Introduction
But many of the top smartphones are definitely not inexpensive—some costing more than $1,000 when purchased completely. It isn't possible for many people to pay this much money or more up front for even a mid-range phone.
Fortunately, budget smartphones have improved significantly in recent years, allowing you to still have a fantastic device for a far lower price.
I have tried my best to collect the perfect devices for you. These phones offer essential functions required by many people, but since they are budget options, they may not have all the features that expensive phones offer. However, each phone has a unique feature that sets it apart from the others, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
Before diving into our list, please note that the prices mentioned may vary. You might find discounts from different retailers or on various websites, and prices can differ based on your location. Be sure to check for the best deals available in your area.
1. Google Pixel 8a:
When it came to improving the Pixel 8a over the Pixel 7a, Google accomplished everything correctly. Its several AI features, some of which it shares with the more costly Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models, such as Magic Editor and Best Take, are the main factors significantly giving it a huge software boost.
If that's not enough, its incredible software support raises the benchmarks for all other budget-friendly phones. The Pixel 8a receives key Android updates for seven years, including security updates, whereas other phones receive software updates for barely three years.
In terms of hardware, the Pixel 8a has a 120Hz refresh rate display that is more brighter and more colorful. Because of its larger battery and the Tensor G3 chip's increased power efficiency, it also has a longer battery life. Its camera is still among the best in its class despite the slight improvements.
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Specs:
- Price:
From $399 - Display:
6.1-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate - Processor/Chipset:
Google Tensor G3 - RAM:
8GB - Storage:
128GB (non-expandable) - Camera Setup:
Dual 12.2 MP (wide) + 12 MP (ultrawide) - Battery Capacity:
4385 mAh - Charging Speed:
18W wired - Software Updates:
7 years of Android updates and security patches - Build Quality:
Plastic back, aluminum frame - Connectivity:
5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 - Water Resistance:
IP67 - Additional Features:
AI features, Magic Editor, Best Take
Pros:
- Great camera.
- Clean Android experience.
- Regular updates.
Cons:
- No expandable storage.
- Average battery life.
- Plastic build.
2. OnePlus 12R:
There are a few reasons why you might like the OnePlus 12R over the more feature-rich Pixel 8A intermediate smartphone. With a larger 6.78-inch AMOLED screen and 120 Hz screen resolution, it has an excellent entertainment value despite having fluid interactions with the screen. Thanks to its 5,500 mAh cell capacity, which lasted for over two full days on a single charge with average use, it outperforms the Pixel in terms of battery life. If its battery is low, you may charge it from 100% to 100% in 30 minutes with the provided cord and charging adapter. It's disappointing that wireless charging is not supported.
It can effortlessly run difficult games because it is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the flagship CPU of 2023. The software isn't as intelligent as that of the Pixel, though. In addition to having minimal software and a sleek appearance, OnePlus guarantees three Android OS upgrades and four years of security patches. It may not be seven years old, but at this price, it's still better than most other Android phones.
The 12R takes some short cuts. It's only rated for IP64 water resistance, so if you drop it in the pool, it won't survive the rain. the ultrawide and large scale cameras are not exceptionally valuable, but the main camera is great and can compete with the Pixel 8A's camera. It would be preferable if OnePlus removed those and reduced the cost of the phone.
The OnePlus 12R is an obvious choice if you're not a shutterbug and want a phone with a strong chipset and a battery that lasts more than a day.
Specs:
- Price:
$549
- Display:
6.78-inch AMOLED, 1240 x 2772 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate - Processor/Chipset:
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 - RAM:
12GB - Storage:
256GB (non-expandable) - Camera Setup:
Triple 50 MP (wide) + 12 MP (ultrawide) + 2 MP (macro) - Battery Capacity:
5500 mAh - Charging Speed:
100W wired - Software Updates:
3 years of Android updates, 4 years of security patches - Build Quality:
Plastic back, aluminum frame - Connectivity:
5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 - Water Resistance:
IP64 - Additional Features:
Fast charging, high-refresh-rate display
Pros:
- Fast performance.
- 120Hz AMOLED display.
- Super-fast charging.
Cons:
- Cluttered software.
- Limited availability.
- Decent, not great cameras.
3. Google Pixel 7a:
With many of the same features of the Pixel 7 at a lesser price, Google's Pixel 7A received some interest in the 2023 cheap phone market. It can translate languages and perform advanced image processing comparable to more costly devices., and it runs on Google's Tensor G2 processor. The 64-megapixel camera in the Pixel 7A produces excellent photos that are on level with the Pixel 7's.
Though the Pixel 7 is still an excellent option, for most people the Pixel 7A is a better alternative because of its lower price point.. The primary distinctions between the two are the Pixel 7's slightly faster charging, wireless charging for accessories and more durable design. The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a have larger, more light-sensitive camera sensors, although the change in image quality is hardly noticeable.
