Getting a modest phone is much easier these days than it was 5-10 years ago. With $300 or below, you can have yourself an outstanding smartphone with all the basic features you would desire to have in a smartphone of this age and time.

While it is common to believe smartphones cost you a fortune, the reality is sometimes otherwise. Getting a phone going for over $1,000 could be an ideal investment if you needed a superb phone. But what if I informed you that you could get a phone with almost similar qualities at less than half the price?

Numerous outstanding smartphones sell below $300, and this means you have to understand what you need before setting out for a purchase. With adequate knowledge and preparedness, you will quickly tell apart ideal phones that deserve to be bought at that price and just overpriced.

You can always make ideal decisions when purchasing these kinds of phones if you have a buyer's guide to follow. This guide below will help you secure a great phone under $300. We've included the pros & cons of each of these phones for you to review. Once you've finished this guide, you'll be ready to find the best mobile phones under $300 for you!

Editors choice

1. Samsung Galaxy A51

9.00 / 10
Read Reviews

Released in December 2019, the Galaxy A51 has a lot to offer. It has a large screen of 6.5 inches that optimizes visual symmetry. You can efficiently multi-task with the widescreen that is powered by AMOLED technology.

It comes with a 48MP wide camera + 12MP ultra-wide camera + 5MP wide dedicated macro camera + 5MP depth sensor on the backside. You are assured of high-quality images and videos on the go. Its front camera is a 32MP wide camera that assures you get perfect selfies anytime, anywhere.

You will enjoy Bluetooth 5.0, FM Radio, GPS, NFC, and Type C USB, among its other features. Its Li-Po 4000mAh battery charges so fast, giving you the maximum power you need for all-day activities.

The phone features Android 10.0, which is the latest version of Android. This means you get to enjoy all the maximum benefits inherent the android OS.

Additionally, the phone's storage system is one you will find sufficient for storing all your essential media files, including videos, images, documents, and more. It offers 6GB RAM and 128GB ROM, which is more than sufficient for your storage needs.

The phone exists in different colors, including Prism, Crush Black, Blue, White, and Pink.

Key Features
  • Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen
  • 6.5 inches wide
  • 6GB RAM and 128GB ROM with a micro SD slot of up to 1TB capacity
  • High Resolution of up to 1080 x 2400 pixels
  • 48MP+12MP+5MP+5MP rare camera
Pros
  • Fast battery charging
  • Large storage space
  • 4G Cellular technology
  • High resolution display
  • Widescreen display
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • The low battery capacity of 4000mAh
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Samsung Galaxy A51
Premium pick

2. Blackview BV9100 4G LTE

7.80 / 10
Read Reviews

If you search for a robust and reliable smartphone, you can't explore further than Blackview BV9100 4G LTE. The phone is made in rugged design, making it strong enough to withstand falls of as high as five feet. The phone is also waterproof; if you dropped in water and forgot it there for an hour, you could still find it in perfect shape. Plus, it usually works under extreme temperatures of between -30 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius.

Its 13000mAh capacity battery makes it an ideal choice for maximum power storage. It can go for 30 days with the charge when on standby and 24 hours if you play games the whole day. Plus, it supports 9V/2A fast charging, which ensures it is fully charged within four hours. The OTG reverse charging allows you to use the 13000mAh as a power bank.

It has a side-set button that works as a setting to achieve three functions by the short press, double press, and long press. Each press can initiate a function that you select, including the screenshot function, camera, start SOS, open flashlight, etc.

Additionally, the phone is an Android 9.0 pie version, making it faster, smarter, and easily adaptable to your needs.

It is a 4 G-enabled device and is compatible with various carriers in different countries and regions globally. This ensures you remain connected even when you travel around the globe.

Key Features
  • 13000mAH capacity battery
  • 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM
  • 6.3” FHD Screen
  • 6MP Rear & Front Cameras
  • 4G Network & Dual SIM
Pros
  • 16MP front and rear cameras for clear pictures
  • Underwater camera mode for taking pictures underwater
  • A long-lasting battery doubles up as a power bank
  • Fingerprint and face ID unlock security system
  • Resists breakage for falls within five feet high
Cons
  • The front-facing speakers may be hurtful to ears
  • Bluetooth connection sometimes staggers
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Blackview BV9100 4G LTE

Nokia 5.3 brags of its top-notch quad-camera, which gives you just the right images at the right time. It comes with a quad-camera powered by AI technology to provide you with perfect images. The macro lens and ultra-wide 118 degrees lens allows you to capture more of what is around you maximally.

