Which budget phone? Asus Zenfone 2, Alcatel Idol 3, ZTE Axon

[TelecasterM]

Looking at a sub $300 phone to move from my 2013 Moto X. Would love a Nexus 5X, but $450 is getting high.

Asus Zenfone 2 4GB RAM, 64GB, Intel SOC $299'
Asus Zenfone 2 Laser, 3GB RAM, SD615, 32GB $249, 16 GB $199
Alcatel Idol3. 2GB RAM, SD615, 16GB $249
Zte Axon, SD801, 2GB RAM, 32GB $329

 

[Javier P]

What are your preferences spec wise? Size, camera, battery, SD card... Depending on this I'd include the Moto G 2gb and even the X Play.

 

[SactoKingsFan]

I went with the idol 3 over the zenfone 2 for the very good front facing speakers, much brighter screen and near stock Android.

 

[Wolfzen]

I have the Idol 3 and it's a pretty stable phone all in all. Great display, pretty decent pictures and two great front facing speakers. For day to day use and some casual gaming, the Idol 3 is better.
But if you were to consider more heavy and graphic intensive things, you would probably be better off with the Zenfone 2's 4GB of RAM.

 

[TelecasterM]

I am concerned the Dragontrail glass is not as good as Gorilla glass.

 

[SactoKingsFan]

I am concerned the Dragontrail glass is not as good as Gorilla glass.

Both will shatter if dropped the right way on hard surface. Idol 3 should be fine with tempered glass screen protector.

 

[rap1]

I"m looking for something in this range for my daughter. Priorities: 32 or 64 GB storage, Sim card slot (esp if 32gb), Good battery life, decently good camera. She does take a lot of selfies and indoor photos because of a ministry she works in. Also must do group messaging without a problem. Will be using a case. Would be using it on a tmobile or at&t MVNO most likely. Any advice for which best fits needs.

 

[TelecasterM]

I'm kind of leaning towards whoever gets Android 6.0 first: Asus or Alcatel.