10 Best Budget Phones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE AI Phone stands out in the budget-phone category with several impressive features. The display is a significant strength, offering a bright and vibrant 6.7-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes for smooth scrolling and an enjoyable viewing experience. The 2340 x 1080 resolution ensures good clarity for most users. Battery life is another highlight; the phone manages apps intelligently to extend the charge, making it ideal for those who use their phone extensively throughout the day.

The 50MP high-resolution camera, with AI enhancements for photo editing and night photography, is excellent for capturing quality images, even in low light conditions. However, some users might find the camera performance underwhelming compared to higher-end models, despite its AI features. The 8GB RAM and 128GB storage provide adequate performance and space for most standard tasks and apps. The One UI 6.1 based on Android 14 is user-friendly and offers a good experience with regular updates. Build quality is solid, though it may not feel as premium as more expensive models.

This phone is a great choice for users seeking a feature-rich smartphone at a budget-friendly price, especially if they prioritize display quality and battery life. While it performs well in many areas, those needing top-tier camera performance or additional premium features might want to explore higher-end options.

The Moto G 5G (2024) is a solid choice for those looking for a budget phone that doesn't skimp on essential features. With its 6.6-inch display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, users can enjoy a smooth viewing experience for streaming videos and gaming. The display is enhanced by Dolby Atmos sound, making it enjoyable for media consumption. The 50MP camera system stands out in this price range, capable of capturing high-quality images and detailed shots thanks to its macro lens, although the effective resolution is lower at 12.5MP.

Performance-wise, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, delivers decent speed for everyday tasks and light gaming. The 128GB storage is ample for most users, and the option to expand it further with a microSD card up to 1TB is a significant bonus for those who need more space.

Battery life is one of the strongest features, with a robust 5000mAh battery that can easily last through a day of heavy use. Fast charging with TurboPower is a nice touch, speeding up the time needed to recharge, although it’s important to note that the charger may not be included in the box for every market.

In terms of design, the phone features a sleek look with a vegan leather back that is comfortable and fingerprint-resistant, adding a touch of premium feel to an affordable device. However, the resolution of 1612x720 may not be as sharp as higher-end models, which can slightly affect the clarity of content.

This phone excels in providing good value and essential features for everyday use, making it an appealing and capable budget option.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a well-rounded budget phone that offers several strong features for its price. The 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 1880 x 2340 resolution provides crisp and vivid visuals, making it great for media consumption and daily use. The large screen size is a plus for users who enjoy browsing and streaming on their phones. The phone comes with a 2.4 GHz processor and 4 GB of RAM, which should be sufficient for most everyday tasks, although it might struggle with more demanding apps and multitasking.

With 128 GB of internal storage and the option to expand up to 1.5 TB, you won't have to worry about running out of space for your photos, videos, and apps. The camera setup, featuring a triple-lens system, is designed to capture clear and detailed photos in various conditions, which is a significant advantage for users who enjoy photography. Battery life is another highlight, with Super Fast Charging ensuring you spend less time plugged in. The phone’s durable design, coupled with an improved IP54 rating, adds a layer of protection against dust and water splashes, enhancing its longevity.

Software-wise, the Galaxy A16 5G runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI, offering a user-friendly experience. The promise of six years of OS and security updates is a standout feature, ensuring the device remains secure and up-to-date for an extended period. One potential downside is the 4 GB of RAM, which may not be suitable for heavy multitasking or more intensive applications. However, for the target audience looking for a reliable and feature-rich budget phone, the Galaxy A16 5G offers excellent value with its combination of a vibrant display, solid performance, extensive storage options, and long-term software support.