Best Budget Smartphones Under $300 in the US (2024)

Finding the perfect smartphone on a budget can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Sure, you might dream of the latest Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, but with a tight budget, you might be looking for something more wallet-friendly. Fear not, though! For under $300, you can still score a nippy smartphone with a stunning AMOLED display, capable camera tech, impressive battery life, and a range of features often missing from pricier models, like a headphone jack and expandable storage.

Here are some of the best budget-friendly smartphones under $300 available in the US.

1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G: $300

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G is a steal, priced at just $300, and you might even find it cheaper if you catch an early bird offer. This phone offers an AMOLED display with superior contrast and vibrant tones. It’s got a Full HD 120Hz screen that’s perfect for streaming and photo editing. While the 108MP camera lacks optical image stabilization and struggles in low light, it’s a great option for everyday use. The 5,000 mAh battery provides excellent longevity, although charging could be faster. Plus, Xiaomi promises two OS updates and four years of security patches.

2. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G: $292.86

If you want more, consider upgrading to the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G for $292.86. This model offers additional upgrades, like a sharper 1.5K display, stereo speakers, faster charging, and improved performance. It’s a great value option for those who want a little extra without breaking the bank.

3. Poco M6 Pro: $201.50

The Poco M6 Pro is another excellent option under $201.50, featuring a similar design to the Redmi Note 13 5G with Gorilla Glass front and IP54 splash resistance. It has the same Full HD AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and offers stereo speakers for better audio quality. The 5,000 mAh battery supports 67W charging, although the performance is more basic with an older Helio G99 chipset, and there’s no 5G support. Still, it’s a good budget pick for those who don’t need cutting-edge performance.

4. Poco X6 5G: $257

If you’re looking for an even better experience, keep an eye out for sales on the Poco X6 5G. With its Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, this phone offers superior performance compared to the M6 Pro. It also features a more durable Gorilla Glass Victus front, making it a solid upgrade if you can snag it for under $257.

5. OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G: $235

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G is another fantastic budget smartphone under $235.00. Despite its unremarkable name, the OxygenOS interface provides a smooth user experience. It sports a 6.72-inch Full HD IPS screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and good brightness levels. The 5,000 mAh battery supports 67W fast charging, and the 108MP Samsung HM6 sensor delivers surprisingly good photos for this price point.

6. Motorola Moto G84: $220

If you’re a Motorola fan, the Moto G84 is a great budget-friendly option with price tag of $220. The highlight is its 6.5-inch 120Hz display and stereo speakers, perfect for media consumption. The Snapdragon 695 processor may not be the most powerful but offers adequate performance for everyday use. Its 5,000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting power, and the 50MP camera with optical image stabilization captures decent photos.

7. Samsung Galaxy A34 5G: ‎$239

For those who prefer Samsung, the Galaxy A34 5G is a compelling choice if you find it on sale for under ‎$239.99. It offers IP67 water and dust resistance, years of OS updates, and a super AMOLED display that’s bright and colorful. While the Dimensity 1080 chipset isn’t the most powerful, it provides decent performance for most tasks, and the 5,000 mAh battery ensures all-day use.

8. Nokia G60 5G: $300

Last but not least, the Nokia G60 5G is a solid everyday smartphone built from recycled materials, with a Snapdragon 695 processor that handles most tasks efficiently. It comes with guaranteed OS and security updates, expandable storage, and a 6.58-inch IPS display. While not the best for photography, it offers a good balance of features and sustainability. A perfect phone under $300.

Conclusion

These are my top picks for the best budget smartphones you can grab in the US for under $300 in 2024. Each of these devices offers something unique, so whether you value performance, design, display quality, or battery life, there’s a phone on this list for you. Let me know if I’ve missed your favorite, and don’t forget to subscribe for more tech reviews and updates! Cheers!