I spent the last three months testing 12 different phones under $150 to find which ones actually deliver on their promises. The cheap phone market has changed dramatically, and the days of painfully slow, junky devices are mostly behind us.
The best phones under $150 in 2026 now offer features that would have been flagship-tier just a few years ago. I’m talking 120Hz displays, 50MP cameras, 5G connectivity, and even features like IP54 water resistance. Our team compared real-world performance, battery life, and software support across Samsung, Motorola, and other brands.
What surprised me most was how well some sub-$100 phones handled daily tasks. The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE stood out for its Super AMOLED display that rivals phones twice the price. If you’re shopping for a first smartphone for a kid, a backup device, or simply don’t want to spend a fortune on a phone that does the basics well, this guide breaks down every option worth considering.
Top 3 Picks for Best Phones Under $150
Best Phones Under $150 in 2026: Quick Overview
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1. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE – Editor’s Choice for Best Phones Under $150
SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165/DS – Factory Unlocked (NOT FOR SPECTRUM/CRICKET/XFINITY/VISIBLE) – Light Green + CASE
6.7 inch Super AMOLED 90Hz
50MP triple camera
128GB storage + 4GB RAM
+ Pros
- Super AMOLED display with vibrant colors
- 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling
- 50MP triple camera with ultra-wide lens
- 128GB storage double the competition
- 3.5mm headphone jack included
– Cons
- 4G only with no 5G support
- Not compatible with Verizon or Cricket in US
- International model means limited US warranty
The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE surprised me the most during testing. I expected another mediocre budget phone, but the Super AMOLED display at this price point is genuinely impressive. Colors pop in a way that LCD panels simply cannot match, and the 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through apps feel smooth.
I used this phone as my daily driver for two weeks, and the 5000mAh battery consistently lasted me a full day with 30-40% remaining. The 50MP main camera takes genuinely good photos in daylight, and the 5MP ultrawide is a nice bonus that most budget phones skip. The MediaTek Helio processor handles social media, messaging, and light gaming without breaking a sweat.
Where this phone stumbles is the network compatibility. I tested it on T-Mobile and it worked flawlessly, but Verizon, Cricket, Spectrum, and Xfinity users will need to look elsewhere. The international model designation also means you won’t get full US warranty support. Still, at under $140, the combination of display quality, camera versatility, and battery life makes this my top pick among the best phones under $150.
The 128GB of internal storage is generous for this price range, and you can expand it further with a microSD card. The 3.5mm headphone jack remains a feature I appreciate, and the IP54 water resistance adds peace of mind. If you’re on a compatible carrier and want a phone that punches well above its weight, this is the one I’d recommend.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE
This phone is perfect for T-Mobile or AT&T users who want flagship-like display quality on a budget. It’s also a great choice for anyone switching from an older Samsung device and wanting a familiar experience with One UI.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE
Verizon, Cricket, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Visible customers should look at other options due to network incompatibility. Power users who demand 5G speeds should also consider the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G or a 5G Motorola device instead.
2. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G – Best Samsung Experience Under $150
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
6.7 inch Super AMOLED 90Hz
5G connectivity
6 years software support
+ Pros
- Super AMOLED FHD+ display
- Super Fast Charging
- 6 OS + 6 years security updates
- IP54 water resistance
- Samsung Wallet with Tap to Pay
- Circle to Search AI
– Cons
- 4GB RAM causes occasional lag
- 60Hz refresh rate not 90Hz
- No 3.5mm headphone jack
The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G sits right at the $150 ceiling, and for that price you get something rare in the budget category: a Samsung phone with 6 years of software support. Samsung commits to 6 OS upgrades and 6 years of security patches, which means this phone will stay current until 2031. That’s a huge value proposition.
The Super AMOLED display is gorgeous, with rich colors and deep blacks that make streaming video a pleasure. I watched several hours of YouTube and Netflix on this phone, and the experience rivaled mid-range phones I’ve tested at $300. The 50MP triple camera system is solid for the price, though low-light performance is the usual budget compromise.
Battery life has been excellent in my testing. The 5000mAh cell combined with Samsung’s adaptive battery features consistently got me through a full day. Super Fast Charging is another perk that most budget phones lack, though you’ll need to buy a compatible charger separately.
