Finding a good phone that doesn’t cost a fortune can feel like a treasure hunt. Luckily, the market for cheap phones under $100 has gotten a lot better. You don’t have to settle for a device that barely works anymore. We’ve looked at a bunch of options to help you find a smartphone that fits your needs and your wallet. Whether you need something basic for calls and texts or a device that can handle a few apps, there are some solid choices out there.
Key Takeaways
- Many decent phones are available for under $100, offering good value.
- Look for strong battery life, aiming for at least 3,800mAh for smaller screens and 4,500mAh for larger ones.
- Consider the chipset; newer Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 or MediaTek Dimensity 6000 series are good starting points.
- Ensure the phone supports the cellular bands for your carrier, especially 5G and LTE.
- Even budget phones can offer features like large displays, ample storage, and recent Android versions.
1. NUU N10
Alright, let’s talk about the NUU N10. For a phone that costs less than a hundred bucks, this thing really punches above its weight. It’s honestly surprising how much you get for the price.
You’re looking at a pretty big 6.6-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling feel smoother than you’d expect on a budget device. Under the hood, it’s got a 1.6GHz octa-core processor that handles Android 14 without any fuss. Plus, it comes with a clean version of Android, meaning no annoying extra apps you don’t need.
Here’s a quick rundown of what it offers:
- Display: 6.6-inch HD+ with a 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: 1.6GHz Octa-Core
- RAM: 4GB (with an extra 4GB extended RAM option)
- Storage: 128GB, expandable with a microSD card
- Operating System: Android 14 (Go edition)
- Battery: 5,000mAh
For cameras, there’s a 13MP main camera on the back and a 5MP camera up front. They’re decent enough for everyday shots. The 128GB of storage is also a big plus, and you can even add more if you need it. The 5,000mAh battery should easily get you through a full day, maybe even two if you’re not glued to your screen.
One thing to note is that it doesn’t support CDMA, so it’ll work with AT&T, T-Mobile, and MVNOs, but not Verizon. Still, for the money, the NUU N10 is a really solid choice if you’re looking for a capable smartphone without breaking the bank.
2. TCL 30 Z
Alright, let’s talk about the TCL 30 Z. This phone is kind of a throwback, but honestly, it still gets the job done if you’re not looking for anything too fancy. It’s one of those devices that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a smartphone that works.
The TCL 30 Z is a solid choice for anyone needing a basic, reliable phone without breaking the bank. It runs on Android 12, which is a bit older now, but it’s perfectly functional for everyday tasks. Inside, you’ve got a MediaTek Helio A22 chip paired with 3GB of RAM. That’s enough to handle your apps, social media, and browsing without too much fuss. You get 32GB of storage, which sounds small, but you can pop in a microSD card and expand it all the way up to 512GB. That’s a lot of room for photos and videos!
Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:
- Display: A 6.1-inch HD+ LCD screen. It’s not the sharpest out there, and the bezels are pretty thick, but the picture is clear enough for watching videos or scrolling through feeds.
- Cameras: An 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. They’re okay for quick snaps, but don’t expect professional-level photos. Good for video calls, though.
- Battery: A 3,000mAh battery. It’s not huge, but TCL says you can expect good battery life from it, which is always a plus.
- Connectivity: It supports Verizon, which is a nice bonus for a phone in this price range.
What’s not so great? Well, it uses an older microUSB port for charging, which is a bit of a pain when most phones have moved to USB-C. Also, there’s no fingerprint scanner, so you’ll be relying on face unlock or your passcode.
Overall, the TCL 30 Z is a no-frills smartphone that focuses on the essentials. If you need a cheap phone for calls, texts, and basic internet use, and you want something that supports Verizon, this is definitely worth considering.
3. UMIDIGI G9T
Alright, let’s talk about the UMIDIGI G9T. This phone really tries to punch above its weight class, especially considering the price. It’s got a pretty big battery and a screen that feels smooth when you’re scrolling.
First off, the display is a 6.75-inch screen. It’s large, which is nice for watching videos or just browsing. However, the resolution is only HD+, so don’t expect super sharp text or tiny details. It’s good enough for everyday stuff, but if you’re picky about screen clarity, you might notice it.
