Best T-Mobile prepaid Android phones
If you’re exploring prepaid carrier options in the United States, odds are you’ve gotten a bit overwhelmed. While it’s not solely a prepaid carrier, T-Mobile offers great network coverage and low price points for anyone who would like an off-contract smartphone. Even though the options offered directly by T-Mobile for prepaid use are a bit limited, the good news is that there are quite a few unlocked devices that will work with T-Mobile’s prepaid plans, which will discuss at the end of this post.
Without any further ado, here are the best prepaid T-Mobile Android phones.
See also: The best prepaid and no contract plans in the US (Updated November 2015)
#1 – Samsung Galaxy Grand Prime
Although this may not be the most spec’d-out device on the market, we’d say Samsung’s Galaxy Grand Prime is one heck of a device for the money. It features a nicely-sized 5.0-inch display on the front, a capable Snapdragon 410 processor, 1GB of RAM and microSD expansion for up to 64 extra gigabytes of storage. The display might not be of the highest resolution, but if you can get past that, this is a good option.
If you’re on a budget, this phone is for you. You can purchase the Samsung Galaxy Grand Prime through T-Mobile prepaid for just $189.99.
Specs
- 5.0-inch TFT LCD display with 540 x 960 resolution
- Quad-core 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor
- 1GB of RAM
- 8GB of on-board storage, microSD expansion up to 64GB
- 8MP rear camera, 5MP front camera
- Removable 2600mAh battery
- 144.8 x 72.1 x 8.6mm, 156g
- Android 5.1 Lollipop
Read more
#2 – HTC Desire 626s
Looking for another solid prepaid option that won’t break the bank? HTC’s Desire 626s might be just what you’re looking for. With its 5.0-inch 720p display, quad-core processor and 1.5GB of RAM, you’ll have no problem playing games, watching videos and consuming all other forms of media out there. It also has a pretty solid 8MP rear camera and microSD expansion up to a massive 2 terabytes, making this one heck of a device for the photography folks out there. It might not have the most powerful processor or the biggest battery, but it’s still a great value for what you’re paying.
The HTC Desire 626s is available on T-Mobile’s prepaid network for just $209.99.
Specs
- 5.0-inch LCD display with 720 x 1280 resolution
- Quad-core 1.1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 processor
- 1.5GB of RAM
- 8GB of on-board storage, microSD card expansion up to 2TB
- 8MP rear camera, 2MP front camera
- Non-removable 2000mAh battery
- 146.9 x 70.9 x 8.19mm, 140g
- Android 5.1 Lollipop
Read more
- HTC announces super affordable Desire 626, 626s, 526 and 520
- Samsung Galaxy Grand Prime, Core Prime, HTC Desire 626s and more now available from T-Mobile
- LG Stylo and HTC Desire 626s now available through Cricket
#3 – Kyocera Hydro WAVE
Looking to get your hands on a similarly-rugged phone to the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active but aren’t keen on spending $700? You should check out the Kyocera Hydro WAVE. This device features a 5.0-inch LCD display, a powerful Snapdragon 410 processor and microSD expansion up to an additional 32GB. It also runs Android 5.1 Lollipop and ushers in Kyocera’s new “Core Home” software experience, which is an optional, simplified UI for those who prefer the interface of a feature phone.
The big story here is the device’s IPX5 and IPX7 certifications, which allow the device to withstand submersion in water up to 30 minutes at a time in up to 3.28 feet (1 meter). It also has Military Standard 810G certification for shock and drops, an IP5X dustproof rating, and can be operated when wet.
The Kyocera Hydro WAVE is available on T-Mobile’s prepaid network for only $189.99.
Specs
- 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with 540 x 960 resolution
- Quad-core 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor
- 1GB of RAM
- 8GB of on-board storage, microSD expansion up to 32GB
- 5MP rear camera, 2MP front camera
- Non-removable 2300mAh battery
- 143.8 x 72.4 x 10.7mm, 145g
- Android 5.1 Lollipop
Read more
#4 – LG Leon LTE
The LG Leon LTE is the most inexpensive device on this list. It comes with a 4.5-inch LCD display, a powerful 1.2GHz Snapdragon 410 processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of on-board storage and microSD expansion up to 32GB. It also comes with a solid 5MP rear camera, a removable 1900mAh battery and Android 5.0 Lollipop on-board. It features a really nice brushed metallic design back plate similar to the one found on the LG G3, which makes the device feel quite premium in the hand.
The LTE variant of the LG Leon is available on T-Mobile’s prepaid network for only $69.99.
Specs
- 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with 480 x 854 resolution
- Quad-core 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor
- 1GB of RAM
- 8GB of on-board storage, microSD expansion up to 32GB
- 5MP rear camera, VGA front camera
- Removable 1900mAh battery
- 129.9 x 64.9 x 10.9mm, 140g
- Android 5.0.1 Lollipop
Read more
Other notable options
Yes, we only listed four phones. The reason for this is that most of T-Mobile’s prepaid options are either really low-end, or they are non-Android. Still, T-Mobile offers some extremely impressive plan rates, and so the Un-carrier remains one of the best options out there for those looking for an off-contract, no-credit-check option.
