Discover Top Cheap Unlocked Phones Under $50 for Budget-Savvy Shoppers

Looking for a new phone but don’t want to spend a fortune? You’re in luck! Finding good, cheap unlocked phones under $50 is totally doable these days. Whether you need something basic for calls and texts or a smartphone that can handle a few apps, there are some solid options out there. We’ve rounded up some of the best brands and series to check out, so you can get connected without breaking the bank. It’s all about smart shopping for your next mobile device.

Key Takeaways

• You can find functional unlocked phones for under $50 if you know where to look.
• Brands like Samsung (Galaxy A series), Motorola (Moto G series), and Nokia (G series) often have budget-friendly models.
• Older flagship models or refurbished devices can be a great way to save money.
• Consider what features are most important to you (camera, battery, storage) to narrow down choices.
• Always check seller reviews and return policies when buying budget phones online.

1. Samsung Galaxy A Series

When you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, the Samsung Galaxy A series is often a good place to start. These phones usually pack a lot of the features you’d expect from a more expensive Samsung device, but at a much lower price point. Think decent cameras, good battery life, and that familiar Samsung look and feel.

They’re a really popular choice for people who want a reliable smartphone without all the bells and whistles (and the high cost) of the flagship S series. You can often find models with large displays, which are great for watching videos or browsing the web. Plus, Samsung’s software is generally pretty user-friendly, even if you’re new to their phones.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find in the A series:

• Display: Usually AMOLED or PLS TFT, offering vibrant colors.
• Camera: Often includes multiple lenses for different shots (wide, ultrawide, macro).
• Battery: Many models boast large batteries that can easily last a full day or more.
• Performance: Capable of handling everyday tasks like social media, messaging, and light gaming.

While you might not get the absolute top-tier processor or the most advanced camera tech, the Galaxy A series offers a balanced experience. It’s a smart way to get a Samsung phone and explore a wide selection of new and used Samsung cell phones that fit a tighter budget. You’re getting a lot of phone for your money, which is exactly what we’re looking for in this guide.

2. Motorola Moto G Series

When you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, the Motorola Moto G series is often a go-to. These phones have a reputation for offering a good balance of features and price, making them a smart choice for anyone trying to keep costs down. You can usually find models from this line that are unlocked and ready to use with your preferred carrier.

What makes the Moto G series stand out?

• Reliable Performance: They generally handle everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming without much fuss. You’re not getting top-tier speed, but it’s more than enough for most people.
• Decent Cameras: While not professional grade, the cameras on many Moto G phones are capable of taking good photos, especially in good lighting. It’s great for capturing memories without needing a fancy camera.
• Long Battery Life: Motorola often packs these phones with batteries that can easily last a full day, sometimes even two, depending on how you use it. This means less worrying about finding a charger.
• Clean Software: Motorola tends to stick pretty close to stock Android, which means a less cluttered experience compared to some other brands that add a lot of their own software on top.

Finding a Moto G under $50 usually means looking at slightly older models or ones that might have been refurbished. But even then, you can often snag a device that still performs well for basic needs. Keep an eye out for deals on models like the Moto G Power or Moto G Play, as they are frequently available at lower price points.

3. Nokia G Series

When you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, the Nokia G series is definitely worth a look. These phones tend to offer a good balance of features and price, making them a smart choice for anyone trying to keep costs down. They often come with decent battery life, which is always a plus, and a clean Android experience, meaning no a lot of extra junk software you don’t need.

Nokia phones are known for their build quality, and the G series is no exception. You can usually expect a sturdy feel in your hand. Plus, they often get timely software updates, which is great for security and getting new features. For a reliable and affordable smartphone experience, the Nokia G series is a strong contender.

Here’s what you might find in a typical Nokia G series phone:

• Display: Usually a good-sized screen, perfect for browsing or watching videos.
• Camera: Capable of taking decent photos for everyday use.
• Battery: Often a standout feature, designed to last a full day or more.
• Performance: Handles daily tasks like social media, calls, and texts without much fuss.

If you’re curious about older Nokia models or looking for specific deals, you might find some interesting options on sites like eBay for Nokia phones. It’s always a good idea to compare prices and check reviews before you buy, but the Nokia G series generally provides good value for your money.

4. LG Stylo Series

LG used to be a big player in the budget phone market, and their Stylo series was a pretty popular choice for folks who wanted a bit more functionality without breaking the bank. These phones often came with a stylus, which was a nice touch for note-taking or just doodling around. While LG has exited the smartphone business, you can still find these models on the used market, and they can be a real steal if you’re looking for something cheap and functional.

The LG Stylo series offered a decent balance of features for the price. They weren’t top-of-the-line, but they got the job done for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic apps. Plus, that included stylus was a differentiator that many other budget phones didn’t have.

Here’s what you might find in a used LG Stylo phone:

• Stylus Support: The main draw, allowing for more precise input and note-taking.
• Decent Displays: Usually large enough for comfortable viewing, though not always the sharpest.
• Expandable Storage: Many models supported microSD cards, which is great for saving photos and videos.
• Removable Batteries (on some models): A feature that’s becoming rare, but handy if you need a quick power boost.

