IT’S hard work deciding which smartphone is best for the price.
Naturally, we all want to save money but how cheap can you go before the quality is really bad?
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I’m The Sun’s main Android smartphone reviewer and have tried everything from big brands like Samsung, all the way to forgotten names such as Motorola, as well as newer players including Xiaomi and Honor.
iPhone may get all the attention but there is no disputing it’s mega expensive.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly smartphone, check out some of these I’ve tested this year.
They’re all less than £500.
3. Nothing Phone 2a
Nothing is pretty new to the smartphone scene, having only launched in October 2020.
In March this year, the company released a new budget version, called the Nothing Phone 2a.
What’s instantly alluring about Nothing smartphones is that they have an alternative design with flashing lights on the back for things like notifications.
The Nothing Phone 2a’s battery measures in at 5,000mAh – which is technically larger than any iPhone.
Nothing claims you can get up to two days of use out of it.
When I tested it earlier this year, I managed to get a good two days out of it after some general usage watching videos, browsing the web and light gaming.
Performance-wise, it also held up well.
What I really love about the Nothing Phone 2a is its price.
It launched at £319 but you can now get the phone even lower, at £289.
2. Samsung Galaxy A55
While the Galaxy S24, Fold 6 and Flip 6 get all the attention, Samsung still has some cheaper phones around.
But the Samsung Galaxy A55 certainly doesn’t look cheap with a bold, slick design and glass back – as well as the display.
I was wowed by the standard of the camera on this handset for the price, with stunning shots during the day and in darker conditions.
You also get access to perks like free Samsung TV Plus streaming as a little bonus.
The Samsung Galaxy A55 launched at £439 earlier this year but now it starts from £364.
Watch the video at the top of this page for a glimpse of the Samsung Galaxy A55.
1. Google Pixel 8a
The Google Pixel has always been a favourite of mine and the 8a is no exception.
You really can’t go wrong with the camera capabilities on this beast.
Especially with genuinely useful features like Magic Editor and Best Take for your pics too.
Google also makes it even more great value by committing to provide seven years of Android updates.
The Google Pixel 8a starts from £499.
Read my full review here.
All prices in this article were correct at the time of writing, but may have since changed.
Always do your own research before making any purchase.