Its 6.55-inch HD+ display gets you lost in a new world of experience and adventure. The wide display makes you enjoy your videos and games in a new way.

There is no call for worry as the 4000mAh battery is AI-assisted to give you more time for power usage. You can enjoy your favorite apps without fear of battery failures.

The phone uses Google Assistant AI-powered machine learning to learn and adapt to you with every use.

Also, the phone uses the latest Android 10 version, making it exhibit some of the best features you could ever get in an Android phone. Its storage capacity accommodates 64 GB of internal storage and can allow up to 512 GB of external SD card storage.

Its quad-camera system includes a 13MP primary lens, 118 degrees 5MP lens, 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. This is ideal for any type of shoot, making sure your record or capture everything clearly.

Key Features
  • 6.55-inch HD+ display
  • 64 GB internal storage
  • MicroSD card support up to 512 GB
  • Android 10.0
  • AI-Powered Quad Camera
Pros
  • Allows up to 512 GB of external storage space
  • High speed processor
  • Dependable power can run up to 2 days without charging
  • AI-powered quad-camera
  • Ultra-wide Cameras with depth sensors
Cons
  • Available in a limited number of color
  • Does not have finger print unlock feature
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Nokia 5.3 Fully Unlocked Smartphone

This is probably the phone with the largest internal storage capacity of 6GB RAM and 128 GB ROM. You will enjoy unmatched processing speeds thanks to the 6GB RAM capacity. However, the actual available memory may vary because the operating system occupies a portion of the RAM.

The cameras are in good shape and will provide excellent images. The front camera is a 48MP AI quad-camera that stretches its powers to capture objects that are far off to give you perfect and clear images. The front camera is a 16MP in-display camera that ensures the selfies you take are top-notch.

The rear camera is an AI quad system that includes the 48MP ultra-high-resolution primary camera, 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera, a 5MP macro camera, and a 2MP depth camera.

It comes with a 5020mAh in-built non-removable Lithium-Ion polymer battery charged via the USB Type-C reversible connector port. The battery charges fast thanks to the 18W wired charging capacity. It lasts long enough to take you through your daily activities on the phone.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G, a high-performance Octa-Core processor, does its best to boost its processing speed. It achieves high frequencies of up to 2.3GHz for improved speeds.

Key Features
  • 6.67" Dot Display
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G High-performance octa-core processor
  • Front Camera 16MP In-Display
  • 48MP ultra-high resolution primary camera
  • 5020mAh Built-In Non-removable fast charging battery
  • 6GB RAM and 128GB ROM storage capacities
Pros
  • Compatible with Most GSM Carriers
  • Offers sizeable internal storage space
  • Faster charging speed
  • Supports 2+1 card slots
  • High-security features. It has both the AI face unlock and side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Cons
  • Will NOT work with CDMA like Verizon, Sprint and Boost
  • Does not offer a warranty in the US
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Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S

The Moto G Stylus is another great phone of the Motorola Company that comes with the freedom to choose your carrier. It is compatible with AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks. If you opt for Sprint, you may contact them for the activation of their network.

Its 48MP1 triple camera system brags accords you the chance to take top-notch photos and ultra-wide angle action videos.

Its inbuilt stylus allows you to edit photos easily with pinpoint precision. You can also jot notes, sketch freely, and have a smooth time performing everyday tasks.

Its 4000mAh battery allows you to go for up to two days without charging it as you enjoy an uninterrupted power supply.

If you looked at a far-off distance, you could easily confuse a Moto G Stylus with a Moto G Power. However, Moto G Stylus harbors a smaller size than the Motor G Power with dimensions of 6.24 inches long by 2.98 inches wide by 0.36 inches thick. Moto G stylus weighs 6.77 ounces, a considerably lighter weight.

Its screen has a 19:9 aspect ratio and a high resolution of 2,300 by 1,080 per inch of every 399 pixels giving it a crisp look and easy brightness adjustment in light. You can easily comprehend what you are doing in direct sunlight.

Key Features
  • Supports all carriers
  • 48 MP1 triple camera system
  • Built-in stylus
  • Up to two days battery life
  • 128 GB storage
  • 4GB RAM
Pros
  • Globally unlocked
  • Crystal-clear audio
  • Decent battery life
  • Comes with an inbuilt stylus for easy editing
  • Ultra-responsive performance
Cons
  • Does not come with a Sim card
  • Users of the Sprint network must consult with the company for network connection
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Moto G Stylus

The Honor 9X is another great phone from the Honor Company that comes to prove that Honor never fails in its tradition of manufacturing decent phone qualities. It has a 6.59 inches TFT LCD, 1080x2340 pixels that give you excellent image and video displays.

