Finding a good phone that doesn’t cost a fortune can feel like a treasure hunt. In 2026, the market is packed with options that give you a lot for your money. We’ve looked through a bunch of these devices to help you find the best cheap unlocked phones under $50. Whether you’re looking for a solid all-around performer or a device with a great camera without breaking the bank, there are some really good choices out there. Let’s get into it.
Key Takeaways
- The Motorola Moto G 2026 offers a long-lasting battery and decent cameras for its price point, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
- While the Google Pixel 9a is a top pick for overall value at around $500, there are still options available for tighter budgets.
- For Apple fans on a budget, the iPhone 16e provides many desired features for its price, though it costs a bit more than some Android alternatives.
- Samsung’s Galaxy A Series phones are known for good software support, often promising many years of updates, which is a big plus for longevity.
- When looking for cheap unlocked phones under $50, consider that sales events like Black Friday can offer significant discounts on models that might otherwise be slightly above your target price.
1. Motorola Moto G 2026
Motorola’s Moto G line has always been a go-to for budget-conscious buyers, and the 2026 model continues that trend. This year, they’ve really focused on making a phone that feels good in your hand and lasts a long time between charges. The battery life on this thing is seriously impressive, easily getting you through a couple of days of normal use.
It’s not all about the battery, though. The design gets a nice refresh, often featuring a textured back that feels more premium than you’d expect for the price. You’ll find it handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging without much fuss. The main camera is also pretty decent for daylight shots, capturing colors that look natural enough for sharing online.
However, it’s important to know where compromises were made. The processor, while capable for basic stuff, can feel a bit slow when you’re trying to multitask or play more demanding games. Also, Motorola’s software update policy means you won’t get the latest Android versions for as long as some other brands. So, if you’re someone who needs the absolute latest software features or wants a phone that can handle heavy gaming, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a reliable, long-lasting phone for everyday use, the Moto G 2026 is definitely worth considering.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Display: Around 6.7 inches, usually with a decent refresh rate for smoother scrolling.
- Processor: A capable chipset for daily tasks, but not a powerhouse.
- Cameras: A solid 50MP main camera is the star, with other lenses for different shots.
- Battery: The standout feature, designed for multi-day use.
- Software Support: Limited major OS updates, but security updates are provided for a few years.
2. Google Pixel 9a
If you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, the Google Pixel 9a is a really strong contender. It’s kind of the sweet spot for people who want good features without paying flagship prices.
This phone packs a punch with its Google Tensor G4 processor, making it surprisingly zippy for everyday tasks and even some heavier apps. The camera system is also a big deal here; it takes pictures that honestly look like they came from a much more expensive phone. Plus, Google’s AI smarts are built-in, which can be genuinely helpful for things like photo editing or understanding what people are saying.
What’s also great is that Google is promising seven years of software updates. That’s a long time, meaning your phone should stay secure and get new features for years to come. It’s also built to handle daily life, with decent protection against drops and water.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Performance: Google Tensor G4 chip for smooth operation.
- Cameras: High-quality main, ultrawide, and selfie cameras.
- Software: Android 15 with a long support window.
- Durability: Gorilla Glass 3 and IP68 water/dust resistance.
It’s not perfect, of course. It doesn’t have the fastest 5G speeds (lacks mmWave) and you can’t charge other devices wirelessly from it. But for the price, it’s hard to argue with the overall package. It’s a good choice if you like Google’s version of Android and want a phone that’s both capable and affordable.
3. iPhone 16e
Apple’s iPhone 16e is their attempt at a more budget-friendly iPhone, and honestly, it’s a pretty decent one if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem. It’s not exactly dirt cheap, mind you, but compared to the Pro models, it’s a lot easier on the wallet. They ditched the old SE line and brought in this model, which feels more modern.
The design and screen are surprisingly nice for the price point. You get a sharp OLED display and a build that feels solid, not plasticky. Plus, it runs on Apple’s A18 chip, so it’s got plenty of pep for everyday tasks and even some heavier stuff. It also gets all the new Apple Intelligence features, which is a big plus.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED
- Processor: Apple A18
- Rear Camera: 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB (not expandable)
Now, it’s not perfect. The camera is good, but it only has one lens, so no ultrawide shots here. And weirdly, it has wireless charging but no MagSafe. Still, if you’re looking for an iPhone experience without dropping a grand, this is a solid choice. You can sometimes find decent deals, like getting the iPhone 16E for a lower price when you sign up for specific plans with carriers like Boost Mobile. It’s a good way to get into the latest iPhone tech if you’re on a tighter budget.
4. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Now, this phone is definitely not in the "cheap" category, but it’s worth mentioning because sometimes you can find deals, especially on older models or if you catch a sale. It’s basically Samsung’s kitchen sink phone, packing in all the latest tech.
