It doesn’t matter how you slice the issue, flagship phones are still prohibitive for many, especially when they cost $1,500 and more. There are reliable, affordable alternatives available. Gone are the days of Android phones that don’t work at all.
As smartphones become more mainstream, many manufacturers, including those from China and Korea have appealing products. With all three companies introducing models that support 5G mobile connectivity, we now see Apple, Samsung, and Google offering more affordable options. Google, in particular, is determined to bring its advanced camera software technology into mid-range phones.
Over the last couple of years, camera performance has been a key difference between flagships phones and mid-range smartphones. However, even today’s budget phones can take decent photos for sharing with friends and family or to post on social media. Let’s take an in-depth look at the top smartphones for your budget.
You can find more tips on buying a phone and our recommendations for phones here.
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
Best cheap phone overall
CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 665
Samsung has a variety of A Series smartphones that are worth looking at, with the A32 5G being the most affordable in the US. You can get an Android phone with 5G connectivity, 4GB RAM and a 5,000 mAh battery for less than $200.
A high refresh rate display is also found at 90Hz. If you have used any higher than 60Hz, it will be difficult to return to 90Hz. You will also find NFC and fast charging as well as quad rear cameras that are very capable.
Although the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G comes in Awesome Black only, it’s not impossible to get one at this price.
Pros:
- Low price
- High refresh rate and a capable display
- NFC
- Battery with large capacity
Cons:
- RAM and internal storage are limited
- Reported WiFi connectivity problems
Google Pixel 5A
Best cheap Google phone
Display: 6.34 inches (2400 x 1080-pixel resolution) | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G | RAM: 6GB | Internal storage: 128GB storage | Rear cameras: 12.2MP rear f/2.0 camera | Front camera: 8MP f/2.0 camera | Weight: 143g | Battery capacity: 4620mAh
The Pixel 4A 5G was released last year by Google for $499. It is one of the most affordable 5G smartphones. Google replaced the 4A 5G with the Pixel 5A, which is $50 cheaper than the 4A 5G. This makes the 4A obsolete. You can often find special deals on the Pixel 5A, with the phone starting at $399 or lower. Keep an eye out for these deals.
The Pixel 5A is a budget-friendly Pixel phone that features Google’s amazing camera software. The 5A has a 3.5mm headset jack, stereo speakers and an aluminum body with IP67 water/dust resistance. It also comes with at least three years worth of OS and security upgrades.
This phone is only available in black, either unlocked or with Google Fi service.
Pros:
- Google’s quality camera algorithms
- Affordable price
- Support for 5G
- Software updates that are timely and guaranteeable for many years
Cons:
- One rear camera
- Support for mmWave 5G is not available
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)
Best cheap iPhone
CPU: Apple A15
Apple’s 2016 iPhone SE was a small phone that satisfied many people who were looking for one. Apple introduced the 2016 iPhone SE in a smaller form factor, and it continued the legacy of the Touch ID front fingerprint scanner. The 2022 iPhone SE (3rd Generation), is now available at a very reasonable starting price of $429 and comes in three colors – Midnight Starlight, Starlight, or PRODUCT Red.
Full Review: Apple iPhone SE (2022),: Faster than iPhone 13 Pro Max but half the price
This model now supports Sub-6 5G (mmWave not supported). It also features a new Apple processor, the same traditional size display, front Touch ID fingerprint sensor and one rear camera. With the same hardware, the processor delivers improved performance, longer battery life and better photography results.
The iPhone SE is essentially the iPhone 8 but with updated internals to match modern iPhone 13 models. This is the iPhone for you if you are looking for a smaller, more affordable iPhone. Touch ID is still popular, especially if you use a mask.
Pros:
- It’s an iPhone…for $429
- Solid battery life
- Software support is excellent
- Small phone
- IP67 water/dust resistant
Cons:
- Big bezels
- Small display