As phone prices rise due to increased production costs, if you need a new one phone and want to make sure it’s the best value for money, there are a number of low cost options, such as Google’s Pixel 10A. Some of the best devices we’ve tested offer a very similar experience to phones that cost much more, including years of software updates bringing new features.
Google’s Pixel 10A remains one of the best value options at $499, combining consistent Android software updates with a great camera. While this won’t scare away everyone who’s in love with the more expensive Pixel 10, it’s still an easy recommendation when you just need a phone.
Benefits
- Compatible with iPhone conversions
- Simple and clean phone design
- Good at photography
Disadvantages
- The Pixel 10 is missing several features
- Similar to Pixel 9A
Apple’s $599 iPhone 17E packs just enough new features to warrant an iOS upgrade for anyone with an iPhone SE or iPhone 11. While many elements of this iPhone are similar to the iPhone 14, its new A19 processor, MagSafe support for wireless charging and accessories, and Ceramic Shield 2 are all notable improvements.
Benefits
- Premium feel
- Solid camera
- MagSafe compatibility
- 256GB higher base storage
- A19 chip
- Fun pink color option
Disadvantages
- No dynamic island
- Thick frames
- No ultra-wide camera or cinematic video
- A refresh rate of just 60Hz means no always-on display
Motorola’s Moto G Stylus 2025 is packed with features that exceed its price. No other $400 phone has 68W fast wired charging, 256GB of storage, and a stylus. If the stylus is important to you, you may want to consider the new 2026 model which has improved it significantly. But this newer phone now starts at $499, while the 2025 model is still available at its lower price.
Benefits
- 68W fast charging
- Lots of storage
- Good photography for a low-cost phone
Disadvantages
- Slower processor
- Only two years of software updates, three years of security updates
Samsung’s Galaxy A17 5G runs Android 16 and includes almost all of Samsung’s features – except Galaxy AI – while only costing $200. The slower hardware and limited memory can be frustrating when trying to do anything other than calls and texts, but Samsung’s promise of six years of software updates is unmatched at this price. You will also often find the Galaxy A17 at a discounted price.
Benefits
- Large and bright screen
- Good photos for the price
- Six years of software and security support
Disadvantages
- Multitasking can be difficult
- Obviously slow
Motorola’s Razr 2025 is one of the cheapest Android flip phones you can buy. It has all the essentials you could hope for, plus a little style. You get a 3.6-inch external display for doing quick tasks, and it folds out to a larger 6.9-inch internal display. Although its original price of $700 isn’t cheap, it’s often on sale for $550 or less. Motorola has since released a 2026 edition of the phone, but it has a higher starting price of $800.
Benefits
- Style
- Cover screen to accomplish quick tasks
- Photo processing
Disadvantages
- Less power than comparably priced phones
- Moto AI is growing
- Shorter software update time
MOBILE DEALS OF THE WEEK
Offers are selected by the CNET Group sales team and may be unrelated to this article.
Our picks aren’t limited to the cheapest phones, but include devices that give you everything you want without paying extra for features you probably don’t need. Our experts prioritize long software support, fun and efficient designs camerasso you can save money without feeling like you’re making big compromises.
What is the best cheap phone?
Google’s $499 Pixel 10A is our pick for the best overall cheap phone, even if it’s only slightly improved over last year’s. Pixel 9A. The new phone’s premium camera is unmatched among other handsets priced under $500. Plus, and most importantly, the company’s promise of seven years of software and security updates means the phone could last long enough to be used until it finally runs out. Plus, its ability to send photos and files to an iPhone via AirDrop is a nice bonus, especially for people with friends using iOS devices.
One major caveat to this recommendation is that the base model comes with 128GB of storage. If you want to upgrade it to 256GB, the price jumps up to $599, like other phones on this list, like the iPhone 17E and Motorola Razr 2025, when it’s on discount (which it often is). But if you need a cheaper, reliable phone with a great camera, the Pixel 10A is otherwise excellent value.
Best Cheap Phones of 2026
Benefits
- Compatible with iPhone conversions
- Simple and clean phone design
- Good at photography
Disadvantages
- The Pixel 10 is missing several features
- Similar to Pixel 9A
Google’s Pixel 10A remains one of the best value options at $499, combining consistent Android software updates with a great camera. While this won’t scare away everyone who’s in love with the more expensive Pixel 10, it’s still an easy recommendation when you just need a phone.
