Need helping choosing a mid range smartphone

[Calriss]

I've been trying to decide on a phone now for a few weeks and I'm seeking some advice. I'm on T-mobile and my budget is around $350. Here's what I'm looking for:

-Supports T-mobiles band 12 as I will be using the phone indoors alot; and since I'm paying for it I would like to use it.
-5' + screen as I watch a lot of videos/streams and this device is replacing my small tablet as well. (I prefer Amoled displays but its not 100% necessary)
-MicroSD expansion.
-Battery life! I would really love for it to be removable as well.
-I would prefer to buy the product new.
-A decent camera

Extra bells and whistles: NFC, finger print scanners, and ir blasters and the like are all neat but not really playing into my choice.

 

[KOLIO]

@Calriss
WELCOME TO ANDROID FORUMS !
The LG G4 | LG G-Stylo come to mind & if you don't mind a refurb,the V10 is the one I'd recommend,to stay within/close to your budget:
https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phones.android.lg.removable-memory.html

 

[Calriss]

I should mention that I'm looking to buy the phone unlocked and not on contract.

 

[KOLIO]

I should mention that I'm looking to buy the phone unlocked and not on contract.

You can unlock these,especially if you're buying off-contract..........

https://www.t-mobile.com/company/co...olicy/unlock-your-mobile-wireless-device.html

If you're looking for carrier bloat-free phones,the world's your oyster,Google & the following site is your friend,check for network compatibility:
http://willmyphonework.net/

 

[KOLIO]

@Calriss
Given the list of what you'd like for T-Mobile,just the price point/new/I-R Blaster/Band 12 alone narrow the field to pretty much what I listed previously.
AT&T phones are T-Mobile friendly as well,but,if you're into modding (root/ROMS),that's a no-go.
Using http://willmyphonework.net/ will hasten your search,as you may find international versions of the models listed that support Band 12.
Good luck in your search & again,WELCOME TO ANDROID FORUMS !

 

[Calriss]

The V10 looks nice but I'm concerned with the battery life. If I had to give up band 12 (I'm currently using a lg g3 that ill be returning due to defects and it doesnt have it) the galaxy s5 seems like a decent choice.