Its 128 GB Internal storage capacity accords you enough space to store all your media files. The 6GB RAM allows for faster processing speeds giving you a seamless phone operation. It also accommodates expandable memory of up to 512GB.

The back camera system comprises of a 48MP primary camera + 8MP + 2MP for optimized images. The front has a 16MP FF selfies camera that gives you some of the best selfies and videos on the go.

Its camera appears magically in just a few seconds after activating it, giving you an easy time to use it. After use, it again hides automatically. You don't have to stress over closing the app in a long process.

It is compatible with most versions of GSM carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, and MetroPCS, among others. However, it does not operate with CDMA Carriers like Boost, Sprint, and Verizon.

The phone comes in different colors, including Midnight Black and Sapphire Blue, some of the most common phone colors in demand in the market.

Key Features
  • 128GB ROM(Expandable up to (512GB)
  • 6GB RAM
  • 4000mAh battery
  • Front camera: 16MP FF,
  • Rear camera: 48MP + 8MP + 2MP
Pros
  • Attractive design
  • Decent battery life
  • Large storage
  • High-quality main camera
  • Large screen display
  • Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS,
Cons
  • No Warranty in US
  • Will NOT work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Sprint and Boost
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Honor 9X w/Play Store

You will undoubtedly appreciate a globally unlocked phone and can use any carrier and any plan immediately after you insert your SIM. Moto G Power avails several admirable features that will leave you appreciating the value of money you spent on it. It has a 5000mAh battery that keeps your phone on power for up to three days without charging it again.

The camera system is another outstanding feature of this under-the-budget phone that you will like. It brags of a 16MP triple camera system that is AI-powered to allow you to take clear and precise shots from almost any angle. Its macro-vision camera keeps 5x closer to your object for perfect close-up shots.

Your views are made better with the stunning 6.4 inches Max Vision Full HD+ display screen. Your video-watching sessions are made even more enjoyable with the dual stereo system, which allows you to listen to your songs and videos to full volume without losing sound quality.

Its Octa-core processor and 4 GB of RAM enable you to have a seamless operation of the phone. You can easily play games, browse, work, and watch at an instant without the phone slowing down its operations. Enjoy super-fast performances as you can feel your phone responding to every touch, swipe, or tap that you give it.

Key Features
  • 4G cellular technology
  • 16 MP triple camera system
  • 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory
  • Android OS
  • Water-repellent design
Pros
  • Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon networks
  • Achieves a full vision display
  • Advanced water-repellant design
  • Achieves 4x more crystal-clear audio
  • Long-lasting battery
Cons
  • Screen brightness is low, even in the highest setting
  • Video freezes if you accidentally touch the fingerprint sensor at the back
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Moto G Power

You can't resist the TCL 10L phone if you are a photography enthusiast. Its quad rear cameras with dual led flash feature a system of cameras, including the 48MP high-resolution camera + 8MP super-wide-angle camera + 2MP macro camera + 2MP depth camera. The front camera is a 16MP high-resolution camera that also gives you ideal selfies.

Its side smart key allows you to customize your phone to access any dedicated app or feature by just pressing the button. You can easily make the phone work as unique as you want it to.

Additionally, the phone has a face key and fingerprint sensor to secure your phone from unauthorized access. There is a need to bother about your phone getting into the wrong hands. With just a simple touch or glance, you can access all your apps without a struggle.

It brags of a powerful audio system that allows you to enjoy music at maximum booming volumes seamlessly. You can personalize your listening experience by creating your favorite playlist on the go.

The phone is compatible with GSM carriers such as AT&T and T-Mobile, as well as on Verizon's technical LTE network.

You will enjoy an internal storage capacity of up to 64 GB and 256 GB external SD card capacity for storage.

Key Features
  • 16MP front-facing selfie camera
  • 48MP (high-res) + 8MP (118° super wide-angle)
  • Up to 64GB of internal memory
  • Compatible with GSM carriers
  • 6GB of RAM
  • 4000mAh battery
Pros
  • Super clear images
  • Easy unlocking
  • The battery offers smart power optimization
  • Customizable interface
Cons
  • It may have problems working with the Verizon network effectively
  • Vibration mode is persistent unless you put it on the 'Do not disturb' mode
Buy This Product
TCL 10L, Unlocked Android Smartphone

If you love art and have ever wished to store your artwork on your device in its raw form, then this is the phone designed for you. LG Stylo 5 Alexa allows you to quickly enhance your handwriting with beautiful calligraphy to make your texts more appealing and attractive to your readers. You can easily practice your favorite drawing skills with the help of a scratch art tool that allows you to draw and doodle with ease.

