technicians use the Kuiper UN9, a highly effective tool for reassembling mobile phones. This device aids in the precise alignment of internal components and ensures that every part is securely and correctly placed. The Kuiper UN9 helps to avoid common issues such as misalignment or improper connections that can affect the device's performance.

Additionally, we use an adjustable Trinocular Zoom Stereo Microscope for Mobile Phone Repairing to closely inspect the device during reassembly. This microscope allows our technicians to examine tiny details and connections that are not visible to the naked eye. By magnifying the device’s internal components, the microscope ensures that all parts are perfectly aligned and securely attached, which is essential for the device’s overall functionality and longevity.
Once reassembled, the device undergoes a thorough polishing process to restore its cosmetic appearance. This step involves carefully cleaning and buffing the exterior to remove any smudges, scratches, or blemishes. Our polishing process ensures that the device looks as good as new, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and preparing it for sale.
Using advanced cleaning tools and techniques, we address any cosmetic imperfections, ensuring the device has a smooth, glossy finish. The final result is a refurbished device that not only performs at its best but also has a visually appealing look, providing customers with a high-quality product that meets Phonebot’s stringent standards.
Before a refurbished device is ready for sale, it undergoes a meticulous final quality control check. Performance testing is the first step in this phase. Each device is thoroughly assessed to ensure all features function correctly, including the touchscreen, camera, battery life, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Specialized diagnostic tools identify any hardware or software issues to confirm the device performs reliably under various conditions.
Aesthetic inspection follows, checking for scratches, dents, or discoloration. The screen, buttons, and casing must meet like-new standards, with minor flaws polished or replaced. This level of detail is essential for devices like refurbished Samsung phones, known for their premium design and high-performance features. Only after passing these checks is the device approved for sale, ensuring top-tier quality for our customers.
Our final quality control process ensures every device meets like-new standards - here's proof from a recent customer:
"I recently purchased an iPhone 15 from this company. They had rated it Grade A. I was amazed by its pristine condition - not one mark on the screen or anywhere else. The battery health showed 100% and the phone had only been through 33 battery cycles. I am super impressed and highly recommend buying from them."
Phonebot Recent Customer, Trustpilot.
The refurbishment process at Phonebot is a blend of meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Our commitment to quality is evident through the sophisticated machinery and tools employed to restore devices to their optimal condition. Here’s an insight into some of the other high-tech tools that play a crucial role in our refurbishment process:

The iPad Series LCD Alignment Mold is indispensable for ensuring accurate alignment of front glass on LCD screens. This mold plays a vital role before laminating the screen, guaranteeing that components fit perfectly. Proper alignment minimizes defects and enhances the visual appeal of refurbished screens. Using this mold ensures that the final product meets high standards, essential for achieving high-quality cracked screen repair and reconditioned mobile devices.

The WYLIE 4-in-1 Multi-Purpose Phone Repair Fixture Kit is an essential tool designed to streamline various aspects of mobile phone repair. Its multifunctional capabilities make it a valuable asset for technicians dealing with diverse repair needs. Its 360° rotatable design allows technicians to access different angles easily during repairs, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of damage.

A stable power source is essential for effective repairs. The DC Power Supply Variable 30V 10A provides precise voltage and current adjustments. With its 4-digit LED display, this tool ensures accurate power delivery, facilitating effective testing and powering of devices before final assembly. Its reliability is critical for maintaining the functionality of refurbished devices and ensuring thorough refurbishment checks.

The New Qianli Dot Matrix Repair Fixture is specialized for Face ID repairs on iPhones. This fixture offers a stable platform for testing and repairing the Face ID lattice, allowing technicians to perform delicate operations with precision. The fixture's design simplifies the repair process, ensuring that the Face ID function is restored accurately. It provides a reliable and secure work surface, thus enhancing the quality of Face ID repairs.

The MI Jing K36 Mobile Phone Camera Repair Fixture is specifically designed for repairing mobile phone cameras. It facilitates precise desoldering and welding of camera components, ensuring that reconditioned mobile devices have fully functional and high-quality cameras.

This fixture is crucial for maintaining the integrity of camera systems during repairs, resulting in high-quality refurbished phones with excellent camera performance.

The Short Killer Mobile Phone PCB Short Circuit Repair Tool Box is essential for diagnosing and repairing short circuits on circuit boards. This tool enables efficient troubleshooting and repair, crucial for maintaining the functionality of refurbished devices. Its effectiveness in diagnosing issues helps ensure that repairs are completed swiftly and accurately.

The Mechanic IT3 Pro Intelligent Heating Pad is designed for delicate motherboard repairs, integrating functions such as tin planting, desoldering, and glue removal. Its controllable temperature settings and plug-and-play design streamline the repair process for layered IC chips. This heating pad is ideal for handling intricate tasks and improving the quality of refurbished devices, reducing maintenance time, and ensuring reliable repairs.

The Qianli iPinch IC Chip Motherboard Fixture securely holds various motherboards during repairs. Made from durable aluminum alloy, this fixture provides stability and ease of use, making it perfect for intricate repairs.

Its innovative design allows for quick installation and removal, making it portable and convenient. The fixture enhances the efficiency of intricate repairs by providing a stable work surface, ultimately improving the quality of the refurbishment process.

