5 reasons why cheap smartphones are increasingly worth buying

Let's find out the reasons why cheap smartphones are becoming more and more worth buying at the present time.

Good performance at affordable price

In the past, when buying a cheap smartphone, users often had to accept many performance trade-offs. Basic apps often ran slowly, especially on Android smartphones, which are notorious for slowing down after a few years of use. Even gaming was limited to simple 2D games.

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However, as technology continues to advance, the performance of budget smartphones has improved significantly. For example, the Pixel 8a not only runs most apps well, but also integrates many of Google's latest AI features, such as Gemini and advanced photo editing tools. Even the Galaxy A55 shows impressive capabilities. While users may still want to upgrade after a few years, that's largely due to major advancements in the industry.

Camera technology keeps getting better

Just a few years ago, owning a budget smartphone meant settling for a camera that was barely usable in daylight. The image quality often paled in comparison to professional cameras. Even when there was a secondary camera, the quality was often poor.

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Today, the bar has been raised. While most secondary cameras are not great, the main cameras on budget smartphones can now take impressive photos thanks to advances in sensor technology and AI processing. Users can even take pretty good night photos, although it will still take time for smartphones to achieve low-light photography quality comparable to professional cameras from Canon, Nikon or Sony.

Focus on innovation

While many budget smartphones are still mediocre, it's becoming easier to find models with impressive designs. The Nothing Phone 2a is arguably more stylish than the iPhone 16 Pro, especially with its unique glyph lighting feature. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8a's camera design feels just as 'premium' as the more expensive products on the market.

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Even foldable smartphones are starting to appear in the budget segment. If you don't mind opting for a 2023 model, you can get a Motorola Razr for much less. The 2024 models won't be too expensive either. While Samsung hasn't launched a budget foldable yet, rumors suggest the company is working on a more affordable Z Flip.

Top smartphones are not worth it

Today's flagship smartphones are technically impressive, but they're mostly incremental improvements. When upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro in late 2024 from the iPhone 13, the main benefits you'll see will come from the Pro features, like the telephoto camera and 120Hz display. The faster processor won't make a huge difference, and many budget-conscious people probably won't care about those features.

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There are better ways to spend your money these days, unless you really need the best camera and display technology. Pairing the Pixel Watch 3 with the Pixel 8a could help improve your health and fitness if you use the watch to track your workout routine.

Multiple color options

Interestingly, high-end smartphones often only come in soft colors like black, silver or classic to create a luxurious feel. However, this can make users feel bored. Meanwhile, low-cost models offer a variety of vibrant color options, creating a rather stylish look.

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If you love bright colors, consider some budget smartphones or at least mid-range options. Maybe one day, big brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung will realize the value of incorporating color diversity into their products.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 18 February 2025