FAQ
TL;DR: Under PLN 350, expect used/refurb options; one BB10 user reports "you have to learn gestures" and gets up to 4 days battery. Prioritize smooth performance, basic camera, and safe buying with protection programs. [Elektroda, E8600, post #16708146]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps bargain hunters compare P8 Lite alternatives and durable phones with decent cameras—without getting burned.
Quick Facts
- Budget ceiling: Approx. PLN 350 for the handset, per the original request. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16705755]
- Huawei P8 Lite was the leading shortlist pick; China shipping was being discounted then. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16705755]
- Refurbished BlackBerry Z10/Z30 listings often carry a 30‑day service warranty. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16707282]
- BlackBerry Z30 was noted as durable for physical work and frequent drops. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16707829]
- Final outcome: user bought Xiaomi Redmi 4A 16 GB and reported satisfaction after <2 months. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #17194547]
Is Huawei P8 Lite the best Android under PLN 350?
It’s a common shortlist choice at this price, especially when buyers want Android, a usable camera, and smooth basics. If you pick it, verify condition, IMEI, and any remaining warranty. Avoid listings that look like “regenerated” stock sold as new. Prioritize seller reputation and a return window. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16705755]
New or used—whats realistic for PLN 350?
Expect used or refurbished. Community consensus here was blunt: from new stock at PLN 350, quality will be limited. Used devices with verifiable history and warranty outperform brand‑new, ultra‑budget picks at this level. “Good from new ones” at this price was called unrealistic. [Elektroda, qs300, post #16705941]
What are solid alternatives to the P8 Lite in this range?
Consider Lenovo C2 for basic Android duties. It was suggested as a workable budget pick if you want a straightforward device. Confirm battery health and screen integrity, since replacements can erase any initial savings. Load only essential apps to keep it responsive. [Elektroda, tino2003, post #16706812]
Is Xiaomi Redmi 4A a safe choice under PLN 350?
Yes, one buyer here ended up with a Redmi 4A 16 GB and reported satisfaction after less than two months. Ensure you get a clean software build and verify the IMEI before first boot. Keep storage usage lean to maintain smooth operation. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #17194547]
Why did my Xperia Z1 Compact have awful camera and Wi‑Fi drops?
Likely a refurbished unit sold as “new.” A respondent flagged such Z1 Compact issues as typical of “junk after regeneration.” Refurb processes can mask water damage or poor module swaps, causing camera noise and unstable radios. Return or claim protection if symptoms match. [Elektroda, tino2003, post #16706812]
Will Windows 10 Mobile run smoothly at this budget?
If you can accept Windows 10 Mobile, reported performance was very smooth on Lumia 640 XL. One user said, “Zero hang… no shortage of memory.” App selection is limited, but core calling, texting, email, and photos work reliably. [Elektroda, qs300, post #16706725]
What is BlackBerry 10 (BB10), and can it run Android apps?
BB10 is BlackBerry’s OS with gesture navigation and a productivity focus. It includes an Android 4.2 runtime, so some Android apps can run after adding the store, but compatibility varies. “You have to learn gestures,” yet many users adapt quickly. [Elektroda, E8600, post #16708146]
How durable is the BlackBerry Z30 for field work?
The Z30 was praised by a user who works physically; it handled frequent drops well. If durability matters more than app breadth, it’s a pragmatic pick. Add a grippy case and tempered glass to cut repair risks further. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16707829]
How good is the BlackBerry Z30s camera?
Expect “correct” photos rather than flagship results. A user contrasted it as not top‑flight but acceptable for everyday shots. Keep HDR off in low light to reduce blur, and tap‑to‑focus for sharper frames. [Elektroda, E8600, post #16707398]
What warranty is typical for refurbished Z10/Z30 units?
Listings frequently include a 30‑day service warranty. Treat that as minimal coverage and test everything in week one: cameras, Wi‑Fi, LTE, GPS, speaker, and battery endurance. Document defects immediately for returns. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16707282]
Should I buy from China sellers to hit this price?
Proceed with caution. The OP reported getting burned and now avoids such listings. If you do risk it, insist on buyer protection and local return options. Factor long shipping and potential customs into total cost. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #16707282]
How do I avoid getting a bad refurb? (3‑step checklist)
- Buy with platform protection; one refund took over 8 months, so document everything.
- Inspect on arrival: run camera, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and a battery drain test in 72 hours.
- Check IMEI/serial against box and invoice; reject mismatches immediately. [Elektroda, Raiz3n, post #17194547]
Can I add Google Play for navigation on BB10?
Yes, users report installing the Google store and running some Android navigation apps on BB10’s Android 4.2 runtime. Compatibility is hit‑or‑miss, so test your preferred app early and keep an offline map fallback. [Elektroda, E8600, post #16708146]
What does “after regeneration” mean in listings?
It usually means refurbished: parts swapped, software reflashed, and cosmetic fixes applied. One expert comment warned such units can behave poorly if corners were cut. Avoid “like new” claims without service paperwork. [Elektroda, tino2003, post #16706812]
Is Windows 10 Mobile less restricted than older Windows Phone versions?
Yes. A participant noted Windows 10 Mobile removed several limitations present in older versions. If you disliked Windows Phone 8.1, try 10 Mobile before deciding; basics and settings are more flexible. [Elektroda, qs300, post #16707290]
If camera quality matters most at PLN 350, what should I expect?
Aim for “usable” rather than “great.” The thread’s Android picks target smooth use and durability, while BB10 users accept “correct” images. For better low light, reserve budget for a case and buy a device in top condition. [Elektroda, E8600, post #16707398]