A decent smartphone used to cost upwards of $500, but those days are thankfully over. Now it’s possible to find something that meets most of your needs for as little as $160. However, navigating the budget phone market can be tricky. Many options that look good on paper often aren’t great in use, and some handsets will end up costing you more when you consider many come with restrictive storage. This guide will help you find a bargain and highlight our top picks for the best cheap phones you can buy right now.
When looking for a cheap phone, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, you should determine your budget. In this guide, our recommendations cost between $100 and $300. Spending as much as you can afford will generally result in a better product. Second, consider what features are most important to you. Budget devices often involve compromises, so knowing your priorities will make it easier to find the right phone. Lastly, keep in mind that some features, such as all-day battery life and a great camera, may be hard to find in this price range. Additionally, if you prefer iOS, you may need to increase your budget as the most affordable iPhone starts at $400.
In terms of software support, it’s worth noting that most Android manufacturers typically offer less robust support for their budget devices. Some phones may only receive one major Android update and a year or two of security patches. However, Samsung stands out with their four-year software policy, offering extended support for all of their devices.
Now let’s explore our top picks for the best cheap phones you can buy right now.
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The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is our top recommendation. Priced at $300, it offers an excellent mix of features and performance. With its Snapdragon 695 5G processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, it provides great speed and ample storage. The 120Hz IPS display is perfect for gaming and everyday use. It also comes with a 50W power adapter, allowing for a full day of battery life in just 30 minutes. The only downsides are the lack of waterproofing and limited software updates.
The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is another great option. Priced at $200, it may not have the most inspiring design, but it offers surprising speed and a competent camera. It also features NFC connectivity for contactless payments, a rare find in this price range. Battery life is excellent, lasting up to two days with moderate use. Samsung has a strong software policy, promising two major Android updates and four years of security patches. The only drawback is the lack of waterproofing.
If you’re looking for an ultra-budget option, the Samsung Galaxy A03s is the best choice. Priced at $160, it performs better than expected with its MediaTek Helio P35 processor. However, the phone feels cheap and the camera leaves much to be desired. It also only comes with 32GB of internal storage, so you may need to purchase a microSD card. On the bright side, Samsung provides four years of security updates for the A03s, which is unmatched in this price category.
An honorable mention goes to the Motorola Moto G Stylus. Priced at $200, it offers a unique feature with its built-in stylus, perfect for doodling and note-taking. It also has a large 6.5-inch display and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery. However, like other options in this price range, the camera, fast charger, and water protection are lacking. It’s important to note that the Moto G Stylus 5G is not recommended as it doesn’t offer enough upgrades to justify its higher price of $400.
In conclusion, finding a cheap phone that meets your needs can be challenging, but with careful consideration of your budget and priorities, you can find a great bargain. Our top picks, including the OnePlus Nord N30 5G, Samsung Galaxy A14 5G, Samsung Galaxy A03s, and Motorola Moto G Stylus, offer a range of features at affordable prices.