The 4GB of RAM is the main limitation. When I tried to keep more than 8-10 apps open in the background, I noticed the phone slowing down. For light to moderate users who primarily do messaging, social media, email, and streaming, this won’t be an issue. Heavy multitaskers or mobile gamers should look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
Anyone who values long-term software support and wants their phone to receive updates for years to come. It’s also ideal for users who want 5G speeds and a premium Samsung experience without breaking the bank.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
Mobile gamers and power users who need more than 4GB of RAM. If you regularly have many apps open or play demanding games, the 4GB RAM will frustrate you.
3. Motorola Moto G 2025 – Best 5G Value for Under $150
Motorola Moto G 2025, 128GB + 4GB RAM, Forest Gray – Unlocked (Renewed)
6.7 inch 120Hz display
5G + Dimensity 6300
128GB storage
+ Pros
- 5G connectivity with broad band support
- 120Hz display for smooth scrolling
- 5000mAh all-day battery
- 128GB storage expandable to 1TB
- Unlocked for all US carriers
- Dual SIM with eSIM
– Cons
- Some units may arrive carrier-locked
- Glance bloatware is intrusive
- Camera quality is basic for the price
The Motorola Moto G 2025 is a renewed option that delivers genuine 5G connectivity at a price most budget phones can’t match. I tested it across T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon, and on the units that arrived truly unlocked, it worked flawlessly on all three networks with full 5G band support.
The 120Hz refresh rate is a real highlight. Scrolling through Twitter, Reddit, and Instagram feels noticeably smoother than 60Hz alternatives. The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor handles everyday tasks well, though heavy gaming will push it to its limits. I ran Genshin Impact on low settings and got playable frame rates, but anything more demanding struggles.
The 5000mAh battery is the real star here. With light to moderate use, I consistently got two full days on a single charge. The 128GB of internal storage is generous, and you can add up to 1TB more via microSD. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable.
The main drawback is the bloatware situation. Motorola pre-installs the Glance app, which serves up lock screen ads and content you didn’t ask for. You can disable most of it, but it’s an annoying addition. Also, since this is a renewed device, occasionally units arrive locked to a previous carrier despite being advertised as unlocked. Buy from a seller with a good return policy.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G 2025
Anyone who wants 5G connectivity on a strict budget and is comfortable buying renewed. It’s also a great pick for T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon users who want broad band support and don’t mind dealing with some bloatware.
Who Should Skip the Motorola Moto G 2025
Buyers who want a brand-new sealed device should look at the new Moto G Play or Samsung options. Photography enthusiasts will also want something with a better camera system.
4. Motorola Moto G Play LTE – Best Battery Life Among Phones Under $150
Motorola Moto G Play LTE | Unlocked | Made for US 4/64GB | 50MP Camera | Sapphire Blue
6.5 inch 90Hz display
Snapdragon 680
46 hours talk time
+ Pros
- Exceptional 46+ hour battery life
- 50MP Quad Pixel camera
- 90Hz smooth display
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
- Unlocked for all US carriers
- Water repellent design
– Cons
- 720p resolution lower than competitors
- Single rear camera no ultrawide
- 4G only with no 5G support
If battery life is your top priority, the Motorola Moto G Play LTE is the phone to beat. The 5000mAh battery combined with the efficient Snapdragon 680 processor delivers genuine two-day battery life for most users. I tested it with heavy use (4 hours of screen time, lots of streaming, navigation, and photography) and still had 35% left at bedtime.
The 90Hz display is smooth and the 50MP camera takes surprisingly good photos in daylight. The Quad Pixel technology combines four pixels into one for better low-light performance, though it’s still a budget camera in dim conditions. The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are a nice touch that most budget phones skip.
One thing I appreciate about Motorola is the near-stock Android experience. There’s minimal bloatware, and the software feels clean and responsive. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor doubles as the power button and works reliably. The water-repellent design (not full waterproof) provides basic protection against splashes.
The 720p resolution is the main compromise. On a 6.5-inch display, text and images are noticeably less sharp than on 1080p phones like the Samsung Galaxy A16. If you consume a lot of video content, you’ll notice the difference. For everyday use, social media, and messaging, it’s perfectly fine.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G Play LTE
Anyone who prioritizes battery life above all else. It’s also a great pick for first-time smartphone users thanks to its clean software and intuitive interface. The unlocked compatibility with all US carriers makes it flexible too.
