There are different reasons why you may need a cheap smartphone. Maybe due to budget constraints, or maybe as a secondary device, or maybe as a gift for the little one.
Whatever the reason maybe, you can be sure you will find something that suits your need here.
We have looked high and low for the best cheap phones you will buy in 2025. These phones won’t break you bank and will still give you what you need. Something even comparable to what you will get in a high-end flagship phone.
So, without further ado, let’s look at them.
Best Cheap Phones to Buy in 2025: Quick View
OnePlus Nord CE 3
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 is a mid-range phone that offers a smooth and vibrant display, capable performance for everyday tasks and gaming, decent cameras, and incredibly fast charging.
POCO C65
The POCO C65 is a budget-friendly phone that offers a large display, a capable processor for its price range, and a long-lasting battery. It’s a suitable choice for those who prioritize basic functionality and affordability.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro
The Redmi Note 13 Pro is a mid-range phone offering a high-resolution AMOLED display, a capable processor for its class, a high-megapixel main camera, and fast charging. It targets users who want a feature-rich phone with strong multimedia capabilities.
OSCAL TIGER 12
The OSCAL TIGER 12 is a budget-friendly phone offering a large, high refresh rate display, expandable RAM and storage, a decent processor for its price, and a large battery. It’s a good choice for users who prioritize value and flexibility.
Oukitel WP36
The Oukitel WP36 is a rugged smartphone designed for durability and outdoor use. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize resilience and longevity in a phone.
DOOGEE S41 Max
The DOOGEE S41 Max is an ultra-lightweight budget phone with a massive battery, ample expandable storage, and a compact design. It’s ideal for users who prioritize portability and long battery life.
Ulefone Armor 25T Pro
The Ulefone Armor 25T Pro is a rugged smartphone with a focus on durability and outdoor functionality. It boasts a high refresh rate display, a capable processor, a versatile camera system including night vision, and a large battery with both wired and wireless charging.
HOTWAV Cyber 15
The HOTWAV Cyber 15 is a rugged smartphone that stands out with its impressive 200MP camera and expandable RAM. It offers a good balance of performance, features, and durability, making it a compelling choice for budget-minded users who want a versatile and rugged device.
Cubot P80
The Cubot P80 is a budget-friendly phone with a large display, lots of RAM, and a decent camera.
Blackview SHARK 8
The Blackview SHARK 8 is a budget phone with a big, smooth display, expandable RAM, and a decent camera.
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Best Cheap Phones 2025
1. OnePlus Nord CE 3
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1080 x 2412 pixels
- Processor: Snapdragon 782G
- RAM: 8GB/12GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
- Battery: 5000mAh, 80W fast charging
- Software: OxygenOS 13.1 based on Android 13
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 is a mid-range contender that aims to deliver a flagship-like experience without breaking the bank. Its gorgeous 6.7-inch AMOLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations silky smooth. The Snapdragon 782G processor handles everyday tasks and gaming with ease, ensuring a responsive experience.
Camera capabilities are decent, with a 50MP main sensor capturing detailed shots in good lighting conditions. The 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging is a standout feature, juicing up the 5000mAh battery incredibly quickly. OxygenOS 13.1, based on Android 13, provides a clean and user-friendly interface with minimal bloatware.
While it lacks expandable storage and official water/dust resistance, the Nord CE 3 shines with its vibrant display, fast performance, and rapid charging. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a balanced mid-range phone with premium features.
Reasons to Buy:
- Beautiful AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Fast and efficient Snapdragon 782G processor
- 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging
- Clean and user-friendly OxygenOS software
Reasons to Avoid:
- No expandable storage
- Camera performance could be better in low light
- No official IP rating for water and dust resistance
2. POCCO C65
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.74-inch HD+ (720 x 1650 pixels), 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- RAM: 6GB/8GB
- Storage: 128GB/256GB (expandable via microSD)
- Camera: 50MP main, 2MP depth, 2MP macro, 8MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh, 18W fast charging (10W charger included)
- Software: MIUI 14 for POCO (Android 13)
- Other: Side fingerprint sensor, AI face unlock, NFC, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS
The POCO C65 is a budget smartphone that focuses on delivering essential features at an affordable price. Its large 6.74-inch HD+ display offers a decent viewing experience, especially with the 90Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling. The MediaTek Helio G85 processor provides adequate performance for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming.
