5 Reasons to Own a Cheap Phone

[@simonbernlieger]

00:00 Price 02:39 Diminishing Returns 03:24 Do you really need a flagship? 05:15 Less Value = Less Anxiety 06:07 Less Time on Social Media

[@TakeCareOfYourself24434]

peace be upon prophet Muhammad

[@marielasa]

Less addictive, less likely to get robbed. I am currently using an iPhone SE 2016 and I have survived with it a couple of months. You just have to carry a powerbank everywhere 😃

[@simonbernlieger]

Loved that phone!!! I have it still on my desk...such a great compact, industrial design. Unfortunately I was not mentally strong enough to play the power bank game long term so now I have an iPhone 13..

[@iPhoneOS_]

Still a great cheap phone for the couple years to come

[@justtom7240]

Powerbank?!, nah.., i made mod battery for it, xperia z5c with 8500mah battery, last for almost 3day

[@xxgamezzz]

@@simonbernliegerI had this phone 2 years from new and home button broke I’ve had my s10 5 and a half years now

[@simonbernlieger]

@@justtom7240 How?

[@mjmulenga3]

I own a cheap phone because I don't have money. It's simple, really. 😌

[@simonbernlieger]

That is okay and the responsible thing to do. All the best for your journey!

[@mdstevens0612]

saaaaaaaaaaaaaaaame (although my A series is an absolute champ when it comes to battery life)

[@Resuone]

i love videos like this here there is a guy that knows his stuff and talks without flashy editing and music etc. its relaxing in a way to not be overstimulated when watching a video.

[@simonbernlieger]

That comment made me happy! :) Thank you so much!

[@ro4lol]

Great picture. Chill editing

[@twta]

buying the latest mid-range android is the best choice if you are not gaming. The problem with used phone is the software update and degraded battery. the overall cost is relatively not low. like the galaxy A55, you can easily find it at store USD300 after discount, better built, more efficient cpu, longer battery life, better camera

[@simonbernlieger]

A55 sure is great value :)

[@telcobilly]

I have my eye on the A55, but I'm not seeing it for $300 here in the Philippines. I'm getting a lot of bang for the buck with a 1 year old Realme 10 4G. Dual physical sim, SD card slot, headphone jack, OLED screen and 5000mah battery with super fast VOOC charging. They used the Samsung Galaxy design language, so it looks decent. The price dropped after I bought mine to under $200 for the 256gb model.

[@nitesh6472]

Nothing 2a

[@CVP-og9pw]

Its 318 € here I was also looking for mid range Samsungs, I have used Huawei and Xiaomi but I have gotten the feeling that with chinese phones, yes you get better hardware for the money but the software part is rough, with limited updates and the built in ads in system apps...just the cherry on top. So now i'm looking for non chinese phones in the range of 200-300 €, got any ideas?

[@KapembwaChikasa]

Which one is better brand new midrange A55 or old flagship like the samsung s21

[@the_big_al_01]

Yup I use a SE 2016 as my main phone and I love it, it's just for calling textng camera and music. For social media and stuff I use my iPad. So I got literally no other apps on the phone so it's never gonna be outdated yk. And I interact so much more with REAL LIFE than fake interactions on social media apps

[@mehdi-sy2ny]

the best compact phone ever made

[@archux_]

​@@mehdi-sy2nythe 13 mini :

[@simonbernlieger]

@@mehdi-sy2ny 100% I loved it and just now it lays on my desk and I just love touching it..:O Unfortunately its battery holds its charge for like 30min

[@simonbernlieger]

I love that!! :) You are doing it right sir!

[@samithagamalath2486]

Hi, if the battery is degraded you could just replace the battery. It’s always cheaper than buying another device. I replaced an iPhone SE 2016 battery for 6500RS (around $21) and now it’s almost as good as new.

[@damjan2681]

I record videos with my old iPhone X and so far nobody has complained about the quality. As for everything else, I have everything I need with it. No need for anything premium. Thanks for this!

[@simonbernlieger]

iPhones have always been excellent for video work!

[@david-wildcard]

Thank you for making this video. Recently I took my old iPhone 7 out of the drawer, currently I am using a 2nd hand Samsung S21 Ultra. I couldn't help, but instantly felt amazement and liked the formfactor, weight and feel of the iPhone. I rediscovered how small and light smartphones can be and there is a simplicity and straightforwardness about the phone that resonanted with me personally. The one rear camera, front home button, small screen size and good build quality. Like you said, it is good enough for making calls, using whatsapp, checking e-mails and even navigation in Google maps was smooth, it has all the functions I would need today. How much more will this be the case in the future with very advanced phones released today? Yes, battery life sucked, but as I held the iPhone side by side with the S21 Ultra, which is about 50% heavier, it made me question, if phones have become too distracting, cumbersome and too complicated for most consumers? Maybe it's a phenomenon fueled by people being glued to their phones browsing TikTok where bigger is better, but I hope one day the battery technology will improve to allow manufacturers to produce light weight iPhone 7 sized smartphones with good battery life and to go back to simplicity.

[@simonbernlieger]

I feel you! Having less options / less features can be incredibly liberating! #zenphone

[@skrotosd]

I don’t know, I recently switched from an old Xs max to a new 15 pro and actually the new phone is the lightweight 😂

[@simonbernlieger]

@@skrotosd yeah you would need to compare Xs Max to the 15 Pro Max?

[@sassproton]

cost of ownership while upgrading every year is a peculiar metric. Subscribed.

[@simonbernlieger]

Thanks for the sub!

