Best Phones Under $400 in 2025 – Top Budget Smartphones Reviewed

Finding the best smart phones under $400 in 2025 can feel overwhelming with so many choices flooding the market. But the good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a fast, reliable, and feature-rich device. Whether you prioritize battery life, camera quality, or smooth performance, there are fantastic options that offer serious value without the premium price. We’ve handpicked the top contenders that prove budget phones can still deliver impressive results—without compromise.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Moto G Stylus 5G | 2024 is a mid-range device offering a versatile 50MP camera, smooth performance with 8GB of RAM, and the convenience of 5G connectivity. With a large 256GB storage capacity, it is a great option for users looking for a reliable phone at an affordable price.

This phone is perfect for users who enjoy photography, multitasking, and a large display, but it might not be ideal for those seeking top-tier performance or a premium build quality.

Why You’ll Love It

50MP Camera: Capture stunning, high-resolution photos with the 50MP main camera. Whether you’re snapping landscapes or portraits, the camera delivers clear, vibrant images.
Massive 256GB Storage: With a generous 256GB storage capacity, you’ll have plenty of space for apps, photos, videos, and more.
5G Connectivity: Experience fast and reliable 5G speeds, allowing you to stream, browse, and download content seamlessly.
6.8-inch Display: The large display offers immersive viewing for gaming, watching videos, or browsing social media.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Build Quality: While the phone offers a large screen and great features, the plastic build may feel less premium compared to more expensive devices.

Performance Under Heavy Load: While the Snapdragon 695 is solid for everyday tasks and gaming, it may not perform as well as flagship processors under heavy multitasking or resource-intensive apps.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G offers a fantastic value with its sleek design, 5G connectivity, and an impressive 200MP camera that delivers sharp, detailed photos. With a powerful processor, ample storage, and solid battery life, this device is perfect for users who want a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank.

This phone is ideal for those who want a great camera, smooth performance, and 5G speeds, but it might not be perfect for users seeking premium build quality or advanced features found in flagship models.

Why You’ll Love It

200MP Camera: Capture ultra-high-resolution photos with the 200MP main sensor, perfect for photography enthusiasts who want stunning detail.
5G Connectivity: Experience blazing-fast 5G speeds, ideal for streaming, downloading, and browsing without lag.
Massive 256GB Storage: Store more photos, videos, and apps with ample storage, offering plenty of space for all your needs.
6.67-inch AMOLED Display: Enjoy vibrant colors and deep blacks with the AMOLED display, perfect for watching videos and gaming.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Build Quality: While the phone offers excellent performance, the plastic build may feel less premium compared to higher-end models.

Software: MIUI, Xiaomi’s custom Android skin, may not be to everyone’s taste, with some users noting occasional bloatware or software quirks.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Nothing Phone (3a) is a budget-friendly smartphone offering a unique design, reliable performance, and impressive battery life. It’s an excellent choice for users seeking a distinctive aesthetic and solid functionality without a premium price tag.

This phone is ideal for those who appreciate innovative design, a responsive display, and extended battery life, but it may not satisfy users seeking flagship-level performance or advanced camera capabilities.

Why You’ll Love It

Unique Design: The transparent back with LED glyphs offers a visually distinctive look, making it stand out from other smartphones.

Responsive Display: The 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals.
Long-lasting Battery: Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, it delivers exceptional battery life, easily lasting a day and a half under moderate usage.
Efficient Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor and 8GB of RAM, it handles daily tasks smoothly, though occasional stutters may occur during intensive operations.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Camera Quality: While the main camera captures decent photos, the ultrawide lens offers subpar performance, and low-light photography is less impressive.

Software Support: Nothing promises three years of Android version updates and six years of security patches, which is shorter compared to some competitors offering longer support periods.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is a solid mid-range smartphone that brings premium features like a 5G connection, high-quality display, and good camera performance at an affordable price. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and long-lasting battery, it’s a great choice for users looking for value without compromising too much on quality.

