If there’s one mobile trend in the past decade that I’ll proudly stand by, it’s the fact that cheap phones are getting good. Really good. In today’s market, buying a phone that costs a fraction of the latest flagship iPhone or Samsung Galaxy doesn’t mean settling for a noticeably inferior experience. Instead, manufacturers have begun to bring core features such as wireless charging, 5G, and high-performance processors downmarket, making the more accessible tier of handsets just as worthy of your consideration.
Also: The best phones of 2024
What is the best cheap phone right now?
My pick for the best cheap phone overall goes to the CMF Phone 1. Available for around $200, the CMF Phone 1 is the embodiment of a great-value handset, with a large 6.67-inch AMOLED display that gets plenty bright, a beefy 5,000mAh battery, clean yet highly-customizable software, and unique features that give it character.
For a more premium experience that won’t break the bank, consider the OnePlus 12R<!–>, which beats out the likes of the Google Pixel 8a–> in terms of display quality, brightness, battery life, performance, and charging. Considering many people shopping in the low-to-mid-range market value such features the most, the OnePlus 12R is the better option of the two mid-rangers.
For more cheap phone recommendations, look to our tested selections below.
Best cheap phones of 2024
CMF Phone 1 by Nothing
Best cheap phone overall
The best cheap phone you can buy today is the CMF Phone 1. Starting at $239, the Phone 1 has several features going for it that put it above devices that cost hundreds of dollars more, such as the ability to manually replace the back cover, screw in accessories (including a kickstand, wallet slot, and more), and insert a MicroSD card for expanded storage.
Review: CMF Phone 1
You would think that a $200 phone would settle on essential specs like display quality, battery life, and software, but those exact three aspects score high marks for the Phone 1. The 2,000-nit display gets bright enough to use comfortably outdoors, the 5,000mAh battery will hold up for most users, and Nothing’s interpretation of Android is thoughtful, short on bloatware, and full of unique widgets.
Of course, you’ll have to settle with something when you’re paying around $200 for a phone. In the case of the Phone 1, that comes in the form of a Dimensity 7300 5G processor that’s just good enough for browsing and social media but less so for extended gaming, a camera system that’s not as capable in low light environments, and a lack of network band support that makes the phone unusable if you’re on Verizon.
CMF Phone 1 by Nothing tech specs: Display size: 6.67 inches | Display type: AMOLED | Resolution: 2780 x 1264 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life: 5,500mAh | RAM: Up to 16GB | Storage: Up to 256GB | Rear camera: 50MP Sony IMX890 main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro | Front camera: 16MP | Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
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OnePlus 12R
Best cheap phone under $500
While the Google Pixel A-series has always been the budget king, the OnePlus 12R tips the scales this year, and in a big way. OnePlus launched the device alongside the flagship OnePlus 12 in February, ultimately making the mid-range phone look more attractive due to its feature parity with the more expensive model. Features like an LTPO 4.0 display that could ramp up to 4,500 nits of brightness, a 5,500mAh battery (which is even larger than the OnePlus 12’s 5,000mAh), and 80W SuperVOOC charging made the OnePlus 12R look like a steal at $499.
Review: OnePlus 12R
How did OnePlus get the price so low? Using an older processor, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, was one way, but it turned out to be just as competent for most mobile use cases, as ZDNET’s Matthew Miller discovered when he reviewed the phone. “I used the review device for a month and could easily see myself daily driving it since it performs flawlessly, has an IP64 dust/water resistance rating, and has an exceptionally bright display,” Miller noted.
While the 50MP camera system doesn’t capture photos in low-light environments like the latest iPhone Pro or Samsung Galaxy Ultra model, it does a commendable job in most other conditions. But what the OnePlus 12R lacks in camera quality, it makes up for the fastest charging speed in the North American market, being able to charge from 0% to 100% within 40 minutes. Several Best Buy customers have commended the OnePlus for its lifestyle-changing charging speed.
OnePlus 12R tech specs: Display size: 6.78 inches | Display type: AMOLED | Resolution: 2780 x 1264 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life: 5,500mAh | RAM: Up to 16GB | Storage: Up to 256GB | Rear camera: 50MP Sony IMX890 main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro | Front camera: 16MP | Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
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Google Pixel 8a
Best cheap camera phone
The Google Pixel 8a can easily be the best cheap phone overall, but that would depend on your list of priority features. The Pixel is for you if you place camera quality, software updates, and security above the display, performance, and battery life.
