Image: Thomas Deehan / Foundry
With a plethora of excellent smartphones on the market, not everyone can afford a flagship device. For those seeking affordable alternatives, we’ve compiled a list of the most commendable budget phones available today.
Numerous manufacturers provide extensive budget phone options, featuring premium materials and impressive specifications once reserved for higher price ranges. Renowned brands like Motorola have consistently produced excellent budget devices, alongside Samsung, Xiaomi, and emerging brands like CMF by Nothing.
All phones highlighted in this article run on Android, as the most affordable Apple device is the £599/$599 iPhone 16e, which exceeds our price limit of £300/$300 (many devices fall well below that).
Below, discover our curated list of the 10 best budget smartphones, endorsed by our tech experts, followed by more insights on purchasing. If you have a slightly larger budget, you may want to explore the top mid-range phones.
October Amazon Prime Day Budget Phone Promotions
- Samsung Galaxy A17 5G – £179 (£20 discount)
- Xiaomi Redmi 15 – £129 (19% discount)
- Motorola Moto G35 – £99 (£50 discount)
- Honor X6c – £89.99 (31% discount)
- Nokia G22 – £87.88 (24% discount)
This year’s Amazon Prime Big Deal Days (a.k.a. October Prime Day) is scheduled for October 7-8, and we will keep you updated with the latest budget phone deals. However, some incredible discounts are already available without requiring Prime Membership.
Reviews of the Best Affordable Phones
1. CMF Phone 2 Pro – Our Top Pick
Pros
- Enhanced camera capabilities
- Brighter, more vibrant display
- NFC payment support included
- Highly affordable
Cons
- Only IP54 rated for water resistance
- Essential Space may incur future costs
- Software support not as extensive as competitors
Price At Review:
$279
Best Prices Today:
The CMF Phone 2 Pro enhances everything we loved about its predecessor. It sports a striking design with modular accessories and features Nothing’s sleek and clean software.
This latest version boasts significant upgrades, including a triple-camera configuration with a larger main sensor, a superior display, increased IP54 water resistance, and improved processing power.
Addressing the original model’s primary shortcomings, this iteration introduces NFC for contactless payments and extends software support to three years of Android OS updates alongside six years of security patches. The revamped rear panels present an elevated premium appearance, though they cannot be swapped, so choose wisely.
The original model was already a favorite; these enhancements make it even more appealing at just £219. In the US, however, the $279 pricing through the Beta Program may deter some due to possible compatibility issues with U.S. carriers, lack of customer support, and accessory limitations.
Inquire about the CMF Phone 1 for potential good deals available from various retailers.
Ideal for:
Style enthusiasts looking for a smartphone with modular features.
CMF Phone 2 Pro: Additional Insights
Samsung currently eclipses Nothing in terms of extended software support.
Find our detailed
CMF Phone 2 Pro review
2. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G – Best Samsung Device
Pros
- Attractive and sleek design
- Dynamic AMOLED display
- Long-term software update assurance
Cons
- Performance is limited
- Reduced battery life compared to predecessors
- Inferior secondary camera setup
Best Prices Today:
$199.99
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G provides another excellent affordable smartphone option from Samsung, presenting a refined design and vibrant AMOLED screen at an attractive price.
Samsung’s aesthetic appeal often outshines numerous competitors in the same price segment, alongside the advantage of lengthy software support, with up to six years of updates promised, unlike many budget smartphones that either offer two or none.
However, performance appears stagnant when comparing it to the Galaxy A15 5G, and the camera quality remains unremarkable. Moreover, battery performance is somewhat diminished during prolonged use.
In summary, while the Galaxy A16 5G remains a commendable budget smartphone, it’s wise to shop around, especially considering the Galaxy A15 5G which may be available at a reduced cost.
Ideal for:
Those seeking long-term software support and an appealing design.
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G: Additional Considerations
In terms of overall value, the A16 cannot compete with the CMF Phone 2 Pro if you are open to using a different software interface.
