10 Best Budget Smartphones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a compelling choice within the budget-smartphone category, featuring a vibrant 6.2-inch ProScaler display with a 2340 x 1080 resolution, which offers clear and sharp visuals for everyday use. Its Snapdragon processor running at 4.47 GHz combined with 12 GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance for most applications, making it well-suited for users who juggle multiple apps.

Storage-wise, the 128 GB capacity may suffice for many, though heavy media consumers might find it limiting if they prefer storing large amounts of data or many apps. The Galaxy S25's AI camera, including rear and front features, is designed to enhance portrait and low-light photography, although it may not match the high-end smartphones' camera capabilities, potentially limiting its appeal to photography enthusiasts. Battery life is a strong point, with a 4000 mAh capacity that should support a full day of moderate usage. Features like fast charging and wireless charging add convenience for users on the go.

The phone runs on Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7, delivering the latest Android features and a user-friendly interface tailored to enhance productivity. Build quality is robust, with the inclusion of water resistance offering a degree of protection against accidental spills. Weighing 5.7 ounces, it's a lightweight device, further enhancing its portability. The Galaxy S25 is unlocked, allowing flexibility in choosing carriers, which is an excellent feature for travelers or users considering a switch. Some might find the absence of a traditional audio jack and the necessity to rely on USB-C for audio connections a slight inconvenience. The Galaxy S25 presents a well-rounded package with solid performance, making it especially appealing to those seeking a reliable and feature-rich device without breaking the bank.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE is a strong contender in the budget smartphone market, particularly appealing for those seeking a blend of performance and features. One of its standout aspects is the high-resolution 50MP camera, which offers excellent photo quality, even in low light, thanks to its Night Portrait feature. This smartphone also features AI enhancements for photography, allowing users to easily edit and improve their photos after taking them, making it a great option for social media enthusiasts.

When it comes to the display, the 6.7-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth experience for scrolling and viewing content. The brightness level of 1,900 nits ensures that the display is clear and vibrant, even in bright sunlight. The battery life is another strong point, with a 4,700mAh capacity that supports long usage times, making it suitable for users who are often on the go.

On the processing side, the device is equipped with a capable processor and 8GB of RAM, enabling it to handle multitasking and various applications without much lag, which is great for everyday tasks. The device runs on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, providing a user-friendly experience. There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the camera is impressive, it might not meet the expectations of professional photographers looking for advanced features found in higher-end models. Additionally, the smartphone's design, while sleek, is rather standard and may not stand out in a crowded market. The lack of a dedicated headphone jack might also be a downside for users who prefer wired audio.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who want a reliable smartphone with good camera capabilities, a vibrant display, and solid battery life, though it may not satisfy those looking for professional-level features.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with modern features. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display offers crisp and vivid visuals, making it a pleasure for reading, browsing, and watching content. The device boasts a triple-lens camera system which should suffice for casual photography, capturing clear shots and diverse angles without the need for high-end professional equipment.

With a 2.4 GHz processor and 4 GB of RAM, it should handle everyday tasks smoothly, although it might struggle with more intensive apps or multitasking demands. The phone also comes with 128 GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1.5 TB, which is great for those who like to keep lots of photos, videos, and apps without worrying about space. Running on Android 14 with Samsung's One UI, the Galaxy A16 ensures an up-to-date and user-friendly experience. The device's durability is another highlight, with an improved IP54 rating ensuring better resistance to dust and water. Fast charging support is a bonus, reducing downtime when you need a quick battery boost.

However, the 4 GB RAM might feel limiting for power users who engage in heavy multitasking or gaming. The phone promises six years of OS and security updates, making it a long-term investment. The inclusion of Samsung Wallet and various health tracking features add to its practicality. The Galaxy A16 5G offers essential features and some extra perks at a reasonable price, making it a great option for users seeking value and reliability without breaking the bank.