[@Blackwingk]

I'm a 45-year-old married family man. My wife, son, daughter, and even my mom have far more newer and expensive phones than mine, and yeah, I bought those phones for them. Everytime I think about buying a better phone, my mind goes like, "Nah, Farah might want a better phone in a couple of months." Welcome to married life.

[@simonbernlieger]

Ahh, cannot relate yet haha :D

[@AK03-ee9xz]

You deserve more sir, not just only your family! You deserve more.

[@kshitijbharadwaj33]

Maybe family members should take notice of this now…hope they have a regulated screen on time …which will give them time to notice about you

[@miuletzmitzu6641]

You're a great dad and your kids are and will be very grateful for this, and I think that is way better than a new shiny phone. My dad is the same as you, when I was younger I'd always get decent to good phones while he'd stick to his older phones until they simply died. I'll make sure to do the same for my kids, because I can see myself using my phone less and less with age and I really don't need amazing phones anyway. I just use social media, call, and play a game now and then. My mom on the other hand was the opposite, she'd always get the latest flagship phone, even when my phone was dying (went from 100 to 0 battery in less than 5 minutes). I really don't get why you'd get a flagship phone like that if you just use facebook and play candy crush. As long as the phone works, lasts the entire day and runs smoothly for my uses there's no reason to get anything better. You're a good man, that's the mentality all parents should have. Strive to give your kids the best (without spoiling them too much). But do take care of yourself now and then as well.

[@Blackwingk]

@@miuletzmitzu6641 Thank you for your kind words. You're a good person.

[@SynMusique]

Did the same thing, bought an used iPhone SE 2 when my phone got stolen. Enjoying the experience of a little phone. Refreshing.

[@simonbernlieger]

Love that :)

[@amanmaharjan5745]

I used Samsung galaxy s2 for nearly 8 year untill it permanently dead then i moved to poco f3 and i will stick to this phone untill dead.. this phone is still good for gaming, music, video editing,text call everything and i am satisfied with this 3 year old phone..after using this phone i realize there are lot of good phones that work like a flagship phone even at buget friendly phone..

[@simonbernlieger]

Great job, keep on doing that!

[@lik3a11]

I'll be honest here: iPhone is about everything but frugality. People sometimes tend to forget that a solid portion of costs goes into software support, which isn't cheap. Knowing that I made the decision to daily drive a budget Motorola powered by Android. Yes, the software support sucks the most, even among flagships. No, running the stock Android isn't the only option. My phone is a pocket office that helps me organizing my life far better than I would do with pen and paper. By taking the other artificial limitation out of the way (installing GCam) I also get a decent camera in my pocket. By installing emulators I eliminate the need in a pocket entertainment system, and that has been an option for years while Apple just got forced into allowing emulators. 2 years with my lovely Moto G52, I plan to squeeze out at least 3 years more, there is literally no reason for me to upgrade, and I am already on the Android version that will never come to device from official upgrade channels.

[@simonbernlieger]

That sounds great! I specifically just googled the GCam mod - very interesting and certainly a great value proposition. Btw. I would never say that Apple / iPhones are the best value ;-)

[@lik3a11]

Thank you for the reply! I'm not discarding the value of iPhone as a product either, it's a phenomenal pocket device for creators that provides nearly consistent and nearly persistent experience. I can't tell you how many times I became totally pissed about another questionable design decision by Google Android team. It's a nightmare! Android 11 was nearly perfect, then Google threw everything into a bin. Still, Android fits better into a niche previously occupied by Pocket PC. A business tool and nothing else. Works for me so far.

[@sng2225]

I agree for the most part. I do want security updates support to be as current and supported so anything with with than 2 years support remaining wouldn't be cost effective.

[@simonbernlieger]

I agree with that one! Coming from iPhones here you can still get the latest iOS 18 on an iPhone XS that is over 6years old by now.

[@porvoonosho]

As a 44-year-old, I understand this. But keep in mind, that young people don't even have computers. They do literally everything on their phone. It might in fact be the only tech product they have, besides earbuds.

[@simonbernlieger]

Absolutely! I always say if you have specific applications in mind that would benefit from a better phone go for it

[@rajatsehgal7004]

True that. I’m so used to working on a 24 inch screen that 6 inches of screen real estate is a no go. I can’t even type on it properly. And I’ve been using Apple Macs since the Apple 2e in 1986. And I have never owned an iPhone!

[@ashishsheokand6141]

​@@rajatsehgal7004 Ohh, using computers since 1986 ?!! Where were you living in 1986 ? Did Indians had Mac in 1986 ? no idea, just asking 😅

[@AnCellka]

fake, i`m 19, use all the tech (3 macs 2008-2010, modern PC, console, thinkpads. The phone is some messy redmi 9t for 50$

[@LifeGeneralist]

@@porvoonosho Not necessary, people still need a laptop

[@Xiquinhodasilva99]

In 2021 i bought the pocophone f1, still have it today.

[@gaf68tv]

I had an iphone 15 but my Son now has that phone and I bought a CMF1 Phone by Nothing to attempt to move away from expensive phones, I paid approx £180 in England and I must say the phone is excellent, apart from lack of NFC and wide angle lens it does everything the flagship iphone does and in most cases just as well if not better

[@simonbernlieger]

I should try one myself sometime...heard only good things about the CMF1! Definitely great value for money

[@chfsunf1ower296]

​@@simonbernliegeri bought it a month ago. i been enjoying watching my classes and podcasts on it. dont really use any social media but i do play some story games . it does what i need it to do. im gonna use it for atleast 3-4yrs

[@petyobenov]

Actually some people are advising the same for car -- buying a 3-5 years old car is still reliable enough and it 50 % cheaper than the same model as a brand new.

