10 Best Budget Phones 2025 in the United States

The Google Pixel 9a is a strong contender in the budget phone segment, offering several features that punch above its price. It has a 6.3-inch Full HD+ display with a smooth refresh rate up to 120Hz, which means visuals are clear and scrolling feels fluid for everyday use. The phone’s 5100mAh battery is impressive, lasting over 30 hours on a single charge under normal use, and it can stretch up to 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode, making it reliable for all-day and even extended use without frequent recharging. Photography is another highlight: the Pixel 9a uses Google’s renowned camera system enhanced with AI tools to produce sharp and vibrant photos, including creative options like Macro Focus for close-up shots and group photo enhancements.

The Google Tensor G4 processor paired with 8GB RAM ensures smooth performance for typical apps and multitasking, although it may not compete with high-end phones in speed or gaming. Storage is a decent 128GB, enough for most users’ apps, photos, and videos. Build quality is solid, with IP68 water and dust resistance and a scratch-resistant screen which is rare in budget phones, adding durability and peace of mind. On software, it runs the latest Android 15 and promises 7 years of OS and security updates, an excellent commitment that keeps the phone secure and up-to-date longer than many competitors.

Some extras include fast and wireless charging, 5G support, and built-in AI assistant Gemini that helps with tasks and navigation. The main drawbacks might be the 60-120 Hz refresh rate limited to 1080p resolution rather than higher-end displays, and it lacks a headphone jack, which might be inconvenient for some. The Pixel 9a delivers a well-rounded package with standout camera and battery life, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable, durable phone with good software support and solid everyday performance.

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is a solid choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly phone that doesn't skimp on key features. Its 6.6-inch AMOLED display offers sharp visuals and a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, making it great for watching videos or casual gaming. The 5000 mAh battery is impressive, providing long use throughout the day, and Super Fast Charging means less downtime.

For photos, the phone has improved front and rear cameras with special night modes, so your pictures should come out clear even in low light. Under the hood, it uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, which handles everyday apps and games smoothly, although it’s not built for heavy multitasking or very demanding games. With 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage (expandable), it offers enough space for most users’ apps and media.

The phone’s rugged design includes water and dust resistance, adding durability that’s rare in budget models. It runs Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6.0, promising a user-friendly experience and ongoing software updates. While some users note that the phone feels a bit heavy at 209 grams, the Galaxy A36 5G is a dependable, feature-packed phone that handles daily tasks efficiently without breaking the bank.

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.