Hi, new here. I have to replace my beloved 2-year-old Note 3 that was water-damaged, and this is my first upgrade paying full price (ouch). I need to get an unlocked phone that will work on Verizon, and would prefer to stay under $300. I've been completely out of the loop, but it seems like there will be more options in that price range in the nearish future. So I'm debating between these two choices:
1. Go as cheap as possible and look for a new midrange phone in the next 6 months or so. (Looking at a manufacturer-refurbished Galaxy S3.)
2. Stretch budget a little past my preferred limit for a new Note 4 (from eBay, reputable seller).
Considerations: I rely on the phone heavily (in place of a computer, camera and GPS) but don't do anything fancy with it. Reliability is important, good camera, prefer removable battery and definitely expandable memory.
The Note 4 is tempting, but eBay/lack of warranty makes me nervous (no support after 30 days -- scary because Note 3 started randomly shutting off and needed replacing after a year). And I would not be buying a SquareTrade warranty due to high cost+deductible. If I went with #1, I'd be hoping to get the replacement from a store that offers a warranty.
1. Go as cheap as possible and look for a new midrange phone in the next 6 months or so. (Looking at a manufacturer-refurbished Galaxy S3.)
2. Stretch budget a little past my preferred limit for a new Note 4 (from eBay, reputable seller).
Considerations: I rely on the phone heavily (in place of a computer, camera and GPS) but don't do anything fancy with it. Reliability is important, good camera, prefer removable battery and definitely expandable memory.
The Note 4 is tempting, but eBay/lack of warranty makes me nervous (no support after 30 days -- scary because Note 3 started randomly shutting off and needed replacing after a year). And I would not be buying a SquareTrade warranty due to high cost+deductible. If I went with #1, I'd be hoping to get the replacement from a store that offers a warranty.
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