This phone is perfect for those seeking a reliable 5G experience, a vibrant screen, and decent camera capabilities, but it might not meet the expectations of those who need top-tier processing power or flagship-level cameras.

Why You’ll Love It

6.4-inch Super AMOLED Display: The vivid AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution offers rich colors and deep blacks, perfect for media consumption and gaming.
48MP Triple Camera System: The versatile 48MP main camera allows you to capture high-quality photos, and the ultrawide lens ensures great wide-angle shots.
Long-lasting Battery: With a 5,000mAh battery, the device can last through a full day of moderate usage, ensuring you won’t need to charge halfway through your day.
Sleek Design: The slim and premium design of the A55 5G, available in several attractive colors, offers both comfort and style.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Performance: The Exynos 1280 processor handles everyday tasks well, but it may struggle with more demanding games or multitasking under heavy load.

Camera Limitations: While the 48MP camera produces sharp images, it may not deliver the best results in low-light conditions or when zooming in on distant subjects.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Realme 12 Pro 5G offers a compelling package with its stylish design, capable camera system, and reliable battery life. It’s an excellent choice for users seeking a mid-range smartphone that balances aesthetics and performance without breaking the bank.

This phone is ideal for those who appreciate a unique design, enjoy photography, and require a device that can handle daily tasks efficiently. However, it might not satisfy users seeking top-tier processing power or a completely bloatware-free experience.

Why You’ll Love It

Elegant Design: The Realme 12 Pro 5G features a premium vegan leather finish with a luxury watch-inspired design, providing a distinctive and comfortable grip.

Impressive Camera System: Equipped with a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS and a 32MP telephoto lens offering 2x optical zoom, it captures sharp and detailed photos, especially in daylight conditions. ​
Vibrant Display: The 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an immersive viewing experience. ​
Reliable Battery Life: With a 5,000mAh battery and 67W SuperVOOC fast charging, the phone easily lasts a full day and charges quickly, minimizing downtime. ​

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Performance Limitations: While the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is adequate for daily use, it may not satisfy users seeking high-end gaming performance. ​

Bloatware Presence: The Realme UI comes with several pre-installed apps, some of which cannot be uninstalled, potentially affecting user experience. ​

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

The CMF Phone 1 stands out in the budget smartphone segment with its customizable design, solid performance, and impressive battery life. It’s an excellent choice for users seeking a unique and affordable device that doesn’t compromise on essential features.​WIRED

This phone is ideal for individuals who value personalization and long-lasting battery performance. However, it may not satisfy users looking for top-tier camera quality or extensive software update support.

Why You’ll Love It

Customizable Design: Features swappable back covers and an Accessory Point, allowing users to personalize their device’s appearance and functionality. ​
Impressive Battery Life: Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the CMF Phone 1 can last up to two days on a single charge. It also supports 33W fast charging, reaching 50% charge in just 20 minutes. ​
Vibrant Display: Boasts a 6.67-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and an enjoyable viewing experience. ​
Solid Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor and 8GB RAM, ensuring smooth operation for daily tasks and moderate gaming. ​

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Limited Software Updates: The device is expected to receive only two years of software updates, which is shorter compared to some competitors. ​

Gaming Limitations: Not optimized for high-end gaming; users may experience limitations with graphically intensive games. ​

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

The OnePlus 10 Pro is a high-end Android smartphone that combines premium hardware with a sleek design, offering a compelling alternative to more expensive flagship devices.​Tom’s Guide

This phone is ideal for users seeking top-tier performance, a vibrant display, and fast charging capabilities at a more affordable price point. However, it may not fully satisfy photography enthusiasts due to some camera limitations.​

Why You’ll Love It

Stunning Display: Features a 6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and smooth visuals, making it excellent for gaming and media consumption.​
Powerful Performance: Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance for demanding applications.​
Enhanced Camera System: Co-developed with Hasselblad, the camera setup includes a 48MP main sensor, 50MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens, providing versatile photography options.​
Refined Design: The sleek build and premium materials give the phone a sophisticated look and feel, with a comfortable grip.​