This phone is a powerhouse. You get top-tier performance, which means apps run super smooth and multitasking is a breeze. The cameras are also a big deal here. They’re class-leading, and Samsung has added some pretty neat AI features to help you take and edit photos. Think of things like an Audio Eraser for videos to cut out background noise, or just generally making your shots look better automatically.
It also comes with the S Pen stylus, which is a nice bonus if you like to jot down notes or doodle. The screen is big, bright, and easy to see even in sunlight. If you’re someone who needs the absolute best camera and performance, and you don’t mind a larger phone, this is a serious contender.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Performance: Top-notch, handles anything you throw at it.
- Cameras: Excellent, with AI enhancements.
- S Pen: Built-in stylus for productivity and creativity.
- Display: Large, sharp, and vibrant screen.
Keep in mind, this phone is a significant investment. The base model with 256GB of storage starts at $1,049.99, though it was originally $1,299.99. You can also get it with 512GB or even 1TB of storage if you need more space. While it’s not a budget phone, if you’re looking for the absolute best and can find it on sale, it might be worth considering. You can check out the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra storage options for pricing details.
5. Motorola Moto G Power (2024)
Alright, let’s talk about the Motorola Moto G Power (2024). This phone is kind of an interesting pick if you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank but still gets you some decent features. It’s got this nice vegan leather back that feels pretty good in the hand, and honestly, it looks a bit more premium than you’d expect for the price. Plus, it comes with NFC, so you can actually use it for contactless payments, which is a nice touch.
When it comes to the screen, it’s a 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. That means scrolling through apps and websites should feel pretty smooth. The main camera is a 50-megapixel shooter, and in good lighting, it can take photos that look pretty decent, with colors that aren’t too far off. It even has dual speakers, which is a bonus for watching videos or listening to music without headphones.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The phone only gets one major software update and three years of security updates. That’s not a lot, meaning you’ll probably be looking for a new phone sooner rather than later if you like staying up-to-date with the latest Android version. Also, multitasking can be a bit of a struggle with only 4GB of RAM. If you tend to have a lot of apps open at once, you might notice it slowing down.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Display: 6.7-inch LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide
- Features: NFC for payments, dual speakers, vegan leather design
- Performance: Capable for basic tasks, but struggles with heavy multitasking (4GB RAM)
- Software Support: Limited (1 major OS update, 3 years security)
So, while it has some good points like the design and payment feature, keep those software limitations and the RAM in mind before you decide.
6. Google Pixel 8A
Okay, so the Google Pixel 8A. This phone really surprised me, honestly. It packs a lot of the same smart features you’d find on the more expensive Pixel phones, like that neat ‘Circle to Search’ thing where you just draw a circle around something on your screen to look it up. Pretty cool, right?
It’s got that Google Tensor G3 chip inside, which means it handles apps and multitasking pretty well for its price point. And the camera? It’s surprisingly good. You get sharp photos, especially in decent lighting. For a phone that’s supposed to be budget-friendly, it feels way more premium than you’d expect.
Here’s a quick look at some of its specs:
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Main Camera: 64-megapixel
- Ultrawide Camera: 13-megapixel
- Selfie Camera: 13-megapixel
- Screen: 6.1 inches
- Software Support: Google promises seven years of updates, which is pretty amazing for a phone in this category.
Now, it’s not perfect. The screen can be a bit dim if you’re trying to use it outside on a really sunny day. And while it’s got a lot going for it, it doesn’t have that official rating for dust and water resistance like some other phones. Still, if you want a phone with a great camera and smart AI features without breaking the bank, the Pixel 8A is definitely worth a look.
7. Samsung Galaxy A Series
When you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, Samsung’s Galaxy A series is definitely worth a look. They’ve managed to pack in some pretty decent features without charging a fortune. For 2026, models like the Galaxy A56 continue to be strong contenders in the budget space.
What’s cool about the A series is that Samsung often brings over some of the tech from their pricier phones. You might find things like fast charging, which is a big deal when you’re in a hurry. Plus, they usually have a pretty good camera setup for the price, often including multiple lenses for different kinds of shots. The commitment to software updates is also a big plus, meaning your phone should stay secure and get new features for a good while.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might find:
- Camera Versatility: Many A series phones come with a triple camera system, usually a main sensor, an ultrawide, and sometimes a macro lens. This gives you more options for taking pictures.
- Battery Life: Samsung generally puts good-sized batteries in these phones, so you can often get through a full day without needing to charge.
- Software Features: Even the budget models get some of Samsung’s handy software tricks, like tools for editing photos or making multitasking a bit easier.
- Long-Term Support: Samsung is known for offering several years of software and security updates on their A series phones, which is pretty rare in this price range and adds a lot of value.
While they might not have all the bells and whistles of the top-tier Galaxy S or Z lines, the A series phones offer a really balanced experience for everyday use. They’re reliable, have decent cameras, and Samsung’s support means they’re a smart buy if you want a phone that lasts.