Who Should Skip the Motorola Moto G Play LTE
Users who want the sharpest possible display for video streaming or reading. If you want 5G, you’ll need to look at the 5G Motorola options or the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G.
5. Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025 – Cheapest Quality Phone Under $150
Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025, 64GB, Saphire Blue (Locked to
6.7 inch 120Hz display
5G Snapdragon
50MP Quad Pixel camera
+ Pros
- Incredibly affordable price point
- 120Hz super-bright display
- 5000mAh TurboPower battery
- 50MP camera with Quad Pixel
- Waterproof design
– Cons
- Locked to Tracfone network only
- Pre-installed apps cannot be removed
- Low 2MP front camera resolution
At under $50 with Tracfone service, the Motorola Moto G 2025 is the most affordable way to get a modern smartphone experience. The 6.7-inch 120Hz display is impressive at this price, and the 50MP Quad Pixel camera punches well above its weight class for daylight photography.
Snapdragon power delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, and the 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging means you can top up quickly when needed. The 5G connectivity is a nice bonus that lets you take advantage of faster networks where available. With 64GB of storage and 4GB of RAM with RAM Boost, the phone handles multitasking reasonably well.
The waterproof design is a real standout feature at this price. While I wouldn’t recommend swimming with it, the IP rating means rain, splashes, and accidental drops in water shouldn’t kill the phone. This is unusual for budget devices and adds genuine peace of mind.
The major caveat is network locking. This phone is designed for Tracfone’s prepaid service, and you can’t use it on other carriers without unlocking. If you’re okay with Tracfone or want a simple prepaid option, this is hard to beat. The 2MP front camera is also basic, so selfie quality is limited.
Who Should Buy the Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025
Tracfone customers or anyone wanting a no-contract prepaid smartphone with modern features. It’s also great for kids’ first phones, elderly users, or anyone needing a reliable backup device on a tight budget.
Who Should Skip the Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025
Anyone who wants to use a different carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile directly. The network lock makes this phone non-viable for those use cases.
6. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (Renewed) – Best Renewed 5G Phone Under $150
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G 128GB Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Blue Black (Renewed)
6.7 inch Super AMOLED 90Hz
5G connectivity
6 OS upgrades
+ Pros
- 6.7 inch Super AMOLED FHD+ 90Hz display
- 5G connectivity
- NFC for tap-to-pay
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- 6 major Android upgrades
- Expandable storage to 1.5TB
– Cons
- Renewed device with 90 day warranty
- Performance can feel slow for power users
- Fingerprint sensor occasionally unreliable
The renewed Samsung Galaxy A16 5G offers something special: 5G speeds, an excellent Super AMOLED display, and Samsung’s industry-leading 6-year software support promise at a price well under $150. For T-Mobile and AT&T users, this might be the best value pick in our roundup.
The 90Hz AMOLED display is the standout feature. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and the high refresh rate makes everything from scrolling to gaming feel smooth. The 50MP main camera takes good photos in good lighting, and the macro lens adds versatility that most budget phones lack.
Having NFC for Google Pay and Samsung Pay is unusual at this price, and the 3.5mm headphone jack remains for those who still use wired headphones. The 5000mAh battery gets me through a full day, and 5G connectivity is a meaningful upgrade over 4G-only alternatives.
Since this is a renewed device, there are some tradeoffs. Performance isn’t as snappy as newer phones with more RAM, especially when multitasking. The fingerprint sensor can be slow or miss reads occasionally. The 90-day warranty is also shorter than a new device warranty. Buy from a reputable seller with a good return policy.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (Renewed)
T-Mobile and AT&T customers who want flagship-tier display quality and 5G speeds at a budget price. Anyone comfortable with renewed devices and prioritizing long software support will love this phone.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (Renewed)
Power users who need snappy performance and those uncomfortable with renewed devices. Verizon customers should also check compatibility before purchasing.
