It shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg to stay in touch. If your phone budget is tight, or you just don’t want to spend a lot on a phone, try one of these low-cost Androids and get connected for less.
The sheer number and variety of phones on the market today is mind-boggling. There are phones that can take professional level photos and video and stream movies in 4K.
But you’ll need to spend the best part of a mortgage payment if you want all the bells and whistles.
What if you don’t really care about all the non-phone features and just want something that can make calls, send messages and lets you check your emails? Or if you don’t want to spend all that money on tech that will probably become obsolete within a few years anyway.
Android over iOS
For starters, you’ll want to look at phones that use Google’s Android operating system. Unlike Apple’s closed iOS system, the Android system is open, meaning it can be used by many phone manufacturers.
Only iPhone can access the iOS operating system, so you’re at the mercy of Apple’s pricing if you want to use iOS.
Android, on the other hand, can be found on all kinds of phones, at all price points.
If you’re looking for a cheaper Android phone, these are some of the models we recommend.
Samsung Galaxy A35
The Samsung Galaxy A35 is the most expensive, but probably the best value for money in terms of features. And still considerably less expensive than more high-end phones.
The Galaxy A35 is a budget-friendly smartphone with a large, bright display, 6GB under the hood, more than enough for reading messages, browsing the internet, and viewing photos.
With a 32MP camera, it lets you take basic, clear photos of family moments or pets. Its battery life lasts all day, so you don’t need to worry about charging frequently. Plus, Samsung’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for newcomers to navigate the phone’s settings and apps.
Motorola Moto G6
If cost is your main concern, look no further than the Motorola Moto G6. The Moto G6 offers offers a solid, reliable experience with a simple design and smooth performance, albeit a bit slower than the Samsung, running off 3GB of RAM.
Its got a 5.7-inch display that is compact yet clear, making it comfortable to hold and easy to see without straining your eyes. The Moto G6 features a 16MP camera capable of taking decent photos and a 5000mAh battery that can last through a full day’s use. It’s a straightforward choice for anyone seeking a cheap, no fuss, easy-to-use phone.
OPPO A78
Another good option, especially for those looking for a larger screen, is the OPPO A78. The 6.56-inch screen display is easy to read and great for watching videos and using social media. It has a dual camera, 64GB of internal storage space and is fast charging, so you can get a quick power boost when you need it.
Nokia 215
For those who don’t even need a touchscreen and just want a straightforward ‘dumb’ phone, the Nokia 215 is for you. Straight out of the late 2000s, the Nokia 215 features classic physical buttons, can make calls and texts and even has a built-in FM radio.
The battery life can last several days, making it perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance device just for essential communications.
Do you use an Android phone? Which manufacturer’s phones do you like the best? Let us know in the comments section below.
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I used to have Samsung phones but find the battery life a problem. The cameras are excellent on Samsung. Switched over to Oppo first and now own a Xiaomi Redmi, both very popular phones in SE Asia. Oppo’s camera wasn’t good, everything else I liked. The Xiaomi has an excellent camera plus all the advantages the Oppo had too, like very good battery life, twin sim cards, bright display and good clear sound. It’s a bit over a year old and am very happy with it.
Forgot to mention the fast recharge of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, 67W will charge the phone in about half an hour. The battery easily lasts me two days with normal use.