Find our detailed
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G review
3. OnePlus Nord CE 5 – Great for AI Features
Pros
- Attractive design and solid build quality
- Smooth and enjoyable user experience
- Rapid charging capabilities
Cons
- Subpar loudspeaker and haptic feedback
- Competitors offer better value for performance
- Camera performance is lacking in low-light conditions
Price At Review:
Unavailable in the US
Best Prices Today:
£299
OnePlus continues to elevate the standard of budget phones, and the Nord CE 5 is no exception. This device feels surprisingly premium for its price point.
Though its design is relatively understated, the Nord CE 5 possesses a confident aesthetic, complemented by an all-black polycarbonate frame and composite rear that may easily pass for a more costly handset. The inclusion of IP65 data and water resistance is a significant plus.
The vibrant 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate excels in outdoor usage and provides an excellent viewing experience for entertainment. Performance remains strong thanks to the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex chipset, effectively handling demanding titles like Call of Duty Mobile.
The substantial 5200mAh battery can comfortably last through an entire day, with 80W wired fast charging enabling complete recharges in about 50 minutes.
Ideal for:
Consumers seeking a budget device that resembles a premium smartphone.
OnePlus Nord CE 5: Additional Insights
The lackluster loudspeaker diminishes its effectiveness for media consumption.
Find our detailed
OnePlus Nord CE 5 review
4. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G – Exceptional Camera Performance
Pros
- Outstanding display quality
- Prolonged software updates available
- Impressive battery performance
- Strong camera results
Cons
- Durability issues
- Only 128GB of storage available
- Polarizing rear design style
Price At Review:
$299.99
Considering how impressive the Galaxy A15 5G is, the A25 5G offers compelling reasons to choose it while remaining under £250/$250. With an upgrade to the Exynos 1280 processor, performance sees a boost, accompanied by a brighter 120Hz display. It adds an 8MP ultrawide lens and stereo speakers to the package as well.
Its exceptional battery lifespan and quality main and selfie cameras, along with a promise for five years of software updates, make it a strong competitor.
However, the constraints in storage options and an aesthetically divisive design are the main drawbacks. If another option on this list appeals to you more, consider those as alternatives.
Despite the launch of the newer Samsung Galaxy A35 5G, which carries a higher price, the A25 remains a more valuable option for its price.
Ideal for:
Individuals desiring a well-rounded smartphone experience.
Samsung Galaxy A25: Additional Insights
Due to its fragility, consider alternatives if you commonly drop your devices.
Find our detailed
Samsung Galaxy A25 5G review
5. Motorola Moto G85 5G – Best Display Quality
Pros
- Stunning curved-edge pOLED screen
- Lightweight and slim design
- Reliable battery capacity
- Fast charge capability
Cons
- Camera quality below expectations
- Moderate software support timeframe
- Performance lags compared to similarly priced devices
Best Prices Today:
The Motorola Moto G85 5G challenges the quality expectations typically associated with budget devices, showcasing a beautiful rear design, especially in Cobalt Blue.
Equally impressive is the stunning 6.67-inch 120Hz pOLED display, perfect for a multitude of activities from social media scrolling to streaming your favorite shows.
Capable performance from the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chip is adequate for daily tasks, but gaming may prove challenging due to limitations. Motorola’s simplified Android version makes for a seamless and user-friendly interface.
With a strong 5000mAh battery, some users may experience up to a day and a half of usage, complemented by 30W charging, which can replenish battery life to 50% within 30 minutes. While not ideal for photography, it excels in other areas which make it a top contender.
Ideal for:
Users who prioritize a quality display in a budget-friendly smartphone.
Motorola Moto G85 5G: Additional Insights
Camera capabilities don’t quite match its impressive display or design aesthetics.
Find our detailed
Motorola Moto G85 5G review
6. Motorola Moto G04 – Best Under £100
Pros
- Outstanding value for money
- Fantastic battery longevity
- Acceptable performance for basic tasks
- Meets fundamental smartphone needs effectively
Cons
- Lacks water resistance
- Absence of 5G connectivity
- Limited display brightness
- Not available in the US market
Best Prices Today:
Can you find a quality smartphone under £100? Certainly, and the Motorola Moto G04 is proof of that.
