FORGET THE SPENDY flagship smartphone. Every year, I test a dozen or more devices to find the best cheap phones that perform where it counts and aren’t annoyingly slow. Wireless carriers in the US go out of their way to make expensive smartphones seem affordable. AT&T will advertise a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for just $36 a month, but don't let that fool you. With over 36 monthly installments, you spend over a thousand bucks on a phone. Your pricey device may also keep you locked into the network, unable to switch wireless carriers until the phone is paid off.
Get a seriously great, affordable smartphone instead. That's especially important in today's tariff-rich environment. Our top pick, the Google Pixel 9a, costs $499 and is as good as almost any flagship device. Our other recommendations strike a great balance between price and luxury. There's even a folding phone in this guide!
Check out our many other mobile guides, including Best Android Phones, Best Samsung Phones, Best Phones With a Headphone Jack, Best Google Pixel, Best Moto Phones, and Best iPhones.
Updated June 2025: We've added the Samsung Galaxy A26 and A36, TCL 60 XE Nxtpaper 5G, Motorola Edge, Minimal Phone, and Motorola Razr 2025.