[@simonbernlieger]

100%

[@wholeNwon]

That's what I did 23 yrs. ago and it's still my perfect daily driver.

[@imZeeshanQureshi]

I absolutely second the advice! I happen to have gotten mugged a month ago and had to buy a pre-used phone (lost my iPhone 13 Pro Max), even though I already had an old second phone (Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite) which I've had for almost 4 years now). I needed another phone owing to my work (SMM, SEM, etc.), but forking out money for another iPhone wasn't possible. I've gotten myself an Oppo A95 (pre-used) and I'm SO HAPPY! I can see the lighter body, less premium materials, but superb ergonomic fit (reminds me of iPhone 6 and the rest) and more than decent performance. Suddenly I have decided to retire my much loved Note 10 Lite, too, as this one is a much capable device owing to the expandable virtual ram.

[@simonbernlieger]

Very interesting insight! And happy for you that your "downgrade" feels more like an "upgrade" :)

[@gokultn72]

You can also buy base variant iPhones that are 3 gens older for almost half of its original price which is value for money as there's no significant leap in hardware and performance. Ex: buy iPhone 13 in stock clearance sales since iPhone 16 series is recently released.

[@simonbernlieger]

Absolutely! Or go for a refurbed 14 or 13Pro for even better value as the pro models depreciate more

[@marcogawa]

Less Value = Less Anxiety!

[@alin_943]

I've been working in a phone repair shop for almost an year now, and I learned a lot about phone, and I can confirm everything you said in this video. Tho the best option I think would be to buy an used mid end phone like pixel a versions from google or fe versions from samsung. Please avoid samsung s20 fe tho, that's the phone that often comes with dead motherboard into the shop.

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you for your very interesting insight regarding the S20 FE!!

[@CoolCrescent186]

I bought a Moto G100 when they dropped under $200 on Ali. This thing does everything but telephoto and stereo speakers that a flagship from the same year (2021) does. That, and upgradable storage, 3.5mm jack, USB-C desktop, and wild battery life, all running LineageOS.

[@simonbernlieger]

Sounds like great value! Congratulations!

[@CoolCrescent186]

@@simonbernlieger Oh yeah you better believe it! Only downside is that parts are difficult to get.

[@AliNajafies]

I like the rationale here. These are more or less my reasons not to buy a too expensive phone in the first place and still sticking to it for 3 years now.

[@sid1234213]

My current phone, Bought in 2022. Redmi Note 10 Pro. Is still more than enough for me. I got it for some 192 Euros roughly. Gives me everything I want. Gives me Instagram worthy pics to share with my friends. I play Alto's Odyssey at 120 Hz. Played some COD but it didn't kept my interest much. I also relive some of my PS2 titles effortlessly. Powerful enough for zoom calls, Mails and WhatsApp etc. Big enough screen to use split screen, Reading tons of E-books and some Movies and Series on the go. Battery still lasts about a day of heavy use (I slow charge with a 5W charger). I removed all the bloatware and I don't update too often. Honestly I am yet to know why the security and OS update are necessary but historically it had slowed my phone down. I do not update apps unless the support of the current version of the app is not supported anymore (thanks KZbin). The only downside I found is that it is too big and heavy. Other than that, I am happy with my phone. I would try and use it for 3 more years and I look forward to by the most affordable Samsung that offers DEX as my next phone.

[@simonbernlieger]

Glad you are a happy with your phone! :)

[@denniskirschbaum9109]

The alternative to buying a very old phone that doesn't even run the current software is NOT buying a new top model every year. For most people the most economical and most satisfying choice would be to buy a new phone and keep it as long as possible. In most cases that would be at least five years. Perhaps you would replace the battery once during this time. I have friends who bought the iPhone 11 when it was new and they are still using it and running the latest software. However you point that most people don't need a new phone every year is well taken.

[@RealBullbear]

Totally agree as a 11 user. Just replace the battery if you need to, the phone is still running on ios 18 and normal daily tasks work perfectly. I dont play games though on the phone, so I guess you would need an upgrade for that.

[@simonbernlieger]

I agree..while there might be cheaper strategies (as mentioned in the video) they come with more hassle and risk involved for sure.

[@kenmathis9380]

Thanks for this reminder. I currently am using a Pixel 8 (I think about $800 at launch) but I'm expecting a $200 CMF 1 in the mail in a couple days. Kind of an experiment, and kind of because I can't afford higher end phones anymore.

[@simonbernlieger]

CMF...thats from the Nothing Phone company right?

[@subgivtara]

Here is 400$ :)

[@kenmathis9380]

Me again. Been using my cmf for a while now, and I love it! The primary downsides are 1. No NFC (which I didn't use that much anyway) and 2. the lack of a wide-angle camera. The camera itself isn't bad, but I just side-loaded Gcam 'cause I miss those high contrast dynamic pics that my Pixel produces. Win win.

[@Eswar.]

Can you review pixel 8 here in india it's 400$

[@Eswar.]

​@@kenmathis9380gret

[@sankha7212]

Currently using Samsung F14, got it under 120 usd, great battery, takes decent photos, good display quality, does most of the day to day tasks flawlessly, going great❤

[@simonbernlieger]

Thats great to hear..never change a working system :)

[@DioriteSky]

I am HAVING a $70 phone from Xiaomi (currently using from 2021) Apple doesn't make the best phones at the lower levels and it works great

[@simonbernlieger]

Which model do you have? And yes I agree especially Xiaomi seems to offer great value

[@jesusiscoming877]

China is a saviour

[@DioriteSky]

@@simonbernlieger redmi 8a dual

[@Dbsu3652]

​@@DioriteSkyI own a redmi 8a dual as a secondary one for running chess engines and analysing games. Flash a custom rom and you will get a far better experience than the mi stock rom.

