YUP !!! You can get a branded G2 for under $300 easily. Branded as in Tmobile, ATT, etc....instead of an international. I only say this because if you're on Tmobile you get WIFI calling on a branded Tmobile phone.
Everytime I see a nice midrange phone for a decent price like the Zen2, Idol3, Hauwei P8 lite, etc.....I asked myself is it better than a G2 ?? And the answer in NO every time.
These midrange phones comes with a SD615 soc vs the G2 SD800 so is the SD615 better ??? NO. The G2 comes with all day battery, 5.2" in a compact body, loves the double tap, IR remote. There is still not a single bad thing about the G2 after 2 yrs. I'd still go with the G2 hands down.