The 50MP AI triple camera system captures decent photos in good lighting conditions, but performance in low light may not be impressive. The 8MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls. The 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, and the 18W fast charging support is a welcome addition, although the included charger is only 10W.
The phone runs on MIUI 14 for POCO, based on Android 13, offering a customizable user interface. Additional features include a side fingerprint sensor, AI face unlock, NFC, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS.
Reasons to Buy:
- Large 6.74-inch display with 90Hz refresh rate
- Decent performance for everyday tasks with MediaTek Helio G85
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Expandable storage via microSD
Reasons to Avoid:
- HD+ display resolution may not be sharp enough for some users
- Camera performance could be better
- Only 10W charger included in the box
3. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 2400 x 1080 pixels
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99
- RAM: 8GB/12GB
- Storage: 256GB/512GB
- Camera: 200MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, 16MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh, 67W fast charging
- Software: MIUI 14 (Android 13)
- Other: In-display fingerprint sensor, AI face unlock, NFC (market dependent), dual speakers, Dolby Atmos
The Redmi Note 13 Pro aims to impress with its multimedia features. Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate delivers vivid colors and smooth visuals, making it ideal for watching videos and browsing content. The MediaTek Helio G99 processor, just like we have seen in the likes of Infinix Note 40S, provides adequate performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
The standout feature is the 200MP main camera, promising detailed and high-resolution photos. The 8MP ultrawide and 2MP macro cameras offer additional versatility, while the 16MP front camera is suitable for selfies. The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage, and the 67W fast charging quickly replenishes the battery.
MIUI 14, based on Android 13, provides a customizable user interface with various features. The phone also boasts an in-display fingerprint sensor, AI face unlock, dual speakers with Dolby Atmos, and NFC functionality (depending on the market).
Reasons to Buy:
- Vibrant AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Impressive 200MP main camera
- Fast 67W charging with in-box charger
- Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support
Reasons to Avoid:
- MediaTek Helio G99 may not be the most powerful processor for gaming
- No expandable storage
- NFC availability depends on the market
4. OSCAL TIGER 12
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ IPS (1080 x 2460 pixels), 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99
- RAM: 8GB (up to 16GB with expansion) / 12GB (up to 24GB with expansion)
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
- Camera: 64MP main, 0.3MP depth, 13MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh, 33W fast charging
- Software: DokeOS 4.0 (based on Android 13)
- Other: Fingerprint sensor, NFC, FM radio, OTG
The OSCAL TIGER 12 is a budget-oriented smartphone that aims to deliver a well-rounded experience without breaking the bank. Its large 6.78-inch FHD+ IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals and a decent level of detail for its price. The MediaTek Helio G99 processor provides sufficient power for everyday tasks, social media, and even some light gaming.
One of the standout features is the expandable RAM and storage. With up to 16GB or 24GB of RAM (with expansion) and up to 1TB of storage (with microSD), the TIGER 12 provides ample space and multitasking capabilities for its class. The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage, and the 33W fast charging allows for quick top-ups.
While the camera system might not be the best on the market, it should be adequate for most users’ needs. The 64MP main sensor captures decent photos in good lighting conditions, and the 13MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls.
The phone runs on DokeOS 4.0, based on Android 13, which offers a customizable user interface and various features. Additional features include a fingerprint sensor, NFC support, FM radio, and OTG.
Reasons to Buy:
- Large 6.78-inch FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Expandable RAM and storage
- Decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming with MediaTek Helio G99
- Large 5000mAh battery
- NFC support for contactless payments
Reasons to Avoid:
- Camera performance may not be the best in low light
- Relatively unknown brand compared to more established competitors
- Software experience may not be as refined as some other options
5. Oukitel WP36
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.52-inch HD+ IPS (720 x 1600 pixels), 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek MT8788
- RAM: 16GB (8GB + 8GB virtual)
- Storage: 128GB (expandable via microSD)
- Camera: 13MP main, 2MP macro, 5MP front
- Battery: 10600mAh, 15W fast charging
- Software: Android 13
- Other: Fingerprint sensor, NFC (Google Pay only), Face ID, SOS, OTG, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS + Glonass + Galileo
The Oukitel WP36 is a rugged smartphone built to withstand harsh conditions and demanding environments. Its IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications ensure resistance to water, dust, shock, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor activities, construction sites, and other challenging scenarios.