[@sarveshsharma9437]

I have been using iphone 13 for a few years now. Got LG v90 from someone from €90. Happy with it now. Planning on using it for the next 3-4 years

[@evans-uu5wm]

The thing is that software support and security updates for many years is a necessity nowadays due to online payments and internet banking apart from just web browsing. This actually is usually supported by more expensive phones and trust me I am not a guy who buys phones every year

[@simonbernlieger]

Yes I would also say that with everything we do on our phones, security updates ARE important. And you shouldn't keep a phone past those upgrades.

[@wholeNwon]

@@simonbernlieger I use old phones and don't worry about those things at all.

[@Jonn3li]

Amazing video. I got recommended this and it felt and looked really professional so I was surprised when I saw that you aren't big channel yet. Keep going with these 🔥

[@simonbernlieger]

That is so nice to hear! 😊 Thank you so much😇

[@nathanmalaker2865]

Wow, total mindset shift, thank you for this video! Instead of believing in the marketing and social status that comes with the "new phone everyone needs" philosophy, treating it like a tool instead of a pacemaker or "necessity," and buying the right tool for the job following the same principles used to buy a car or house, with the goal of not making you a "better" person by some abitrary, abstract, or manufactured standard, but as a means to a "lifestyle (poor word choice) that offers financial freedom, social freedom, or just freedom of thought; really cool. I never hear this stuff being taught, it makes me wonder what kind of lifestyle "they" want us to have and why?

[@simonbernlieger]

Glad you liked the video! Thank you so much. And no you obviously should only get a new phone if you NEED it or if you personally really want it maybe..but certainly not because of society or sth like that.

[@jcdenton23]

In 2021 I bought the Google Pixel 6 for £599. The phone has served me well. This month, I purchased last year's Galaxy S23 Plus for £285 and expect it to last at least 5 years. I'm done with expensive phones

[@simonbernlieger]

What a price drop for the S23..good deal on your side!

[@d11ita]

I've had an iPhone 8 Plus for almost three years (reconditioned) and it's very good. I just wish the battery would last longer and have more storage. At the moment I don't intend to change it.

[@erickfernando18]

this channel is brilliant, we need these economics for everyday life consumption

[@simonbernlieger]

That made my day! Thank you for your nice words and yes I am planning to do more content about the financial decisions behind everyday stuff

[@Keichi5167]

I apply the same for my car I have a Suzuki alto 800cc 2021 in that year was the cheapest car in my country so is perfect for everything I no need more

[@vajs6312]

After owning only iPhones since 2009 and averaging around 4-5 years of ownership per device, since my iPhone 12 is coming up to year 5 I’ve decided, when the time comes to replace it to either go for the newest SE ($500) which comes out in spring or to wait until early summer when the 16 will be on sale, or get a 15 if the price is a bit over what I thought it’d be. I did the same with the 12 and got it for about €650 from my carrier. Both would give me more than I need, even the SE has a 4X better camera than the 12 and the rest I don’t use all that much.

[@simonbernlieger]

I am also curiously waiting for the 3rd gen SE :) I hope it is not soo big though

[@UselessVoidBobo]

I got this recommended after my S24 Ultra was stolen yesterday. Really learned this lessen the hard way. I'll just buy a used Pixel 6A worth $200.

[@simonbernlieger]

I am sorry man :/ But yeah, pixel 6a is certainly great value

[@robfractal6820]

The problem with old phones of course is the battery life and the apps that no longer work on old android devices. There's ways around these apps of course but can be limiting. I use an old nokia 7 plus which was expensive on release but l bought last year for less than £100 and its a great phone.

[@simonbernlieger]

That's true..battery is mostly replaceable though. Performance / app support obviously not so much

[@Life-vg9yn]

​@@simonbernliegermy nokia 7 plus break after a year and it was brand when i got it by present but you have more luck with that phone

[@hagen.youtube]

What I would give for a modern iPhone 6. It was slimmer and lighter than the current 3rd SE

[@simonbernlieger]

And bendable :P

[@user-qw7mj9so4s]

I used to buy old iPhones like for now I have an iPhone se 2 I bought last year and its still my daily drive. I will get an iPhone 16 but after couple of years when the price drops to around $250 or less just like what heppened with all the other iphones that used to be more than $1000 but now less than $250

[@simonbernlieger]

Good strategy!

[@neilduffin7389]

I don't have a contract phone. Never have. I choose a new phone or a 2nd hand ,never a flagship every 5 years or so. Because i use prepaid, i top up with about 45 euros a year. Saved so much money

[@simonbernlieger]

Good for you!

[@LiveAerosmith]

I am currently using an iPhone SE 2016 128GB and still works great .

[@stevejohnson1321]

I bought a discontinued galaxy for U.S. $50. Mostly I just do calls and MMS. The 5000m battery lasts five days before recharging. The flip phones cost almost as much, and in some cases have limits.

[@simonbernlieger]

5 days is absolutely incredible :o

[@iggytse]

I bought a 2016 SE new. In 2020 Apple gave me a free new replacement when my battery needed changing a second time. I used it for 6 months before getting a 12 pro max. I then gave the SE away to my cousin’s husband as his old 5s didn’t work properly with WhatsApp.