Under the hood, it’s running on a UNISOC T606 chip with 4GB of RAM. It also has a neat trick where it can use some of your storage as extra RAM, which is helpful. You get a decent 128GB of storage, and you can add more with a microSD card. It’s running Android 14, which is pretty current for a budget phone.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.75-inch HD+ with 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: UNISOC T606
- RAM: 4GB (expandable virtually)
- Storage: 128GB (expandable)
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 18W charging
- OS: Android 14
When it comes to cameras, there’s a 13MP main camera on the back, but the second sensor is just for depth, so it’s really just one usable camera for photos. The front camera is 8MP. It’s not going to win any awards, but it’ll get the job done for casual shots.
One of the best things about the G9T is that massive 5,000mAh battery. It also supports 18W charging, which is pretty quick for this price point. Plus, UMIDIGI throws in all the accessories you might need, which is a nice touch. It also has a headphone jack and a fingerprint sensor for security. Just remember, this phone doesn’t have 5G, so you’re limited to 4G speeds.
4. Motorola Moto G04
Alright, let’s talk about the Motorola Moto G04. This phone is a pretty solid choice if you’re trying to keep costs down but still want something that feels decent in your hand. It’s got a nice, smooth 90Hz display that makes scrolling through apps and websites feel way better than on a standard 60Hz screen.
When you’re looking at phones in this price range, you’re usually making some compromises. With the Moto G04, you get a 16MP camera, which is perfectly fine for snapping everyday photos. It’s not going to win any awards for low-light performance, but for daylight shots, it does the job.
Here’s a quick look at some of its features:
- Display: 6.56-inch LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 128GB (which is pretty generous for this price point)
- Camera: 16MP rear camera
- Connectivity: Dual SIM, factory GSM unlocked
It’s an international model, so keep that in mind if you’re buying it in a specific region. Overall, the Moto G04 is a straightforward device that offers a good screen experience and decent storage for its cost. It’s a good option if you need a reliable phone for daily tasks without breaking the bank. You can find more details about this specific model, like the Motorola Moto G04 XT2421-2, if you want to check it out further.
5. Xiaomi Redmi A5 4G
The Xiaomi Redmi A5 4G is a bit of a surprise in the budget phone market, launching in March 2025 with Android 15 Go Edition. This means you’re getting a pretty up-to-date software experience right out of the box, and Xiaomi promises a couple more OS updates, which is nice for a phone that costs less than $100. It’s not officially sold in the U.S., so carrier compatibility might be a bit tricky, mainly working with T-Mobile and its associated MVNOs like Mint and Tello.
This phone packs a large 6.88-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is pretty impressive for the price point. Sure, the resolution is only HD+, but that smooth scrolling and animation will be noticeable. Under the hood, it’s running a Unisoc T7250 chip. It’s not going to win any speed contests, but for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging, it should be perfectly fine. You can get it with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM, and storage options include 64GB or 128GB. Good news for hoarders: there’s a microSD card slot to expand that storage even further, up to 1TB.
When it comes to cameras, the Redmi A5 is pretty basic with a single 32MP rear shooter and an 8MP front camera. Don’t expect professional-level photos, but they’ll do for casual snaps. The real star here is the battery – a hefty 5,200mAh cell that should easily get you through a full day, possibly two, depending on your usage. It also supports 15W fast charging. Plus, if you’re still rocking wired headphones, you’ll be happy to know it has a headphone jack. It even includes FM radio, which is a nice little bonus.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.88-inch, 120Hz refresh rate
- OS: Android 15 Go Edition
- Battery: 5,200mAh
- Storage: 64GB/128GB, expandable via microSD
- Extras: Headphone jack, FM radio
6. BLU G33
Alright, let’s talk about the BLU G33. This phone is definitely trying to stand out in the budget category, and honestly, it does a pretty good job. The first thing you’ll notice is the back – it’s got this textured design that looks pretty cool and comes in some nice colors. It’s not exactly fancy, but it’s way more interesting than a plain old black slab.
