What Are the Best Budget Smartphones Right Now?
Top Budget Smartphones in 2024
Finding a budget smartphone that balances performance, camera quality, battery life, and display clarity is easier than ever, with manufacturers delivering high-quality devices at affordable prices. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the best budget-friendly options for 2024:
1. Google Pixel 6a
- Overview: The Google Pixel 6a brings Google’s celebrated camera technology and stock Android experience to a budget-friendly device. Known for excellent image processing, the Pixel 6a delivers quality photos, even in challenging lighting.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED with vibrant colors and sharp contrast, ideal for media consumption.
- Processor: Google Tensor chip for smooth performance and quick app transitions.
- Camera: 12.2MP primary sensor with Google’s advanced photo processing, ensuring quality shots in any lighting. The 8MP front-facing camera also includes portrait mode and night sight.
- Battery: 4,410mAh battery with adaptive battery technology, lasting through a full day.
- Software and Updates: Comes with Google’s promise of three years of Android updates and five years of security patches, keeping it secure and up-to-date longer than most budget options.
- Best For: Photography enthusiasts looking for premium camera quality on a budget.
- Price: Around £349.
2. Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
- Overview: The Galaxy A34 5G offers a stunning AMOLED display, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and 5G connectivity, all at an affordable price. Its design mirrors Samsung’s more premium models, making it a great choice for Samsung fans on a budget.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for gaming and scrolling.
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, delivering efficient performance for everyday tasks.
- Camera: Triple rear camera setup with a 48MP main sensor, 8MP ultrawide, and 5MP macro lens. The 13MP front camera provides clear selfies.
- Battery: 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging, keeping you powered up all day.
- Software and Updates: Runs on Samsung’s One UI with regular security updates and software upgrades, maintaining smooth operation.
- Best For: Users seeking a premium display experience and 5G connectivity.
- Price: Around £299.
3. iPhone SE (3rd Generation)
- Overview: The iPhone SE offers Apple’s ecosystem on a budget, combining powerful performance with a familiar design. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, it’s capable of running the latest apps and games seamlessly.
- Key Features:
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD display with True Tone, delivering balanced colors and clear visuals.
- Processor: A15 Bionic chip (the same as the iPhone 13), making it fast and capable of handling demanding tasks.
- Camera: 12MP rear camera with Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and 4K video recording at 60fps. Despite a single-lens setup, the software enhances image quality.
- Battery: Supports fast charging and Qi wireless charging.
- Software and Updates: iOS updates for years, ensuring longevity and security, and compatibility with Apple’s latest features.
- Best For: Apple fans on a budget or those wanting a compact phone with premium performance.
- Price: Around £419.
4. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
- Overview: The Redmi Note 12 brings excellent display quality, good battery life, and strong performance at a budget-friendly price. Xiaomi includes a range of features that make it suitable for users seeking value.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate, excellent for streaming, gaming, and general use.
- Processor: Snapdragon 685 chipset, ensuring smooth operation for everyday activities.
- Camera: 50MP primary lens with 8MP ultrawide and 2MP macro. The camera performs well in daylight and includes Night Mode for low-light shots.
- Battery: 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging, delivering plenty of usage without frequent charging.
- Software and Updates: MIUI interface with frequent updates, offering additional customization and features.
- Best For: Users wanting great display quality and a long-lasting battery.
- Price: Around £220.
5. OnePlus Nord N200 5G
- Overview: The Nord N200 5G is an affordable option with 5G capability and reliable performance, suitable for users needing quick connectivity and a smooth experience on a budget.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.49-inch FHD+ with a 90Hz refresh rate, good for media and casual gaming.
- Processor: Snapdragon 480 5G chipset, offering solid performance for social media, streaming, and browsing.
- Camera: 13MP main camera, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor, providing decent photography in well-lit conditions.
- Battery: 5,000mAh battery, lasting well through daily use with standard tasks.
- Software and Updates: Runs on OxygenOS with clean UI and regular updates.
- Best For: Users wanting 5G connectivity and solid performance for general tasks.
- Price: Around £199.
6. Motorola Moto G Power (2024)
- Overview: Known for its outstanding battery life, the Moto G Power is built for users who prioritize all-day battery. It’s a basic smartphone with decent processing power for everyday use.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.5-inch HD+ display with decent color accuracy and brightness.
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G37, handling essential apps, web browsing, and messaging.
- Camera: 50MP primary camera and 2MP macro, delivering respectable photos for its price range.
- Battery: 6,000mAh battery, offering up to three days on a single charge, making it perfect for users always on the go.
- Software and Updates: Runs on a near-stock Android interface with basic Moto gestures and features.
- Best For: Users needing extended battery life above all else.
- Price: Around £200.
7. Realme 9 Pro
- Overview: The Realme 9 Pro offers 5G connectivity, strong battery life, and smooth performance, making it a good all-rounder for budget-conscious buyers.
- Key Features:
- Display: 6.6-inch FHD+ with a 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing gaming and scrolling experiences.
- Processor: Snapdragon 695 5G chipset, ideal for general multitasking and smoother app transitions.
- Camera: 64MP primary camera, 8MP ultrawide, and 2MP macro, allowing versatility in photography.
- Battery: 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging, giving a full day’s power in minimal time.
- Software and Updates: Realme UI with useful customization options, offering updates based on regional availability.
- Best For: Stylish design with a good mix of features for general use.
- Price: Around £280.
Conclusion: Which Budget Smartphone Should You Choose?
- Best for Photography: Google Pixel 6a brings excellent photo quality and the latest Android features.
- Best for Battery Life: The Moto G Power offers exceptional battery longevity, ideal for users who want reliable, all-day power.
- Best for 5G Connectivity and Display: Samsung Galaxy A34 5G and Realme 9 Pro bring quality displays, smooth refresh rates, and affordable 5G.
Each model above provides unique strengths, so consider what’s most important for you—whether it’s camera quality, battery life, performance, or display—to find the best budget smartphone that meets your needs.
