Uncertain about which budget smartphone to buy with $400 to spend? With features like 120 Hz screens, top-notch cameras, and gaming-ready SoCs with 5G, we have compiled a list of the best smartphones available for $400 or less. Here are our best choices for cellphones under $400 without further ado.
Take a look at the table below if you are pressed for time and just want our best pick for a $400 smartphone. Before choosing, read the descriptions below or look through the available reviews for a more thorough understanding of our best choices.
Google Pixel 6a
Pixel 6a
The Google Pixel 6a has been available for purchase since July 21, 2022, and is packed with Google’s custom Tensor processor for better performance of Machine Learning-based features, the Pixel 6a seems to be the best option for those who want a more compact Google phone in 2024.
Although the Google Pixel 6a has been on sale since July 21, 2022, it is strangely still available on Amazon for $399 with 128 GB. The Pixel 6a appears to be the greatest choice for people looking for a smaller Google phone in 2024 since it is loaded with Google’s proprietary Tensor processor, which improves the performance of machine learning-based functions.
Even though the phone only has one internal storage choice and a 60 Hz refresh rate, it was already quite obvious from my assessment that it was the best smartphone under $400. Furthermore, among all the smartphones in the Pixel 6 series, the 6a is the most affordable.
The Pixel 6a has a very basic camera suite module, but considering that Google’s main strength is its camera software, it does not truly fall behind the competition. Thus, you can be certain that the images captured with the 6a will have the quality seal of the Pixel series.
Google Pixel 6a
The Google Pixel 6a has been available for purchase since July 21, 2022, but surprisingly the device can be found on Amazon for less than $399 with 128 GB.
Consider checking the Google Pixel 7a prices before making a purchase. The device might be available at a similar price on your preferred e-commerce platform.
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
$159The new low-cost iPhone, which comes two years after the iPhone SE (2020), has a potent A15-bionic but is not much better than the original.
Without hesitation, we suggest the iPhone SE (2022) as an Apple substitute. The new low-cost iPhone, which comes two years after the iPhone SE (2020), has a potent A15-bionic but is not much better than the original. A 12MP camera and IP67 resistance are included in a chassis that is quite similar to that of the iPhone SE 2020 (and iPhone 8/7/6s).
Aside from the SoC (and the additional 4GB of RAM), the true change is 5G connectivity, which enables the device to finally take use of the newest connectivity technologies, just like the other sub-$400 handsets on this list. The iPhone SE (2022), which we have already examined, is undoubtedly a fantastic option for anyone searching for a reasonably priced iPhone.
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
We suggest the iPhone SE (2022) as an Apple substitute. A 12MP camera and IP67 resistance are included.
Samsung Galaxy A35
Samsung Galaxy A35
The A35 inherits the Exynos 1380 chip used in our previous recommendation, the Galaxy A54, promising smooth performance for daily tasks and even some games.
Strangely, Samsung decided not to release its top-selling Galaxy A55 model in the US in 2024. The South Korean company replaced it with the less expensive A35 model as a mid-range market substitute.
In actuality, the two phones are rather comparable in terms of features and performance, offering a comprehensive package that includes cameras, software support, and battery life. Smooth performance for everyday work and even some games is promised by the A35, which inherits the Exynos 1380 CPU from our last suggestion, the Galaxy A54.
With Samsung guaranteeing patches through 2029, the Galaxy A35 is the phone on this list that will continue to receive security upgrades for a longer period of time. Even longer support is beginning to be promised by more recent phones, but none at this price point.
Samsung Galaxy A35
128GB Unlocked Android Smartphone, AMOLED Display, Advanced Triple Camera System, Expandable Storage, Rugged Design, US Version, 2024
Nothing Phone (2a)
Nothing Phone (2a)
With its Nothing OS 2.5 UI, the Phone (2a) provides a satisfying experience. It also promises durability with three Android updates and a four-year security update program. Despite lacking the newest Snapdragon SoC, the smartphone has respectable and steady performance.
Nothing’s newest low-cost smartphone is called the Phone (2a). Although its technological specifications are well-balanced, its appearance is what really makes it stand out; according to my colleague Antoine Engels, it is the most attractive mid-range smartphone of 2024.
The Phone (2a) is the autonomy champion in its price range thanks to its 5000 mAh battery that supports 45 W rapid charging. The smartphone lasted an amazing 17 hours and 2 minutes on our battery assessment. Without recharging your phone, you can easily go two days (2a). Additionally, it has the benefit of charging at a moderate pace.
The photo quality is not very realistic, especially at night, so I think that is the only major compromise you will have to make. The Nothing Phone (2a) is a well-balanced mid-range smartphone that boasts a stunning screen, respectable performance, and, most importantly, an impressive battery life.
Nothing Phone (2a)
Unlocked 5G Android Phone Dimensity 7200 Pro, 50MP Dual Camera Cell Phone, 6.7” AMOLED Display, 5000mAh Battery, NFC
Expectations for mobile devices costing up to $400
In the US, mid-range phones fall somewhere between affordable models and high-end mid-range phones, albeit offering a respectable price-performance ratio. You may discover older or lower-specified devices at this pricing. They may lag in terms of camera, performance, and design even though the majority feature 5G.
- Power and performance: Investing in a sub-$400 device will at least guarantee that the SoC can tackle the most recent games. Here, you should expect SoC’s that are at least one to two years old and offer good performance for daily tasks.
- Cameras: In the mid-range, models like the Samsung Galaxy A35 have 50-megapixel main cameras, but don’t match the Galaxy Ultra’s photo quality. The primary issue in this range is with the cameras, especially “Quad cameras” that use low-quality macro and depth sensors. Unfortunately, the telephoto camera often gets compromised.
- Battery & charging: Batteries in this price range are typically between 4,500 and 5,000 mAh, but charging speeds are subpar. Devices from Honor and Xiaomi offer over 60W fast-charging, but they aren’t available in the US. Here, 10W to 15W is decent. Wireless charging is rare at this price point.
- Display: In terms of display, we can expect FullHD+ screens with high refresh rates (except for Apple), and OLED displays are getting increasingly popular, with nice color reproduction and impressive contrast levels.
- Age and support: At this price, be wary of devices older than two years due to limited software updates. Most will receive only one or two updates beyond their initial OS. Hence, Android 10 devices will become outdated after the launch of Android 14 in 2023, for example.
- Carrier compatibility: In this price range, not all devices are compatible with every carrier. Many are designed for GSM networks, common outside the US. If you’re on a CDMA network like Verizon, ensure compatibility. However, with 4G LTE and 5G, this issue is diminishing.
