Best Android Phones Under $800 in Australia (2025 Buyer’s Guide)
CompareMates Editorial Team 
Finding the best Android phones under $800 Australia doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Whether you’re after flagship-level cameras, all-day battery life, or simply the best value Android phone Australia has to offer, buying outright gives you freedom from contracts and access to excellent mid-range devices that punch well above their weight.
In 2025, budget Android phones Australia offers have never been more competitive. From Samsung’s reliable Galaxy A-series to Google’s camera-focused Pixels and emerging brands like Nothing, there’s a perfect device for every need and budget. This guide breaks down the top picks available right now, helping you make an informed decision when buying your next smartphone outright.
Table of Contents
Best Android Phones Under $800 Australia
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G – Best Overall Value
The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G represents exceptional all-round value for Australian buyers seeking premium features without the flagship price tag. Its stunning 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display delivers vibrant colours and smooth scrolling, while the Snapdragon 778G processor handles daily tasks, gaming, and multitasking with ease.
Camera performance is impressive for the price point, featuring a versatile quad-camera setup including a 108MP main sensor that captures detailed photos in various lighting conditions. The 5,000mAh battery easily powers through a full day of heavy use, and Samsung’s One UI provides a feature-rich Android experience with guaranteed software updates.
At around $799, it sits at the top of this budget range but justifies the investment with build quality, performance, and brand reliability that Australian consumers trust.
Google Pixel 8a 5G – Best for Camera & Software Support
Google’s Pixel 8a 5G delivers the best camera experience among Android phones under $800, leveraging Google’s computational photography magic to produce stunning images that rival phones twice its price. The clean Android interface, free from bloatware, provides a smooth and intuitive user experience.
What sets the Pixel 8a apart is Google’s commitment to software support – you’ll receive Android updates and security patches for up to seven years, making this one of the smartest long-term investments. The Tensor G3 chip powers exclusive AI features like Magic Eraser, Best Take, and enhanced voice typing.
Currently available from around $556 at Australian retailers, the Pixel 8a represents outstanding value for photography enthusiasts and those who prioritise software longevity.
Samsung Galaxy A55 5G – Best Mid-Range All-Rounder
The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G strikes an excellent balance between price and performance, making it one of the most popular choices for Australian buyers seeking the best value Android phone Australia offers in the mid-range segment. Its 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display provides excellent visibility even in bright Australian sunlight.
Powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1480 processor, the A55 handles everyday apps smoothly while maintaining impressive battery efficiency. The 5,000mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day, and the 50MP main camera captures quality photos for social media and memories.
With prices frequently dropping below $500 at major Australian retailers like BIG W and JB Hi-Fi, the A55 represents exceptional value, especially during sale periods.
OPPO A5 Pro 5G – Best Storage for the Price
The OPPO A5 Pro 5G stands out by offering 256GB of storage at just $329, making it the best choice for Australians who need ample space for photos, videos, and apps without paying premium prices. This generous storage capacity eliminates the need for cloud subscriptions or constant file management.
The phone features a large 6.7-inch display, capable cameras for everyday photography, and OPPO’s ColorOS interface that includes useful customisation options. Battery life is strong thanks to a 5,000mAh cell, ensuring you won’t be hunting for chargers throughout the day.
For budget-conscious buyers who prioritise storage and battery life over cutting-edge performance, the OPPO A5 Pro delivers remarkable value at Australian retailers including JB Hi-Fi.
Motorola Moto G85 5G – Best Budget Everyday Phone
The Motorola Moto G85 5G proves you don’t need to spend big for reliable smartphone performance. Priced around $159 at JB Hi-Fi, it represents extraordinary value for essential smartphone functions including 5G connectivity, decent cameras, and Motorola’s near-stock Android experience.
Battery life is a standout feature, with the Moto G85’s efficient processor and optimisation ensuring full-day usage without anxiety. The phone handles everyday apps, web browsing, and video streaming smoothly, though demanding games may show its budget roots.
For first-time smartphone buyers, students, or anyone seeking a dependable backup device, the Moto G85 delivers no-frills reliability that Australian families have trusted for years from Motorola’s G-series lineup.
Quick Comparison – Android Phones Under $800
When comparing the best Android phones under $800 in Australia, each device excels in different areas:
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G (~$799) offers the most complete package with premium features, excellent display, and reliable performance across all areas. It’s the top choice for those maximising their $800 budget.
