Finding a good smartphone without breaking the bank is not an impossible mission. While high-end models often exceed 1,000$, there are many options under $300 that offer excellent value for money. Here’s our selection of the best affordable smartphones.
What to Expect from a Smartphone Under $300?
In this price range, you won’t get the latest cutting-edge technologies, but you can still find devices that meet most everyday needs. Here are the key features to look for:
- Performance: Enough power for smooth multitasking and running most apps.
- Battery Life: A battery that lasts all day.
- Display: A quality screen for comfortable viewing.
- Camera: Decent photo quality for everyday use.
- Software: Regular updates and a clean user experience.
Our Selection of the Best Smartphones Under $300
1. Google Pixel 7a: The Camera King on a Budget
When it comes to budget smartphones, Google’s Pixel A-series has consistently been a fan favorite, and the Pixel 7a is no exception. Priced at just $299, this device punches well above its weight, especially in the camera department.
The Pixel 7a features a dual-camera setup with a 12.2 MP primary sensor and a 12 MP ultra-wide lens. Thanks to Google’s legendary computational photography, this phone delivers stunning photos that rival those taken by devices twice its price. Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and Astrophotography are just a few of the features that make this phone a photography powerhouse.
Under the hood, the Pixel 7a is powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and even some light gaming. The 6.1-inch OLED display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it perfect for streaming videos or scrolling through social media. With 5G connectivity, a 4,300 mAh battery, and guaranteed software updates for years to come, the Pixel 7a is a steal at under $300.
2. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G: A Reliable All-Rounder
Samsung’s Galaxy A-series has long been a go-to for budget-conscious buyers, and the Galaxy A25 5G continues that tradition. Priced at $279, this phone offers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat.
The Galaxy A25 5G boasts a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and an immersive viewing experience. The triple-camera setup includes a 50 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5 MP macro lens, allowing you to capture a variety of shots with ease.
Performance-wise, the Exynos 1280 processor handles multitasking and gaming with ease, while the 5,000 mAh battery ensures you won’t be left scrambling for a charger by the end of the day. With 5G support, expandable storage, and Samsung’s One UI software, the Galaxy A25 5G is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartphone under $300.
3. OnePlus Nord N30: Speed and Style
OnePlus has built a reputation for delivering premium features at affordable prices, and the Nord N30 is a shining example of that philosophy. At $299, this phone offers a sleek design, fast performance, and a smooth display that’s hard to resist.
The Nord N30 features a 6.72-inch LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it one of the smoothest displays in its price range. Whether you’re gaming or binge-watching your favorite shows, the experience is buttery smooth. The Snapdragon 695 chipset ensures snappy performance, while the 5,000 mAh battery with 50W fast charging means you can go from zero to 100% in no time.
In terms of cameras, the Nord N30 sports a 108 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. While the camera performance isn’t quite on par with the Pixel 7a, it’s still more than capable of capturing great photos in most conditions. With 5G support and OxygenOS, which is known for its clean and bloatware-free experience, the Nord N30 is a top contender in the under-$300 category.
4. Motorola Moto G Power (2025): Battery Life Champion
If battery life is your top priority, the Motorola Moto G Power (2025) is the phone for you. Priced at $249, this device packs a massive 6,000 mAh battery that can easily last two days on a single charge. Whether you’re a heavy user or just someone who hates charging their phone constantly, the Moto G Power has you covered.
The 6.8-inch IPS LCD display offers decent visuals, though it’s not as vibrant as an AMOLED panel. Still, it gets the job done for everyday use. The MediaTek Helio G85 processor provides solid performance for basic tasks, though it may struggle with more demanding games.
On the camera front, the Moto G Power features a 50 MP main sensor, a 5 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. While it’s not the best camera system in this list, it’s more than sufficient for casual photography. With near-stock Android, a headphone jack, and expandable storage, the Moto G Power is a practical choice for those who value simplicity and endurance.
5. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13: Feature-Packed Performer
Xiaomi’s Redmi Note series has always been known for offering incredible value, and the Redmi Note 13 is no exception. Priced at $299, this phone is packed with features that make it a standout in the budget segment.
The Redmi Note 13 sports a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering stunning visuals and smooth performance. The MediaTek Dimensity 1080 chipset ensures excellent performance for gaming and multitasking, while the 5,000 mAh battery with 67W fast charging keeps you powered up throughout the day.
In the camera department, the Redmi Note 13 shines with a 64 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. Xiaomi’s software enhancements ensure that photos look great in a variety of lighting conditions. With 5G support, an IR blaster, and MIUI (which is feature-rich but can be polarizing), the Redmi Note 13 is a fantastic option for tech-savvy users who want the most bang for their buck.
Tips for Choosing the Right Smartphone
- Define Your Needs: Prioritize features that matter most to you, such as battery life, camera quality, or performance.
- Check Reviews: Look for user and expert reviews to get a better idea of the device’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Consider Software Updates: Opt for brands that offer regular Android updates for better security and performance.
- Compare Prices: Prices can vary between retailers, so take the time to shop around.
Finally, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good smartphone. With brands like Xiaomi, Samsung, Motorola, and Realme offering quality devices under $300, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prioritize performance, battery life, or camera quality, our selection should help you find the perfect smartphone for your budget.
Read also: Best Gaming Laptops of 2025: Top Picks for Gamers
