15 Best Phones Under $150 (August 2026) – Expert Reviews

Finding a solid smartphone does not mean emptying your wallet. I spent weeks testing and comparing the best phones under $150 to see which ones actually deliver where it counts. The truth surprised me: several of these budget devices handle everyday tasks just as well as phones costing three times as much.

Our team looked at 15 different models, tracking battery endurance, display quality, camera performance, and how fluid each phone feels during daily use. We also paid close attention to real user feedback from forums like Reddit, where battery life and smooth performance came up as the top priorities for budget phone buyers. If you want a broader look at what is available, check out our roundup of the budget smartphone deals we have tested recently.

Whether you need a reliable backup device, a first phone for your teenager, or you are simply keeping spending tight, this guide covers the top options. We also factored in carrier compatibility, software update timelines, and build quality so you can pick with confidence. For those looking at carrier-free options, our guide to the best unlocked phone deals is worth a read too.

Top 3 Picks for Best Phones Under $150

Best Phones Under $150 in 2026

1. Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 – Best Overall with 5G and 120Hz Display

I have been using the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 as my daily driver for a few weeks, and it genuinely feels like a phone that should cost more. The 6.6-inch display runs at 120Hz, which makes scrolling through apps and social media feel incredibly fluid. That alone sets it apart from most phones in this price range that cap out at 60Hz or 90Hz.

The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor handles everyday tasks without hesitation. Apps open quickly, multitasking between Chrome, YouTube, and messaging works well, and I never ran into the kind of jarring lag that plagues cheaper phones. Motorola also includes 128GB of storage, which is generous for a phone in this tier.

On the hardware front, the vegan leather back gives it a premium feel that surprised everyone I showed it to. It does not look or feel like a budget phone. Battery life easily gets through a full day of moderate use, thanks to the 5000mAh cell and 18W TurboPower charging. The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are loud enough for watching videos without headphones.

The 50MP main camera takes solid photos in good lighting. Low-light shots are where the limitations show, but that is expected at this price. One thing worth noting: there is no charger in the box, which caught me off guard. You also only get 720p video recording.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Moto G 5G 2024 is ideal for anyone wanting 5G speeds, a smooth 120Hz display, and a clean Android experience. It works well for students, professionals needing a reliable daily phone, or anyone transitioning from an older device. The dual SIM and eSIM support make it a great pick for frequent travelers.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you need top-tier camera performance or plan to record high-quality video, this phone falls short. The Wi-Fi is limited to 802.11ac, so no Wi-Fi 6 support. Also, some Amazon-sold units may receive software updates slower than carrier versions, according to user reports.

2. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE – Super AMOLED Display with Triple Camera

The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE stands out for one big reason: that Super AMOLED display. At 6.7 inches with a 90Hz refresh rate, it produces deep blacks and vibrant colors that make LCD screens at this price look washed out by comparison. Watching Netflix and YouTube on this panel is a genuinely pleasant experience.

Samsung packs a triple camera system here with a 50MP main sensor, 5MP ultra-wide, and 2MP macro. The main camera performs well in daylight, and the ultra-wide adds versatility most budget phones skip. With over 4500 customer reviews, this is one of the most popular budget Samsung phones available.

Build quality feels premium for the price. The phone ships with a free protective case, which is a nice touch. The 5000mAh battery easily lasts a full day, and 25W wired charging gets you back up reasonably fast. Samsung One UI provides a polished software experience with customization options that Motorola lacks.

The biggest catch is that this is the international model. It does not work with Cricket, Spectrum, Xfinity, Visible, or Total Wireless in the US. It works fine with T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon, but check your carrier before buying. Also, there is no 5G on this model.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A16 is perfect for anyone who values display quality above all else. If you watch a lot of videos, browse social media heavily, or simply want the best-looking screen under $150, this Samsung delivers. It is also a strong pick for existing Samsung users who want to stay in the ecosystem.

Things to Keep in Mind

Carrier compatibility is the main concern. If you use a prepaid MVNO like Cricket or Visible, this phone will not work for you. The MediaTek Helio processor handles daily tasks fine but is noticeably slower than the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 in the Moto G 5G. Heavy multitaskers may feel the 4GB RAM limitation.