When looking for a used LG Stylo, keep an eye out for models like the Stylo 4, 5, or 6. You might find them listed for well under $50, especially if they have some cosmetic wear. Just be sure to check the seller’s reviews and the phone’s condition before buying.

5. OnePlus Nord Series

When you’re looking for a solid phone that doesn’t break the bank, the OnePlus Nord series often pops up. These phones aim to give you a good experience without all the fancy, expensive features you might not even use. Think of them as the sensible choice for someone who wants a reliable device for everyday stuff.

While you might not find the absolute latest flagship tech here, you’re still getting a lot for your money. They usually pack decent cameras, screens that look good, and enough power to handle your apps and social media without lagging too much. Plus, OnePlus has a reputation for making their phones feel pretty smooth to use, even the more budget-friendly ones.

Here’s what you can generally expect from a OnePlus Nord phone in this price range:

• Performance: Good enough for daily tasks like browsing, texting, and using most apps. Don’t expect to play the most demanding games on high settings, but for regular use, it’s usually fine.
• Display: Often features a nice AMOLED or LCD screen that makes watching videos or looking at photos enjoyable.
• Camera: Capable of taking good pictures in decent lighting. It might not compete with top-tier phones, but for casual shots, it’ll do the job.
• Battery Life: Typically lasts a full day for most users, which is a big plus.

Finding a OnePlus Nord under $50 might take some digging, as these tend to be a bit newer and hold their value better than some other budget options. You’ll likely be looking at older models or perhaps a refurbished unit. Keep an eye out on marketplaces for deals, especially if you’re not set on the absolute newest model. It’s a good way to get a taste of the OnePlus experience without spending a fortune.

6. UMIDIGI A Series

UMIDIGI might not be a household name like Samsung or Apple, but they’ve carved out a niche for themselves by offering phones that pack a lot of features without costing a fortune. The A Series is their lineup that really focuses on budget-friendly options, and you can often find models well under the $50 mark, especially if you catch a sale or look at slightly older models.

These phones are generally aimed at people who need a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic communication, but don’t want to spend a lot. They often surprise people with their performance for the price. You might find features like decent cameras, large displays, and even fingerprint sensors on some of their A Series phones, which is pretty impressive when you consider the price point.

When looking at the UMIDIGI A Series, here’s what you can generally expect:

• Decent Displays: While not top-of-the-line, they usually offer clear and bright screens suitable for watching videos or browsing.
• Capable Cameras: For casual photos, the cameras can do the job, especially in good lighting conditions.
• Solid Battery Life: Many budget phones skimp on battery, but UMIDIGI often includes larger batteries that can get you through a full day.
• Android OS: They run on Android, so you’ll have access to the Google Play Store and all your favorite apps.

It’s important to manage expectations with any phone in this price range, but the UMIDIGI A Series often punches above its weight. If you’re looking for a no-frills smartphone that gets the job done without breaking the bank, it’s definitely worth checking out what UMIDIGI has to offer in their A Series.

7. Ulefone Note Series

When you’re looking for a phone that won’t break the bank, the Ulefone Note series often pops up. These phones are generally aimed at people who need a device for everyday tasks without all the bells and whistles that drive up the price. Think of it as your reliable sidekick for calls, texts, browsing, and maybe a few casual games.

What you usually get with a Ulefone Note is a decent screen, enough storage for your apps and photos, and a battery that can get you through the day. They’re not going to win any awards for super-fast processors or cutting-edge camera tech, but that’s not really the point, is it? The main draw here is getting a functional smartphone experience at a really low cost.

Here’s a general idea of what you might find in the Ulefone Note lineup:

• Display: Typically, you’ll see screens in the 6-inch range, often with HD+ resolution. It’s good enough for watching videos and scrolling through social media.
• Performance: Don’t expect to run the latest demanding games, but for everyday use like browsing, email, and social apps, they usually hold up.
• Camera: You’ll find cameras that can take pictures, but they’re best suited for good lighting conditions. Don’t expect professional-level shots.
• Battery: Ulefone often puts decent-sized batteries in these phones, so you should be able to get through a full day without needing to hunt for a charger.
• Storage: Usually, you get a reasonable amount of internal storage, often expandable with a microSD card, which is handy.

These phones are a solid choice if your budget is tight and you just need a phone that does the basics well. They’re often unlocked, meaning you can use them with most carriers, which is a big plus for budget shoppers.

8. Apple iPhone SE

Alright, let’s talk about the Apple iPhone SE. Now, you might be thinking, ‘Apple and cheap don’t really go together,’ and usually, you’d be right. But the iPhone SE is Apple’s answer to the budget-conscious crowd. It packs a lot of the power you’d expect from an iPhone into a more affordable package. It’s a great way to get into the Apple ecosystem without breaking the bank.

When you’re looking for an iPhone SE on a budget, you’re often looking at refurbished or older models. The SE line is known for bringing flagship performance to a smaller, more wallet-friendly device. You get that familiar iOS experience, access to the App Store, and decent camera quality for everyday shots.

