
There's no denying that the flagship phones of leading brands are unbeatable in performance. But are they affordable for those with a shoestring budget? I reckon not! But don't fret. There is a myriad of smartphones with similar specifications at a lower price.
So, whether you are looking for a cheap android phone or on a hunt for the best medium price smartphone, you have arrived at your destination.
Phonebot's team has dug into the market for some of the best mid-range smartphones and listed 7 devices that we deem are best for you.
Now you do not need to spend a fortune on a smartphone because this guide has all those phones that are not only light on your pocket but are good in performance as well.
So without further ado, jump right in and find the best medium price smartphone according to your needs and preferences.
OPPO AX7 is known for its elegant build quality and long-lasting battery. This OPPO product from 2018 sports a waterdrop screen, round edges, and curved sheet with grating patterns. The result is a premium-looking body making it stand out amongst high-quality smartphones in terms of looks.
Another sick feature is the 4230mAh battery. Charge it once, and it will accompany you till the end of the day. Not to mention, smart battery usage management acts as the cherry on top.
When it comes to multitasking, games or playing videos, the Qualcomm Octa-core CPU has your back. Everything just runs seamlessly. The cameras include a 16MP front cam and dual cameras (13MP+2MP) at the back. So neat selfies, portraits and smooth videos are no longer a problem. And all this under an affordable budget. Great! Isn't it?
The hype of the edge-screened Samsung smartphones is still fresh in our minds. If you couldn't get your hands on one of them back then, now is your chance. Galaxy S6 edge now comes under medium-range smartphones and is available at our store.
The Galaxy S6 edge comes with impressive charging speed. That's how they make up for fast battery drainage due to the high-resolution display. Moreover, the 16MP main camera and 5MP front camera can compete with the giants of the market.
Other specifications are also impressive. Especially when compared to the phones launched around the same time, namely iPhone 6. The phone has a 1.5 GHz Octa-Core processor and 4GB RAM. Body wise the phone gives off an expensive feel.
The body contains no plastic at all. Also worth mentioning, this phone won the smartphone of the year award at the T3 awards. So keep this monster in mind when looking for the best medium price smartphone.
The Galaxy Note has been a successful series for Samsung. Although Samsung discontinued the series in 2021, the phones are still in style. How about owning a phone from such a popular series? That too at a medium price. The Galaxy Note 8 found its place in this list due to its low price and advanced features.
The Galaxy Note 8 flaunts a 6.3 inches huge screen. You may wonder what's the need for a huge display. Well, the huge display lets you work on 2 apps side by side. That's quite a big breakthrough. Additionally, the super AMOLED display gives you an extraordinary experience while playing games and watching videos.
The Galaxy Note 8 has an 8MP front cam. The main is a dual cam with 12MP each which means that you can also capture high-resolution images and videos with this phone. Moreover, the phone has a whopping 6 GB RAM that adds to its performance and 64 GB base storage. The secondary storage support is up to 256 GB. The best medium price smartphone cannot get any better than this!
Released in 2016, the iPhone 7's design is pretty much similar to the iPhone 6s. But there are a few improvements and new features. The advancements include a more powerful A10 CPU. The apps and games that used to load fast before now load even faster.
Cheap iPhone 7 fights water and dust with increased efficiency now. But the best thing about this smartphone is that it now comes under affordable smartphones with a starting price of $279 AUD.
As for the cameras, the secondhand iPhone 7 features a 12 MP main camera that also allows for 4K video recording. The selfie camera is 7MP that creates detailed images. So if iPhone is what you have wanted to see under the best medium price smartphone category, you are in luck.
When we talk about minimalistic design and a good user experience, Google has done a tremendous job devising Pixel 3a XL.
Though Pixel 3a XL comes with a single back camera module, the camera quality has been a major selling point of this smartphone. This phone allows you to capture and process high-quality images with little to no noise in the background. The front camera of this best medium price smartphone is 8MP, and the rear one is 12.2MP.
It weighs 167 grams, and its polycarbonate unibody sits nicely in the hands. Moreover, it rocks a 6-inch OLED panel along with an HD+ resolution that takes the viewing experience up a notch.
All in all, Pixel 3a XL does complete justice with its price by providing almost all the features that a user requires for day-to-day life.
If you are looking for as powerful a device as iPhone X but do not want to spend pretty pennies, iPhone 8 should be your pick.
It rocks a super-responsive physical touch ID on the front lower bezel and a 7MP front camera on the upper bezel. Its primary camera is 12MP, providing better colour saturation and lower noise in photos than its contemporaries.
Although Apple did not reinvent the wheel with the cheap iPhone 8, it's still in the fashion for its sleek build quality and ease of use.
Launched in 2020, iPhone 12 is still pretty much in the news for its power-packed features, commendable performance, and solid battery life.
With second hand iPhone 12, Apple improved the durability of their product and added new ceramic shield material. Moreover, the overall design of this phone is reasonably compact, and the device fits just right in hand. It has a super retina XDR display of 5.4 inches with sharp corners.
Furthermore, cheap iPhone 12 has a built-in Apple A14 bionic chip, which beats almost all the flagship devices in performance.
When it comes to iPhone 12 price, might not be the best medium price smartphone on this list. But you can get your hands on this powerful and relatively new smartphone if you raise your budget a little.
Finding a good quality smartphone that can not only serve your information needs but can also provide cool features is hard to find, especially when you do not have a big budget.
But with PhoneBot, finding the best medium price smartphone is no longer a headache. We have a vast collection of refurbished cheap smartphones in Australia from all the leading brands.
So if you have selected the best medium price smartphone for yourself from our list, what are you waiting for? Make your buying decision now!
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.
