What are the cheapest mobile phones in the U.S.?

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a reliable mobile phone in the U.S.! The cheapest phones today come with features that cover most everyday needs. These features include 5G, decent cameras, good battery life, etc. Brands like Motorola, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus offer notable models that balance price and performance. Meanwhile, buying unlocked or refurbished phones from trusted sources can stretch your budget further

When looking for the cheapest mobile phones in the U.S., you want to balance affordability with features that meet your everyday needs. If you want a reliable smartphone for your basic tasks, there are many options worth considering.

You might also seek something with decent camera quality and battery life. Let’s explore what’s available in 2025, focusing on brands, models, prices, and where you can buy them.

What are some affordable mobile phones available in the U.S.

In U.S., the market provides many budget-friendly mobile phones. These come from well-known brands like Samsung, Motorola, Google, and even Apple’s more affordable models. These phones typically range from under $200 to around $500. This range gives you a decent spectrum of choices. Your choice can depend on your budget and desired features.

Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2024)

The Moto G Power is a standout for those who want a phone under $200. It features a large 6.7-inch screen, expandable storage via SD card, a headphone jack, NFC for contactless payments, and even wireless charging. While its camera quality isn’t top-tier, it’s more than adequate for everyday use. This phone is often praised for its battery life. It is a great choice if you want a device that lasts through the day without constant charging.

Samsung Galaxy A16 5G

Another popular budget phone is Samsung’s Galaxy A16 5G, and is usually priced around $175 to $200. It features a solid display, 5G connectivity, and a decent camera setup for its price. Samsung’s brand is known for its reliability. Its widespread availability in local stores and online retailers makes this phone an accessible choice for many buyers. It also supports unlocked versions, so you can use it with various carriers in the U.S.

Google Pixel 8A and Pixel 9A

Priced just under $500, the Google Pixel 8A is often considered the best cheap phone. It is ideal if you want excellent camera performance. It also offers long term software support. It runs on Google’s Tensor G3 processor and includes AI-powered features like Circle to Search.

The Pixel 8A offers a great balance of speed, camera quality, and battery life. It is a notable option if you can stretch your budget a bit. The Pixel 9A is expected to launch soon, potentially offering even better value.

OnePlus Nord N30 5G

OnePlus offers the Nord N30 5G, which is a mid-range phone with fast charging and decent performance for around $300. It’s a good option if you want a phone that feels a bit more premium without the flagship price tag. OnePlus phones also tend to have clean software and good build quality.

TCL Flip 2 and Other Flip Phones

If you prefer a classic flip phone style, TCL’s Flip 2 offers a budget friendly option with basic smartphone features. It’s ideal for those who want simplicity and durability without the complexity of a full touchscreen smartphone.

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Where you can buy these phones and what to should consider

You can find these phones at major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, and carrier stores. Additionally, websites like Swappa and Back Market offer unlocked and refurbished phones at competitive prices. They usually include warranties and return options. These features provide peace of mind. For example, Swappa is recommended for buying unlocked phones like the Samsung Galaxy A53 or Pixel 6a. These phones can be purchased for around $130. You can resell them or keep them as backups.

When buying cheap phones, you should check if the device is unlocked and compatible with your preferred carrier. Some phones sold at discount stores may be locked to specific networks, limiting your options. For instance, phones bought at Family Dollar for as low as $25 might be carrier-locked. Therefore, confirming compatibility prior to purchase is important.

Refurbished phones from reputable sellers like Amazon Renewed or Back Market are also worth considering. They often come with warranties. The return policies make them a safer bet than brand-new ultra-cheap phones. These new phones might not last long.

What features can I expect from cheap phones

While the cheapest phones won’t match flagship models in performance or camera quality, many now come with features that were once reserved for higher end devices:

• 5G Connectivity. Many budget phones now support 5G, ensuring faster data speeds and better network performance in the U.S.
• Phones like the Pixel 8A offer impressive cameras for their price. Others, like the Moto G Power, have basic but functional cameras.
• Battery Life. Phones such as the Moto G Power are known for lasting all day. This is important if you don’t want to charge frequently.
• Software Updates. Google’s Pixel phones provide several years of software support, which is a notable advantage in the budget category.
• Some budget phones include SD card slots, allowing you to increase storage cheaply.
• NFC for Google Pay is becoming more common. Wireless charging is also more frequent, even in affordable phones.

How do I choose the best cheap phone

Choosing the cheapest phone that suits your needs means balancing price, features, and reliability. If your primary activities include texting, calls, and light internet use, consider a basic model like the Moto G Power. A refurbished older Samsung might also suffice. On the other hand, if you want better cameras, aim to invest around $300 to $500. Look into a Google Pixel or OnePlus Nord model. This investment also provides longer software support.

It’s important to take the warranty and return policy into account. Buying from reputable sellers or stores can save you trouble. Choose stores that offer returns if the phone doesn’t meet your expectations. Retailers like Walmart and Best Buy offer face to face assistance. Online platforms like Amazon and Swappa offer buyer protections too.

Summary of notable brands and models

If you want to explore further, check websites like PCMag and CNET. They provide regularly updated reviews. They also offer deal alerts to help you find the best prices and newest models. Platforms like Swappa and Back Market are excellent for affordable unlocked phones with buyer protections.