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Understanding the budget smartphone market
In the ever-evolving smartphone landscape, the $200 to $400 price range serves as an entry point for many users. This segment straddles the line between high-end entry-level devices and low-end mid-range options. Interestingly, several models in this price category are capable of delivering performance that rivals flagship phones. For those in search of budget-friendly options that do not compromise on quality, we have compiled a list of standout smartphones that are not only new to the market but also come highly recommended by users and experts alike.
Nothing Phone (3a): A flagship experience at an affordable price
Released in March 2025, the Nothing Phone (3a) is priced at just $399. This phone features a stunning 6.77-inch AMOLED display that supports HDR10+ and boasts an impressive brightness level of 3000 nits. It comes with options for 8GB or 12GB of RAM and is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, making it a strong contender for everyday tasks and light gaming.
The device is equipped with a versatile camera setup, including an 8MP ultrawide camera, a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 50MP primary sensor featuring optical image stabilization. The capability to record up to 4K video at 30 frames per second enhances its appeal. Additionally, the 32MP front camera can capture 1080p video, making it ideal for selfies and video calls. Users will appreciate the 50W fast charging, which allows the 5000mAh battery to reach 50% in about 19 minutes. The phone also offers IP64 dust and water resistance, stereo speakers, and runs on Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1, available in blue, white, or black.
Motorola Moto G Power (2025): Power and durability
Launched in February 2025, the Motorola Moto G Power (2025) is another noteworthy device priced at $299.99. It features a large 6.8-inch IPS LCD display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 1080×2388 pixels, providing an immersive viewing experience. The phone is driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset and includes 128GB of internal storage, expandable via a dedicated microSDXC slot, alongside 8GB of RAM.
Its dual-camera configuration comprises an 8MP ultrawide lens and a 50MP wide sensor with optical image stabilization, capable of recording 1080p video at 30 frames per second. Additionally, the 16MP front camera supports 1080p video capture. The device’s 5000mAh battery ensures longevity, with support for 30W wired and 15W wireless charging. Notably, the Moto G Power (2025) is rated IP68/IP69 for dust and water resistance, and it includes stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and NFC functionality.
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G: A powerhouse for connectivity
Released in March 2024, the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is priced at $399.99 and features a bright 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, this smartphone offers an octa-core CPU and 6GB of RAM, along with 128GB of expandable storage via microSDXC.
In terms of photography, the Galaxy A35 5G boasts a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP macro camera. The 13MP front camera supports 4K UHD video recording at 30fps, making it an excellent choice for content creators. The device’s 5000mAh battery supports 25W fast charging, and it runs on Android 14 with One UI, providing access to 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.3.
Nuu B30 Pro: Gaming on a budget
The Nuu B30 Pro stands out in the budget segment, especially for gamers, thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset and 12GB of RAM. Despite its $300 price tag, it offers a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that delivers solid visuals, though it struggles with peak brightness in bright conditions. The design resembles higher-end models, featuring a modern curved screen and glossy glass back.
However, the camera performance leaves something to be desired, with the 108MP main camera producing lackluster photos, while the ultra-wide and macro lenses are mediocre. The 32MP front camera performs adequately for selfies, but the portrait mode can be overly aggressive. Battery life is decent, lasting around 10 hours of video playback, and it supports 30W charging. While the B30 Pro excels in gaming performance, its outdated Android 13 and lack of expandable storage and headphone jack are notable drawbacks.
Launched on December 26, 2024, the OnePlus Ace 5 offers a premium experience with impressive specifications at around $369. This smartphone is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, up to 16GB of RAM, and offers up to 1TB of internal storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming performance. Its 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display features a high resolution of 1264×2780 pixels, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support for an exceptional viewing experience.
The device is protected by Crystal Shield Glass and features a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 2MP macro lens, capable of recording in 4K. The 16MP front camera can record 1080p video at 30fps. Its robust 6415mAh battery supports 80W wired charging, achieving a 55% charge in just 15 minutes and a full charge in 35 minutes. With connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6, 5G, and NFC, the OnePlus Ace 5 is a strong contender in the budget smartphone market.