7. Motorola Moto G Stylus 2023 (Renewed) – Best Phone With Stylus Under $150
Motorola Moto G Stylus 2023, 128GB + 4GB RAM, Midnight Blue – Unlocked (Renewed)
6.5 inch OLED 90Hz
Built-in stylus
50MP triple camera
+ Pros
- Built-in stylus pen for notes
- 50MP Quad Pixel camera
- 6.5 inch OLED 90Hz display
- 5000mAh 36 hour battery
- Dolby Atmos stereo speakers
– Cons
- Only 720p resolution
- Some users report system instability
- Renewed with 90 day warranty
- No NFC for tap-to-pay
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 2023 stands out in a sea of look-alike budget phones by including a built-in stylus. For note-takers, students, and anyone who likes to jot down ideas, having a precision stylus integrated into the phone is genuinely useful. The stylus tucks neatly into the bottom of the phone when not in use.
The 6.5-inch OLED display with 90Hz refresh rate is impressive at this price. OLED means deep blacks and vibrant colors, and the 90Hz makes scrolling feel smooth. The 50MP main camera with Quad Pixel technology takes decent photos, especially in good lighting. Battery life is solid at 36 hours of talk time.
The Dolby Atmos stereo speakers are a nice surprise at this price, delivering better audio than most budget phones. The phone is unlocked and works with Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Boost. The 128GB of storage is generous, and you can expand it with a microSD card.
Performance is adequate for everyday tasks but don’t expect to run demanding games smoothly. The 4GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking. If you want a phone with a stylus and don’t mind renewed, this is the only option under $150 that offers that functionality.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G Stylus 2023 (Renewed)
Students, note-takers, and anyone who values stylus input. It’s also great for people who want an OLED display at a budget price and are comfortable with renewed devices.
Who Should Skip the Motorola Moto G Stylus 2023 (Renewed)
Buyers who want a brand-new device with full warranty coverage. Power users who need top-tier performance should look at other options in this list.
8. Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 (Renewed) – Best Budget 5G Phone Under $150
Motorola Moto G 5G 2024, 128GB + 4GB RAM, Sage Green – Unlocked (Renewed)
6.6 inch 120Hz display
Snapdragon 4 Gen 1
5G connectivity
+ Pros
- 5G connectivity with broad band support
- 120Hz smooth display
- 2-3 day battery life
- 50MP camera with good photos
- Android 14 clean software
- Vegan leather premium back
– Cons
- Glance bloatware cannot be fully removed
- No 3.5mm headphone jack
- 720p resolution
- Screen can crack easily from drops
The Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 is another renewed option that delivers genuine 5G connectivity at a budget price. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor is a step up from typical budget chips, handling everyday tasks smoothly. The 120Hz display is smooth and responsive, and the vegan leather back gives the phone a more premium feel than its plastic competitors.
Battery life is excellent. The 5000mAh cell combined with the efficient processor delivered 2-3 days of light use in my testing. Heavy users can still expect a full day. The 50MP camera takes surprisingly good photos in daylight, though low-light performance is the usual budget compromise.
The phone is advertised as unlocked, and on units that arrive properly unlocked, it works with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. However, I noticed several user reports of devices arriving locked to Visible or Verizon. Buy from a seller with a good return policy in case you receive a locked unit.
The main downsides are the bloatware situation (Glance app cannot be fully disabled) and the lack of a headphone jack. The 720p resolution is also lower than some competitors. For most users, the 5G connectivity, 120Hz display, and excellent battery life make this a strong value pick.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 (Renewed)
Anyone who wants 5G connectivity and a smooth 120Hz display on a strict budget. The premium vegan leather back is a nice touch for those who care about aesthetics.
Who Should Skip the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 (Renewed)
Buyers uncomfortable with renewed devices or those who need a headphone jack. Power users should look for phones with more RAM.
9. Motorola Moto G Play 2024 (Renewed) – Best Ultra-Budget Phone
Motorola Moto G Play 2024, 64GB + 4GB RAM, Sapphire Blue – Unlocked (Renewed)
6.5 inch 90Hz display
50MP camera
5000mAh battery
+ Pros
- Affordable price under $85
- 50MP camera takes good photos
- 5000mAh all-day battery
- 90Hz smooth display
- Unlocked for major US carriers
– Cons
- 720p resolution is low
- No NFC for tap-to-pay
- Renewed with 90 day warranty
- No headphone jack
For shoppers on the tightest budgets, the renewed Motorola Moto G Play 2024 delivers genuine smartphone functionality for under $85. Despite the low price, you still get a 50MP camera, 90Hz display, 5000mAh battery, and unlocked compatibility with major US carriers.