Available in the UK for just £89.99 (it’s not for the US market), it competently meets all the basic needs typically expected in a smartphone. Performance is good for everyday tasks, and the display offers a satisfactory viewing experience, albeit with some brightness limitations.
Battery life shines, often lasting two full days under typical use, and the Motorola interface remains familiar, though it only promises two years of security updates.
The absence of 5G capability and a certified water resistance rating, alongside cameras that don’t impress, can be overlooked considering the low price point. The Moto G04 continues to showcase extraordinary value.
As newer models like the Moto G05 appear, the G04 may be available at an even lower cost, making it an exceptional opportunity.
Ideal for:
Budget-conscious consumers in need of basic smartphone functionality.
Motorola Moto G04: Additional Insights
Lack of 5G may impact its long-term viability in a rapidly evolving market.
Check out our full
Motorola Moto G04 review
7. Samsung Galaxy A15 (4G) – Affordable With Extended Support
Pros
- Attractive screen quality
- Excellent battery lifespan
- Good overall performance
- Promises long software support
Cons
- Average camera capabilities
- Lacks waterproofing features
- Slow charging speed
- Not accessible in the US
Price At Review:
Unavailable in the US
While the A15 5G may offer greater value, the 4G variant is still commendable due to its significant software longevity.
You trade off some performance and 5G connectivity, yet retain the appealing features of the A15 5G, such as its lovely display, impressive battery life, and durability in software support.
This model caters to users who primarily require basic smartphone functionalities without the need for high performance or 5G availability.
Ideal for:
Individuals who prioritize long-term software support in an affordable device.
Samsung Galaxy A15 (4G): Additional Insights
For a slightly higher budget, we recommend the Galaxy A16 for enhanced longevity.
Find our detailed
Samsung Galaxy A15 (4G) review
8. Motorola Moto G56 – Best Battery Performance
Pros
- Elegant design and polished finish
- Exceptional battery longevity
- Uncluttered software experience
Cons
- Only two years of Android updates provided
- Some performance lag present
- No 4K video recording capability
Price At Review:
Unavailable in the US
Best Prices Today:
$275
The Moto G56 stands as a prime choice for users seeking outstanding battery life. Even under heavy usage, it typically retains 40-50% battery by day’s end, making it a robust two-day smartphone.
Encased in a well-recognized design, it stands out with a range of colors, eliminating the need for a case. Despite its plastic composition, it boasts an IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, incorporating both a headphone jack and a microSD card slot.
With a generous screen size, dependable primary camera, and efficient wired charging, there are few complaints at this pricing tier.
Limited software support may be problematic for some, and performance can lag for demanding users. Still, the Moto G56 5G is celebrated as a compelling budget-friendly all-rounder.
Ideal for:
Those seeking longevity in battery life along with solid performance across multiple features.
Motorola Moto G56 5G: Additional Insights
For enhanced software support and superior performance, consider higher-tier options.
Find our detailed
Motorola Moto G56 5G review
9. TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper – Tailored for Avid Readers
Pros
- High-quality display technology
- Notable E-Ink display modes for reading
- Exceptional battery lifespan
- Pleasing overall specifications
Cons
- Camera performance is rather weak
- Average speaker sound quality
- Excessive pre-installed applications
Price At Review:
Unavailable in the US
Best Prices Today:
The TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper distinguishes itself as a distinctive smartphone.
Alongside a standard color display, it offers an E-Ink style mode that enhances readability and is gentler on the eyes, though not a substitute for dedicated eReaders.
It still delivers satisfactory colors for multimedia analysis while boasting remarkable battery longevity, regardless of the display mode selected.
However, performance in camera quality and speaker sound falls short of expectations, coupled with lingering bloatware that impacts overall user experience.
If you frequently read on your phone and seek an economical option, the TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper might be the perfect fit.
Ideal for:
Dedicated readers enjoying quick access to Kindle or similar applications.
TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper: Additional Insights
Camera performance does not compare well to many other budget devices on this list.
Find our detailed
TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper review
10. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – Superior Hardware Quality
Pros
- Crisp 6.67-inch display with 120Hz refresh capability
- Good battery performance with swift charging
- Lightweight yet sturdy design
- Capable primary camera
Cons
- Less impressive secondary cameras
- Software interface may not appeal to everyone
- Priced at the upper spectrum
Price At Review:
Unavailable in the US
Best Prices Today:
For those satisfied with their Note 13 Pro, upgrading isn’t necessary, yet the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G stands among the finest budget choices for users focused on hardware specifications in this price category.
The display is impressively sharp for the price, along with excellent battery and charging capabilities. The main camera performs reliably, while overall performance is solid.
Consider the typical downsides of budget phones, particularly regarding secondary cameras and the software experience, which lags behind many competitors, but it’s still worth your consideration.
Ideal for:
Those in need of a durable battery for extensive daily use.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G: Additional Insights
For superior value, explore options from CMF or Motorola.
Find our detailed
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G review
Other Tested Budget Phones
The devices featured in this article represent only a small selection of our extensive budget phone reviews. While affordable options do exist beyond those highlighted, the phones listed here are among the best to consider for your needs.
For instance, the Nokia G42 5G is an excellent choice for individuals emphasizing repairability as a priority. Meanwhile, the Poco M7 Pro (shown below) nearly made the top ten but offers a competitive price of £199, which attracts its own audience.
For those whose budget allows up to £700/$700, consider our suggestions for the best mid-range smartphones. There are also many options available for those willing to exceed the £300/$300 limit.
Sean Cameron/ Foundry
Keep in mind the exceptional Nothing Phone (3a), priced at £329, is just beyond our recommended budget. For a small premium, you will receive cutting-edge design, outstanding software experience, and impressive battery life.
The Poco X7 Pro also presents a viable option at £309, boasting a design that may appeal to many users. Don’t forget to check our latest phone reviews for further recommendations.
Budget Phone News That May Impact Your Purchase
Currently, there are no significant industry updates that would influence your budget shopping decisions, though it’s worth noting that certain brands are notably absent from this list.
Neither Apple nor Google offers devices within the sub-£300 price range, as their cheapest models are the £599/$599 iPhone 16e and the £499/$499 Pixel 9a, respectively.
This means if your preference leans toward iOS or a stock Android, you’ll need to increase your budget for either mid-range or more premium devices, or consider older models that are discounted.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
On the horizon, it’s unlikely the lineup of best budget smartphones will change significantly throughout 2025 since most brands have already launched their essential budget models for the year. Hence, major upgrades like the CMF Phone 3 or Moto G86 likely won’t appear until 2026.
The exception is the recently launched Samsung Galaxy A17, which we are trying to secure for a thorough review. We’re also proving to get the Xiaomi Redmi 15, which could stand out with its battery performance.
Can I Find Better Deals on Budget Phones?
Thanks to our automated price checks for the deals widgets displayed with each phone, you’ll discover the top prices available at any time. However, to maximize your savings, keep an eye out for the significant sales during the year.
Prime Day July 2025 has passed, but another opportunity awaits in October, with various budget phone deals expected to drop during this period. Note that an Amazon Prime account may be necessary for deals, but if you can wait for November, Black Friday offers even broader choices without the limits of Prime membership.
During Black Friday, numerous retailers will compete head-to-head to provide the best offers, including Currys, John Lewis, and AO in the UK or Best Buy and Walmart in the US. They continually reduce prices in pursuit of customer attention.
For immediate savings, consider checking out the best refurbished phone deals. These options are generally more affordable than new devices and contribute to reducing electronic waste.
Our Phone Testing Approach
We evaluate phones based on real-world usage, utilizing our SIM card to test the device continuously for over a week, often longer. This approach helps us understand the user experience, encompassing everything from camera quality to battery performance. We complement firsthand experiences with conventional benchmarks for comparative scoring.