When you look at what you get for the price, it’s a decent package. You’re looking at a 6.26-inch screen, which is a good size for everyday use. For photos, there’s a 5MP main camera on the back, plus a little extra 0.3MP one, and a 5MP camera on the front for selfies. It also has a fingerprint reader built into the power button, which is handy, and you can even use face unlock.
Here’s a quick rundown of the specs:
- Display: 6.26-inch LCD
- Processor: Unisoc 9863 (Octa-core)
- RAM: 2GB
- Storage: 16GB (expandable up to 128GB)
- OS: Android 13 Go Edition
- Rear Cameras: 5MP + 0.3MP
- Front Camera: 5MP
- Battery: 3,000mAh
Now, it’s not perfect. The 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage are pretty minimal, so don’t expect to run a ton of apps at once or store a massive photo library without a microSD card. The battery life is also just okay; that 3,000mAh cell might struggle to get you through a full day if you’re a heavy user. But hey, at least it charges via USB-C, which is nice.
One of the coolest things about the BLU G33 is what comes in the box. BLU throws in a bunch of extras: a screen protector, a silicone case, the charger and cable, and even a sticker. It’s a nice touch that saves you from having to buy those accessories separately. Overall, for under $100, the BLU G33 offers a unique design and a solid set of basic features, especially if you’re on T-Mobile or a related network. It’s a water-resistant phone, too, which adds a bit of peace of mind.
7. Cat S22 Flip
Okay, so you’re looking for something tough, something that can take a beating and still keep going? The Cat S22 Flip might be your jam. This isn’t your typical sleek smartphone; it’s built like a tank, which makes sense given the brand. It’s designed for people who need a phone that can survive drops, dust, and even water.
What’s cool is that it’s a flip phone, but it actually runs Android 11 (Go Edition). This means you can get some basic apps on there, like Facebook or YouTube, which is more than you’d expect from a rugged device like this. It’s got a physical keypad, which some people really miss, and a touchscreen too. Plus, there’s a smaller screen on the outside for quick checks.
Here’s a quick rundown of what it offers:
- Displays: A 2.8-inch main touchscreen and a 1.44-inch cover display.
- Durability: Military-grade resistance to water, dust, and extreme temperatures.
- Connectivity: It supports basic apps but doesn’t have 5G or CDMA. It also lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Storage: Comes with 16GB, but you can add more with a microSD card.
Battery life is okay, not amazing, but for a phone that’s this tough and still runs Android, it’s a pretty decent option if you’re prone to breaking things or just want something super reliable for calls and basic messaging.
8. iPhone 16e
Okay, so we’re talking about phones under $100, and then BAM, an iPhone shows up. I know, I know. The iPhone 16e isn’t exactly a budget phone in the traditional sense, but hear me out. If you’re an Apple person and you’ve been eyeing an upgrade but don’t want to spend a fortune on the latest and greatest, this might be your sweet spot. It was announced back in February 2025, and while its starting price of $599 is definitely higher than most on this list, you can sometimes snag it for less, especially with carrier deals or trade-ins. Think of it as the most affordable new iPhone you can get right now.
What do you get for your money? Well, it packs the same powerful A18 chip as the regular iPhone 16, so it’s zippy. The 6.1-inch OLED screen is really nice to look at, and the 48MP main camera does a surprisingly good job, especially in good lighting. Plus, you get access to all the new Apple Intelligence features, which is pretty neat.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. It’s missing that ultrawide camera lens that many other phones in this price bracket (even Android ones) include. You also don’t get MagSafe charging, which is a bit of a bummer. And yeah, that $599 price tag still stings a bit when you compare it to some of the Android options available.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’re looking at:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED
- Processor: Apple A18
- Rear Camera: 48MP
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB (no expansion)
- Special Features: Apple Intelligence support
So, is it worth it? If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and want a new iPhone without breaking the bank entirely, the iPhone 16e is a solid choice. Just be aware of what you’re not getting compared to other phones, both Apple and Android. For those who really want an iPhone and can find it under $200 with a trade-in, it’s a decent way to get into a new iPhone without paying flagship prices.
9. Google Pixel 9a
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 9a. This phone is pretty much the best all-around option if you’re looking for something under $500, and honestly, it’s a solid choice even if you have a bit more to spend. Google managed to keep the price the same as the previous model, which is a nice surprise these days.