Specs:
- Price:
499$
- Display:
6.1-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate - Processor/Chipset:
Google Tensor G2 - RAM:
8GB - Storage:
128GB (non-expandable) - Camera Setup:
Dual 64 MP (wide) + 13 MP (ultrawide) - Battery Capacity:
4385 mAh - Charging Speed:
18W wired - Software Updates:
5 years of Android updates and security patches - Build Quality:
Plastic back, aluminum frame - Connectivity:
5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 - Water Resistance:
IP67 - Additional Features:
Advanced photo editing, AI features
Pros:
- Solid camera.
- Clean software.
- Compact and lightweight.
Cons:
- No microSD slot.
- Battery life is average.
- Not a big upgrade from 6a.
4. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G :
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G has surprisingly powerful specifications. Not much of these features will be visible from the outside, but they are significant—especially the IP67 dust and water resistant certification. You don't have to worry if your phone falls into a puddle or toilet bowl because, in contrast to almost every other phone at this price, the A35 5G has been built for being submerged in water.
Another uninteresting specification is this one: five years of security updates and four years of operating system updates. While the Pixel 8A holds the title for greatest cheap phone with seven years of updates, this one is still far better than most phones , which usually only get two or three years.
The camera is disappointing; it’s OK in bright light but struggles in low and mixed indoor settings. Its Samsung-made Exynos processor sometimes struggles when switching between tasks quickly, and its processing capability isn't the best.
Overall though, the package is appealing, particularly considering the large, eye-catching OLED display and good battery life. The A35 5G has several improvements that, over time, really pay off if you're not sensitive about camera quality and are a light user.
Specs:
- Price:
$399.99
- Display:
6.4-inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels - Processor/Chipset:
Exynos 1280 - RAM:
6GB - Storage:
128GB (expandable via microSD) - Camera Setup:
Triple 48 MP (wide) + 8 MP (ultrawide) + 5 MP (macro) - Battery Capacity:
5000 mAh - Charging Speed:
25W wired - Software Updates:
4 years of Android updates, 5 years of security patches - Build Quality:
Plastic back, plastic frame - Connectivity:
5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1 - Water Resistance:
IP67 - Additional Features:
Large display, durable build
Pros:
- Excellent AMOLED display.
- Long battery life.
- Decent performance.
Cons:
- Average cameras.
- Heavy UI.
- Plastic back.
5. Redmi Note 13 5G :
The Note 13 5G is still the model we recommend for consumers on a budget, even if the Note 13 (4G) is the most affordable phone in the Redmi Note 13 series.
And here, you still receive a lot of value for your money. The phone seems much more high-end because to its fantastic display and luxury design. Along with the 256GB of storage that comes pre-installed, it's good to see extensible storage and that Xiaomi is providing a full four years of security updates.
Although the Redmi Note 13 5G's software, cameras and battery life may all use improvement, its unavailability in the US is the biggest disappointment. It's one of the best inexpensive phones available, despite its flaws.
Specs:
- Price:
$166
- Display:
6.67-inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate - Processor/Chipset:
MediaTek Dimensity 1080 - RAM:
8GB - Storage:
256GB (expandable via microSD) - Camera Setup:
Triple 108 MP (wide) + 8 MP (ultrawide) + 2 MP (macro) - Battery Capacity:
5000 mAh - Charging Speed:
33W wired - Software Updates:
2 years of Android updates, 4 years of security patches - Build Quality:
Plastic back, plastic frame - Connectivity:
5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 - Water Resistance:
No official rating - Additional Features:
Fast charging, large storage
Pros:
- Powerful for the price.
- Large battery with fast charging.
- Feature-packed.
Cons:
- Comes with bloatware.
- Average camera in low light.
- Basic build quality.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 8a, OnePlus 12R, Google Pixel 7a, Samsung Galaxy A35, and Redmi Note 13 all provide great value for your money by achieving a mix between price, performance and design. These choices ensure that you don't have to break the bank for a high-quality smartphone, regardless of whether you prefer the OnePlus and Samsung hardware for reliability or the pure Android experience of the Pixel series. There is a phone in this portfolio that can meet any need, regardless of your preferences for camera quality, battery life or general performance. Make a wise choice by considering your main priorities.
Take your time to evaluate your needs, such as battery life, camera quality or software updates, before making a final decision.
To make things easier, I've divided this article into two parts to ensure you don't feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of information. We covered a number of well-known models in this first section, including the OnePlus 12R and Google Pixel 8a.
Check out Part Two of the article where I have covered five more models, including some fascinating ones like the Samsung Galaxy A15 and iPhone SE.