3. BLU F5 5G – 5G with 120Hz Display and 128GB Storage

The BLU F5 5G caught my attention because it packs 5G connectivity, a 120Hz display, and 128GB of storage into one of the lowest prices in this entire roundup. For anyone who thought 5G was out of reach at this budget, BLU proves otherwise with the MediaTek Kompanio 800T chipset inside.

In daily use, the F5 handles basic tasks well. Scrolling through apps feels smooth thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate, and 5G download speeds are legitimately fast where coverage is available. The 5000mAh battery is rated for up to 72 hours of talk time, and I found it lasted roughly two days with moderate use.

The 50MP dual rear cameras take acceptable photos in good lighting, but do not expect to compete with Samsung or Motorola here. Colors are slightly oversaturated, and low-light performance is weak. The phone also ships with some pre-installed apps and games that auto-install, which was annoying to clean up.

On the plus side, BLU includes a protective case in the box, has a fingerprint sensor, and the phone runs Android 14 out of the gate. Signal reception is surprisingly strong, matching what I get on more expensive devices.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The BLU F5 5G is for budget shoppers who want 5G speeds and a modern 120Hz display without stretching toward the top of the $150 limit. It works well as a starter smartphone, a secondary device, or for someone who primarily needs reliable connectivity and basic app functionality.

Things to Keep in Mind

The 4GB of RAM causes app reloads when you switch between several heavy applications. Camera quality is basic, and screen brightness struggles in direct sunlight. Also, VoLTE support varies by carrier, so verify compatibility before purchasing if you rely on voice-over-LTE services.

4. Motorola Moto G Play 2024 – Best Battery Life with 46-Hour Talk Time

The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 earned its spot here because of one thing: battery life. With a 5000mAh cell rated for up to 46 hours of talk time, this phone lasted me nearly three days with light use. That is remarkable for any phone, let alone one in this price bracket.

I appreciate that Motorola kept the 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly rare. The Snapdragon 680 processor paired with 4GB RAM delivers a clean, fluid Android experience for everyday tasks. Motorola keeps its software light, with helpful Moto gestures like twist-to-launch-camera and chop-to-turn-on-flashlight.

The 6.5-inch 90Hz display is smooth enough for comfortable scrolling, though at 720p resolution it is not the sharpest panel. The 50MP camera takes decent daytime shots but struggles noticeably in low light. The side-mounted fingerprint reader is fast and reliable, even with slightly dirty fingers.

Reddit users specifically recommended the Moto G Play for basic banking and daily fluidity. After testing it, I agree. It handles essential apps without the stuttering that cheap phones are known for. The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are a nice bonus for media consumption.

Who Should Buy This Phone

If battery life is your top concern, the Moto G Play 2024 is the clear winner. It is excellent for seniors, kids getting their first phone, or anyone who wants a reliable device for calls, texting, and basic apps. The headphone jack and expandable storage make it practical for long trips.

Things to Keep in Mind

There is no 5G, and Motorola only promises one OS update (Android 14). The camera is strictly average, and screen brightness maxes out at 500 nits, making outdoor visibility a challenge. The plastic build feels budget-friendly but not premium.

5. Samsung Galaxy A14 5G – AMOLED Display with 5G Connectivity

The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G in renewed condition offers something rare at this price: an AMOLED display paired with 5G connectivity. The 6.6-inch panel with 90Hz refresh rate produces those rich Samsung colors and deep blacks that make everything from photos to videos look better.

With over 2100 reviews, this is a proven budget option. The quad camera system with a 50MP main sensor captures solid photos, and Samsung One UI provides features like Samsung Knox security. The 5000mAh battery provides reliable all-day power.

Since this is a renewed unit, condition can vary. Most buyers report receiving phones in like-new condition, but some mention minor cosmetic wear or screen scratches from previous use. You get a generic charger instead of the original Samsung one, and there is no original packaging.

The 5G performance is solid where available, and expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD means you will never run out of space. The face recognition security works reliably in good lighting.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A14 5G is for anyone who wants Samsung quality with both AMOLED and 5G without exceeding $150. It suits users who prioritize camera versatility and display quality for streaming and social media.

