Best phone under $200 compared
Affordable phones under $200 for 2024
While we only got our hands on one of the recommended picks for direct testing, we’re leveraging our extensive experience with other models from the same brands. This allows us to provide insights on software support, camera features, and timely updates.
Since the start of the year, the entry-level smartphone market has seen some significant changes, especially with the surge of 5G models. It means that at least two of the four models on our list boast 5G support, and during sales, you can sometimes snag a 5G version of the runner-up phone for under $200.
Another encouraging trend is the growing focus on long-term software support. Many phones now provide not just Android upgrades, but also vital security patches, keeping your device secure and current.
Samsung Galaxy A15: Superior software support (+ 5G)
Read the Samsung Galaxy A15 review
The Galaxy A15 5G is Samsung’s latest addition to the entry-level 5G market in 2024, following its predecessor, the Galaxy A14 5G. With a sub-$200 price tag, the A15 stands out for its strong software update policy, promising up to five years of security updates, which is exceptional for this price range.
In terms of hardware, the Galaxy A15 5G features a 6.5-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate, offering a significant upgrade over the previous model’s LCD screen. The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC, ensuring decent performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
Samsung has reconfigured the camera setup on the A15 5G, replacing the less useful 2 MP depth sensor with a more practical 5 MP ultra-wide lens, alongside a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP macro camera. However, the camera performance, especially in low-light conditions, remains an area where compromises are evident.
Overall, the Galaxy A15 5G offers a compelling package for those looking for an affordable 5G smartphone with solid software support and a decent display, despite some compromises in camera quality and performance.
Good
- High-quality AMOLED display with 90 Hz
- Solid workmanship
- Decent performance that is sufficient for mobile games
- Up to five years of updates
Bad
- Camera quite inflexible overall
- Mono speaker sounds very tinny
- Rather low power reserves for the next 5 years
Motorola Moto G 5G (2024): 5G on a budget
The Motorola Moto G 5G (2024) brings significant value to the budget smartphone market. Featuring a 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth visuals for daily tasks and media consumption. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset, the device offers solid performance, supported by 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of expandable storage.
The Moto G 5G’s camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP macro sensor. While the main camera performs well in good lighting, its low-light performance and lack of optical image stabilization (OIS) are notable drawbacks. The front camera features an 8MP sensor, adequate for basic selfies and video calls.
Running on Android 14 with Motorola’s My UX, the Moto G 5G offers a near-stock Android experience with useful customizations like Moto Actions. The device promises one major OS upgrade and three years of bi-monthly security updates.
The 5000 mAh battery provides all-day usage, though its 18W charging speed is slower compared to some competitors. Additional features include a 3.5 mm headphone jack, stereo speakers, and support for 5G connectivity, making it a well-rounded choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Motorola Moto G Stylus (2023): Note for less
The Moto G Stylus (2023) offers plenty of features, despite its complex name. Available in two versions, one with 5G and a more budget-friendly 4G model under $200, it boasts a large 90 Hz screen and an integrated stylus, making it ideal for productivity tasks.
Historically, the 2021 and 2022 Stylus models saw significant price drops a few months after their release, often falling below $200. This trend suggests keeping an eye on sales if you’re looking to future-proof your device. However, it’s important to note that Motorola’s track record for software updates isn’t as strong as Samsung’s, offering fewer years of security updates and slower Android upgrades compared to top competitors.
Nokia C210: The bare minimum
The Nokia C210 is a nostalgic nod to the old plastic smartphones, featuring thick bezels and basic specifications. It comes with the Snapdragon 662 processor, which, despite being outdated, powered many mid-range phones not long ago.
A key advantage of the Nokia C210 is Nokia’s recent commitment to software updates, typically providing three years of security updates, similar to Samsung. However, don’t expect stellar camera performance. The C210 is equipped with low-resolution sensors, adequate for basic family photos but not much more.
Alternatives to purchasing a new smartphone
Refurbished, sale units, and used/refurbished phones
If removing the protective film from your new device for the first time does not spark joy, you can pick up more expensive smartphones from the second-hand or refurbished market. It is particularly advisable to use devices that carry a refurbished guarantee. These are used smartphones that have been checked and refurbished by reputable companies to ensure that they are in tip-top condition.
Refurbished devices are particularly interesting to check out when they come with an extended warranty. This is how you protect yourself when picking one up just in case the handset gives up the ghost just a few weeks down the road.
Of course, you do not have this advantage when buying a used smartphone from private owners on platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, or other portals. However, used devices can be found for significantly reduced prices there, as there are no additional costs because the middleman has been cut out. With the so-called ‘sale’, you also secure older models that online shops still carry in new condition but which are no longer in production.
Promotions and sales
Towards the end of the year, each consumer electronics device that you purchase is accompanied by an even greater risk of stumbling upon a cheaper offer just a few weeks down the road. This can be attributed to sales like Black Friday and its associated Black Week, Amazon Prime Day, Singles Day, and Cyber Monday, all of which are discount days in the months of October and November.
Most of them happen right before the Christmas shopping frenzy begins. Since smartphones are one of the most popular consumer electronics devices in the market, you should keep your eyes open for great deals. You can check out the dates for this year’s sales and promotions in the table below:
Sign up for a contract with a service provider or an installment plan
If your smartphone is completely broken, and you need a replacement fast, consider an installment plan. These plans, usually tied to a phone contract, let you get a new phone with monthly payments. However, you might end up paying more over time than buying the phone outright.
Alternatively, you can opt for a monthly financing plan with 0% interest, spreading the cost over several months without a contract. While popular, these plans have risks. If your new phone is lost or broken, you’ll still need to pay the remaining installments for a device you can no longer use.
Are you not satisfied with the selection of our list of sub-$200 smartphones? Do share your recommendations with us in the comments section below.
Article updated on July 2024. Comments before the update were not deleted and refer to older versions of this list.