[@simonbernlieger]

I love the 2016 SE.. It is a design masterpiece in my opinion!

[@Caretoexplainwatchamean]

I tried, I really tried for so long. For years I had cheap phones. And, for quite some time I was happy with a phone: The Google Pixel 3a. And then it broke. I got a new phone, a Pixel 4, by no means a new phone, even at that time, but it was considerably faster and just all in all noticeably more responsive. When I got back into the "cheap phone market" again after the 4 left me as well, I couldn't stand it anymore. The Display, the speakers (though I still think the 3a's speakers had no right being this good), even the vibration motor annoyed me. And then of course the overall sluggishness. It drove me nuts and I hated it, because I hated to hate these devices. So in a way it's like with OLED monitors. Once you get one you will never ever go back to LCD screens. As sad as it is and no matter how much my bank account may cry. I can't go back to cheap phones :( Edit: Fixed two typos

[@simonbernlieger]

I understand you perfectly! The 3a / 4a were incredible value. But it is also ok to get a more expensive phone - I myself use an iPhone 13. No point in saving some money when you are unhappy with your phone every time you touch it.

[@yourcomputerhasvirus7733]

Got a galaxy s23 256gb for basically 400€. Perfect condition and full battery health. It's still going to receive updates for the following 3.5 years, so if i sell it for 150€ after 3 years, the cost of ownership ends up being 83.3€/year. Not bad for such a recent phone

[@simonbernlieger]

That is incredible value! Used Samsung Smartphones always seem to be a good deal

[@joy_the_boy3]

Hey 👋, I'm here to support. I checked some of your videos and they're really good. ☺️. I believe you'll be successful. Just do what you're doing. We're here for you.

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you very much! That really motivates me for the next video :)

[@VedavyasRS]

Absolutely, Less=More! I liked "LessValue = LessAnxiety" and "Less Time on Social media" parts. I switched from my Galaxy M51 to my dad's M52 5G (and I don't need upgrade at least 2-3 years from now 2024), I don't care SW updates until I use Google/Samsung+Trusted apps with enough apps/media. M52 5G at 21K₹ ($250) at the time I bought in 2022 Jul. I think this is enough as per my NEEDs over WANTs! I also love compact sized phone vs. 6.7" of M52.

[@simonbernlieger]

Yeah those phone sizes are getting out of hand!

[@lukei6255]

I agree. My only reason to give my Google Pixel after 5 years was the android and google stopped updates, especially the security ones. Forcing me to get a new mobile 😢

[@simonbernlieger]

Bummer :(

[@SnowcrasherLP]

Such a good video. I don't even exactly know why, but your style of presenting is great. I'll take your advice and tweak it a bit - or at least try it. I am on an OnePlus 7 Pro which I bought new on release in 2019 and I love it to this day. But at the same time it has drawbacks. 1. I find myself using social media too much, as you touched upon. 2. I have to itch to get something new, which is just plain consumerism. 3. Through my time at Uni I picked up my first Apple device (MacBook) and added an iPad later, eventhough I never owned Apple before. Though they are much more expensive than Android and most Windows Laptops, in my experience they have one key advantage: the devices just work. And on top of that: I'd really like to get an Apple Watch, as I am as much into sports as I am into tech. So what am I taking away and tweaking? I will pick up an iPhone 13 mini (and lets be honest: an Apple Watch down the road) and test it out. Its not a 100-200€ device which you discussed in the video, instead 400€ refurbished. But I thought about buying a new/refurbished iPhone Pro 15/16 for so long now and in comparison its cheap (500-800€ less). Besides spending the money it would also get me in the cycle of being able to pick up older tech and still having upgrades -- in like 3 years a refurbished iPhone 16/17 or something like that. As a bonus: The smaller screen might make me spend less time on it (which a take as a positive). I might return the iPhone Mini if I don't like it (which I feel bad for in advance), but I think, I'll just test it out. If I return it, I'll stick with my OnePlus till it dies. Long comment, but I just wanted to share my thoughts. Great video, as I said. I am subbed now :)

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you very much for your kind comment! I am also somewhat of an apple fanboy haha.. having the watch ( I use the series 6 mostly to monitor my heart issues), iPad (a current air that I probably used the least and was not a great purchase) and a base 14inch MacBook Pro which is incredible...ah and my iPhone 13. I do think that the 13mini is an incredible phone, so go for it :)

[@SnowcrasherLP]

@@simonbernlieger Don't judge me, but I returned the iPhone Mini. I feel bad for doing that, but coming from a 6,7 inch phone, the 5,4 Mini was just too far of a difference. Nice phone, but I think I'll use my existing phone for a couple of months longer and then look at something like the iPhone 15 Pro or Max :)

[@RideOnTimePH]

Whenever i buy a phone, my mindset is to use it as long as it can still do what I usually do in a phone. My current phones are the first gen SE and the 12 mini because of the size. I use the SE as my work phone and it still opens the apps that I need to open like slack and YT. I use the 12 mini for the camera because it is better (night mode) and it is also 5G so it is somewhat future proof.

[@simonbernlieger]

Great strategy! Small phones are cool, so sad that Apple doesn't make them anymore.

[@phoneshive]

This video is very interesting, I will follow the 4 last steps, however step 1, i will "oversee". As a tech person, I find it hard to buy old phones whom i know have problems that can make them unusable. This is why I've decided to go for the Iphone 13 Mini. Its the perfect small phone, even smaller than the SE. It has usable battery, good cameras, and the Apple experience for 350€.