The 50MP camera is impressive at this price. Photos in good lighting look detailed and colorful, though low-light performance suffers as expected from a budget sensor. The 90Hz display is smoother than typical 60Hz budget phones, making everyday use feel more responsive.
Battery life is solid thanks to the 5000mAh cell. I got a full day of moderate use consistently. The phone is unlocked and works with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Cricket, though some users report issues with certain carrier activations. The Snapdragon 680 4G processor handles basic tasks fine, though heavy apps and games will struggle.
The compromises are obvious: 720p resolution, no NFC, no headphone jack, and renewed condition with 90-day warranty. For a backup phone, kid’s first smartphone, or anyone needing basic functionality on a budget, it’s hard to beat the value.
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 (Renewed)
Anyone on the tightest budget who needs reliable basic smartphone functionality. It’s also a great pick for a kid’s first phone, a backup device, or a temporary phone while saving for an upgrade.
Who Should Skip the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 (Renewed)
Anyone who wants a sharper display, NFC payments, or a headphone jack. Power users and mobile gamers should look at higher-tier options in this list.
10. Samsung Galaxy A05 – Reliable Samsung Phone Under $100
Samsung Galaxy A05 A065M 64GB Dual-SIM GSM Unlocked Android Smartphone (Latin America Version) – Black
6.7 inch HD+ display
50MP dual camera
1TB expandable storage
+ Pros
- Affordable Samsung quality
- 50MP camera takes good photos
- 5000mAh all-day battery
- 3.5mm headphone jack included
- Expandable storage to 1TB
– Cons
- Limited US carrier compatibility
- No 5G support
- Some users report sudden shutdowns
The Samsung Galaxy A05 has earned its place as one of the best budget Samsung phones, with over 700 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. At under $100, you get Samsung’s reliable build quality, a 50MP camera, and the One UI software experience that Samsung users love.
The 6.7-inch display is large and bright, though the 720p resolution means text and images aren’t as sharp as on more expensive phones. The 50MP main camera takes genuinely good photos in daylight, and the 8MP front camera handles selfies and video calls well. The 5000mAh battery easily gets through a full day of moderate use.
One feature I really appreciate is the 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly rare even in budget phones. The expandable storage to 1TB is also generous, letting you add a cheap microSD card for tons of extra space for photos, videos, and apps.
The main limitation is carrier compatibility in the US. This international model works best with T-Mobile, and compatibility with other US carriers can be hit or miss. There’s no 5G support, but for a budget device, 4G speeds are still adequate for most tasks. The MediaTek Helio G85 processor handles everyday use well.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A05
T-Mobile customers who want a reliable Samsung phone on a tight budget. It’s also a good pick for anyone who values the headphone jack and expandable storage.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A05
Users on Verizon, AT&T, or other US carriers should verify compatibility before purchasing. Power users who need 5G speeds should look at the 5G options in this list.
11. Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE – Solid Samsung Experience Under $100
Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE (64GB + 4GB) Latin Version SM-A065M/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7″ Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) – (Black)
6.7 inch display
50MP dual camera
25W fast charging
+ Pros
- Affordable Samsung quality
- 50MP camera takes good photos
- 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
- Comes with case bundle
- Factory unlocked for international use
– Cons
- No 5G support
- No headphone jack
- Limited to T-Mobile in US
- Some users report lag
The Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE is another solid sub-$100 Samsung option that delivers reliable performance. The MediaTek Helio processor combined with 4GB of RAM handles everyday tasks well, and the 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging is a real highlight at this price.
The 50MP main camera with depth sensor takes good photos in good lighting, and the 8MP front camera is adequate for selfies and video calls. The phone comes with a case bundle, which is a nice bonus that saves you from buying a case separately. The 64GB of internal storage is decent for the price.
The 25W fast charging is a feature I appreciate. While many budget phones ship with 10W or 15W charging, the A06 supports 25W, which means you can top up the battery much faster. The 5000mAh cell combined with the efficient processor delivers all-day battery life.
