Every year, I test numerous flagship smartphones to discover the best budget phones that excel in performance without being frustratingly slow. Wireless carriers in the US often attempt to make costly smartphones appear budget-friendly. For instance, AT&T might advertise a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for just $36 monthly, but don’t be deceived. With 36 monthly payments, you’ll ultimately shell out over a thousand dollars for the phone. Plus, such an expensive device may tie you to the network, restricting your ability to switch carriers until the phone is fully paid off.
Consider getting an excellent budget smartphone instead. Our top recommendation, the Google Pixel 8A, is priced at $499 and rivals nearly any flagship device. Our additional selections achieve a superb balance between price and premium features, including a folding phone featured in this guide!
Explore our other mobile guides, which include Best Android Phones, Best Samsung Phones, Best Phones With a Headphone Jack, Best Google Pixel, Best Moto Phones, and Best iPhones.
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Updated February 2025: We’ve included the 2025 Motorola Moto G Power 5G, Moto G, Razr 2024, OnePlus 13R, and iPhone 16e. Additionally, we noted the Samsung Galaxy A16 and provided information regarding the forthcoming Nothing Phone (3a) series and Google Pixel 9A.
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No. Current speculation indicates that Google may unveil its Pixel 9A smartphone earlier than usual in March. Moreover, Nothing will present its latest budget smartphones at the upcoming Mobile World Congress, and I expect a few more Moto G models to launch in spring. Unless a new model from this guide catches your interest, like the Moto G Power 2025 or the iPhone 16e, I’d recommend waiting before making a purchase.
Consider Last Year’s Premium Phones (or Used)
If these phones don’t feature the specifications you desire or aren’t as powerful as you need, your best move is to seek out last year’s flagship smartphones, which might be available at significantly discounted prices. They can be easy to find, though manufacturers may stop producing them. Keep in mind that you will miss out on a year of software support, though this often surpasses the software support offered by budget phones. For instance, the Google Pixel 8 has dropped to $400, while the Pixel 8 Pro is now $599.
Alternatively, consider buying a pre-owned smartphone. (We offer some advice here.) You’ll need to do some research, but platforms like Swappa, Gazelle, and Back Market are known for their reliability and are excellent venues to purchase used or refurbished devices. Investigate the pricing for the latest top models on Android and iPhone in mint or good condition.
5G Smartphones, Explained