The latest model features a handy 6.1-inch, 120Hz OLED display that, to be fair, works great for media consumption and scrolling through the web. However, because it’s smaller, you’re dealt with the usual benefits and drawbacks, including better one-handed usage and limited viewing angles. Fortunately, most people buy Pixel phones for the clean software experience, abundant Google AI features, including Magic Editor and Photo Unblur, and excellent camera quality.
Read the review: Google Pixel 8a
You’ll get all that with the Pixel 8a, which is excellent for a phone that costs half the price of Google’s flagship model. ZDNET’s Prakhar Khanna says the camera system, which includes a 64MP shooter, is solid, capturing “sharp and vibrant” photos while “handling high-contrast and low-light scenes better than other devices.” Amazon users mostly agree with Khanna, with one customer citing, “I chose (the Pixel 8a) because of the camera, and it did not disappoint.”
Secretly, the best feature of the Pixel 8a is Google’s commitment to seven years of operating system upgrades, Pixel Feature Drops, and security patches. This means the phone will stay feature-relevant until at least 2031, which is unheard of in the mid-range market and a key selling point for those who value it.
Google Pixel 8a tech specs: Display size: 6.1 inches | Display type: OLED with HDR support | Resolution: 1080 x 2400 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life: 4,500mAh | RAM: 8GB | Storage: Up to 256GB | Rear camera: 64MP main, 13MP ultra-wide | Front camera: 13MP | Processor: Titan M2 security
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Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Best cheap Samsung phone
There are three key reasons to buy the Galaxy A35 5G over any other sub-$400 phone: For the price, you get a fantastic 6.6-inch AMOLED display that ramps up to 120Hz refresh rate, a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP main sensor, and a beefy 5,000mAh battery.
Read the review: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Samsung knows what features people value the most, and even if you have preferences beyond that list, my time testing the Galaxy A35 5G has left me with enough confidence that it will meet your mobile needs. Coming from the older A34 5G, the latest model features a glass backing, a more performant Exynos chipset, and an improved camera system. Reddit users agree that the battery life on the A35 5G has been one of its bright spots, too.
The A-series smartphones also benefit from Samsung’s five-year commitment to software and security updates, a significant advantage compared to competing phones by Motorola and OnePlus. If you’re currently using a Samsung phone and don’t see yourself moving away from the ecosystem, the A35 5G is the best “cheap phone” option for you.
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G tech specs: Display size: 6.6 inches | Display type: Super AMOLED | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery: 5,000mAh | RAM: 6GB | Storage: Up to 1TB with microSD | Rear camera: 50MP, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro | Front camera: 13MP | Processor: Exynos 1380 octa-core
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Motorola Moto G Power 5G
Best cheap Motorola phone
If you’re on a tighter budget, say under $300, consider the Motorola Moto G Power 5G. It’s quite the mouthful, but the excessive branding is warranted because the phone gives you a lot. There is a lot of battery life, performance, and unique features that existing Motorola users will be familiar with and happy to see.
Read the review: Motorola Moto G Power 5G
“Motorola’s user interface is one of my favorites, with a fairly stock, Pixel-esque look and feel that is boosted by the brand’s handy gestures and system enhancements,” ZDNET’s Matthew Miller said in his review. The gestures in question include “twist” to launch the camera, “chop” to toggle the flashlight and picking up the phone to silence the ringer. This year’s model also features a new vegan leather back panel that gives the Moto more class than your typical plastic-built budget phone.
Ultimately, the Moto G Power 5G is praised for its battery life. Its 5,000mAh battery and relatively power-efficient MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor should keep the phone running for more than a full day. As a bonus, you can consider the additional features, including the 3.5mm headphone jack.
Motorola Moto G Power 5G tech specs: Display size: 6.7 inches | Display type: IPS LCD | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery: 5,000mAh | RAM: 8GB | Storage: Up to 1TB with microSD | Rear camera: 50MP main | Front camera: 16MP | Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7020
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Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Best cheap phone under $200
The flashiest smartphone features tend to exist only on flagships. Still, many will find appeal in Samsung’s humble Galaxy A15 5G, which boasts 5G connectivity, a massive 5,000mAh battery, and the lowest price on this list at $199. That’s a compelling package at a time when consumers are cutting down on spending.
Also: The best cheap 5G phones ZDNET’s tested
Don’t let the lower cost fool you; the Galaxy A15 5G has all the specs you’d want for a feasible mobile companion, from the relatively sizable 6.5-inch 90Hz AMOLED display – a rarity in this price range – to the expandable storage (up to 1TB) to Samsung’s four-year commitment to security patches. This year’s model also gets a notable 5MP ultra-wide camera, an upgrade from last year’s 2MP macro lens.
