Sometimes the most expensive smartphones cost more than a laptop. Because these phones are so common, it can be difficult to find a good and affordable device. Fortunately, 2025 looks set to be one of the best years for budget smartphones. As technology becomes increasingly accessible, budget phones offer powerful specs, long battery life, sharp cameras, and stylish designs at affordable prices.
If you’re wondering which budget smartphone to buy this year, you’ve come to the right place. This guide takes a closer look at the best budget smartphones of 2025, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and unique features.
Why will budget phones be even better in 2025?
In the past, buying a budget smartphone meant sacrificing speed and camera quality. But that’s changed. With Xiaomi, Samsung, Motorola, Realme, and even Google all competing, companies are forced to incorporate advanced features into their budget-friendly devices.
By 2025, budget smartphones will often feature 5G connectivity, high-refresh rate displays, multiple cameras, and fast processors. Some will even rival mid-range models in terms of design and everyday usability. These phones offer excellent value for average users such as students, budget-conscious professionals, and families.
Best Budget Smartphones of 2025: 1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14
The Redmi Note 14 proves that Xiaomi remains a leader in the budget smartphone market. It’s affordable and features a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and gaming. It also has up to 8GB of RAM and a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip.
The Redmi Note 14’s highlight is its 108-megapixel main camera, which takes photos that are as sharp and colorful as you’d expect from a mid-range phone. It also features a 5000 mAh battery with 67W fast charging, making it a powerful phone for under €300.
Best for: Those who want top features without the high price tag.
2. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
The Samsung A series has always been an excellent choice for budget phones, and the Galaxy A25 5G is no exception. Watching movies or browsing social media on the 6.5-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display is a joy.
It’s powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1380 chipset, designed for low power consumption. The primary sensor in the triple camera setup has a 64-megapixel resolution and takes clear photos even in low light. The comprehensive software and four years of Samsung security updates guarantee long-term reliability, a significant advantage for budget-conscious buyers.
Users who prioritize software updates and screen brightness will appreciate this phone the most.
3. Motorola Moto G85
Motorola continues to improve its budget-friendly smartphone offerings, and the Moto G85 is a real standout. It offers a streamlined, almost stock Android experience without any extra software, making it one of the best budget phones you can buy.
The Moto G85 runs on a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, allowing you to switch between tasks with ease. The 50-megapixel main camera with OIS (optical image stabilization) delivers super-steady photos and videos. The 5000 mAh battery and robust construction make it a reliable phone for everyday use.
Best for: Those who value streamlined, always-on software.
4. Realme Narzo 70 Pro
Realme’s Narzo series has always been aimed at budget gamers, and the Narzo 70 Pro is no exception. Powered by the Dimensity 8200 processor and a 120Hz AMOLED display, you can play games without lag.
This phone also features 80W fast charging, which can charge it from 0% to 50% in just 15 minutes. While the 64-megapixel triple camera is impressive, this phone’s real strength lies in its speed.
Budget gamers who value smooth graphics and fast charging will appreciate this phone the most.
5. Google Pixel 7a (Price Drop in 2025)
Despite its earlier release, the Google Pixel 7a remains an excellent budget option in 2025, especially now that the price has dropped. Its best feature is Google’s AI-powered photography capabilities, which make even the 64-megapixel camera work as smoothly as a flagship phone.
The Tensor G2 chip is great for everyday tasks, and Google promises long-term software updates, which is unusual for budget phones. If you value camera and software experience over flashy hardware, the Pixel 7a is a good choice.
- This app is ideal for photography enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date.
- Important considerations when buying a budget smartphone
- When choosing a budget smartphone, don’t just look at the
- Fast charging.
- Camera: Many cameras have multiple lenses, but quality is more important than quantity. Optical image stabilization (OIS) is excellent.
- Software updates: Samsung and Google excel in this area and offer updates for three to five years.
- 5G connectivity is now an essential feature, even for budget phones.
Budget smartphones in 2025
1. Can budget smartphones be trusted in the long run?
Yes, many budget phones these days have a lifespan of at least two to three years. Brands like Samsung and Google that offer software updates offer better long-term reliability.
2. Do budget smartphones support 5G?
Almost all budget phones released in 2025 will be able to connect to 5G networks, meaning they will always have a faster internet connection.
3. Can budget smartphones play games?
Some phones, like the Realme Narzo 70 Pro and Redmi Note 14, can run popular games like PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, Genshin Impact, and Call of Duty Mobile on medium to high settings, but their performance isn’t as good as that of top-tier gaming phones.
4. What’s the best camera in a budget smartphone?
The Google Pixel 7a remains the best camera phone thanks to its AI optimizations, but the Redmi Note 14 has the best camera hardware under €300.
5. Should I buy a budget smartphone or a more expensive mid-range phone?
It depends on your needs. If you want fast performance, updates, and a camera without spending too much money, a budget phone will suffice. But if you plan to use your computer for four to five years, a mid-range model might be a better choice.
Final Conclusion
By 2025, the budget smartphone market will be bigger than ever. There’s a phone for everyone, regardless of your needs. The Pixel 7a has an excellent camera, while the Realme Narzo 70 Pro is specifically designed for gamers. The Samsung Galaxy A25 5G has the best screen and software, while the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 is the best all-around phone.
If you don’t have €1,000 to spend on a new phone this year, don’t worry. You can still get a great experience. By 2025, budget smartphones will offer high-end features at an affordable price. This makes them an excellent choice for buyers looking for the best value.