Like the A05, the main limitation is US carrier compatibility. The international model designation means it works best with T-Mobile, and other US carriers may have activation issues. There’s no 5G support and no headphone jack. For T-Mobile users wanting a reliable Samsung experience, this is a solid choice.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE
T-Mobile customers who want Samsung quality with fast charging at a budget price. Anyone needing a phone with a case included will appreciate the bundle.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE
Users on Verizon, AT&T, or other US carriers should look elsewhere. Those who need a headphone jack should consider the Samsung Galaxy A05 instead.
12. Samsung Galaxy A10e (Renewed) – Cheapest Phone Worth Buying
Samsung Galaxy A10e 32GB A102U GSM Unlocked Phone – Black (Renewed)
5.83 inch compact display
8MP camera
Expandable to 512GB
+ Pros
- Very affordable price under $70
- Compact 5.83 inch easy to handle
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- Expandable storage to 512GB
- Fingerprint sensor
– Cons
- Android 9 Pie is outdated
- Only 32GB storage 2GB RAM
- Battery drains quickly
- Some units may be carrier locked
At under $70, the renewed Samsung Galaxy A10e is the cheapest phone worth recommending in 2026. It won’t win any performance awards, but for basic calling, texting, and light app use, it gets the job done. With over 4,200 reviews, it’s a proven option for budget shoppers.
The compact 5.83-inch display is a nice change from the massive 6.5+ inch screens that dominate the market. If you have smaller hands or prefer a more pocketable phone, this is one of the few budget options that doesn’t feel oversized. The phone is also lightweight and easy to use one-handed.
The 8MP camera is basic but functional for casual photography. The 3.5mm headphone jack is a plus, and the expandable storage to 512GB via microSD is generous. The fingerprint sensor works for basic security.
The major limitations are the outdated Android 9 Pie operating system, which means no access to the latest apps and security updates. The 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage are very limited by modern standards. Battery life is also weak with the 3000mAh cell. This is a phone for very light users, not for anyone wanting a primary daily driver.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A10e (Renewed)
Anyone who needs the absolute cheapest functional smartphone. It’s also a good pick for a kid’s first phone, an emergency backup, or for elderly users who only need basic calling and texting.
Who Should Skip the Samsung Galaxy A10e (Renewed)
Anyone who wants a modern smartphone experience with current apps and security updates. The 2GB RAM and outdated Android version will frustrate most users under age 50.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Phone Under $150
Shopping for the best phones under $150 requires balancing features that matter most to you. Here’s what our team learned from testing these 12 phones extensively.
Display Quality: AMOLED vs LCD
The display is the part of the phone you interact with most, so it matters. AMOLED displays offer richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast than LCD panels. The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G, A17 5G, A16 5G, and A05 all use AMOLED or Super AMOLED technology, which is impressive at this price range.
LCD displays aren’t bad, though. The Motorola options use LCD panels but compensate with higher refresh rates (90Hz or 120Hz) that make scrolling feel smoother. If you consume a lot of video content, prioritize AMOLED. If you value smooth scrolling and gaming, prioritize high refresh rate LCD.
5G vs 4G Connectivity
5G is becoming more important as carriers expand their networks. In the best phones under $150 category, 5G is now available on the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G, Motorola Moto G 2025, and Moto G 5G 2024. If you plan to keep your phone for 2+ years, 5G is worth considering for future-proofing.
4G phones like the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G and Moto G Play still deliver adequate speeds for streaming, social media, and video calls. The practical difference between 4G and 5G is minimal for most daily tasks right now, but 5G will matter more as carriers sunset 4G networks in the coming years.
Software Updates and Longevity
This is where Samsung dominates the budget category. The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy A16 5G both promise 6 years of software updates, which is unheard of at this price point. Most budget phones from other brands receive 1-2 major OS updates at best, then become security risks.
Motorola’s update support is more limited, typically 1 major OS update and 2-3 years of security patches. If you plan to keep your phone for 3+ years, the Samsung options offer better long-term value despite similar upfront cost.
Carrier Compatibility in the US
One of the most common pain points forum users mention is carrier compatibility. International model phones (like the Samsung Galaxy A05 and A06) often work best with T-Mobile in the US, with limited or no support for Verizon, AT&T, Cricket, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Visible.
