If you’re looking for an affordable entry-level Android device or even a backup phone should your current one take a tumble it can’t recover from, then you’re in luck. The already consumer-friendly Moto G from Motorola is available for under $100 with no contract commitments if you know where to look.
Sears is currently selling the first generation model of the handset, attached to the contract-free carrier Consumer Cellular, for $99. It’s a good deal for AARP members, seeing as Consumer Cellular is the exclusive wireless provider of AARP and additional discounts may apply. But there’s value here under the surface for those less aged. The phone can be unlocked and used for any GSM network — namely AT&T and T-Mobile.
You should note that the first generation Moto G, while extremely capable of being a serviceable handset, does not currently support 4G. It’s still a solid offering for anyone looking to get the full functionality of a smartphone without having to fork over the big fees that are typical with it. The model on sale features a Snapdragon 400 Quad-core 1.2GHz processor, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage and a 4.5-inch display with 1,280 x 720 pixel resolution. It runs Android 4.4.2.
This offer from Sears places the Moto G below the price it’s offered by most carriers, and with a quick unlock it’s open for your own use.