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 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.

The OnePlus Open brings a premium experience to the foldable smartphone category, making it a potentially exciting option for users who want cutting-edge features without breaking the bank. Its display is impressive, featuring a 6.31" exterior and a 7.82" interior screen that offers 120Hz refresh rates for smooth visuals. The near-invisible crease and Dolby Vision compatibility enhance the viewing experience, making it suitable for media enthusiasts.

Battery life is another strong point, with a 4805 mAh capacity and 67W fast charging that can fully charge the phone in about 43 minutes. This is beneficial for users who are always on the go and need a reliable device that can keep up with their lifestyle. The camera system is co-developed with Hasselblad, featuring a versatile triple camera setup that includes a powerful 48MP main lens, a 48MP ultra-wide, and a 64MP periscope zoom lens. This setup allows users to capture high-quality photos and videos, making it great for photography fans.

While the OnePlus Open excels in several areas, it does come with some considerations. The price point, while positioned as a budget option, may still be higher than traditional budget smartphones, which could deter some users. Additionally, the foldable design, while stylish, may not appeal to everyone due to concerns about durability compared to standard smartphones. The software experience is also noteworthy, as it runs on OxygenOS based on Android 13.0, providing a smooth user interface.