10 Best Budget Phones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE AI Phone stands out in the budget-phone category with several impressive features. The display is a significant strength, offering a bright and vibrant 6.7-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes for smooth scrolling and an enjoyable viewing experience. The 2340 x 1080 resolution ensures good clarity for most users. Battery life is another highlight; the phone manages apps intelligently to extend the charge, making it ideal for those who use their phone extensively throughout the day.

The 50MP high-resolution camera, with AI enhancements for photo editing and night photography, is excellent for capturing quality images, even in low light conditions. However, some users might find the camera performance underwhelming compared to higher-end models, despite its AI features. The 8GB RAM and 128GB storage provide adequate performance and space for most standard tasks and apps. The One UI 6.1 based on Android 14 is user-friendly and offers a good experience with regular updates. Build quality is solid, though it may not feel as premium as more expensive models.

This phone is a great choice for users seeking a feature-rich smartphone at a budget-friendly price, especially if they prioritize display quality and battery life. While it performs well in many areas, those needing top-tier camera performance or additional premium features might want to explore higher-end options.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE AI Phone offers some compelling features for those seeking a budget-friendly smartphone. Its standout feature is a high-resolution display with a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, making it easy to see even in direct sunlight. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and better visuals, enhancing the user experience. The phone boasts long battery life with a 4,700 mAh capacity, allowing up to 33 hours of talk time, which is ideal for users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day. Additionally, it includes fast and wireless charging options, adding convenience to its use.

In terms of camera quality, the 50MP high-resolution camera comes equipped with AI features such as Photo Assist and Night Portrait, which help optimize shots even in low light conditions. These features cater well to photography enthusiasts looking to capture quality images without needing professional equipment.

The processor and storage, with 8GB RAM and 256GB internal memory, provide enough capability for everyday tasks and moderate app usage, though heavy gamers or intensive multitaskers might find it limiting compared to higher-end models. The build quality is robust, with water-resistant features providing added durability. Software-wise, the phone runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6.1, offering a user-friendly interface and real-time language translations. However, frequent software updates could be a concern for some users who prefer stability over constant changes.

While offering a comprehensive set of features, potential drawbacks include the absence of additional premium features found in more expensive models, which might restrict users seeking advanced functionality. The Galaxy S24 FE is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers needing a dependable and feature-rich smartphone.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a well-rounded budget phone that offers several strong features for its price. The 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 1880 x 2340 resolution provides crisp and vivid visuals, making it great for media consumption and daily use. The large screen size is a plus for users who enjoy browsing and streaming on their phones. The phone comes with a 2.4 GHz processor and 4 GB of RAM, which should be sufficient for most everyday tasks, although it might struggle with more demanding apps and multitasking.

With 128 GB of internal storage and the option to expand up to 1.5 TB, you won't have to worry about running out of space for your photos, videos, and apps. The camera setup, featuring a triple-lens system, is designed to capture clear and detailed photos in various conditions, which is a significant advantage for users who enjoy photography. Battery life is another highlight, with Super Fast Charging ensuring you spend less time plugged in. The phone’s durable design, coupled with an improved IP54 rating, adds a layer of protection against dust and water splashes, enhancing its longevity.

Software-wise, the Galaxy A16 5G runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI, offering a user-friendly experience. The promise of six years of OS and security updates is a standout feature, ensuring the device remains secure and up-to-date for an extended period. One potential downside is the 4 GB of RAM, which may not be suitable for heavy multitasking or more intensive applications. However, for the target audience looking for a reliable and feature-rich budget phone, the Galaxy A16 5G offers excellent value with its combination of a vibrant display, solid performance, extensive storage options, and long-term software support.