What really stands out is the AI stuff. It’s got a lot of the smart features you’d find on the pricier Pixel 9 phones, like Gemini Live and Pixel Studio’s image generation. Sure, it’s missing a couple of minor things, but the big ones are all there. The Tensor G4 chip handles all this AI magic pretty well, even if it’s not a speed demon for gaming.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.3-inch Actua pOLED (2424 x 1080) with adaptive refresh rate (60-120Hz)
- Processor: Tensor G4
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB (not expandable)
- Rear Cameras: 48MP main, 13MP ultrawide
- Front Camera: 13MP
- Battery: Good battery life, lasting over 13 hours in tests.
The camera bump is also way smaller than on other phones, which is a neat design touch. And the pictures it takes? They’re better than you’d expect just looking at the specs. The screen is also brighter and more accurate than the older 8a model. It might not be the flashiest phone to look at, but for the price and the features, it’s hard to beat.
10. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G and more
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a pretty decent option if you’re looking for a Samsung phone that won’t break the bank. It’s got a nice 6.7-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling feel smoother than on some other budget phones. Plus, it has a microSD card slot, which is always a good thing to have.
What really sets this phone apart, though, is Samsung’s commitment to software updates. They’re promising five years of operating system updates and six years of security patches. That’s a lot longer than most phones in this price range, so your phone should stay up-to-date and secure for a good while.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
- Big, bright display: A 6.7-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.
- Long software support: Five OS updates and six years of security updates.
- Expandable storage: Includes a microSD card slot.
- Decent durability: An IP54 rating means it can handle dust and water splashes.
Now, it’s not perfect. Performance can be a bit limited, and the secondary cameras aren’t the best. Also, it’s worth noting that the Galaxy A17 5G has since come out, offering minor upgrades. However, this might mean you can find the A16 5G at an even better price now. If you’re a Samsung fan who values long-term support and a good-looking phone without needing top-tier performance, the A16 5G is definitely worth considering.
Wrapping Up Your Budget Phone Search
So, there you have it. Finding a good phone that doesn’t cost a fortune is totally doable these days. You don’t need to drop a ton of cash to get something that works well for everyday stuff like texting, browsing, and maybe even snapping a few pictures. We looked at a bunch of options, and while they all have their little quirks compared to the super fancy phones, they get the job done without emptying your wallet. Think about what you really need – maybe it’s just basic calling and texting, or perhaps you want something that can handle a few more apps. Whatever it is, there’s a budget-friendly phone out there for you. Don’t forget to check the specs we talked about, like battery life and storage, to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a phone “cheap”?
A “cheap” phone usually means it costs less than $300, but you can find great ones for even less, like under $100! These phones might not have every fancy feature, but they do all the important stuff like calling, texting, browsing the internet, and using apps really well.
Can I get a good camera on a cheap phone?
While cheap phones don’t usually have the super-fancy cameras you see on expensive phones, many still take decent pictures, especially in good lighting. Don’t expect professional-level photos, but they’re good enough for sharing with friends and family online.
How long will a cheap phone’s battery last?
Most budget phones aim to last you through the whole day. For smaller phones, look for at least 3,800mAh, and for bigger ones, 4,500mAh or even 5,000mAh is even better. This means you won’t have to charge it up constantly.
Do cheap phones support 5G?
Finding 5G on phones under $100 is pretty rare. Most budget phones will have good 4G (LTE) service, which is still fast enough for most everyday tasks like streaming videos and browsing the web. If 5G is a must, you might need to look at phones a bit higher in price.
What’s the difference between a cheap phone and a flagship phone?
Flagship phones are the top-of-the-line models with the fastest processors, best cameras, and all the latest features. Cheap phones are more basic. They focus on doing the essential things well without all the extra bells and whistles, which is why they cost much less.
Are there any Apple iPhones under $100?
Unfortunately, Apple doesn’t offer any iPhones that are new and under $100. The cheapest new iPhone, like the iPhone 16e, usually costs much more. If you really want an iPhone on a tight budget, you’d need to look for a much older, used model.