Why we love it
The Pixel 10A’s ability to send photos and files via AirDrop via Android’s QuickShare makes this phone a cheaper way to upgrade from an iPhone SE to Android without losing this useful feature. Even those who don’t care about AirDrop can appreciate the Pixel 10A’s camera, which remains one of the best available among phones under $500.
Who is it best for?
Someone who wants a nice phone, but isn’t interested in delving into the technical details. It’s also a nice gateway phone for people switching from an iPhone to Android, thanks to its AirDrop support.
Who shouldn’t have it
Google’s early A-series phones were often nearly equivalent to their more expensive siblings, sharing much of the same hardware. The Pixel 10A, however, breaks from this tradition with a slower processor and no telephoto lens, unlike the $799 Pixel 10. It’s also not ideal if you absolutely need iMessage or FaceTime access.
Benefits
- Premium feel
- Solid camera
- MagSafe compatibility
- 256GB higher base storage
- A19 chip
- Fun pink color option
Disadvantages
- No dynamic island
- Thick frames
- No ultra-wide camera or cinematic video
- A refresh rate of just 60Hz means no always-on display
Apple’s $599 iPhone 17E packs just enough new features to warrant an iOS upgrade for anyone with an iPhone SE or iPhone 11. While many elements of this iPhone are similar to the iPhone 14, its new A19 processor, MagSafe support for wireless charging and accessories, and Ceramic Shield 2 are all notable improvements.
Why we love it
The iPhone 17E no longer feels like a second-class option now that it natively includes MagSafe support, 256GB of storage, and a soft pink color option for a bit of personality. While this iPhone lacks a second ultra-wide camera and the always-on display available on the iPhone 17, anyone coming from a 2020 iPhone or earlier might not notice these omissions thanks to the upgrades it includes.
Who is it best for?
This is an ideal iPhone for someone who only upgrades when their device loses software support. If you’re coming from an iPhone XR or earlier, you’ll experience plenty of new features. It’s also a good option for anyone who owns a smaller-screen iPhone SE.
Who shouldn’t have it
If iOS isn’t important, many Android phones on this list offer more features for less money. Some current iPhone owners might consider the 17E a step backwards due to the lack of an ultra-wide camera.
Benefits
- 68W fast charging
- Lots of storage
- Good photography for a low-cost phone
Disadvantages
- Slower processor
- Only two years of software updates, three years of security updates
Motorola’s Moto G Stylus 2025 is packed with features that exceed its price. No other $400 phone has 68W fast wired charging, 256GB of storage, and a stylus. If the stylus is important to you, you may want to consider the new 2026 model which has improved it significantly. But this newer phone now starts at $499, while the 2025 model is still available at its lower price.
Why we love it
The Moto G Stylus offers one of the best blends of flexibility (what it can do) and value for money. Battery life and charging speeds are particularly fast, and Motorola’s Photo Enhancement Engine helps ensure that the photos you take have great color. You can often find it discounted – we’ve seen it as low as $350.
Who is it best for?
It’s an easy choice for someone who wants a stylus-equipped phone without paying for a Galaxy S26 Ultra. It is also suitable as a low-cost multimedia device. thanks to its storage and headphone jack.
Who shouldn’t have it
The phone’s processor is capable of performing basic daily tasks, but it runs slower than other phones on this list. If you’re looking for the best camera possible on a cheap phone, the Pixel 10A will fare better, especially in low light.
Benefits
- Large and bright screen
- Good photos for the price
- Six years of software and security support
Disadvantages
- Multitasking can be difficult
- Obviously slow
Samsung’s Galaxy A17 5G runs Android 16 and includes almost all of Samsung’s features – except Galaxy AI – while only costing $200. The slower hardware and limited memory can be frustrating when trying to do anything other than calls and texts, but Samsung’s promise of six years of software updates is unmatched at this price. You will also often find Galaxy A17 nté promotions.
Why we love it
The Galaxy A17 is the way to go if price is your top priority and you just need a simple phone. The A17 has most of the basic features you’ll need and can take good photos in good lighting.
Who is it best for?
This phone is often available for free through carrier offers, making it a great option if you use it primarily for basic communications.