If you aren’t impressed by any of the phones listed above, the good news is that a number of unlocked GSM-compatible phones will work on T-Mobile’s network. You’ll just want to make sure the phone supports T-Mobile’s bands, which include 1700MHz and 2100MHZ bands for 3G and HSPA+ services. For more details on bringing an existing phone to T-Mobile, you’ll want to check out their network coverage support page.
Looking for a good unlocked phone to bring over to T-Mobile? Some of the best budget-friendly choices include the following:
Motorola Moto G (2015)
Motorola’s Moto G line has been widely known as the “king of the budget smartphones” for some time, and that’s entirely true when it comes to the third-generation Moto G. Just released a few months ago, this new Moto G comes with a solid 720p display, a quick Snapdragon 410 processor, a decent camera, solid battery life and an IPx7 water resistance rating. Oh, and if you don’t like the standard Black/White color schemes, you can even customize the phone through Moto Maker.
If you could purchase this phone directly through T-Mobile, it would be at the top of our list. For more info, check out our full review linked below.
See also: Motorola Moto G 2015 review
Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3
With an attractive, slim design, big 1080p display, a solid camera and an extremely low price point, the Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 is one of the best budget-friendly phones of the year. In our full review we found that just about every aspect of this device over-achieves in some way. The front-facing speakers are loud, the software is lean and fast, and you can even use the phone upside down if you really need to (yes, really)!
Don’t miss our full review to learn more about this powerhouse of a phone.
See also: Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 Review: one of the best budget phones of the year
ASUS ZenFone 2
The ASUS ZenFone 2 made headlines when it first launched due to its massive 4GB of RAM (previously unheard of on a budget phone), and we can honestly say that it’s lived up to all of its expectations. The ZenFone 2 sports a solid, attractive build quality, a vivid 1080p display, fantastic performance and a low price. ASUS decided to throw in a few really nice enhancements – quick charging technology and a customizable user interface – that make this device stand out from the crowd.
We’re still pretty baffled at how ASUS is able to charge just just over $200 for this phone. If you’re interested, don’t miss our full review, attached below.
See also: Asus Zenfone 2 review
How did you like our list? Do you have any other suggestions? If so, feel free to voice your opinion in the comments below!
HTC’s Black Friday sale includes an Apple iPhone for One A9 trade-in
With the holiday season quickly approaching, manufacturers and retailers around the world have begun posting Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.
For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, HTC will be hosting a plethora of deals on its latest tech gadgets. Between November 26 and December 2, consumers can trade in a fully functional Apple iPhone for a brand new HTC One A9, the company’s latest release. If you trade-in the latest iPhone, nobody will even notice you got a phone! Consumers can also trade in a Samsung Galaxy S6 smartphone during the same period for a $200 value. The company is also accepting LG G4 and G3 trade-ins for a $100 rebate.
HTC has also put many of its devices on sale. Starting November 30, the One M9 will get a 40% price cut and the Nexus 9 will also be slashed 40% of its original price. Buyers of a Nexus 9 32GB will also have the chance to win a totally free Logitech keyboard. Additionally, all accessories will go on sale for the same 40% difference. But perhaps the biggest deal is on the company’s RE action camera, which will be 60% off during the period. And if you’re one of the first 900 buyers, the deal is even sweeter. HTC has agreed to ship the first 900 buyers a bonus RE Protection Pack free of charge.
HTC is in desperation to get back on track after a poor year, and why not start this holiday season. This Black Friday and Cyber Monday will be a great time to invest in the HTC family of products. Now’s the time to save!
Source: HTC Source
Come comment on this article: HTC’s Black Friday sale includes an Apple iPhone for One A9 trade-in
Here’s how ISIS tries to keep its online activity a secret
It’s no longer surprising that ISIS uses Telegram’s secure messaging to conduct its terror campaigns, but what other tools does it use to keep its online actions under wraps? Thanks to researchers at the West Point military academy, we now have a good idea. They’ve obtained an ISIS operational security guide that shows the outfit’s recommended internet services and software, as well as the policies they’re supposed to follow. The extremists are advised to use Tor’s anonymity network for browsing, Tails as their operating system and messaging services like Telegram, FireChat or iMessage. They’re asked to rely on secure phones like the BlackPhone if they can. They’re supposed to avoid both anything that gives away their location (for obvious reasons) as well as Dropbox, whose company-managed encryption theoretically lets governments demand access to cloud storage.
Source: Wired
AT&T adds support for Advanced Messaging and Video Calling
As of November 20th, AT&T added support for Advanced Messaging and Video Calling.
Subscribers of AT&T’s wireless service will now have access to Advanced Messaging and Video Calling. Although this is not a first for U.S. carriers, it’s a feature AT&T has lacked for quite some time.
With the addition of Advanced Messaging, users will be notified when messages are delivered and read by the receiver. You’ll also see when someone is typing a reply to the conversation. Users can also send larger files of up to 10MB in size, a much-needed improvement. Video Calling will provide users with the option to Video Call in HD. This will work as long as the person making the call is inside the HD calling zone.