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Software Updates: Some users have reported delays in receiving software updates, which could affect the timely availability of new features and security patches.​

No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, which might be a consideration for users in environments where such protection is essential.​

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G is a premium smartphone that offers a large, vibrant display, powerful performance, and a sleek design. It’s an excellent choice for users who prioritize screen size and high-end features, though it may not be the best fit for those seeking the latest advancements in camera technology.​

Why You’ll Love It

Expansive Display: The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate provides smooth scrolling and vivid visuals, enhancing your viewing experience.​
Robust Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888 processor (in the U.S.) and 8GB of RAM, the S21+ handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps with ease.​
Versatile Camera System: Equipped with a triple-lens setup—12MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, and 64MP telephoto—the phone captures detailed photos and offers up to 30x Space Zoom for distant subjects.​
Premium Build Quality: The device features a sleek design with a glass back and aluminum frame, providing a comfortable and luxurious feel in hand.​

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

No Charger Included: The S21+ does not come with a charger in the box, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you don’t already have a compatible charger.​

Camera Performance: While the camera system is versatile, it may not match the low-light performance and zoom capabilities of some competitors.​

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

The Google Pixel 8 delivers an impressive combination of smart features, sleek design, and Google’s signature AI-driven performance. With its powerful Tensor G3 chip, exceptional camera system, and clean Android experience, it’s a top-tier phone that balances functionality and elegance at a competitive price.

Why You’ll Love It

Stunning Display: The 6.2-inch Actua OLED display is bright, sharp, and color-rich, offering excellent visibility in all lighting conditions.
AI-Powered Camera System: Capture amazing shots effortlessly with Google’s advanced computational photography. Night Sight, Magic Eraser, and Best Take features truly enhance your photos.
7 Years of Updates: With long-term support from Google, you’ll receive OS and security updates through 2030 — keeping your phone fresh and secure.
Smooth and Snappy Performance: The new Google Tensor G3 chip ensures fast app loading, multitasking, and gaming, all while being energy-efficient.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

Average Battery Life Under Heavy Load: While battery life is good for daily use, it may drain faster with gaming, GPS, or video streaming.

No Expandable Storage: The Pixel 8 doesn’t support microSD cards, so you’re limited to the built-in storage capacity.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

The iPhone 13 (Renewed Premium) continues to be a fan favorite for its powerful performance, premium build, and reliable camera system. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPhone or switching from Android, this renewed model offers excellent value with the same great Apple experience at a more affordable price.

Why You’ll Love It

A15 Bionic Power: The iPhone 13 is powered by Apple’s fast and efficient A15 Bionic chip, handling everything from gaming to multitasking with ease.
Vibrant Super Retina XDR Display: Enjoy crisp visuals and true-to-life colors on the 6.1-inch OLED display—perfect for streaming, browsing, and photo editing.
Reliable Dual Camera System: The 12MP main and ultra-wide lenses deliver sharp, well-balanced photos, with smart features like Photographic Styles and Cinematic Mode.
Renewed Premium Quality: As a Premium Renewed device, it looks and performs like new, and is backed by Amazon’s 1-year satisfaction guarantee.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind

No Charger Included: As with most newer iPhones, this device comes with just the cable—no power adapter in the box.

No Expandable Storage: Like all iPhones, storage is fixed, so you’ll need to manage space or use iCloud for extra capacity.

Best Smart Phones Under $400 in 2025

Final Thoughts

This Top 10 list was curated straight from Amazon, but it’s more than just a random selection—it’s based on real reviews and feedback from users around the world. We analyzed which phones consistently earn high praise for their performance, features, and overall value. From budget-friendly picks to flagship powerhouses, each phone here earned its spot for a reason.

Whether you’re upgrading your current device or shopping for something new, this ranking gives you a globally-backed perspective on what’s really worth your money. Let the experiences of thousands of users worldwide guide you to your perfect phone!