Here’s what you might find when hunting for a deal:

• Performance: Even older SE models often use processors that are still quite capable for daily tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
• Camera: While not the latest and greatest, the SE cameras are generally reliable for clear photos and videos.
• Build Quality: Apple’s build quality is usually top-notch, so even a used SE can feel pretty solid.
• Software Updates: Apple is pretty good about supporting its devices with software updates for a decent amount of time, which is a big plus.

Keep in mind that storage options can vary a lot, so check if the capacity (like 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB) works for you. Finding an unlocked Apple iPhone SE (2016) can be a smart move if you want to switch carriers easily. It’s a solid choice if you want that Apple feel without the premium price tag.

9. Google Pixel A Series

When you think about getting a really good camera on a phone without spending a fortune, the Google Pixel A series often comes up. These phones are known for their amazing photo capabilities, thanks to Google’s software smarts. Even though they’re budget-friendly, they usually pack a punch when it comes to taking pictures.

The Pixel A series is a top pick for anyone who prioritizes camera performance on a tight budget.

While finding a brand new Pixel A series phone for under $50 is tough, you can often snag a refurbished or older model in good condition within that price range, especially if you look around. These phones run on clean Android, meaning no extra junk from the manufacturer, which makes them feel pretty snappy.

Here’s what you can generally expect from a Pixel A series phone:

• Camera: Excellent photo quality, often rivaling much more expensive phones. Google’s computational photography is a big deal here.
• Software: Stock Android experience with timely updates directly from Google. This means you get new features and security patches faster.
• Performance: Usually good enough for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and casual gaming. Don’t expect flagship speeds, but it’s solid for the price.
• Build: Typically a more basic build, often plastic, but still feels well put together.

Keep an eye out for models like the Pixel 4a or even an older Pixel 3a if you’re really hunting for deals under $50. They might not have the latest specs, but for photos and a clean Android experience, they’re hard to beat.

10. BLU G Series

When you’re really trying to stretch your dollar, the BLU G Series often pops up. These phones are designed with the budget-conscious shopper in mind, aiming to provide basic smartphone functionality without breaking the bank. You won’t find cutting-edge features here, but for everyday tasks like calling, texting, browsing, and using social media apps, they can get the job done.

BLU phones are known for being unlocked right out of the box, which is a big plus. This means you can pair them with pretty much any carrier you want, giving you flexibility. They usually come with Android, so the interface will feel familiar if you’ve used other Android devices before.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find in the BLU G Series:

• Decent Displays: While not the sharpest, the screens are generally large enough for comfortable viewing.
• Basic Camera Performance: Expect simple photo-taking capabilities, suitable for casual snapshots.
• Removable Batteries: Some models still offer this convenience, which is rare these days.
• Expandable Storage: Many BLU phones come with microSD card slots, letting you add more space for apps and media.

The BLU G84, for instance, offers a surprisingly good performance for its affordable price point, with users often pleased by its capabilities and generous storage. It’s a solid choice if you need a functional, unlocked smartphone without spending a lot. If you’re looking for a no-frills device that just works and lets you pick your carrier, the BLU G Series is definitely worth a look. You can often find these models at prices that make them some of the cheapest unlocked phones available.

Wrapping Up Your Budget Phone Hunt

So, there you have it. Finding a decent unlocked phone for under $50 might seem tough, but it’s totally doable. We’ve seen that even with a tight budget, you can snag a phone that gets the job done. Whether you need it for basic calls, texts, or even a bit of browsing, these budget-friendly options prove you don’t need to spend a fortune. Just remember to check the specs and reviews to make sure it fits what you’re looking for. Happy phone hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ‘unlocked’ mean for a phone?

An unlocked phone isn’t tied to a specific phone company, like AT&T or Verizon. This means you can switch between different carriers easily, as long as the phone works with their network. It gives you more freedom to choose the best plan for you.

Can I use a cheap unlocked phone for everyday tasks?

Absolutely! Many budget-friendly unlocked phones can handle daily tasks like texting, calling, browsing the internet, and using social media apps without any problems. You might not get the super-fast speeds or fancy features of high-end phones, but they get the job done.

What are the best brands for cheap unlocked phones?

Some popular brands known for offering good, affordable unlocked phones include Samsung’s Galaxy A series, Motorola’s Moto G series, and Nokia’s G series. You can also find great deals on phones from brands like UMIDIGI and Ulefone if you’re willing to explore a bit.

Are these phones good for taking pictures?

While phones under $50 might not have the best cameras, many still take decent pictures for casual use. Don’t expect professional-level photos, but for everyday snaps and sharing with friends, they can be perfectly fine. Look for reviews that mention camera performance if this is important to you.

How long do these budget phones usually last?

The lifespan of a budget phone can vary. If you take good care of it, avoid dropping it, and don’t push it too hard with demanding apps, it can last a couple of years. Software updates might stop sooner than on more expensive phones, which could eventually limit its usefulness.

Where can I find the best deals on these phones?

You can often find great deals on these phones at online stores like Amazon, eBay, and directly from manufacturer websites. Keep an eye out for sales, especially around holidays, as prices can drop even further. Sometimes, you can find good deals on ‘renewed’ or ‘refurbished’ phones which are pre-owned but checked and fixed.