[@simonbernlieger]

The 13 Mini is a great phone...such a shame that Apple stopped making them :(

[@phoneshive]

@@simonbernlieger I'm probably gonna buy the 12 mini actually, I've realised there's almost a 100€ difference for hardly anything new.

[@simonbernlieger]

@@phoneshive Yeah just a bit of.a weaker battery.. but other than that you are absolutely right!

[@BernicePanders]

I've been a tech enthusiast in abject poverty my whole life, which means I've only had 3 'premium phones', 3 midrange & 3 or 4 budget phones, most of which I've had to resell, and had to pay off the flagships over 2yrs contract. I had a Samsung S9+ I never even got activated as my town didn't have the providers at the time. I got a Samsung A71 5g when it was released & it has seriously been my fav phone ever. I've gotten a Pixel 6 Pro & Samsung S23 FE since then but still am using my A71 daily on wifi, while my S23 FE is my serviced phone! I do have to say, the upcoming violet S25 Ultra is so heartbreakingly sexy & I would sell all my other devices to get one, but I will likely have to hope I make it another 5yrs until it's low enough price for me! 🥺💔

[@simonbernlieger]

But the S23 FE should be a very capable and modern phone? I would be happy wirh that one. All the best for you 😊😇

[@BernicePanders]

@simonbernlieger Thank you! Yes, it's a decent phone, but I got my hopes up on all the tech reviewers glowing praise for it, plus had to buy a 'open box' one on ebay as the prepaid services don't offer ppl in poverty any means of getting a new phone without just outright buying one elsewhere paid in full. I think the battery life being somehow about 30% shorter than my A71, and that's a big deal for my constant YT viewing. Biggest letdown is WHY TF did Samsung decide to not release any more A70 series in America!? 🥺💔

[@9852323]

I still use an iPhone 6s and it does pretty much anything the new iPhones can do. Seems pointless to buy new every couple years.

[@simonbernlieger]

Wow 👏 How is your battery on the 6s? Still ok?

[@pauskiedonna4983]

​@@simonbernlieger anyways its easy to change the battery. Might save a lot of money imo

[@9852323]

@@simonbernlieger I replaced it myself. Works fine.

[@Abandex369]

Still using my plastic pixel 3a It's been about 6-7 years almost The camera is still great, screen is good, performance is alright but I'm not really doing intense things in it. All it needs is a new battery.

[@simonbernlieger]

Pixel 3a / 4a / 5a are all excellent value phones with above price class cameras :) Glad you like it

[@nathaliedube2913]

​@@simonbernliegerPixel 3a was released in 2019. Your number are inaccurate.

[@jejunamja]

Yeah you make some good points and I'm typing this on a Galaxy S9 but I got and mint condition for 75.00 I can say the only thing that's not great about it is the battery life but besides that it's a really good phone.

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you !

[@Alphii_]

OMG HOW DO YOU NOT HAVE 500K+ SUBS YET?! YOUR CONTENT IS SOO GOOD!

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you!

[@YWang-on3cj]

I guess just hold on to the urge to upgrade in general helps. Used a Pixel 5 since launch and now I switched to a Xiaomi 14.

[@simonbernlieger]

Indeed! Pixel 5 was / is a great phone :)

[@gregamania1327]

Unfortuntely, I wouldn't recommend going below midrange as performance is just too laggy on budget phones. It can be quite frustrating.

[@simonbernlieger]

I personally would not do it either..I would always go with a used midrange / higher end model compared to a newer low end product.

[@LukaCuturic]

I don't know how it's outside of the Netherlands but I bought the S23 256GB for €300 brand new during Black Friday '23 with a carrier deal, and I was going to get that subscription anyways. It's waaay cheaper to take a phone together with a subscription here which means cheaper and worse phones can sometimes be more expensive, just like in my case.

[@simonbernlieger]

Yup from time to time carrier deals are just really good :) I also got my current iPhone 13 with a carrier deal..and that way over 3 years it worked out to be around 150€ cheaper than buying the phone and the carrier subscription (if that is the right word) separately

[@munggawa]

As long as it does the basic stuff u really need (not want) it'll go well. I was a long time iphone user since 2015 till late last year november 2023 i switched from an iphone 13 mini to the samsung galaxy A53 5G and till now it does my needs (not the perfect one but it does the job/function). I gifted my iphone 15 pro to my daughter and stayed with the samsung which im currently using right now. But who knows. my buttons might flip one day and i'll be back to latest iphone but not soon i guess im still satisfied with my samsung.

[@simonbernlieger]

Wow from an iPhone 13 to a A53 is quite a jump...are you missing anything?

[@Ou8y2k2]

For decades I didn't even own a phone, until the pandemic hit. Got a OnePlus Nord n200 that I've dropped dozens of times. Budget plastic-backed phones are a must.

[@simonbernlieger]

It really reduces stress when handling the phone

[@NotoriousRawDogger]

Watching this after spending $1500 on a phone 📱

[@simonbernlieger]

😀

[@Life-vg9yn]

Why that much, you can buy excellent laptop for that price and it last more than 5 years even 10 years if keeped good shape

[@flerov01]

I'm a fan of expensive phones as long as they last a long time, the problem for me is only people buying the newest and best phone (for example, pro max iphones) every new release, which is something so unnecessary and imo kinda stupid

[@emward6858]

That’s not a phone that’s a status symbol

[@jamescarballo7248]

Haha…

[@wxptech]

i have a Samsung Galaxy A15 4G, it doesn't have fancy features like 4K recording or an 200MP camera, but it does the job for me

[@simonbernlieger]

Excellent 😊 Thats what it’s about dont’t buy something you don’t really need 👌

[@wholeNwon]

I have 2 phones. One is a ("free") Tracfone that lives in the car. The other is an old Galaxy that a friend gave me about 6 yrs. ago that runs TextNow (free). I use it every day and it works well. I never really understood buying expensive phones from a financial point of view though I do understand it psychologically. "Many men lead lives of quiet desperation."

