One of the best things about the Android ecosystem<\/a> is the availability of truly affordable phones for as little as $150. By comparison, the cheapest iPhone<\/a> is based on a dated design and starts at $429. However, picking the right cheap Android phone can be a bit tricky, as reducing the price of a phone can sometimes result in too many trade-offs when compared to flagship phones. So to give you a hand, we tested a bunch of the most popular options and put together a list of the best budget Android phones you can buy.<\/p>\n We tend to define a budget phone as costing between $150 and $350. Any lower and the device runs the risk of suffering from too many compromises, and above that, you cross over to pricier midrange handsets<\/a> (if you’re open to spending more, we shouted out a couple of our favorites at the very end of this guide).<\/p>\n But for those with a little wiggle room, there are some things to consider. For example, a child may be better off with a cheaper device, especially if it\u2019s intended mainly for emergencies or texting parents (and not social media). On the higher end of this price spectrum, sub-$350 phones have come a long way thanks to improved performance, better cameras, fast charging, and nicer displays. This makes them a viable alternative to premium flagships, even if you have the freedom to spend more.<\/p>\n When it comes to cheap phones, you get what you pay for. Most smartphones in this price range are made out of plastic, though the fit and finish of a specific model can vary a lot based on price. A bright screen is also important. Typically you\u2019ll get LCD panels with a 60Hz or 90Hz refresh rate, but some phones may have OLED screens with increased color saturation. Long battery life is critical as well, so we tend to favor devices with larger power cells of around 5,000 mAh. In this price range, performance can vary a lot, so look for devices with at least 8GB of RAM and processors that can deliver stutter-free visuals. It\u2019s also important to consider support length: as periodic security updates and lengthy software support can extend the longevity of your device, which will save you money in the long run.<\/p>\nHow low should you go?<\/h2>\n
What to look for in a budget Android phone<\/h2>\n
Best budget Android phones for 2024<\/h2>\n
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