Shopping for a smartphone doesn’t have to break the bank, especially in 2024. With a wide variety of budget-friendly options available, you can find a great device that offers solid performance, impressive features, and value for money.
Whether you’re looking for an iPhone alternative or an Android powerhouse, this guide explores the best budget smartphones currently available in the US.
We’ll help you make an informed decision based on real-world usage and expert analysis.
Best Budget Smartphones for 2024
Apple iPhone 13: A Reliable Choice for iOS Fans
For those who prefer Apple’s ecosystem but don’t want to pay for the latest models, the iPhone 13 remains one of the best value options. Despite being a few years old, this iPhone continues to offer top-tier features.
It boasts the powerful A15 Bionic chip, which ensures smooth performance, and a sharp 6.1-inch OLED display that’s perfect for streaming or gaming.
The dual-camera system captures great photos, and with iOS updates for several more years, you’ll be getting reliable software support. If you’re set on an iPhone but need a more affordable option, the iPhone 13 offers the best balance between cost and performance in the current market.
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Google Pixel 8a: The Best Budget Android for Camera Lovers
The Google Pixel 8a is an excellent choice for users who want a budget-friendly Android phone with an exceptional camera. Google’s software optimizations and advanced AI features allow the Pixel 8a to take stunning photos, even in challenging lighting conditions.
It features a clean, stock Android experience, which guarantees fast updates and a smooth interface. With a 6.1-inch OLED display, this phone offers vibrant visuals, while its compact size makes it easy to handle. Powered by the Google Tensor G2 chipset, the Pixel 8a delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks.
This is a great choice if photography is your priority and you don’t want to sacrifice camera quality for a low price.
OnePlus 12R: A Strong Contender for Performance and Battery Life
The OnePlus 12R stands out in the budget category due to its high-performance hardware and long-lasting battery. Sporting a 120Hz AMOLED display, the 12R offers smooth visuals, making it a great option for gamers or those who enjoy fluid scrolling and responsiveness.
Under the hood, the device is powered by a capable chipset that handles multitasking, app usage, and light gaming with ease.
The 5000mAh battery offers all-day usage, and with Warp Charge 65, you can get a full charge in under 40 minutes, which is a rare feature in budget phones. The OnePlus 12R is perfect for anyone looking for strong performance and fast charging in a budget-friendly package.
Samsung Galaxy A35: A Solid All-Rounder for Everyday Use
Samsung’s Galaxy A35 is a great choice for users who need a reliable and well-rounded budget phone. With its 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, the A35 offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it perfect for watching videos and browsing photos.
The phone also features a decent camera setup, capable of taking clear and crisp photos in well-lit environments. Battery life is impressive with its 5000mAh capacity, ensuring a full day of use without issues.
Additionally, it runs on Samsung’s One UI, which provides an intuitive interface and several useful features like One UI gestures and Samsung Knox for security. If you need an all-rounder that performs well in most categories, the Galaxy A35 is a top contender.
Our Testing Process: How We Evaluate Budget Smartphones
When reviewing smartphones, we take into account various factors to provide a well-rounded evaluation. Here’s a breakdown of our testing process:
- Performance: We test how each phone performs under daily usage, including browsing, app multitasking, and gaming. This helps us gauge how smooth and fast the device runs.
- Camera Quality: We assess the quality of photos taken in different lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments. This includes examining color accuracy, sharpness, and detail.
- Battery Life: We measure battery performance through typical usage, including web browsing, watching videos, and gaming. The goal is to see how long each device lasts throughout the day without needing a recharge.
- Display Quality: We evaluate the screen’s sharpness, brightness, and color reproduction, ensuring it offers a good visual experience for users.
- Value for Money: We consider how much you’re paying for the features and performance on offer. A phone needs to provide solid value in its price range to earn a recommendation.
We’ve tested over a thousand smartphones and have refined our methodology to ensure only the best budget phones make it into this list.
Conclusion
There’s never been a better time to buy a budget smartphone in 2024. Whether you’re after the latest iPhone experience or a powerful Android phone that excels at photography, you can find a great deal without going over your budget.
The iPhone 13 continues to deliver top-notch performance for Apple users, while the Google Pixel 8a leads the charge in photography.
Meanwhile, the OnePlus 12R offers excellent value for those who want performance and fast charging, and the Samsung Galaxy A35 is perfect for anyone looking for an all-around solid device. Whatever your needs, there’s a budget phone in 2024 that can meet them without compromising quality.
People May Ask
Which is the best iPhone for budget-conscious buyers in 2024?
The iPhone 13 is the best budget-friendly iPhone in 2024. It delivers excellent performance, a great camera, and long-term software support at a more affordable price compared to newer models like the iPhone 15.
What is the best budget Android phone for camera quality?
The Google Pixel 8a stands out as the best budget Android phone for photography. With its advanced camera software and impressive low-light capabilities, it offers some of the best photo quality in the budget category.
Should I buy the OnePlus 12R in 2024?
Yes, if you’re looking for a phone with strong performance, a smooth display, and excellent battery life, the OnePlus 12R is a solid choice. It’s especially great for users who need fast charging and long battery life on a budget.
Which budget phone has the best battery life?
The Samsung Galaxy A35 offers outstanding battery life, thanks to its 5000mAh battery, which can easily last a full day of typical usage. It’s a great option for those who prioritize battery longevity.
What factors should I consider when choosing a budget smartphone?
When choosing a budget smartphone, consider performance, camera quality, battery life, and display. If you prioritize specific features, such as photography or gaming, choose a phone that excels in those areas.
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