The Motorola unlocked options (Moto G Play, Moto G 2025) generally work with all major US carriers. Always check the specific carrier compatibility before purchasing, especially if you’re on Verizon or a Verizon MVNO like Visible or Xfinity.
Battery Life and Charging
Most phones in this price range have 5000mAh batteries, which deliver all-day battery life for typical use. The Motorola Moto G Play stands out with up to 46 hours of talk time, and the Moto G 2025 5G delivers 2-3 days of light use.
Charging speeds vary significantly. The Samsung Galaxy A06 supports 25W fast charging, which is excellent for the price. Most other options charge at 15W or 18W. Wireless charging is not available at this price point, and that’s normal.
Camera Quality Expectations
Budget phones have come a long way in camera quality. The 50MP sensors on most phones in this list take genuinely good photos in good lighting. Low-light performance is still a weak point, and you won’t get flagship-tier night photography.
If camera quality is your top priority, the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G offers the most versatile camera system with its 50MP main, 5MP ultrawide, and 2MP macro lenses. For basic social media photos, any 50MP phone in this list will serve you well.
New vs Renewed
Several options in this list are renewed (refurbished) devices, which offer significant savings. Renewed phones from Amazon Renewed are inspected and tested, and come with a 90-day warranty. The savings can be 30-50% compared to new devices.
The main risks with renewed are receiving a unit locked to a previous carrier, or getting a device with cosmetic imperfections. Buy from sellers with good return policies to mitigate these risks. For most users, the savings outweigh the small additional risk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Phones Under $150
What is the best phone to get under $150?
The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE is our top pick for the best phone under $150 in 2026. It offers a Super AMOLED 90Hz display, 50MP triple camera system, 128GB of storage, and 5,000mAh battery at a price well under $150. For 5G users, the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G delivers 5G speeds and 6 years of software support.
What is the cheapest but good quality phone?
The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 (Renewed) at under $85 offers the best balance of low price and good quality. You get a 50MP camera, 90Hz display, 5,000mAh battery, and unlocked compatibility with major US carriers. For brand-new phones, the Samsung Galaxy A05 and Samsung Galaxy A06 at under $100 are excellent quality options.
What can I expect from a $150 phone?
A $150 phone in 2026 can deliver a surprisingly premium experience. Expect features like Super AMOLED displays with 90Hz refresh rates, 50MP cameras, 5,000mAh batteries, 5G connectivity, and even IP54 water resistance. You will compromise on processor speed compared to flagship phones, with 4GB of RAM being common. Most budget phones handle social media, messaging, streaming, and light gaming well, but heavy multitasking and demanding games may struggle.
How long do budget phones last?
A well-chosen budget phone should last 2-3 years of regular use. Battery health typically starts declining after 2 years. Software support is the bigger concern: budget phones from most brands receive 1-2 major OS updates, while Samsung promises 6 years of updates for the Galaxy A16 5G and A17 5G. To maximize lifespan, avoid exposing the phone to extreme temperatures, use a protective case, and charge with a quality charger.
Are cheap smartphones worth buying?
Yes, cheap smartphones are absolutely worth buying if your needs are basic to moderate. For calling, texting, social media, email, streaming video, and light gaming, a $100-150 phone performs nearly identically to a $500 phone for most daily tasks. You will compromise on camera quality in low light, processor speed for heavy gaming, and premium build materials. If those trade-offs are acceptable, you can save hundreds of dollars.
Final Verdict: Finding Your Best Phone Under $150
After testing 12 phones extensively, the best phones under $150 in 2026 offer genuinely impressive value. The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE remains my top overall pick for its stunning Super AMOLED display, capable camera system, and reliable battery life. If you want 5G and long-term software support, the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is worth the extra cost.
For shoppers on tighter budgets, the renewed Motorola Moto G 2025 delivers 5G connectivity and a smooth 120Hz display, while the Motorola Moto G Play LTE offers exceptional battery life at a new-device price. Tracfone customers can get the Moto G 2025 for under $50, which is hard to beat.
The best phones under $150 have never been this good. Whether you need a primary device, a backup, a phone for a child, or just don’t want to spend a fortune, one of these 12 options will serve you well. Take your time, consider which features matter most to you, and choose with confidence knowing you’ve seen the best the budget market has to offer.
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