The massive 10600mAh battery is a standout feature, providing exceptional battery life that can last for days on a single charge. While the 15W fast charging is not the fastest, it’s still convenient for quickly topping up the large battery. The phone also offers expandable storage via microSD, allowing users to store ample photos, videos, and other files.
The MediaTek MT8788 processor delivers decent performance for everyday tasks and basic apps. However, it might not be the best choice for demanding games or intensive multitasking. The camera system is functional but not the most impressive, with a 13MP main camera and a 5MP front camera.
The phone runs on Android 13, offering a familiar and user-friendly experience. Additional features include NFC support for Google Pay, a fingerprint sensor, Face ID, and an SOS function for emergencies.
Reasons to Buy:
- Rugged and durable design with IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications
- Massive 10600mAh battery for extended usage
- Expandable storage via microSD
- NFC support for Google Pay
- SOS feature for emergencies
Reasons to Avoid:
- HD+ display resolution might not be sharp enough for some users
- Camera performance could be better
- Older Bluetooth 4.2 standard
6. DOOGEE S41 Max
Key Specs:
- Display: 5.5-inch HD+ IPS (720 x 1600 pixels)
- Processor: Unisoc T606 Octa Core 1.6GHz
- RAM: 6GB (up to 16GB with expansion)
- Storage: 256GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
- Camera: 13MP main, 8MP front
- Battery: 6300mAh
- Software: Android 13
- Other: Dual SIM, Face Unlock, NFC
The DOOGEE S41 Max stands out with its incredibly lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and carry. Its compact size and 5.5-inch HD+ IPS display are perfect for one-handed use. The massive 6300mAh battery ensures you can go days without needing a recharge, making it ideal for travel or outdoor activities.
While not the most powerful phone on the market, the Unisoc T606 processor handles everyday tasks and basic apps with ease. The expandable storage option of up to 1TB provides plenty of room for photos, videos, and apps. The 13MP main camera and 8MP front camera are functional for capturing moments and selfies.
Running on Android 13, the DOOGEE S41 Max offers a user-friendly experience with access to the latest features and apps. Overall, it’s a practical and affordable choice for users who prioritize portability, battery life, and ample storage.
Please note that the DOOGEE S41 Max might not be the best choice for users who demand high performance for gaming or intensive tasks due to its processor limitations. However, it excels in battery life and portability, making it a good option for budget-minded users who prioritize these features.
Reasons to Buy:
- Ultra-lightweight and compact design
- Large 6300mAh battery for extended usage
- Expandable storage up to 1TB (256GB + 1TB microSD)
- Affordable price point
Reasons to Avoid:
- Unisoc T606 processor might not be suitable for demanding tasks or gaming
- HD+ display resolution may not be the sharpest
- Camera performance may not be the best in low light conditions
7. Ulefone Armor 25T Pro
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch Fullview Display, 120Hz refresh rate, 2460 x 1080 pixels
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-core
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB (expandable via microSD)
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP night vision, 32MP front
- Battery: 6500mAh, 33W wired charging, 15W wireless charging
- Software: Android 13
- Other: Fingerprint sensor, NFC, dual SIM, 3.5mm headphone jack, IP68/IP69K, MIL-STD-810G
The Ulefone Armor 25T Pro is a rugged smartphone built for adventure. Its tough exterior, certified to IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810G standards, protects it from water, dust, shocks, and extreme temperatures.
The 6.78-inch Fullview Display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals, while the MediaTek Helio G99 processor handles everyday tasks and light gaming with ease. The camera system stands out with a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP night vision camera, perfect for capturing moments in any lighting condition.
The large 6500mAh battery supports both 33W wired and 15W wireless charging, ensuring you stay powered up wherever you go. With NFC, dual SIM support, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, it’s a practical and versatile companion for any adventure.
While it may be a bit bulky and heavy, the Armor 25T Pro’s ruggedness, unique camera capabilities, and long-lasting battery make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize durability and functionality.