The T36 Nano Soldering Station features a rapid heating system and magnetic induction sleep feature, allowing for quick temperature adjustments and enhanced safety. Its precision control is ideal for delicate soldering tasks, minimizing the risk of damage to sensitive components. The soldering station's efficiency and accuracy contribute to high-quality repairs, ensuring that refurbished devices meet stringent performance standards.
Unlike many “refurbishers” who simply wipe phones and resell them, we operate an in-house repair and refurbishment facility equipped with:
Our team is trained to follow SOPs based on ISO 9001:2015, ensuring quality, repeatability, and traceability in every step of the process.
We test and refurbish over 1,000+ devices every month and back them with warranties and compliance under Australian Consumer Law.
The consistency of our refurbishment process keeps customers coming back - here's what repeat buyers say:
My family has purchased numerous devices (6 phones, 2 iPads) from Phonebot over the years. The condition of the used/refurbished items has always been a pleasant surprise.
Phonebot Customer review - productreview.com.au
With so many options available in the refurbished market, you may wonder why Phonebot stands out among the competition. Here are a few compelling reasons to choose our refurbished devices.
Refurbished mobile phones from Phonebot are typically available at significantly lower prices than their brand-new counterparts. This cost-effectiveness allows you to access high-quality smartphones without breaking the bank.
Choosing refurbished helps reduce electronic waste and conserves resources. Our refurbishment process minimizes environmental impact by extending the lifecycle of devices and reducing the need for new materials, making it an eco-friendly choice.
We offer a robust warranty policy, including a 30-day battery replacement guarantee for older models and a 12-month warranty for "Grade A" and "Like New" devices.
Phonebot's commitment to quality and reliability means you can purchase with confidence. All refurbished phones are meticulously checked, reassembled, and polished to ensure they perform like new, backed by our 1-3 day processing time for refunds and replacements.
At Phonebot, we believe that convenience should go hand in hand with quality. That's why we provide free delivery on all orders, ensuring you receive your refurbished device without any extra shipping costs. Our efficient delivery process guarantees that your new gadget arrives promptly and securely at your doorstep.
When you opt for refurbished devices at Phonebot, you enjoy not only significant savings but also peace of mind with our customer-centric returns policy. If you change your mind, you can return the product within 7 days of receipt, with certain exclusions. We prioritize getting you the right product and will process refunds or replacements within 1-3 working days, subject to product availability.
At Phonebot, refurbishment isn’t a buzzword, it’s a meticulously engineered process backed by advanced tools, certified workflows, and years of technical expertise. From our 72-point inspection to precision repairs with industry-grade machines like JCID programmers and LCD separators, every step is designed to restore devices to like-new performance and appearance.
We don’t just fix phones, we recondition them to meet exacting quality, reliability, and aesthetic standards. With in-house technicians trained on SOPs aligned with ISO 9001:2015 and tools certified for diagnostics and data handling, our facility stands among Australia’s most advanced refurb labs.
Whether it’s a refurbished iPhone, Samsung, or Google Pixel, you're not just buying a used phone, you're getting a thoroughly tested, expertly repaired device backed by warranty, free delivery, and compliance with Australian Consumer Law.
In short, we don’t cut corners. We rebuild tech for real life.

Mother's Day is just around the corner (Sunday, May 11, 2025), and finding those perfect Mother's Day presents for the amazing woman who does it all can feel overwhelming. Whether you're shopping for your own mum, a grandmother, wife, or any special mother figure in your life, the best presents are ones she'll genuinely use and enjoy every day.
At Phonebot, we've curated this comprehensive Mother's Day gift guide featuring incredible Mother's Day sales on tech presents that show your appreciation in a meaningful way. From the latest iPhone deals to smart watches, tablets, and more, we've got thoughtful present ideas for every type of mum and every budget.

A new smartphone is the ultimate practical present that she'll use multiple times every day:
Our quality-tested refurbished iPhones, Samsung, and Google devices offer flagship features at much more accessible price points, making them thoughtful presents that are kind to your wallet, too.

Help her stay connected and healthy with a smart watch that complements her lifestyle:

An iPad or tablet makes for a versatile present that serves multiple purposes:

For bigger upgrades, consider these substantial gifts that can transform her digital experience, including our premium refurbished laptops that deliver like-new performance at exceptional value:
Give mum the gift of premium sound and convenience:
These presents will help streamline her hectic schedule:
Help her document all those precious family moments:
Support her active lifestyle with these health-oriented gifts:
Tech gifts that enhance her well-deserved downtime:
Make your Mother's Day gift even more special with these thoughtfully curated tech bundles:
An iPhone 16, Apple Watch, and AirPods Pro—the complete ecosystem to keep Mum connected to what matters most.
A smartphone with an excellent camera, a portable photo printer, and a digital frame to capture and display family moments.
Noise-cancelling headphones, an e-reader, and a subscription to her favorite streaming service for the perfect relaxation package.
A new smartphone plus accessories like a case, screen protector, wireless charger, and PopSocket for the complete experience.
Not sure which gift idea will resonate best with Mum? Consider these factors:
When selecting a Mother's Day gift from Phonebot, you're getting:
This year, skip the generic flowers and chocolates (though they make great companions to tech gifts!) and give mum something that shows genuine thought and consideration. A carefully selected tech gift demonstrates that you've considered her needs, interests, and daily life.
Remember, Mother's Day falls on Sunday, May 11, 2025, so don't leave your shopping to the last minute. Order now to ensure your present arrives in time to make her day truly special.
Browse our complete Mother's Day gift collection today and find the perfect way to say thank you to the incredible woman who deserves nothing but the best.