Discover more about our smartphone testing methodology.
Why Trust Tech Advisor for Phone Insights
Smartphones have formed a cornerstone of Tech Advisor’s coverage since the debut of the iPhone in 2007 and Android’s rise in 2008. We have provided guidance amid the rapid evolution of mobile phones, including the 5G rollout and transitions across brands like Blackberry and LG. Our team actively reviews new phones weekly and assesses almost every new model available. Our expertise, accumulated over decades, defines our insights.
Article Curation Team:
Chris Martin serves as the Managing Editor at Tech Advisor and has been a senior team member for over a decade after spending time as a reporter at The Inquirer. With extensive experience, he has reviewed countless phones and recognized significant trends in the smartphone industry.
How to Select Your Ideal Budget Phone
Shopping for a budget phone in 2025 comes with different expectations compared to purchasing from higher-end markets. Although some affordable devices boast high-end features, they typically compromise on others. Decide what features are paramount before making a purchase.
For example, impressive displays are found in models like the Moto G85 or Redmi Note 14 Pro, but optimal battery life or software experience may come at a cost. Weigh the trade-offs based on your needs. If you’re unwilling to accept these compromises, consider saving for a mid-range device.
Some devices may offer superior camera features or specifications typical in high-end options, such as waterproofing or dust resistance. Remember that finding a budget phone capable of excelling across all categories is unlikely.
Samsung
Consider the long-term software and security support for the smartphone you intend to buy. Unlike premium devices, budget options may not receive more than two years of updates, leading to potential complications in the longer term.
Brands like Samsung and Nothing excel in providing reliable software support for their budget devices, making them appealing if you’re purchasing for a child or elderly relative who may not upgrade their phone for some time.
When purchasing contracts, we advise acquiring smartphones outright as a SIM-free option and pairing it with one of the best SIM-only deals. This method not only proves more economical over time, avoiding potential mid-contract price increases, but typically yields better data options as separately sold SIMs often provide more benefits.
Practical Advice for Buying Budget Phones
1.
Should You Purchase a Budget Phone Outright?
Our findings show that the most effective way to secure a budget phone is to buy it SIM-free, coupled with a great-value SIM plan. This ensures you avoid inflated monthly costs for the next two years and allows for device upgrades at any point without significant financial repercussions.
2.
Is it Best to Buy a Locked Phone?
Many lucrative deals on budget smartphones might involve mobile carriers. Just be aware if a phone comes locked to a specific network.
Post-December 2021, UK regulations mandate that all phones must be sold unlocked, but in the US or with import devices, they may be carrier-locked.
Locked devices restrict SIM card changes, necessitating a call to the carrier for unlocking, often incurring fees.
3.
Which Phone is Best for a Child?
Children typically wish to select their phones upon reaching young adulthood, but for younger kids, you might prefer to choose on their behalf.
Look for an ultra-affordable entry-level device; thus, you’ve come to the right section. The phone should feature a sufficiently large screen, long battery life, and be durable to withstand use, so avoiding devices with glass panels might be wise.
Ensuring good call quality is crucial, often overlooked in contemporary devices, as it will likely be your primary means of communication with your child.
4.
What’s the Best Phone for Students?
Choosing a budget device for students is ideal, as they often fall within the price limits of many options listed here.
Each option should reflect preference for an almost-stock Android experience (common in Google’s Pixel, plus Nokia and Motorola models), or the willingness to accept heavier customizations offered by manufacturers like Samsung or Xiaomi.
Additionally, understanding the top features to you is essential, as budget options will typically excel in one area while cutting corners in others.
5.
What Should You Expect for Your Money?
Buying a budget smartphone will inherently involve compromises, as manufacturers cut costs on specs to achieve a lower price point.
Historically, budget phones were easily recognized by low-resolution screens, limited storage, and bulky designs. Contemporary offerings have improved significantly, allowing for slim designs, adequate displays, and decent cameras for under £250/$250.
Most devices will support 4G, and some may feature 5G, though options like NFC or wireless charging might be absent unless explicitly mentioned.