Reasons to Buy:
- Rugged design with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810G certifications
- Large, high refresh rate display
- Decent performance with MediaTek Helio G99 processor
- Versatile camera system with night vision capability
- Large battery with both wired and wireless charging
- NFC support for contactless payments
Reasons to Avoid:
- Relatively bulky and heavy design
- Software experience may not be as refined as some other options
- Price may be higher compared to other rugged phones
8. HOTWAV Cyber 15
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.6-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2408 pixels)
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core
- RAM: 24GB (12GB + 12GB virtual)
- Storage: 256GB (expandable up to 2TB via microSD)
- Camera: 200MP Samsung ISOCELL main, 24MP night vision, 32MP front
- Battery: 6280mAh, 33W fast charging
- Software: Android 13
- Other: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS + Beidou + GLONASS + Galileo
The HOTWAV Cyber 15 is a rugged smartphone designed for those who demand a durable and feature-rich device. Its robust build, certified with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H ratings, ensures it can withstand water, dust, shocks, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor adventures and demanding work environments.
The phone’s camera system is a highlight, featuring a 200MP Samsung ISOCELL main sensor that captures incredibly detailed photos. The 24MP night vision camera excels in low-light conditions, and the 32MP front camera is perfect for selfies and video calls.
Performance is handled by the MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core processor, which provides smooth multitasking and decent gaming capabilities, especially with the expandable RAM up to 24GB. The large 6280mAh battery, coupled with 33W fast charging, ensures all-day usage and quick top-ups.
Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, NFC for contactless payments, Bluetooth 5.0, and precise navigation with GPS, Beidou, GLONASS, and Galileo support.
Reasons to Buy:
- High-resolution 200MP Samsung ISOCELL main camera for detailed photos
- 24MP night vision camera for low-light photography
- Expandable RAM up to 24GB for smooth multitasking
- Large 6280mAh battery with 33W fast charging
- Rugged design with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications
Reasons to Avoid:
- FHD+ display might not be as sharp as some higher-end options
- Software experience may not be as refined as some other brands
- Relatively bulky and heavy design
9. Cubot P80
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.583-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2408 pixels)
- Processor: MediaTek MT8788V/WA Octa-Core (4A73 2.0GHz+4A53 2.0GHz)
- RAM: 16GB (8GB + 8GB extended)
- Storage: 256GB/512GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
- Camera: 48MP main, 2MP macro, 24MP front
- Battery: 5200mAh
- Software: Android 13
- Other: Fingerprint sensor, NFC, Bluetooth 4.2, OTG
The Cubot P80 aims to strike a balance between affordability and features. Its large 6.583-inch FHD+ display delivers a sharp and vibrant viewing experience, making it suitable for multimedia consumption and browsing. The 16GB RAM, including 8GB of extended RAM, ensures smooth multitasking and app switching, even with demanding applications.
The MediaTek MT8788V/WA processor offers decent performance for everyday tasks, social media, and even some light gaming. The 48MP main camera, accompanied by a 2MP macro lens, captures decent photos in good lighting conditions, while the 24MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls.
The phone’s 5200mAh battery provides ample power for a full day of usage, and it also supports OTG for charging other devices. The Cubot P80 runs on the latest Android 13 operating system, providing a clean and user-friendly interface with access to the latest features and security updates.
Reasons to Buy:
- Large 6.583-inch FHD+ display for immersive viewing
- Ample 16GB RAM (including 8GB extended) for smooth multitasking
- Generous storage options (256GB/512GB) with expandable storage up to 1TB
- Decent performance with MediaTek MT8788V/WA processor
- 48MP main camera for capturing detailed photos
Reasons to Avoid:
- Older Bluetooth 4.2 standard
- Relatively unknown brand compared to more established competitors
- Software updates and long-term support might be uncertain
10. Blackview SHARK 8
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2460 pixels), 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-core (2A76 2.2GHz + 6A55 2.0GHz)
- RAM: 8GB (up to 16GB with expansion)
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB
- Camera: 64MP rear, 13MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Software: DokeOS 4.0 (based on Android 13)
- Other: Fingerprint sensor, NFC, FM radio, OTG
The Blackview SHARK 8 is a budget-oriented smartphone that aims to deliver a satisfying user experience without breaking the bank. Its large 6.78-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals and a decent level of detail for its price range. The MediaTek Helio G99 processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks, social media, and even some light gaming.
One of the standout features is the expandable RAM, allowing users to boost performance up to 16GB. While it doesn’t have expandable storage via microSD, the 128GB or 256GB options should be sufficient for most users. The 64MP rear camera captures good photos in well-lit conditions, and the 13MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls.