Google Pixel 8a 5G (~$800) delivers unmatched camera quality and the longest software support, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and long-term value seekers.
Samsung Galaxy A55 5G (~$299-680) provides the best balance of brand reliability, features, and affordability, particularly during sales when prices dip below $400.
OPPO A5 Pro 5G (~$400) stands out with 256GB storage at an incredibly competitive price, ideal for heavy media users who need space without cloud dependence.
Motorola Moto G85 5G (~$400) represents exceptional entry-level value, perfect for basic needs, first phones, or reliable backup devices.
Buying Tips for Android Phones in Australia
Software Update Support
When purchasing Android phones under $800, consider how long the manufacturer will provide software updates. Google Pixel devices lead with up to seven years of updates, while Samsung typically offers four years of major Android updates plus five years of security patches for their A-series phones. Brands like OPPO and Motorola generally provide shorter support periods, which may affect long-term usability and security.
Storage & Battery Considerations
Most phones in this price range offer 128GB as standard, which suffices for average users. However, if you capture lots of photos and videos or download many apps, models like the OPPO A5 Pro with 256GB provide better value than paying for cloud storage subscriptions. Battery capacity between 4,500-5,000mAh has become standard, ensuring all-day usage for typical Australian users.
Sales Periods & Where to Buy
Australian retailers like JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Dick Smith, BIG W, and Kmart regularly discount Android phones during key sales periods. End-of-financial-year (EOFY) sales in June-July, Boxing Day in December, and Click Frenzy events throughout the year offer the best opportunities to snag deals on budget Android phones Australia retailers stock. Prices can drop 20-30% during these periods, making patience worthwhile if you’re not urgently replacing a phone.
Buying outright from these retailers also means you can choose any carrier and plan separately, often resulting in better overall value than locked contracts.
FAQs
Are Android phones under $800 worth buying in Australia?
Absolutely. The best Android phones under $800 in Australia deliver excellent value with features previously reserved for flagships, including 5G connectivity, quality AMOLED displays, capable cameras, and all-day battery life. Brands like Samsung, Google, and OPPO offer reliable devices with good software support at this price point. Buying outright also gives you flexibility to switch carriers and avoid expensive contract lock-ins.
Which budget Android phone has the best camera?
The Google Pixel 8a 5G unquestionably offers the best camera performance among Android phones under $800. Google’s computational photography and AI processing produce flagship-quality photos with excellent dynamic range, low-light performance, and colour accuracy. The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G also delivers impressive results with its 108MP sensor, while the Pixel 8a’s long-term value is enhanced by ongoing camera feature updates through software.
Which Android brand offers the longest updates?
Google Pixel phones lead the Android market with up to seven years of OS updates and security patches, making the Pixel 8a the smartest long-term investment among these options. Samsung follows with four years of major Android updates and five years of security updates for their Galaxy A-series. This extended support keeps your phone secure and functional far longer than budget devices from other manufacturers.
Should I buy outright or on a plan?
For the best value Android phone Australia offers, buying outright typically saves money in the long run. You can pair your phone with cheaper SIM-only plans from providers like Boost, Belong, or Amaysim, often reducing monthly costs by $20-40 compared to bundled plans. Outright purchases also give you flexibility to switch carriers anytime and avoid early termination fees. However, if you prefer spreading payments, ensure you compare the total cost versus outright purchase plus a separate plan.
Conclusion
The market for best Android phones under $800 in Australia offers outstanding options for every type of user. Whether you prioritise camera quality with the Google Pixel 8a, all-round excellence with the Samsung Galaxy A73, balanced value with the Galaxy A55, generous storage with the OPPO A5 Pro or budget reliability with the Motorola Moto G85, there’s a perfect match for your needs.
Buying outright from Australian retailers gives you freedom and flexibility while accessing devices that deliver premium experiences without premium prices. The key is matching your priorities—whether that’s camera performance, software support, storage capacity, or simply the best overall value—with the right device.
Compare prices and find the best deals on all these Android phones at CompareMates, where you can see real-time pricing from Australia’s major retailers and make the smartest buying decision for your budget.
**Disclaimer:** Prices and product information are accurate as of publication but subject to change. Always verify current pricing and availability with retailers before purchasing. CompareMates may earn affiliate commissions from purchases made through our links, which supports our free service without affecting your price. Individual results and experiences may vary. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