8. Apple iPhone 17
Okay, so let’s talk about the iPhone 17. Now, I know what you’re thinking – "iPhone? Cheap?" And yeah, usually, that’s not a combo you hear. But Apple’s really trying to shake things up with this model, making it more accessible. This phone is a solid choice if you want that Apple experience without completely emptying your wallet.
It’s got a lot of the good stuff from the pricier Pro models, like a really nice screen and decent cameras. Plus, the battery life is pretty impressive; you can easily get through a whole day, maybe even more, on a single charge. It runs on the latest iOS, so you get all the new features and security updates. It’s not exactly a budget phone in the traditional sense, but compared to other iPhones, it’s a much better value. You can often find deals, especially if you’re looking at carrier promotions or trade-in offers for a new iPhone 17.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: Great quality, similar to the Pro models.
- Performance: Powered by the Apple A19 chip, it’s quick and smooth for everyday tasks.
- Battery: Lasts longer than you might expect, easily a full day.
- Camera: Takes good photos, especially in decent lighting.
- Software: Runs iOS 26, keeping you up-to-date.
It’s a good option if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem or want to jump in without spending a fortune. It balances features and price in a way that many other iPhones just don’t.
9. Google Pixel 7A
Even though newer models are out, the Google Pixel 7A still holds its own, especially if you can snag it on sale. It really felt like a big step up for Google’s budget line when it came out. You get a lot of the same smart features you’d find on the more expensive Pixel 7, thanks to the Tensor G2 chip. This means things like photo editing tricks and language translation work just as well.
The camera is pretty solid for the price, too. It shoots 64-megapixel photos that look really good, often matching what you’d get from pricier phones. While the Pixel 7 might have a slightly tougher build and faster charging, the 7A often comes down to a much better price point, making it a smart buy for most people.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Main Camera: 64-megapixel
- Screen Size: 6.1 inches
- Features: NFC for Google Pay, decent multitasking capabilities
Keep in mind, battery life can be a bit of a letdown, and it might not be the best choice if you’re on T-Mobile due to carrier restrictions at launch. Still, for the money, it’s a strong contender if you want that clean Google software experience and good camera performance.
10. Best Cheap Phone Overall
Alright, so we’ve looked at a bunch of phones, and it’s time to pick one that really hits the sweet spot for most people looking for a good deal. It’s not always about getting the absolute cheapest, but the one that gives you the most bang for your buck without feeling like you’re missing out on too much.
After checking out what’s out there in early 2026, the Google Pixel 9a stands out as the top pick for overall value. It manages to pack in a lot of the features you’d expect from a more expensive phone, but at a price that’s much easier on the wallet. You get a solid camera system, a smooth display, and Google’s clean software experience, which is a big plus.
Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s our top choice:
- Camera: Takes really good pictures, even in tricky lighting. You won’t feel the need to carry a separate camera.
- Performance: Handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and even some light gaming without breaking a sweat.
- Software: You get the latest Android updates directly from Google, and usually for a few years, which is great for security and new features.
- Display: Bright and clear enough for watching videos or scrolling through photos.
Of course, no phone under $500 is perfect. You might notice that things like super-fast charging or the absolute best build materials aren’t quite there. But for the price, the compromises are minimal. If you’re looking for a phone that just works well for pretty much everything you’d want to do, the Pixel 9a is hard to beat right now.
Wrapping It Up
So, finding a good phone that doesn’t cost a fortune in 2026 is totally doable. We’ve looked at a bunch of options, and it’s clear you don’t need to spend a ton to get something that works well for everyday stuff. Whether you’re eyeing a budget-friendly Android or even an older iPhone model that’s now cheaper, there are solid choices out there. Just remember to check what features matter most to you, like camera quality or battery life, and compare those against the prices. You might be surprised at what you can get without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a phone ‘unlocked’?
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 by just swapping out the SIM card or eSIM. It gives you more freedom to choose your plan and provider.
Are cheap phones still good in 2026?
Yes, absolutely! Many affordable phones today pack awesome features that used to be only on expensive models. You can find phones with great screens, good battery life, and even decent cameras without spending a fortune.
What’s the best price range for a good cheap phone?
We’ve found two sweet spots: around $300 and $450. Phones in the $300 range are great for everyday use, while the $450 options often have better cameras and features that compete with pricier phones.
Can I use a cheap phone for international travel?
Yes, unlocked phones are great for travel. You can often buy a local SIM card in another country to avoid expensive roaming fees. Just make sure your phone is compatible with international networks.
Are there any downsides to buying a cheap phone?
Sometimes, cheaper phones might not have the absolute best camera quality or the fastest performance for really demanding games. Also, some budget Android phones might not get as many software updates as more expensive ones.
Is it worth waiting for a sale to buy a cheap phone?
Definitely! Many affordable phones go on sale during big shopping events like Black Friday. If you’re not in a rush, waiting for a discount can save you even more money on a great phone.