As of this writing, I’ve been testing the Galaxy A15 5G model for over a week, and while the phone won’t feel like a million dollars, it’s surprisingly sturdy to hold. The 90Hz display especially looked great for app browsing and navigating around. One Best Buy customer review puts it best, “(Galaxy A15 5G) is a $200 phone… It’s not gonna blow you away, but for the price, it packs a punch.”
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G tech specs: Display size: 6.5 inches | Display type: LCD | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh rate: 90Hz | Battery: 5,000mAh | RAM: 4GB | Storage: Up to 1TB with microSD | Rear camera: 50MP main, 5MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro | Front camera: 13MP | Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6400+
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Currently, the CMF Phone 1 is the best cheap phone on the market, thanks to its larger and bright display, unique hardware, and long-lasting battery. Here’s how it stacks up against the competition.
Best cheap phone | Price | Display size, type | Battery and charging speed |
CMF Phone 1 | $239 | 6.67 inches, AMOLED | 5,000mAh with 33W charging |
OnePlus 12R | $499 | 6.78 inches, AMOLED | 5,500mAh with 80W charging |
Google Pixel 8a | $499 | 6.1 inches, OLED | 4,500mAh with 18W charging |
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G | $449 | 6.6 inches, AMOLED | 5,000mah with 25W charging |
Motorola Moto G Power 5G | $299 | 6.7 inches, LCD | 5,000mah with 30W charging |
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G | $199 | 6.5 inches, LCD | 5,000mah with 25W charging |
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To help you decide which phone is right for you, I’ve highlighted the key buying reasons for each below.
Buy this best cheap phone… | If you need… |
CMF Phone 1 | The best cheap phone right now, with a starting price of $239. The CMF Phone 1 features a customizable back cover, a large and bright display, and surprisingly clean software. |
OnePlus 12R | The best phone for less than $500. The OnePlus has the best-looking display in the mid-range market, the fastest charging speed, and performs like phones of much higher prices. |
Google Pixel 8a | The best camera phone for less than $500. You should also buy the Pixel 8a if you want a phone that can last you for as long as possible. Just know that it’s smaller than most handsets. |
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G | A cheap 5G Samsung phone. The Galaxy A35 gives you most of the essential features, with an AMOLED display that’s great for media consumption and mobile gaming. |
Motorola Moto G Power 5G | A cheap phone for less than $300. The Moto G Power 5G will last you a good day or two before needing to charge, and it looks relatively stylish with its vegan-leather backing. |
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G | A cheap phone for less than $200. If you’re on an even tighter budget, the Galaxy A15 5G is a formidable pickup; arguably the best in its price range. |
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When shopping for a new cheap phone, here are the factors that you should consider:
- Budget: The definition of “budget” and “cheap” will vary from person to person, but the way I perceive it is what product gives you the best bang for your buck. All the phones listed in this guide have been tested by ZDNET’s team of mobile experts and offer more value than their price points suggest.
- Memory and storage: As is the case with any phone of any price, you should keep in mind how much memory and storage you’ll need. Many budget handsets come with as low as 64GB of base storage — the iPhone SE (2022) included. If you frequently take pictures and videos, play games, or download content for offline use, consider a phone with at least 128GB of storage or MicroSD card support.
- Battery life: Beyond a good screen, you’ll want a phone that can last. Ideally, you’ll want a phone that can withstand at least one full day of usage and can charge fast.
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ZDNET’s review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every major phone release, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and special features. Here’s a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many users’ buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing.
- Performance: Several factors affect a phone’s performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, with all background tasks closed, and with as stable of a mobile connection as possible.
- Camera quality: ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models.
- Battery life and charging: It’s also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it (wired, wireless, or both).
- Special features: These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite.
- Pricing and availability: Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally.
For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive phone testing methodology page.
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I typically wouldn’t advise buying a used cheap phone unless you’re using it as a secondary device. That’s because used phones, depending on the condition you buy them, are more susceptible to damage, won’t support any warranties, and may potentially be reported as stolen or lost, rendering the device useless after you’ve purchased it.
Instead, it’s always ideal to buy a new phone and adjust your buying journey based on your budget and desired features.
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I’ve been asked this question several times, and my answer is always this:
You should buy an older flagship phone if…
- You want a phone with a premium and durable build quality
- Camera performance is another priority
- Display quality matters to you
You should buy a new cheap phone if…
- You want a phone with a year or two more of software updates
- You plan on buying insurance for your phone
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Other cheap phones we tested:
Whether you’re looking to upgrade or get your first smartphone, Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus have great choices that ZDNET’s tested and recommends.
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