Who shouldn’t have it
If you’re hoping to use this phone for any type of multitasking, don’t hold your breath. The A17 gets easily overwhelmed by any sort of workload between a few apps open, like listening to music while getting GPS directions.
Benefits
- Style
- Cover screen to accomplish quick tasks
- Photo processing
Disadvantages
- Less power than comparably priced phones
- Moto AI is growing
- Shorter software update time
Motorola’s Razr 2025 is one of the cheapest Android flip phones you can buy. It has all the essentials you could hope for, plus a little style. You get a 3.6-inch external display for doing quick tasks, and it folds out to a larger 6.9-inch internal display. Although its original price of $700 isn’t cheap, it’s often on sale for $550 or less. Motorola has since released a 2026 edition of the phone, but it has a higher starting price of $800.
Why we love it
It’s a stylish phone with a vegan leather or fabric back cover, depending on the color you choose. It’s also powerful enough to have the Moto AI suite and the external camera is decent for selfies.
Who is it best for?
If you want to try an Android flip phone, but aren’t interested in the more expensive Razr Ultra or Galaxy Z Flip phones, this is a solid option.
Who shouldn’t have it
If long-term support is important to you, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series includes seven years of software and security updates, compared to Motorola’s three years.
Google Pixel 10A specifications vs. Apple iPhone 17E, Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025), Samsung Galaxy A17 5g, Motorola Razr (2025)
| GooglePixel 10A | Apple iPhone 17E | Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025) | Samsung Galaxy A17 5G | Motorola Razr (2025) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display size, technology, resolution, refresh rate | 6.3-inch POLED, 2424 x 1080 pixels, 60-120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.1-inch OLED screen; 2532 x 1170 pixels; 60Hz refresh rate | 6.7-inch POLED screen; 2712 x 1220 pixels; 120Hz refresh rate | 6.7-inch AMOLED, 2340 x 1080 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate | 3.6-inch POLED; variable refresh rate up to 90Hz; 6.9-inch AMOLED; FHD+; variable refresh rate up to 120Hz |
| Pixel density | 422 dpi | 460 dpi | 446 dpi | 385 dpi | Coverage: 413 dpi; Internal: 413 dpi |
| Dimensions (inches) | 6.1×2.9×0.4 | 5.78×2.82×0.31 | 6.4×2.9×0.3 | 6.5×3.1×0.3 | Open: 2.91×6.74×0.29 Closed: 2.91×3.47×0.62 |
| Dimensions (millimeters) | 154.7×73.3×8.9 | 146.7×71.5×7.8 | 162.2×74.8×8.3 | 164.4×77.9×7.5 | Open: 73.99×171.30×7.25 Closed: 73.99×88.08×15.85 |
| Weight (grams, ounces) | 183 g (6.5 ounces) | 167 g (5.88 ounces) | 191 g (6.7 ounces) | 192 g (6.8 ounces) | 188 g (6.63 ounces) |
| Mobile software | Android 16 | iOS26 | Android 15 | Android 16 | Android 15 |
| Camera | 48 megapixels (wide), 13 megapixels (ultra-wide) | 48 megapixels (wide) | 50 megapixels (wide), 13 megapixels (ultra-wide) | 50 megapixels (wide), 5 megapixels (ultra-wide), 2 megapixels (macro) | 50 megapixels (wide), 13 megapixels (ultra-wide) |
| Front camera | 13 megapixels | 12 megapixels | 32 megapixels | 13 megapixels | 32 megapixels |
| Video capture | 4K | 4K | 4K | 1080p | 4K |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Apple A19 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 | Samsung Exynos 1330 | MediaTek Dimensity 7400X |
| RAM + storage | 8 GB + 128 GB, 256 GB | Unknown RAM + 256 GB, 512 GB | 8 GB + 256 GB | 4 GB + 128 GB | 8 GB + 256 GB |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Yes, microSD | Yes, microSD | None |
| Battery | 5,100mAh | 4005mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 4,500mAh |
| Fingerprint sensor | Under display | None, Face ID | Under display | Side | Side |
| Connector | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Headphone jack | None | None | None | None | None |