[@Wildspasm11]

Using old poco f1 from 2018 with a custom rom. Absolute beast, just battery is giving up and little low on phone memory

[@simonbernlieger]

Can you easily replace the battery?

[@Wildspasm11]

@@simonbernlieger yes but it's expensive if you do it from a Xiaomi official service centre but half the price from a local mobile repair shop. And they offer 6 months of warranty too.

[@omersagduyu1266]

Thanks for your really useful contents.. I'm glad you exist..

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you for your kind words - I am happy that my content is helpful

[@drive-channel1834]

Very informative. Thanks. I like your simple setup I very very rarely use my laptop. My daily tech is a Samsung midranger A54

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you for your nice comment!

[@berend109]

If I didn't need screen size and battery life, I would be happy with a SE model. I only buy phones when they stop working or are not safe to use anymore.

[@nevermind9487oo]

I bought a realme 9 5g SE for about $200 as a secondary fphone beside my iph 13. I ended up selling the iph 13 as i realized the realme 200 dollar phone was all that i needed

[@simonbernlieger]

Very cool idea to test it side by side :) Congrats man!

[@call_me_akayz]

I agree with what you're saying. However, I also believe that, if you can buy a phone that's a little expensive (doesn't have to be extremely expensive) and you plan to use it for years, I don't think it's a bad purchase. P.S. I also agree with that social media point.

[@simonbernlieger]

Thanks! And yes I agree with your point as well! Using a flagship for 5 years is probably cheaper than upgrading your cheap phone ever year

[@24cf648]

Yes, absolutely. I bought a Samsung s10 when it came out in 2019 for 700€ and it's still running fine after more than 5 years. There's more satisfaction in sticking with a product for such a long time, I hope to keep it for many years

[@kaustubhthapa5743]

Don't forget the positive social and ecological reasons for buying second hand.

[@simonbernlieger]

True!

[@capndavey1]

I have a I phone 7 os 15.8 works fine for me rebuilt it was 75 dollars us at local flea market and went right on US mobile

[@simonbernlieger]

Oh wow :o

[@decebaltrandafir]

The problem with cheap but good phone is that they have ads and lots of spywares and often the software is too heavy for the phone to run decent. Sadly many cheap phone makers are pushing away stock android and add their shitty costom softwares on the top of the Android plus their bloatwares apps.

[@simonbernlieger]

That's right unfortunately..I think a slightly older Google Pixel might be a great idea in that regard

[@tubbalcain]

This is pure nonsense

[@JuandelaCruz-zl1le]

=less time on social media

[@sinzz26o7]

The solution is to buy a cheap but popular phone which has community support. Which prompts custom rom to be developed for said phone.

[@pro-hz7kx]

@@JuandelaCruz-zl1le 🤦‍♂️ that’s so stupid. Bad car = less inhaling toxic fumes i guess, no factories = cleaner air

[@raflyraihandy]

Underrated content and I take a lot of lessons from this video. Keep up the good work please!

[@simonbernlieger]

Thank you very much, I appreciate it!

[@emward6858]

I could have paid £379 for a new iPhone SE but I got a used one with 99% battery health for £225 . I would never buy a flagship phone as I cannot justify the price when cheaper phones do everything I need

[@simonbernlieger]

You are absolutely right and congrats on your almost new SE

[@pwalk4160]

I always bought phones under 100 usually second hand Xperias, I now have Xperia 10 iii but I don't like the form factor so ordered mid range Samsung A54 new, it's a more comfortable bigger screen and longer updates, but I'm still thinking of going back to my Sony.

[@geoman1420]

I never spend more than 200€ on a smartphone and i keep it for 4-5 years...

[@charlesfv]

Got a J2 prime since 2019 and it still works well, got to get an A05 due to app compatibilities and It works great. Tbh I used to dislike android phones 'til I had that samsung's low end phone

[@simonbernlieger]

Yeah I heard a lot of good things about Samsung's lower tier - glad you like it

[@richardalvarado1877]

I'm using a flagship android from 2019 which is the LG G8. Users nowadays don't even reach the breakeven point before they change to a newer model.

[@simonbernlieger]

When do you think one reaches a breakeven point on a phone anyway?

[@richardalvarado1877]

@@simonbernlieger In my opinion, it's 3 to 4 years of use.

[@LauraKent-q3p]

Never more than $300 and only android either new factory unlocked or professional refurbished and use micro SD for added storage instead of pay apple or google for storage !

[@wholeNwon]

Never more than 0 so far for me and that's about the right price for most folks.

[@gr8bkset-524]

Old low end phones and tablets slow down because OS and apps become bloated over time. What was once adequate RAM and CPU power becomes deficient. They also have short OS support lifetime. I buy refurbished flagship phones at 2 year old for $200-$300. Google and Samsung now support their phones for 7 years so this works out to $40-$60/year if the phone is kept for another 5 years. Samsung phones has Dex so it is as if you purchased a phone and a desktop.

[@simonbernlieger]

That is a great strategy!

[@mcid47]

once in a time ive been thinking about saving budgets on phone now im only buying mid-range phones, usually last at least 3 years before it gets sluggish and the need for battery replacement. Buying phone especially the one with higher price tags makes no sense to me, especially if you plan to buy another one in less than two years.