Things to Keep in Mind

Being a renewed product, there is some risk with condition variability. Battery health may be slightly below that of a new unit. Some users report the phone arriving locked to a previous carrier, requiring an unlock request. Verify return policies before purchasing.

6. Samsung Galaxy A05 – International Dual-SIM with Headphone Jack

The Samsung Galaxy A05 is a popular choice for international users and anyone who needs dual SIM capability. The 6.7-inch HD+ display gives you plenty of screen real estate, and the MediaTek Helio G85 processor handles basic tasks without major issues.

What sets this phone apart is the combination of practical features: a 3.5mm headphone jack, expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD, and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable wireless connectivity. The 50MP main camera paired with a 2MP depth sensor produces surprisingly good results for casual photography.

The 5000mAh battery provides up to 22 hours of talk time. In my testing, it comfortably lasted through a full day of moderate use with charge to spare. The phone runs Android 13 with Samsung One UI, offering a familiar and user-friendly experience.

With 730 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, users consistently praise the value. However, this is an international model with no US warranty, and it does not work with CDMA carriers like Verizon or Sprint.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A05 suits international travelers, people managing two phone numbers, and anyone who values having a headphone jack and expandable storage. It is a practical everyday phone for basic use.

Things to Keep in Mind

This international model lacks US warranty coverage. It is GSM-only, so Verizon and Sprint users are out of luck. The 60Hz display is fine but noticeably less smooth than the 90Hz and 120Hz options in this roundup.

7. Samsung Galaxy A06 – 6.7-inch Display with Case Bundle

The Samsung Galaxy A06 ships with a case included, which saves you an extra purchase right out of the gate. The 6.7-inch display is large and comfortable for media, and the 50MP dual camera system captures clean daytime photos.

With a 5000mAh battery supporting 25W wired charging, you get solid endurance and reasonable recharge times. The MediaTek Helio processor at 2GHz keeps things moving for everyday apps, and the phone runs smoothly for browsing, messaging, and light gaming.

However, this is the Latin American version, which means US compatibility is limited to T-Mobile and its MVNOs like Metro and Mint. If you are on AT&T, Verizon, or any of their prepaid brands, this phone will not work. That is a significant limitation to be aware of.

The 4.5 average rating from 230 reviews suggests most buyers are happy with their purchase. The factory-unlocked status makes it flexible for international travel, which is its strongest use case.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A06 works best for T-Mobile or Metro PCS users who want a Samsung experience at the lowest possible cost. It is also a solid option for international travelers who need an affordable dual-SIM phone.

Things to Keep in Mind

US compatibility is the biggest concern. This phone will not work on AT&T, Verizon, or most prepaid MVNOs outside the T-Mobile network. There is no eSIM support, and the 60Hz display feels less fluid than higher-refresh alternatives.

8. Samsung Galaxy A13 5G – 50MP Quad Camera with 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G offers one of the most complete camera setups in this price range. The quad array includes a 50MP main, 5MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor, giving you shooting options that most budget phones simply do not have.

The 6.5-inch FHD+ display with 90Hz refresh rate provides smooth scrolling and decent sharpness. 5G connectivity delivers fast download speeds where available, and the 5000mAh battery keeps the phone running all day. Samsung Knox adds a layer of security that many budget phones lack.

With over 2100 reviews, this is a well-tested device. Users consistently praise the battery life and 5G performance. The expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD is a practical feature for anyone storing lots of photos or media.

The main downside is that some renewed units arrive locked to a previous carrier, which can block software updates. Camera performance also drops noticeably in low light, producing grainy and washed-out images.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A13 5G is ideal for photography enthusiasts on a budget who want multiple lens options. It suits users who value Samsung software features and 5G connectivity for streaming and downloading on the go.

Things to Keep in Mind

Low-light camera performance is weak. Some renewed units may have software tied to a previous carrier, limiting updates. The phone is not water resistant, so be careful around water and rain.

9. Motorola Moto G Play 2024 (Renewed) – Renewed Value with 50MP Camera

The renewed Motorola Moto G Play 2024 offers strong value for shoppers willing to go the refurbished route. Powered by the Snapdragon 680 with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, it delivers the same solid everyday performance as the new version at a lower cost.

