Samsung galaxy J7

Affordable. Solid performance. Latest Android software. Rich, bright display. Dual-band Wi-Fi and NFC. Replaceable battery and expandable storage.

CONS

Mixed camera performance. Subpar call quality. Some bloatware.

BOTTOM LINE

Boost Mobile has plenty of affordable smartphones to choose from, but the $229.99 Samsung Galaxy J7 is one of the better phablets of the bunch. Think of it as a bigger, more powerful version of the entry-level Galaxy J3, boasting the latest Android software, a good processor, and an attractive display. It also comes with some relatively rare features for a midrange phone, like dual-band Wi-Fi and NFC for mobile payments. It's a solid option for if you're looking for a capable phablet that won't break the bank.

Design, Features, and Display
Measuring in at 6.0 by 3.1 by 0.3 inches (HWD) and 6.0 ounces, the J7$209.00 at Amazon is basically a bigger version of the J3$79.99 at Best Buy (5.6 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches, 4.9 ounces), which in turn resembles the Galaxy S4$199.88 at Amazon. The phone has Samsung's standard design language, including two capacitive controls and a physical home button on the front, a band of faux-chrome plastic along the sides, and a back made of sturdy white polycarbonate.

The J7 is about the same size as the stylus-equipped LG Stylo 2$89.97 at Amazon (6.1 by 3.1 by 0.3 inches, 5.1 ounces), though nearly an ounce heavier. It's a bit of a stretch to use one-handed, but the relatively slim build make it easy to grasp and slip in your pocket.