[@simonbernlieger]

Yeah it´s just like with cars :) Something reliable that lasts a decent amount of time and doesn't break the bank is the way to go

[@justwatchingnothingmore]

I still use my iPhone X. Still a work horse. Just get the battery replaced once you get your hand on one of these.

[@simonbernlieger]

Great!

[@Noa15Lv]

I only recently upgraded from Mi Note 10 Lite to Note 13 Pro 4g. Yeeah, sure i overspend and paid full price of 400 euros, but Note 10 Lite last me 4 years [also spend 400 euros back in 2020] Still have no problems with my old one, except lack of memory [64gb inbuild] As it goes for the "High premium ones", i'm not bothering with them due to physical labour work i do daily and i already managed to drop my new one into an dry sewer 2m deep on a screen.. It survived, but crash was loud and scary.

[@simonbernlieger]

Wow, phones sure became tougher with time! A 2m drop would have been sure phone death 5 to 10 years ago..

[@Noa15Lv]

@@simonbernlieger It had an glass protector on it! Still, left 4 dots in it as an reminder: "Don't keep phone in loose pocket while leaning above sewer lid" :D

[@simonbernlieger]

@@Noa15Lv haha ;D

[@miasma82]

I use an iphone se 2020 that i bought refurbished. It's perfect for me. I listen to music, emulate games, web browsing, send mail, call, text and take photos. I would never buy a new iphone. I also don't have the money for it

[@simonbernlieger]

How is the battery for you?

[@iamtafara]

I can definitely vouch for number 4. I have an iPhone 14 pro max and an Honor X9a. When i use the iPhone its like im gonna hold it with both hands and legs but when im using the Honor, its just like i dont care. Using the honor doesnt really feel like im holding my whole life in my hand.

[@simonbernlieger]

Is there anything you feel the honor is better at than the iPhone?

[@iamtafara]

@@simonbernlieger i definitely love the design of the honor, the rounded edges and the 120Hz are a dream. The 14PM has 120Hz also but honestly i barely notice it. When scrolling through pages the honor does it like a champ One thing th honor doesnt have are cameras though. We might as well just agree that it has zero cameras

[@bhargavpratimsharma2024]

Using a Xiaomi phone of ₹16000 (200usd) for past 3.5 years. No problem at all. You can do whatever you want, except heavy gaming, which I never do.. But recently ordered for Nothing CMF phone in sale for ₹ 14000

[@simonbernlieger]

The nothing phone seems to be great value - congrats!

[@JogieGlenMait16]

i limit my phone cost to 300 USD when buying brand new. i've been a tech nerd for some time now and I know that tech devices age so fast, then become obsolete.

[@simonbernlieger]

Good strategy. What phone are you currently using?

[@JogieGlenMait16]

@@simonbernlieger A Samsung Galaxy A25 5G 😎

[@silver45470]

I Completely agree with the fact that buying an expensive device is unnecessary. Currently writing this for my Xperia 1 III which costed me $190, though its locked for Japanese market, which makes it very hard to use with European celular networks and it's too goddamn large. I'd rather buy something smaller, like s22 or Pixel 6a (both go for around $300 in good condition). Both of them are over 2 years, but I'm not keen on spending 2-3 times more for a newer model. If I get a good deal on a newer model, which I can buy brand new for around the same price - I will totally go for it, but for now - these are my considerations.

[@simonbernlieger]

I would get the Pixel 6a :)

[@silver45470]

@@simonbernlieger I got the pixel 6A and so far it's one of the best phones I've ever used

[@looweegee252]

Every black Friday I just get two of whatever the most powerful motorola phone I can get for the best price, last year I got two Moto G Power phones for under $100 total I have like half a dozen decently powered 2-4GB smartphones left over, some with busted screens, some without. Building my own click farm 😆

[@simonbernlieger]

Haha why not :D

[@cbread208]

Excellent, thank you!

[@simonbernlieger]

Glad you liked it! :).

[@fringedflyer487]

dam bro i usually don't comment but I seriously thought that you had at least 50k+ subscribers

[@simonbernlieger]

Thanks man! I really appreciate that :)

[@petere4540]

I think it’s about size, I use iph 15 pro, it’s expensive but no one really knows it unless you look closely. An ultra or promax model costs more and draws attention to u in public

[@derpydashdjblazekin]

I never buy the flagship not since the Galaxy Note 3 because as of recent they took away two features that I use on the daily basis headphone jack and micro SD card expansion I usually go to low or mid-range because I still get those two features on the low to mid-range

[@simonbernlieger]

True!

[@dyadya_bleva]

I use iPhone 8 bought an almost year ago for 75 euros (7500 roubles). My friends said that I’m a fool, but I didn’t pay 1000 euros for an iPhone 15 pro. My iPhone is very comfortable to use for Telegram, KZbin and social medias. One my friend uses iPhone SE (35 euros), and he’s happy to own it. The most people don’t believe me, but I’m think you don’t need to pay 800-1000 euros for the phone, that you will use for messengers and youtube

[@simonbernlieger]

Great decision sir! :)

[@dyadya_bleva]

@@simonbernlieger thank you!

[@astrocity891]

im going for lg g8/v 60 soon, for 3.5 jack

[@mandalaurent5870]

I got a nokia x100 5G for like 60$ and honestly it does everything i need. I also have a Huawei p20 pro that i bought for 600$ but it is dead compared to this low end nokia i was so impressed.

[@simonbernlieger]

Interesting choice, glad you like it :)