The 50MP Quad Pixel camera is the standout feature, capturing sharper photos than you might expect at this price. The 6.5-inch 90Hz display keeps scrolling smooth, and the 5000mAh battery provides reliable all-day endurance.

Most users report receiving phones in like-new condition with no visible wear. The 90-day warranty provides some peace of mind, though it is shorter than the standard one-year coverage on new devices.

Some buyers have reported receiving units locked to specific carriers despite the unlocked listing. Checking return policies and having a backup plan is wise if you run into this issue.

Who Should Buy This Phone

This renewed Moto G Play is a smart pick for value-focused shoppers who want reliable performance and a good camera without paying full retail. It works well on T-Mobile, MetroPCS, and compatible GSM carriers.

Things to Keep in Mind

Renewed condition means potential variability. Some units may have carrier locks that require unlocking, and battery health may not match a brand-new device. There is no headphone jack, which is a downgrade from the new version.

10. realme Note 70T – 6000mAh Battery with 90Hz AMOLED

The realme Note 70T brings the largest battery in this entire roundup at 6000mAh. That translates to roughly 16 hours of screen-on time, and I found it comfortably lasting two full days with typical use. If battery endurance is your obsession, this phone leads the pack.

The 6.75-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate is another highlight. It produces vibrant colors and deep blacks that rival the Samsung Galaxy A16. The 32MP rear camera captures detailed photos in good lighting, and the IP54 rating means it can handle dust and light splashes.

ArmorShell protection adds physical durability that budget phones typically lack. The octa-core MediaTek Dimensity processor keeps the interface responsive for daily tasks.

The catch is significant: this is primarily an EU model. Some users report that it does not work reliably on US networks, and certain units may lack the Google Play Store. If you are in Europe or Latin America, this is a fantastic option. US buyers should proceed with caution.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The realme Note 70T is best for international users who want the longest possible battery life and a quality AMOLED display. It is ideal for travelers, outdoor workers, and anyone away from a charger for extended periods.

Things to Keep in Mind

US compatibility is the biggest concern. This phone is designed for European and Latin American markets. Some units may ship without the Google Play Store, requiring side-loading. Check network band compatibility with your specific carrier before buying.

11. Samsung Galaxy A03s – Super AMOLED with Side Fingerprint Sensor

The Samsung Galaxy A03s stands out for packing a Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate at one of the lowest prices in this guide. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is convenient and responsive, and the 5000mAh battery provides excellent endurance.

Samsung One UI delivers a polished software experience with good customization options. The dual SIM support is handy for managing work and personal numbers on one device, and expandable storage up to 1TB gives you room to grow.

However, the 2GB RAM is a real limitation. Apps reload frequently when multitasking, and heavier applications can stutter. The 13MP camera takes basic photos that are fine for social media but not much more. This is a renewed model, so some units may arrive carrier-locked.

With 2000 reviews backing a 4.1 rating, users generally appreciate the display quality and battery life while acknowledging the performance limitations.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A03s suits users who prioritize display quality on the tightest possible budget. If you mostly use your phone for watching videos, browsing, and light social media, the Super AMOLED screen makes those experiences genuinely enjoyable.

Things to Keep in Mind

The 2GB RAM is the main bottleneck. If you regularly switch between multiple apps or play games, the experience will feel sluggish. Being a renewed GSM-only model, verify carrier compatibility and return policies before purchasing.

12. Samsung Galaxy A11 – Compact 6.4-inch with Face Recognition

The Samsung Galaxy A11 is one of the more compact options in this guide. At 6.4 inches with a slim profile, it is comfortable to hold and easy to operate one-handed. The face recognition unlock works reliably and the rear-mounted fingerprint sensor serves as a reliable backup.

The 4000mAh battery is smaller than the 5000mAh standard in this roundup, but it still provides respectable endurance for a compact device. The phone runs Android 10 with Samsung One UI, which feels dated compared to Android 13 or 14 on newer options.

Being a renewed model, quality varies. Some buyers report receiving flawless units, while others mention screen defects or carrier locks. The Snapdragon processor inside handles basic tasks competently, and the 3GB RAM is enough for light multitasking.

