Best Budget Smartphones at Half the Price

Budget phones have improved dramatically in recent years, offering capabilities that rival their more expensive counterparts without breaking the bank. When it comes to smartphones under $600, compromises are inevitable – slower processors, less storage, and worse cameras, for instance – but you won’t find better value elsewhere. Whether you’re an Android or iOS fan, there’s a budget phone out there that suits your needs. In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best cheap iPhones and Android phones available today, including the Apple iPhone 17E, Google Pixel 10A, Nothing Phone 4A Pro, and more. Here are our top picks for the best budget smartphones:

1. Apple iPhone 17E Score: 7 This is the minimum viable iPhone – a great option if you want an iPhone without breaking the bank. It starts with decent storage, has MagSafe for faster wireless charging, and offers fast 20W wired charging.
2. Google Pixel 10A Score: 7 With seven years of software updates and satellite connectivity, the Pixel 10A is a great choice for those looking for an affordable Android phone. Its cameras are still one of its strongest features, despite lacking some bells and whistles.
3. Nothing Phone 4A Pro Score: 6 This phone boasts a large, brilliant display with a 144Hz refresh rate – but it’s not the most powerful or future-proof device on the market. It also comes without wireless charging, which may be a drawback for some users. Other budget phones to consider include the Motorola Moto G Power, Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, and Samsung Galaxy A57 – each with their own strengths and weaknesses.