Best Budget Phones
5 min read · Updated July 2026
Finding a great phone on a budget in 2026 is easier than ever. The phones here offer strong performance, good cameras, and long software support without breaking the bank. Whether you want a new mid range phone or a refurbished flagship, these picks cover the best value for your money.
Our picks
Samsung
Galaxy A56
$449New
Samsung
Galaxy A56
New
$449
Refurb
$379
Used
$329
The Galaxy A56 is the best overall budget phone in 2026. It has a vibrant 6.7 inch 120Hz display, a 5000mAh battery that lasts all day, and a capable Exynos 1580 chipset. The 50MP main camera takes good photos in most conditions. Samsung promises four major OS updates and five years of security patches. If you want a new phone that feels modern and will stay updated, this is the one.
- 6.7 inch Super AMOLED 120Hz
- Exynos 1580
- 5000 mAh battery
- 50MP + 12MP + 5MP cameras
Pros
- +Vibrant 120Hz Super AMOLED display with high peak brightness
- +Smooth performance from Exynos 1580
Cons
- −No microSD card slot
Samsung
Galaxy S23
$549New
Samsung
Galaxy S23
New
$549
Refurb
$399
Used
$349
The Galaxy S23 is a compact flagship that now costs much less than its launch price. It has a 6.1 inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset that handles everything smoothly, and a versatile camera system with a 3x telephoto lens. The 3900mAh battery gives a full day of use. If you prefer a smaller phone and want flagship performance at a budget price, the S23 is a great choice. Consider buying refurbished to save even more.
- 6.1 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
- 3900 mAh battery
- 50MP + 10MP telephoto + 12MP ultrawide
Pros
- +Excellent performance
- +Great camera quality
Cons
- −Charging speed could be faster
Samsung
Galaxy A36
$349New
Samsung
Galaxy A36
New
$349
Refurb
$279
Used
$249
The Galaxy A36 is a solid mid range option with a large 6.7 inch 120Hz display and a 5000mAh battery. It supports 45W fast charging, which is rare at this price. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset is adequate for daily tasks and light gaming. Cameras are decent but not outstanding. If you want a new phone with great battery life and fast charging, the A36 is a reliable pick.
- 6.7 inch Super AMOLED 120Hz
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
- 5000 mAh battery with 45W charging
- 50MP + 8MP + 5MP cameras
Pros
- +Vibrant 120Hz Super AMOLED display
- +Excellent battery life with 45W fast charging
Cons
- −No microSD card slot
Apple
iPhone 13
$599New
Apple
iPhone 13
New
$599
Refurb
$449
Used
$379
The iPhone 13 remains a strong budget option for those who prefer iOS. It has a 6.1 inch OLED display, the A15 Bionic chipset that still feels fast, and a reliable dual camera system. Battery life is good for a compact phone. Apple provides software updates for many years. The main downside is the 60Hz screen, but if you value ecosystem and longevity, the iPhone 13 is a smart buy, especially refurbished.
- 6.1 inch Super Retina XDR OLED 60Hz
- Apple A15 Bionic
- 3227 mAh battery
- 12MP + 12MP cameras
Pros
- +Excellent A15 Bionic performance
- +Great camera system with sensor-shift OIS
Cons
- −60Hz refresh rate only
Samsung
Galaxy A35
$299New
Samsung
Galaxy A35
New
$299
Refurb
$229
Used
$199
The Galaxy A35 is a budget friendly option with a 6.6 inch 120Hz display and a 5000mAh battery. The Exynos 1380 chipset handles everyday tasks well. Cameras are average but acceptable for the price. It has IP67 water resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. If your budget is tight and you want a new phone with a smooth screen, the A35 is a good entry level choice.
- 6.6 inch Super AMOLED 120Hz
- Exynos 1380
- 5000 mAh battery
- 50MP + 8MP + 5MP cameras
Pros
- +Bright and smooth 120Hz display
- +Excellent battery life
Cons
- −Average camera performance in low light
Buying advice
When shopping for a budget phone in 2026, focus on display quality, battery life, and software update commitment. A 120Hz screen makes a big difference in daily use. Look for at least 4 years of OS updates. Refurbished flagships like the Galaxy S23 can offer premium features at mid range prices. If you prefer new, the Galaxy A56 gives you a modern design and solid performance. Avoid phones with less than 128GB storage and consider buying refurbished to save more.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy a new mid range phone or a refurbished flagship?+
It depends on your priorities. A new mid range phone like the Galaxy A56 gives you a fresh battery, modern design, and long software support. A refurbished flagship like the Galaxy S23 offers better performance, cameras, and a premium feel, but may have a used battery and shorter update life. If you want the best value, a refurbished flagship from a trusted seller is often a great deal.
How much storage do I need in a budget phone?+
At least 128GB is recommended in 2026. Apps, photos, and videos take up space quickly. Some budget phones like the Galaxy A56 offer expandable storage via microSD, which can be a plus. If you take many photos or download games, consider 256GB.
Is a 60Hz display okay on a budget phone?+
A 60Hz display is still usable, but a 120Hz screen makes scrolling and animations feel much smoother. Many budget phones now include 120Hz, so it is worth looking for. The iPhone 13 has a 60Hz screen, but its overall performance and software experience may compensate for some users.
How important is software support for budget phones?+
Very important. Budget phones often last several years, so you want security updates and OS upgrades. Samsung offers four years of OS updates and five years of security patches for its A series. Apple provides updates for five years or more. Avoid phones with vague update promises.
Can I get a good camera on a budget phone?+
Yes, but with trade offs. The Galaxy S23 has a flagship camera system with a telephoto lens. The Galaxy A56 takes good photos in good light but struggles in low light. For the best camera under $500, consider a refurbished Galaxy S23 or an iPhone 13.
Related deals
Brand
Best Refurbished Samsung Phones
Find the best refurbished Samsung phones for every budget. We rank Galaxy models from our catalog to help you save money without sacrificing quality.
View list
Brand
Best Refurbished iPhones
Find the best value in refurbished iPhones. We rank top picks from Apple's lineup to help you save money without sacrificing quality.
View list
Budget
Best Phones Under $500
Find the best phones under $500 in 2026. Our top picks include the Samsung Galaxy A56, Galaxy S22, and Galaxy A55. Compare specs, cameras, and battery life to find your perfect budget phone.
View listNever miss a great deal
Weekly picks, price drops, and new guides. No spam.