10 Best Budget Smartphones 2025 in the United States

The SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE is a strong contender in the budget smartphone market, particularly appealing for those seeking a blend of performance and features. One of its standout aspects is the high-resolution 50MP camera, which offers excellent photo quality, even in low light, thanks to its Night Portrait feature. This smartphone also features AI enhancements for photography, allowing users to easily edit and improve their photos after taking them, making it a great option for social media enthusiasts.

When it comes to the display, the 6.7-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth experience for scrolling and viewing content. The brightness level of 1,900 nits ensures that the display is clear and vibrant, even in bright sunlight. The battery life is another strong point, with a 4,700mAh capacity that supports long usage times, making it suitable for users who are often on the go.

On the processing side, the device is equipped with a capable processor and 8GB of RAM, enabling it to handle multitasking and various applications without much lag, which is great for everyday tasks. The device runs on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, providing a user-friendly experience. There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the camera is impressive, it might not meet the expectations of professional photographers looking for advanced features found in higher-end models. Additionally, the smartphone's design, while sleek, is rather standard and may not stand out in a crowded market. The lack of a dedicated headphone jack might also be a downside for users who prefer wired audio.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who want a reliable smartphone with good camera capabilities, a vibrant display, and solid battery life, though it may not satisfy those looking for professional-level features.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with modern features. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display offers crisp and vivid visuals, making it a pleasure for reading, browsing, and watching content. The device boasts a triple-lens camera system which should suffice for casual photography, capturing clear shots and diverse angles without the need for high-end professional equipment.

With a 2.4 GHz processor and 4 GB of RAM, it should handle everyday tasks smoothly, although it might struggle with more intensive apps or multitasking demands. The phone also comes with 128 GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1.5 TB, which is great for those who like to keep lots of photos, videos, and apps without worrying about space. Running on Android 14 with Samsung's One UI, the Galaxy A16 ensures an up-to-date and user-friendly experience. The device's durability is another highlight, with an improved IP54 rating ensuring better resistance to dust and water. Fast charging support is a bonus, reducing downtime when you need a quick battery boost.

However, the 4 GB RAM might feel limiting for power users who engage in heavy multitasking or gaming. The phone promises six years of OS and security updates, making it a long-term investment. The inclusion of Samsung Wallet and various health tracking features add to its practicality. The Galaxy A16 5G offers essential features and some extra perks at a reasonable price, making it a great option for users seeking value and reliability without breaking the bank.

The Moto G Play 2024 is an impressive budget smartphone that offers several notable features for its price range. The 6.5-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate and immersive stereo sound makes it a solid choice for media consumption and entertainment. The Snapdragon 680 processor paired with 4GB of RAM provides decent performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming. However, it might struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking compared to higher-end smartphones.

The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor that combines pixels for an effective 12.5MP resolution, delivering good photo quality, especially in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is decent but not exceptional. The 64GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD, ensures ample space for apps and media, which is a great feature for a budget phone.

One of the standout features of the Moto G Play is its long-lasting 5000mAh battery, which should easily provide a full day of usage on a single charge. Running on Android 13, the phone offers a clean and updated user experience. The sleek and stylish design, with splash protection, adds to the appeal of the device. However, the 720p resolution might appear less sharp than higher-resolution screens, and the lack of advanced camera features can be a drawback for photography enthusiasts. This phone suits individuals looking for a reliable, affordable smartphone with strong battery life and decent performance for everyday use.