The features have already begun pushing to compatible devices. For more information, check out the source link down below.
Source: AT&T
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Microsoft launches AppComparison tool for Android
AppComparison is an all-new tool available on the Google Play Store just in case you want to switch from Android to Windows Phone.
AppComparison gives you an idea of the apps you have installed on your Android device that are also available for Windows Phone. The app also gives suggestions based on your likings and introduces some popular apps for Windows Phone. Users can start off by taking a survey on the categories that interest you. It’ll then pull up a list of recommended apps and matches. From there, you can investigate the cost and read the ratings if you so choose. A nice and useful tool if you’re thinking about transitioning over to Windows Phone.
Come comment on this article: Microsoft launches AppComparison tool for Android
Samsung’s newest Gear VR headset is now available for purchase in the U.S
Samsung’s newly announced Gear VR headset is now available to purchase in the United States for $99 with free shipping.
The new Gear VR was created in collaboration with Oculus and is the first virtual reality headset from the company that can be purchased by anyone. The headset uses your Samsung smartphone to create the immersive experience using your phone’s microUSB port as the connection. Once connected you’ll be able to watch sporting events, games and view content in 360 degrees. Currently, the headset is compatible with the Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, Galaxy S6 Edge+ and Galaxy Note 5. However, for some models it will require a carrier update. The product is listed to ship in 7-10 business days. Anyone buying one?
Source: Samsung
Come comment on this article: Samsung’s newest Gear VR headset is now available for purchase in the U.S
Ben Heck’s Hot Pocket-lypse Now
With the release of Fallout 4 you need sustenance when wandering the wastelands. Ben mods the game controller mounted Hot Pockets dispenser build with motors and 3D Printing. Survive the Hot Pocketlypse and visit the element14 community for the project’s build files, past episodes of the show and to talk with The Ben Heck Show team.
Costco is giving away a $250 store credit with the purchase of select T-Mobile branded Galaxy smartphones
If you’re thinking about buying a T-Mobile branded Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, Galaxy S6 Edge+ or Galaxy Note 5, you may want to consider this promotion.
From now through November 30th, customers can claim a $250 gift card to Costco with the purchase of one of the Galaxy flagships listed above. The only requirements that we know of are that the device must be paid in full-retail price, or using installment plans, and must be purchased from one of Costco’s retail stores. Users may also have to sign-up with T-Mobile’s Simple Choice, although the details listed are a bit unclear. We recommend visiting a Costco store in person to make sure of the conditions that apply. If the deal stands true, it’ll be a nice deal heading into the holiday season.
Via: Slickdeals
Come comment on this article: Costco is giving away a $250 store credit with the purchase of select T-Mobile branded Galaxy smartphones
Save $15-$25 on purchases this weekend only through our store
Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Well, this weekend is as good as anytime to get going! For the next two days you’ll want to check out some of the prices we’re running through the AndroidGuys Deals store. Powered by our friends at Stack Social, our portal has a little something for everyone, and prices to fit all budgets.
But, as if the store wasn’t cool enough on any day of the week, we’re giving you a chance to save even more this weekend. Indeed, we have three coupon codes you can use to save $15-$25 on your purchase.
When checking out of the store this weekend, use one of the following codes and we’ll knock off some of the cost.
- SAVE15: $15 OFF OF $55 OR MORE
- SAVE20: $20 OFF OF $100 OR MORE
- SAVE25: $25 OFF OF $150 OR MORE
Looking for something to help jumpstart the shopping cart? Here’s a few of the best-sellers from the last few weeks!
‘ExoMount Touch’ Universal Car Mount- Grain Audio PWS Bluetooth Speaker
- Monster Digital 128GB Solid-State Portable Hard Drive
The post Save $15-$25 on purchases this weekend only through our store appeared first on AndroidGuys.
C is for Cloud? Google consolidating services, brings former VMWare exec on board
Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced this week that the company is bringing VMWare co-founder and former CEO Diane Greene on board in a more active role to head up a new team focused on cloud businesses. Greene is already connected to Google as a member of the Board of Directors, but she will be moving into a more active and integral role with these changes.
Pichai says the new unit will combine Google for Work, Cloud Platform, and Google Apps. The idea is to bring product, engineering, marketing and sales expertise together to achieve better coordination for Google’s cloud offerings, especially those aimed at businesses.
Pichai and Google have identified cloud-based opportunities for future Google growth noting that only a fraction of business applications are in the cloud. Google already has a nice footprint in the market. Their Google for Work product is used by over 60% of Fortune 500 companies and Google has massive data center capacity. Google also has a variety of applications like Gmail, Docs and Chromebooks that can help a business transform to being more cloud-based.
As part of the move to expand Greene’s roll with Google in this new unit, Google is also acquiring a company founded by Greene called bebop, which provides a development platform for building and maintaining enterprise applications.
source: Google
Come comment on this article: C is for Cloud? Google consolidating services, brings former VMWare exec on board
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