The phone runs on DokeOS 4.0, based on Android 13, which offers a customizable user interface and several useful features. It also supports NFC for contactless payments, has an FM radio, and includes OTG functionality for connecting peripherals.
Reasons to Buy:
- Large 6.78-inch FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB for smoother multitasking
- Decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming with MediaTek Helio G99
- 64MP rear camera for capturing detailed photos
- NFC support for contactless payments
Reasons to Avoid:
- No expandable storage via microSD card
- Software experience may not be as refined as some other options
- Relatively unknown brand compared to more established competitors
Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Cheap Phones: Find Quality Without Breaking the Bank
In an era of flagship smartphones with eye-watering price tags, finding a good cheap phone can feel like searching for a hidden treasure.
But rest assured, the market is brimming with affordable cell phones that pack impressive features, stylish designs, and solid performance.
This buying guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the world of inexpensive phones and discover the perfect device that suits your needs and budget.
Why Choose a Cheap Phone?
Let’s be honest, not everyone needs – or wants – to spend a fortune on a smartphone. There are many reasons why opting for a cheap mobile phone is a smart move:
- Value for Money: Cheap phones often offer a surprising amount of bang for your buck, with features typically reserved for more expensive models.
- Budget-Friendly: If you’re watching your spending or simply prefer not to splurge, a budget-friendly phone allows you to stay connected without overspending.
- Reduced Risk: Let’s face it, accidents happen. With a low-cost phone, the financial sting of a broken or lost device is far less painful.
- Secondary Device: A cheap phone can be a perfect backup device for travel, outdoor activities, or situations where you’d rather not risk your primary phone.
Key Factors to Consider
Choosing the best cheap phone for you involves considering several crucial factors:
1. Operating System (OS): Your first decision is whether you prefer the Android or iOS ecosystem. Android phones offer a wider range of options and customization, while iPhones boast a streamlined, user-friendly experience.
2. Performance: A phone’s processor and RAM determine its overall speed and ability to handle tasks like multitasking, gaming, and running demanding apps. Don’t expect top-tier performance from a budget phone, but look for a balance that suits your needs.
3. Display: Consider the screen size, resolution, and display technology (LCD or OLED). A larger screen is great for media consumption, while higher resolution offers sharper visuals.
4. Camera: Even cheap smartphones now come equipped with decent cameras. Look for features like multiple lenses, night mode, and portrait mode if photography is important to you.
5. Battery Life: Nobody wants a phone that dies in the middle of the day. Prioritize phones with larger battery capacities (measured in milliampere-hours or mAh) and efficient processors.
6. Storage: Decide how much internal storage you need for apps, photos, videos, and other files. Some phones offer expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a cost-effective way to add more space.
7. Design and Build Quality: While affordability is key, don’t overlook the phone’s design and build quality. A sturdy phone will be more resistant to drops and everyday wear and tear.
8. Additional Features: Some inexpensive phones may surprise you with features like fingerprint sensors, facial recognition, water resistance, or NFC for contactless payments.
9. Carrier and Network Compatibility: Ensure the phone you choose is compatible with your preferred carrier and network (GSM or CDMA).
10. Reviews and Research: Before making your final decision, read reviews from trusted sources and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Finding the Best Cheap Phone: A Strategic Approach
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. This will help narrow down your options and ensure you stay within your financial limits.
- Prioritize Features: Identify the features that are most important to you. Are you a heavy camera user? Do you need a long-lasting battery? Prioritizing will guide your search.
- Consider Older Models: Last year’s flagship phones often become this year’s bargain buys. Older models can offer excellent value and still be quite capable.
- Explore Refurbished Options: Refurbished phones are pre-owned devices that have been inspected, repaired (if necessary), and tested to work like new. They can be a great way to save money.
- Check for Deals and Discounts: Carriers and retailers often offer promotions and discounts on phones, especially older models or during specific seasons.
- Buy Unlocked: An unlocked phone gives you the flexibility to switch carriers and take advantage of the best deals available.
The Bottom Line
Finding the best cheap phone doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful consideration of your needs, budget, and the factors outlined in this guide, you can discover a smartphone that offers quality, functionality, and value – all without emptying your wallet. Remember, the “best” cheap phone is ultimately the one that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
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