The lack of a headphone jack is a notable omission, and the older Android version means fewer features and potentially fewer security updates going forward.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A11 works for anyone who prefers a smaller, lighter phone that fits comfortably in a pocket. It is a decent choice for seniors or first-time smartphone users who want a simple Samsung experience.

Things to Keep in Mind

The phone runs Android 10, which is several generations behind. No headphone jack limits audio options. As a renewed product, condition varies between units, and some may arrive locked to specific carriers.

13. Samsung Galaxy A10e – Ultra-Compact 5.83-inch Samsung

The Samsung Galaxy A10e is the smallest phone in this roundup with its 5.83-inch display. For anyone who finds modern phones too large, this is one of the few compact options still available. It weighs just 0.21 kg, making it practically unnoticeable in a pocket.

The inclusion of a headphone jack is a welcome feature that many newer phones have dropped. The Exynos 7884 chipset with microSD expansion up to 512GB covers basic needs well. The 8MP rear camera and 5MP selfie camera are basic but functional for video calls and casual snaps.

The biggest trade-off is the 3000mAh battery, which is significantly smaller than the 5000mAh standard. Expect to charge by mid-afternoon with moderate use. The phone runs Android 9.0 Pie, which is outdated and no longer receives security patches.

With 4200 reviews and a 4.0 rating, this is a well-established option. Users appreciate the compact size and headphone jack while acknowledging the performance and battery limitations.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The Galaxy A10e is for people who specifically want a small, lightweight phone. It works as a backup device, a phone for kids, or for anyone who dislikes the trend toward massive screens.

Things to Keep in Mind

Android 9.0 is seriously outdated with no ongoing security support. The 2GB RAM and small battery mean this phone is best for basic calls, texts, and light browsing only. Renewed condition can vary significantly.

14. Motorola Moto G Play 2023 – Budget Pick with 90Hz Display

The Motorola Moto G Play 2023 proves you can get a 90Hz display on a tight budget. The 6.5-inch panel scrolls smoothly through apps and menus, which is a nice upgrade over the standard 60Hz panels found on most phones at this price point.

The MediaTek Helio P60T processor with 3GB RAM handles basic tasks acceptably. The triple camera setup with a 16MP main sensor is decent for casual photos, and the 5000mAh battery provides all-day power. The IP52 water-repellent coating adds a layer of protection against accidental spills.

This is a renewed model with a 90-day warranty, so expect some variability in condition. Users report the phone works well for WiFi-only use without a SIM card, making it a potential media player or home device.

The 3GB RAM causes noticeable lag when multiple apps are running, and some users report YouTube video stuttering during playback. The 32GB of storage fills up fast, though the microSD slot helps mitigate this.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The 2023 Moto G Play is suitable for users on the strictest budget who still want a 90Hz display. It works as a basic communication device, a media player, or a first smartphone for someone learning the ropes.

Things to Keep in Mind

The 3GB RAM limits multitasking ability, and 32GB storage is tight without a microSD card. This is a renewed product with only a 90-day warranty. Performance will feel sluggish compared to the 4GB RAM options in this guide.

15. BLU G35 – Entry-Level with 5000mAh Battery

The BLU G35 sits at the lowest price point in this entire guide. It comes with Android 14, a 5000mAh battery, and a 6.5-inch HD+ display. BLU even includes a phone case and charger in the box, which is more than some pricier phones provide.

For basic tasks like calls, texting, and streaming over WiFi, the G35 does the job. The dual 8MP rear camera with LED flash and 5MP selfie camera are functional for video calls and casual snaps. Face ID provides basic biometric security.

The ARM Cortex A5 processor with 3GB RAM is the main limitation. Users report frequent lags, occasional software glitches, and screen responsiveness issues. The phone ships with bloatware that takes up valuable space on the already limited 32GB storage.

At 3.6 stars, this phone has the lowest rating in our roundup. It works as a basic communication tool but struggles with anything beyond light use. If your budget truly cannot stretch further, it will handle calls and texts. For everything else, consider spending slightly more on the BLU F5 or Moto G Play.

