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CES 2015: The ZTE ZMAX May Be the Best Android Phone You Can Get for Under $200

Smartphone displaying a colorful sunset wallpaper and the Google search bar.

Sometimes specs aren't everything, especially if you prefer value over the bleeding-edge. Enter the ZTE ZMAX, an Android phone that you can get right now for less than $200—cheaper than even the Nexus 5 or OnePlus One. If you're looking for a cheap high-end phone, it's hard to go wrong with one that sports a 5.7-inch display, expandable storage, and a massive 3400mAh battery that'll easily get you through a full day of use.

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Now, of course, there will be some drawbacks. The device is currently stuck on Android 4.4 KitKat, and while the representative we spoke with hoped that an eventual update to 5.0 Lollipop would make its way to the device, he wasn't able to offer up any specifics in that regard.

And while the device uses a quad-core Snapdragon processor, it isn't the latest and greatest. But, the device does have LTE connectivity, an 8-megapixel rear shooter, and 1080p HD video recording capabilities. To make a long story short, if you're working with a budget, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better device.

You can grab the device from Amazon, or straight from Metro PCS for $249 (currently $149 with a mail-in rebate). It's also available at T-Mobile for $252 (currently $202 with promo code ZMAXPROMO). However, I was told by a representative that the device is currently on sale for $199, so call or visit your local T-Mobile location for details. Walmart is also selling the ZMAX, which is on sale right now for $179.

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