Best Cheap Phones: Affordable Cell Phone Deals In 2024

Whether you're looking for your first phone or a new phone to replace your current device, price is always going to be a major factor. But where can you actually find an affordable cell phone 2024? In this article, I'll tell you about the best cheap phones in 2024!

What To Look For In A Cheap Phone

When we think cheap we often associate it with a lack of quality or features. This negative connotation is especially prevalent in the context of phones; you wouldn't want a phone that might be easy to break, have a bad screen, or a bad camera.

Luckily, there are actually a lot of cheap phones with excellent features– the same features you'd find with some of the top-of-the-line smartphones today.

Where To Buy A Cheap Phone

One of the most important questions you might be asking is where can I actually find a cheap phone? Sometimes it can be difficult to find less expensive options directly from your carrier. This is especially true if the cheap phone you're looking to buy is an older flagship iPhone or Android.

Aside from looking outside of your primary mobile carrier, you can often find great deals on sites like eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist. If you opt for one of these sites to find your new cheap phone, be sure to be careful and read all descriptions before purchasing!

Best Phones Under $100

This mid-size Galaxy phone comes with many of the same features as newer devices, but with a low price point! The 5.7-inch screen display and expandable storage of up to 512 GB make this a good option for users looking for a lot from their device. The Samsung Galaxy A01 has a battery life of up to nearly 24 hours, making charging a worry of the past.

You'll enjoy the high speeds of this Galaxy, thanks to the octa-core processor. Some of the additional features of this device include the following: Bluetooth, a high-resolution front and back camera, and video calling. Depending on your carrier, this phone could cost as little as $59.99. Be sure to check out the Samsung Galaxy A01!

Moto E6

The Moto E6 is another great low-cost option. Purchasing this phone unlocked will allow you to use it with any mobile carrier. Plus, its listed cost is only $95.99! The E6 has a max HD display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor that ensures your phone is able to keep up with you. Photos will be taken to the next level with a 13 MP PDAF rear camera and a 5 MP front camera.

Moto designs their phones to be able to do more. All of the features of the E6 are made to make your user experience easier and more enjoyable. The storage capacity of this device goes up to 256 GB, thanks to the Micro-SD card slot which can boost storage capacity. Similarly, you won't have to worry about accidental spills or splashes as the Moto E6 is water repellent.

Best Phones Under $300

The iPhone 8 is made to customize to user preferences, with great features at a lower cost. You're able to choose from four different color options as well as storage capacities from 64 to 256 GB. The 4.7-inch screen display makes this phone a bit smaller than other iPhones currently on the market, but the true tone HD display minimizes fingerprint smudges and still offers a high-quality visual experience.

Getting this phone brand new might cost you a bit more than $300, but we found a great deal on Amazon for a refurbished iPhone 8 for less than $300. It will work like new for a fraction of the price.

Wireless charging is available for this generation iPhone. Plus, the new, faster processor that comes with the iPhone 8 is actually the same processor found in the recently released iPhone X. The battery life lasts up to 40 hours (depending on what you're using the phone for) and also supports fast charging, getting you up to a 50% charge in as little as 30 minutes.

Moto G Play

The Moto G Play boasts a massive screen and a massive battery. You're able to use this phone with any carrier. Although the internal storage capacity is a bit smaller at 32 GB, you can use expandable memory to help store all your favorite photos, videos, and apps.

For just $159.99 this phone supports a battery life of up to 3 days! You'll never have to worry about being near a charger again. The 6.5-inch ultra-wide display makes your entertainment experience brand new, taking watching videos and playing games to a new level. The Moto G Play camera is 13 MP and ultra-fast focusing. You'll also be free from worry as the device is water repellent.

Be sure to check this option out, as it could be the cheap phone you've been looking for.

Best Phones Under $500

The iPhone SE 2 is another option from Apple that offers high-quality features without the massive price tag. You're able to choose from three different color options and storage capacities from 64 to 256 GB. The phone has a battery life lasting up to 14 hours, fast charging, and the same processor found in the newest iPhones today.

The 4.7-inch display is on the smaller side for iPhones, but the viewing experience is the same, with a Retina HD display.  The 12 MP rear camera and 7 MP front camera captures memories beautifully– the same goes for the video recording capabilities. Additionally, the IP68 rating means you won't have to worry about accidental spills on the iPhone. All of these great features and more are available for as little as $250 depending on your carrier.

iPhone X

The iPhone X, purchased through Amazon, comes fully unlocked and offers compatibility with any major carrier. While the device won't come with headphones or a SIM card, it does include the standard charging block and cable. Purchasing a used phone often entails minimal cosmetic damage, but nothing noticeable from a small distance.

Amazon re-sells devices after undergoing a full diagnostic test, ensuring the iPhone X will function as if it's brand new. The minimum battery capacity is 80% and the battery health is tested before the phone is sold and shipped. You'll enjoy a storage capacity of 64 Gb and a low price point of just $319.95. Be sure to check it out!

Samsung Galaxy A51 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A51 5G is a great low-cost option for users looking for 5G access. The phone itself comes in three different colors and features 128 GB of storage. With a fast-charging and a long-lasting battery life, your phone will be able to keep up with you throughout the day. The quadruple lens rear camera has a 48 MP main lens, giving you pro-level photos from your mobile phone.

The A51's display is a 6.5-inch AMOLED infinity display that provides edge-to-edge screen clarity. 5G network access is another major plus, offering high speeds and excellent connections almost everywhere. The Galaxy A41 5G price varies depending on the mobile plan you attach to it, but you'll be enjoying a great phone for less than $500!

Samsung Galaxy S10

Similar to the iPhone X, the Samsung Galaxy S10 can be purchased as a gently used device through Amazon. Of course, it will undergo the same quality and performance checks as mentioned for the iPhone X, ensuring you're receiving a like-new device at a lower price.

This phone comes with four different color options and a storage capacity of up to 512 GB. The 6.1-inch display covers nearly the entire front of the phone, maximizing your viewing experience. The speakers, powered with Dolby Atmos technology, provide great sound and you're even able to connect two devices via Bluetooth at once!

The 5G variant option of the Samsung Galaxy 10 will keep you connected at all times and the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor will keep your phone running as long as you do. The phone is water-resistant and includes a rear triple-lens camera and a dual-lens front camera to allow you to expertly capture any moment.

Google Pixel 4a 5G

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is one of Google's most premium phone options. The low cost and 5G capability make this a great option for new or continued Pixel users! Depending on your carrier, this phone could cost you as little as $249.99.

This is Google's first 5G phone and, with the 128 GB of storage and Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, it makes sure you're always connected. You're able to capture photos the way you'd like with this device, thanks to the 8 MP front-facing camera and the dual-lens rear camera that's great for both photos and video recording.

Callin' On A Budget

Now that you've explored some of the best options for cheap phones currently available, it'll come down to which device you prefer. Be sure to check with your current carrier for any deals they may have right now as well! Thank you for reading! Please feel free to share your thoughts on the best cheap phones in the comments below.