Looking for a new smartphone on a budget? You are in luck. The budget smartphone market has expanded with excellent options that are feature-rich. "Budget" no longer equates to poor performance and a frustrating experience. In 2025, you can find a phone that handles daily tasks, captures decent photos, and even supports some gaming without significant expense. Here are our top 7 budget smartphone picks for 2025.
1. realme Note 50: The Unbeatable Entry-Level Champion
Leading our list of budget smartphones is the realme Note 50. This ultra-budget option delivers a surprisingly capable feature set. Notably, it includes a smooth 6.74-inch 90Hz display. Scrolling and navigating menus are remarkably fluid for this price point.
While not designed for intensive gaming, the Unisoc Tiger T612 processor and 3GB of RAM ensure smooth handling of everyday tasks, providing lag-free general use. A rare feature at this price is IP54 dust and splash resistance for added durability.
realme Note 50 - Key Specs
- Display: 6.74-inch TFT, 1600x720, 90Hz
- Processor: Unisoc Tiger T612
- Memory: 3GB RAM / 64GB Storage
- Cameras: 13MP Main, 5MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh
2. Xiaomi Redmi A3: Xiaomi Ecosystem on a Shoestring
Slightly more expensive than the realme, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 provides an entry point into the Xiaomi ecosystem. While its specifications may not be as high as the Note 50, it offers a streamlined user experience with Android 14 pre-installed.
It features a basic 8MP main camera and 5MP front camera. However, the 90Hz display maintains visual smoothness. The energy-efficient MediaTek Helio G36 chip, combined with a 5000mAh battery, promises extended battery life, up to 26 days on standby.
Xiaomi Redmi A3 - Key Specs
- Display: 6.71-inch IPS, 1650x720, 90Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G36
- Memory: 3GB RAM / 64GB Storage
- Cameras: 8MP Main, 5MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh
3. TECNO SPARK Go: Small in Size, Big on Sound
Priced slightly higher with upgraded features, the TECNO SPARK Go offers a balanced experience. For users who prefer smaller phones, its 6.6-inch screen provides comfortable handling while retaining a 90Hz refresh rate.
The Unisoc Tiger T606 chipset is slightly less powerful than others on this list. However, with 4GB of RAM and the lightweight Android Go OS, everyday performance remains smooth. Stereo speakers are a notable and rare feature, enhancing the audio experience compared to many pricier alternatives.
TECNO SPARK Go - Key Specs
- Display: 6.6-inch IPS, 1612x720, 90Hz
- Processor: Unisoc Tiger T606
- Memory: 4GB RAM / 64GB Storage
- Cameras: 13MP Main, 8MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh
4. Infinix SMART 9: Gaming on a Budget
The Infinix SMART 9 is particularly appealing for budget-conscious gamers. Its key feature is the very smooth 120Hz IPS display, which improves gameplay responsiveness, especially when paired with the capable MediaTek Helio G81 chipset.
While it may not handle demanding games at maximum settings, it provides a surprisingly enjoyable gaming experience for casual titles. It also includes 3GB of RAM, a 13MP main camera, and a decent 8MP front camera. Durability is enhanced with drop resistance up to 1.5 meters and IP54 water and dust resistance, making it suitable for younger users or those prone to accidents.
Infinix SMART 9 - Key Specs
- Display: 6.7-inch IPS, 1612x720, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G81
- Memory: 3GB RAM / 64GB Storage
- Cameras: 13MP Main, 8MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh
5. OPPO A38: Photography Focus on a Dime
For budget-conscious users prioritizing mobile photography, the OPPO A38 is a strong contender. It features a 50MP main camera with AI enhancements, promising impressive image quality for its price range. A monochrome sensor reduces noise and enhances detail. While the 5MP front camera is basic, the rear camera excels in its class.
Powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 and 4GB of RAM, it offers smooth performance for daily tasks. The 6.56-inch 90Hz display is pleasant to use, and the 5000mAh battery with up to 33W fast charging ensures readiness to capture moments.
OPPO A38 - Key Specs
- Display: 6.56-inch IPS, 1612x720, 90Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- Memory: 4GB RAM / 128GB Storage
- Cameras: 50MP + 2MP Main, 5MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh, 33W Fast Charging
6. Samsung Galaxy A05: Budget Phone with Dependable Samsung Quality
Samsung enters the budget smartphone category with the Samsung Galaxy A05. It delivers the trusted Samsung brand experience at an affordable price. Similar to the OPPO A38, it emphasizes photography with a capable 50MP main camera that captures good quality images in daylight. A depth sensor aids portrait mode.
Performance is driven by the MediaTek Helio G85 with 4GB of RAM. It includes a 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging. The 6.7-inch IPS display is vibrant, although the 60Hz refresh rate is less smooth than some competitors.
Samsung Galaxy A05 - Key Specs
- Display: 6.7-inch IPS, 1600x720, 60Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- Memory: 4GB RAM / 64GB Storage
- Cameras: 50MP + 2MP Main, 8MP Front
- Battery: 5000mAh, 25W Fast Charging
7. HONOR X6a: Battery Life and Camera Champion
Concluding our top 7 budget smartphones is the HONOR X6a. It excels in photography and battery endurance. Featuring a 50MP main camera, it captures good photos. Its 5200mAh battery provides exceptional battery life, lasting up to approximately 18 hours of continuous video playback.
The HONOR X6a also boasts a stylish design, a smooth 90Hz display, and up to 128GB of internal storage. Utilizing the capable MediaTek Helio G36 chipset, it handles daily tasks effectively, offering a well-rounded budget smartphone experience.
HONOR X6a - Key Specs
- Display: 6.56-inch IPS, 1612x720, 90Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G36
- Memory: 4GB RAM / 128GB Storage
- Cameras: 50MP + 2MP Main, 5MP Front
- Battery: 5200mAh
The budget smartphone market in 2025 offers numerous excellent choices. Whether your priority is gaming, photography, battery life, or general daily use, there is a budget smartphone on this list to meet your needs. Explore these options to find the perfect budget smartphone for you.
