In 2024, the smartphone market offers a range of impressive budget options that deliver excellent value for money. Whether you’re looking for a reliable device for everyday use, a phone with a great camera, or a solid performer for gaming and productivity, there are several outstanding choices under $400. This article highlights the best budget smartphones of 2024, providing insights into their features, performance, and value.
1. Google Pixel 7a
Price: Around $399
Overview: The Google Pixel 7a stands out in the budget category for its top-notch camera performance and clean Android experience. As a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel models, it offers many of the same features with a few compromises.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: 64 MP main camera with Google’s advanced computational photography, 13 MP ultra-wide lens, and impressive low-light performance.
- Performance: Powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, offering smooth performance and efficient AI-driven features.
- Battery Life: 4385 mAh battery with fast charging support.
- Software: Runs the latest Android 14 with timely updates and a clean user interface.
Pros:
- Excellent camera quality for the price.
- Clean Android experience with regular updates.
- Solid performance and good build quality.
Cons:
- Limited to 128GB storage with no microSD expansion.
- No 4K video recording.
2. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
Price: Around $399
Overview: The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is a versatile budget smartphone with a vibrant display, solid performance, and 5G connectivity. It’s designed to offer a premium experience without the premium price.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: 50 MP main camera, 12 MP ultra-wide, and 5 MP macro camera; good for everyday photography and videography.
- Performance: Exynos 1380 chipset with 6GB of RAM, providing a smooth experience for multitasking and gaming.
- Battery Life: 5000 mAh battery with 25W fast charging.
- Software: One UI based on Android 14, offering a feature-rich experience with Samsung’s ecosystem.
Pros:
- High-quality AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Good camera setup and 5G support.
- Generous battery life.
Cons:
- Exynos chipset is not as powerful as some Snapdragon alternatives.
- Limited internal storage (128GB) with no microSD card support.
3. OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Price: Around $349
Overview: The OnePlus Nord N30 5G provides a balanced mix of performance, design, and features. It’s a strong contender in the budget category, appealing to users who value speed and a smooth user experience.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.72-inch LCD display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: 108 MP main camera, 2 MP depth sensor, and 2 MP macro camera; delivers good photo quality for its price range.
- Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 900 chipset with 8GB of RAM, ensuring responsive performance for daily tasks and gaming.
- Battery Life: 5000 mAh battery with 67W fast charging.
- Software: OxygenOS based on Android 14, known for its smooth and customizable interface.
Pros:
- High-resolution main camera.
- Fast charging capabilities.
- Smooth performance with 120Hz display.
Cons:
- No official IP rating for water and dust resistance.
- Limited to 256GB of internal storage without expansion options.
4. Motorola Moto G Power (2024)
Price: Around $279
Overview: The Motorola Moto G Power (2024) is an excellent choice for users prioritizing battery life. It offers good performance for a budget device, making it suitable for users who need a reliable phone without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.5-inch LCD display with Full HD+ resolution.
- Camera: 50 MP main camera, 8 MP ultra-wide, and 2 MP macro camera; decent for everyday use.
- Performance: Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 chipset with 4GB of RAM, capable of handling basic tasks efficiently.
- Battery Life: 5000 mAh battery, known for its impressive longevity and two-day battery life.
- Software: Stock Android experience with a near-stock UI, providing a clean and straightforward user interface.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life.
- Affordable price point.
- Clean Android experience with minimal bloatware.
Cons:
- Performance may lag with intensive tasks.
- No 5G connectivity.
5. Nokia G22
Price: Around $229
Overview: The Nokia G22 is a budget-friendly option that focuses on durability and practical features. It’s designed for users looking for a reliable phone with good battery life and a sturdy build.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display with a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: 50 MP main camera, 2 MP depth sensor, and 2 MP macro camera; adequate for everyday photography.
- Performance: Unisoc T606 chipset with 4GB of RAM, providing satisfactory performance for basic tasks.
- Battery Life: 5050 mAh battery, offering excellent battery endurance.
- Software: Android 13 with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
Pros:
- Durable build quality.
- Long-lasting battery life.
- Affordable and practical.
Cons:
- Lower resolution display.
- Basic performance compared to competitors.
Conclusion
In 2024, the budget smartphone market offers several compelling options under $400, each with its own strengths. Whether you prioritize camera quality, display performance, battery life, or software experience, there’s a smartphone that meets your needs without straining your budget. The Google Pixel 7a excels in photography and software, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G provides a balanced experience with 5G support, and the OnePlus Nord N30 5G delivers high performance and fast charging. For those focused on battery life and affordability, the Motorola Moto G Power and Nokia G22 offer excellent value. By considering your priorities and preferences, you can find the best budget smartphone that aligns with your requirements.