## The Best Budget Smartphones of 2025: Great Tech Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
For many of us, a smartphone is a tool, a means to an end. We need it to stay connected, get work done, and navigate the world, but we don’t necessarily want to spend a fortune on the latest and greatest flagship model. Thankfully, the world of budget smartphones has evolved, offering more capability and features than ever before without emptying your wallet.
These phones typically fall in the $500 or under range, offering a sweet spot between affordability and performance. You might miss out on some of the cutting-edge bells and whistles, but you’ll gain significant savings that can be put towards, well, anything else you fancy.
**(Image: The Verge)**
### What to Look For in a Budget Smartphone
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s important to know what to prioritize when shopping for a budget-friendly phone. Here are some key features to consider:
* **Strong Software Support:** Aim for at least two years of OS upgrades and, ideally, three years of security updates. A phone that stops receiving security patches after a short period becomes a liability.
* **A Good Screen:** The screen is arguably the most important part of a phone, as you’ll be staring at it constantly. While faster refresh rates are nice, prioritize a vibrant OLED display with at least a 1080p resolution for a crisp and enjoyable viewing experience.
* **Serviceable Storage Space:** Aim for at least 128GB of built-in storage to accommodate system files, apps, photos, and videos.
* **One Good Rear Camera:** Don’t be fooled by phones with multiple mediocre cameras. Focus on a single, reliable rear camera that performs well in good lighting and offers a usable night mode for low-light situations. Skip the extra macro and depth sensors, as they rarely add significant value.
### Compromises to Expect
Budget phones inevitably involve some compromises. Expect slower processors, less storage, and lower-quality cameras compared to flagship models. Water resistance might also be less robust, and screen resolutions could be lower.
### The Top Budget Smartphone Picks for 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the best budget smartphones available, catering to different needs and preferences:
**1. The Best Cheap iPhone: iPhone 16E**
* **Key Specs:** 6.1-inch 1170p OLED, A18 Processor, 48MP Main Camera, IP68 Water Resistance
The iPhone 16E is the most affordable new iPhone, offering the core iPhone experience at a lower price point. It lacks features like an ultrawide camera and MagSafe, but it does come with the latest A18 processor and access to future Apple Intelligence features. While it might not be the absolute best value for money (consider a refurbished iPhone 14), it’s the cheapest entry into the new iPhone ecosystem.
**2. The Best Android Phone Under $500: Google Pixel 9A**
* **Key Specs:** 6.3-inch 1080p 120Hz OLED, Tensor G4 Processor, 48MP Main Camera, IP68 Water Resistance
The Pixel A-series has consistently been a top recommendation for budget Android phones, and the Pixel 9A continues that trend. At $499, it offers reliable performance thanks to the Tensor G4 chipset, a brighter and larger OLED display, and IP68 water resistance. The camera is adequate for everyday use, though it might struggle in low-light scenarios compared to higher-end Pixel models.
**3. The Budget Phone with a Big, Beautiful Screen: OnePlus 13R**
* **Key Specs:** 6.78-inch 1264 x 2780 120Hz OLED, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Processor, 50MP Main Camera, 6,000mAh Battery, IP65 Water Resistance
The OnePlus 13R stands out with its impressive large screen and exceptional battery life. While slightly pricier than the Pixel 9A, it offers a premium visual experience and can easily last two days on a single charge. It lacks wireless charging and full water resistance, but for users prioritizing screen size and battery, it’s a compelling option.
**4. The Best Phone Under $400: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G**
* **Key Specs:** 6.6-inch 1080p 120Hz OLED, Exynos 1380 Processor, 50MP Main Camera, 5,000mAh Battery, IP67 Water Resistance
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G impresses with its strong specs at an affordable price. Its IP67 rating for dust and water resistance is a standout feature in this price range. The A35 5G also offers long-term software support with four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. While the camera performance and processing power might not be top-tier, it’s a well-rounded package for light users who value durability and longevity.
### Other Budget Phones Tested
* **2024 Motorola Moto G Power:** While boasting a vegan leather exterior and wireless charging, it’s ultimately disqualified due to excessive bloatware.
* **Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:** A capable phone but priced slightly outside the scope of this guide. Consider the Pixel 8A or a newer Galaxy S25 with a trade-in promotion instead.
### Final Thoughts
Choosing the best budget smartphone involves understanding your priorities and making informed compromises. Whether you value a seamless iOS experience, a versatile Android phone with reliable software, a massive screen for immersive viewing, or a durable and affordable device with long-term support, there’s a budget smartphone out there to meet your needs. Don’t be afraid to explore your options and find the perfect phone that fits your lifestyle and your budget.