| Special Features | 7 Years of Pixel OS, Security and Features, Gorilla Glass 3, IP68 Dust and Water Resistance, 3,000 nits Peak Brightness, 2,000,000:1 Contrast Ratio, 30W Fast Charging with 45W Charging Adapter (Charger Not Included), 10W Qi-Certified Wireless Charging, Satellite SOS, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 6, Dual SIM (nano SIM + eSIM), Camera Coach, Add Moi, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Super Res Zoom, Circle to Search; colors: lavender, berry, fog, obsidian (black) | MagSafe, Qi2 charging (up to 15 W), action button, Apple C1 5G modem, Apple Intelligence, Ceramic Shield, Emergency SOS, Emergency SOS via satellite, satellite image, IP68 resistance, FaceTime, FindMy | Built-in stylus, 68W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, Circle to Search, Sketch-to-Image, Moto AI photo enhancement engine, Dolby Atmos, dual stereo speakers, NFC, Wi-Fi 6E | 25W wired charging, One UI 8.0, Smart View, Samsung Health, Samsung Wallet, IP54 dust and water resistance, six years of software and security updates | IP48 rating, dual stereo speakers, 30 watts wired charging, 15 watts wireless charging, 1700 nits max brightness on cover screen, 3000 nits max brightness on main screen, 5G. |
| The American price starts at | $499 (128 GB) | $599 (256 GB) | $400 (256 GB) | $200 (128 GB) | $700 (256 GB) |
In March 2025, we added the Google Pixel 10A and Apple iPhone 17E to our list. New phones replace last year’s Pixel 9A and iPhone 16E
Try it before you buy it: It’s one thing to peep on the phone, but it’s another to try it on in a store.
Choose Android or iPhone: Do you have a lot of iPhone apps and Apple subscriptions? Stick with an iPhone. Likewise, if you’ve invested in a lot of Android apps, you’ll want to stay on this side of the fence. Otherwise, it’s quite simple to change platforms.
Choose the most important feature: Is it the screen size? Camera quality? Battery life? This will help you narrow down your choices.
Every phone on this list has been thoroughly tested by CNET’s team of experts. We use the phone, test its features, play games and take photos. We also evaluate any marketing promises a company makes about its phones. If we find something we don’t like – whether it’s battery life or build quality – we’ll tell you about it.
We look at every aspect of a phone during testing:
- Display
- Design and feel
- CPU performance
- Battery life
- Camera quality
- Features
We test all of the phone’s cameras (front and back) in a variety of conditions: from outdoors in bright sunlight to darker indoor environments and night scenes (for all available night modes). We also compare our results to similar pricing models. We also run a series of real-world battery tests to see how long a phone lasts in daily use.
We take into account additional features of the phone such as 5G, fingerprint and face readers, styluses, fast charging, foldable screens and other useful extras. We weigh all our experiences and tests against price so you know if a phone represents good value for money.
Read more: How we test phones
The now-discontinued iPhone 15 Plus (left) and iPhone 15 (right).
At its initial starting price of $829 in 2023, the iPhone 15 isn’t necessarily considered cheap. And while Apple no longer sells it directly, you can find it on retail sites like Best Buy for $530, which is a steal. In 2026, the iPhone 15 remains a great Apple phone. It has a 6.1-inch screen, good dual rear cameras, and exceptional battery life. It’s worth a visit if you can fit it into your budget.
Can you find cheap phones on sale?
Yes, many of the cheap phones on this list are available at discounted prices during sales events. For example, the Google Pixel 9A 2025 is now $439 on sites like Walmart now that the new Pixel 10A is out. The price of the Pixel 9A will likely drop even further. If you have a phone in mind and can wait for a sales event like Black Friday, it might be worth waiting for a price reduction.
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Are cheap phones available unlocked?
Yes, many cheap phones are available unlocked by the manufacturer. This allows you to use the phone with almost any wireless carrier by inserting your SIM card or transferring your eSIM. If you want the option to change carriers, make sure you purchase an unlocked model.
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Are cheap phones good for kids?
Buying a cheap phone can be a great option when you shop for a teenager or student, but that doesn’t mean the phone is kid-friendly. Parents should always set up any parental controls, restrictions or necessary apps on an iPhone or Android to ensure they are suitable for children.
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We’re in the middle of “budget phone season,” with new affordable phones launching from Google, Motorola, and Samsung. This summer we’ll see the start of “flagship phone season,” with major releases from Samsung, Apple, and Google.
