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.
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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2 Comments
I've had this phone since March, 2015
Purchased at Metro PCS for $99.00 plus tax.
Also upgraded to the promo Unlimited 4G LTE Data plan for $50.00 a month (Promo is no longer offered, although it is now $60.00)
I can say without a doubt that the ZMax is by far the best bang for the buck smart phone on the market.
$99.00?
Metro is now using the TMobile network and I'm getting 4G LTE speeds (Band 12 is supported) of 30-50MBPS, depending on location.
5.75" screen.
1.25 GHz Quad Core CPU,
2GB RAM,
16GB ROM (11.65GB user-available), provision for
a 32 GB SD Card although a 64GB card is supported, 8MP rear cam, 2MP
front cam, 3,400 mAh battery that lasts for days, 1080p recording, KK
4.4.4, Unlimited 4G LTE Data at $50 a month off-contract, 258
PPI pixel density, Root available, Gorilla Glass 3, etc...
You simply cannot buy a better phone at this price.
Even at the $250 price that some seller's are offering this phone for, reviews are saying it's a bargain at that price, so imagine the bang for the buck at $99.00
surprised more people don't know about this phone and how the Android web sites seem oblivious to this incredible bargain.
As for ZTE, they sell more phones in China than the iPhone.
A phone to watch is the Xiaomi which is the top selling phone in China and offers great specs at a low-cost.
Keep an eye out for the various Xiaomi models unless Apple blocks their importation as they will be an iPhone killer.
Zmax has root, twrp custom recovery, and development is in full swing!! There are 2 great Lollipop 5.1 custom ROMs (CM12.1 and PAC 5.1) you can flash and no doubt plenty more on the way. This is one great phone at one great price!!
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