Who Should Buy This Phone

The BLU G35 is for buyers on the absolute tightest budget who need a working smartphone for calls, texts, and basic apps. It can serve as an emergency backup phone or a temporary device while you save for something better.

Things to Keep in Mind

Performance is the weakest in this guide. Expect lag, occasional glitches, and limited multitasking. The 32GB storage with bloatware leaves very little usable space. If you can afford even $20-30 more, the Moto G Play 2023 or BLU F5 offer significantly better experiences.

How to Choose the Best Phone Under $150?

Picking the right budget phone comes down to matching features with your actual needs. After testing 15 models, here are the factors that matter most when shopping in this price range.

Display Quality: LCD vs AMOLED

The display is what you interact with every single day, so it deserves attention. LCD panels are standard on most phones under $150, offering decent brightness and color reproduction. AMOLED displays, found on the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE and Galaxy A14 5G, deliver deeper blacks and more vibrant colors that make videos and photos pop. If you watch a lot of content, AMOLED is worth seeking out.

Refresh rate matters too. A 120Hz display like the one on the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 or BLU F5 5G makes scrolling noticeably smoother than 60Hz. The 90Hz sweet spot on phones like the Galaxy A16 gives you most of the smoothness benefit without the battery cost of 120Hz.

Battery Life: What mAh Ratings Actually Mean

Nearly every phone in this guide packs a 5000mAh battery, but real-world endurance varies. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 leads with 46 hours of talk time, while the realme Note 70T tops all with its 6000mAh cell. As a rule, 5000mAh should get you through a full day of moderate use comfortably. If you are a heavy user, look for phones rated for 20+ hours of talk time.

Charging speed also varies. Phones with 25W charging like the Samsung Galaxy A06 recharge noticeably faster than those limited to slower speeds. Some phones, like the Moto G 5G 2024, do not include a charger in the box.

Processor and RAM: Minimum Specs for Smooth Use

For a fluid daily experience, 4GB of RAM is the minimum I recommend. Phones with 2GB or 3GB of RAM struggle with multitasking and app reloads. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 in the Moto G 5G 2024 and Snapdragon 680 in the Moto G Play 2024 deliver the most consistent performance in this price range. MediaTek Helio chips are adequate but generally slower than comparable Snapdragon processors.

5G vs 4G: Do You Need 5G Under $150?

5G is available on several phones in this guide, including the Motorola Moto G 5G 2024, BLU F5 5G, and Samsung Galaxy A14 5G. Whether you need it depends on your area. If 5G coverage is solid where you live and work, the faster download speeds are worth having. If coverage is spotty, a 4G phone with better features like the Samsung Galaxy A16 with its AMOLED display may serve you better. For a wider selection of 5G options, check our guide on phones under $300.

Carrier Compatibility: Unlocked vs Locked

This is where many budget phone buyers run into trouble. Several phones in this guide are international models with limited US carrier support. The Samsung Galaxy A06 only works on T-Mobile in the US. The Galaxy A16 does not work with Cricket, Spectrum, Xfinity, or Visible. Always verify that your specific carrier and plan are supported before buying. For carrier-specific Samsung Galaxy deals, we keep a separate guide updated year-round.

Software Updates: How Long Budget Phones Last

Budget phones typically receive fewer software updates than flagships. Samsung leads with longer support timelines, while Motorola and BLU often provide only one or two OS updates. The Samsung Galaxy A16 has been praised for its extended update promise. Renewed and older models may already be past their update window, running outdated Android versions with potential security vulnerabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Phones

Conclusion

After testing 15 models, the best phones under $150 prove that you do not need to spend flagship money for a solid daily smartphone. The Motorola Moto G 5G 2024 earns our Editor’s Choice for its winning combination of 5G, 120Hz display, and premium build. The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE takes Best Value with its gorgeous Super AMOLED screen and triple camera. And the BLU F5 5G is the Budget Pick for bringing 5G and 120Hz to the lowest price point.

For most people, I recommend starting with the Moto G 5G 2024 if 5G matters to you, or the Galaxy A16 if display quality is your priority. Both phones deliver experiences that feel well above their price tags. If you want to explore higher tiers, our guide on premium phone deals covers options that offer even more features and longevity.