It comes with a pre-installed selection of some of your favorite Amazon apps, including Amazon shopping, Amazon Alexa, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can use Alexa to play your music, search for news updates, and check your surroundings' weather.

The phone is unlocked to give you the freedom to choose a carrier that perfectly fits you. It is compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon networks. For the case of Sprint, you may have to contact them to activate your system.

Its 3500mAh inbuilt battery offers you a full-day power service without bothering to charge it in between.

The 13MP PDAF back camera ensures that you have ideal photos at any time of the day while the 5MP wide-angle front camera with portrait mode takes care of all your selfie needs.

Key Features
  • Pre-installed selection of Amazon apps
  • Amazon Alexa
  • 6.2" FHD+ FullVision Display
  • 3 GB of RAM
  • Precise Stylus Pen
  • Android 9
  • 13 MP PDAF Rear Camera
  • 5 MP wide-angle front-facing camera
  • 32 GB storage memory( expandable up to 2TB)
Pros
  • Compatible with various networks
  • Comes with a precise stylus pen
  • It can accommodate up to 2 TB external space
  • It gives you a chance to practice your artwork effectively
Cons
  • Slower processing speed due to small RAM capacity
  • The photos are not of super-high quality
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LG Stylo 5 with Alexa

It could be great trying a phone that presents you with the power of the latest generation of Qualcomm Snapdragon 636, which enables you to re-imagine what you can do with a smartphone fully.

It has 64GB of internal storage and 4GB of Ram that ensures you are comfortable processing information. It can also accommodate up to 400GB of micro SD external storage.

Its rear dual-camera system comprises of 12+5MP for outstanding and clear images. It has an 8MP front camera that achieves high-quality selfies anytime on the go.

It prides itself on all the latest connectivity options, including NFC, OTG, Bluetooth 5.0, fast USB Type-C charging, and a fingerprint sensor.

Additionally, it comes with a 5.84 inches FHD+HDR screen with 2220x1080 Resolution to give you the full clear display you may need when using the smartphone.

The phone measures 5.89 in height by 2.80 in width by 0.31 in thickness, giving it compact size and shape for easy fitting into your trousers' pockets. Its fingerprint sensor is situated on the lower side of the camera for easy access any time you want to unlock fingerprints.

It achieves a high brightness measure of up to 438 nits when tested, making it easy to use even in direct sunlight.

Key Features
  • 4GB of RAM
  • 64GB of storage and up to 400GB with a micro SD
  • 5. 84” FHD+ HDR screen
  • Dual 12+5MP rear camera
  • 8MP selfie camera
  • Two years of OS upgrades
  • Fingerprint sensor
  • Fast USB Type-C charging
Pros
  • Fast charging rates (18W)
  • It has all the latest connection options
  • Comes pre-installed with popular Google apps
  • Pro camera modes for unparalleled image qualities
  • Enough storage space
Cons
  • Accommodates only one sim card
  • Doesn’t have a radio feature
Buy This Product
Nokia 7.1 - Android 9.0

Before you pay for the phone you already think is worth your money, there are factors you should consider. You should be able to tell which features and specifications you need the phone you intend to buy to have. Such information puts you at a safer position of closing in a great deal of purchase. Here are a few factors to check out on when buying a phone.

The Phone’s Operating System

It is no news that most smartphone users are Android users. You probably have used an Android phone and understood most of its features and how it works. But, apart from Android, there are other operating systems or versions of smartphones that you may not have tried out, which are worth trying out or at least knowing something about.

Phones with Android operating system (OS) still exist in various versions of Android itself. The latest Android versions that you may be concentrating on include the Android 9 Pie and Android 10. These two versions of the Android operating system have different functions and features that may interest buyers differently.

Nevertheless, you should know not all smartphones running on the Android OS are operating with the latest version 10. If it happens, you miss the Android version you wanted; you can always check what the other version (version 9) offers and compare if it is worth the bargain.

If Android is not your preference, you can always check out for iOS devices selling below $300. Here you might be able to secure yourself refurbished or new iPhones that can work great for you. Make sure the operating system meets your needs maximally before you decide to move on with the purchase.

The Phone’s Internal Storage

After knowing what version of Android or iOS you are going to use, the next thing you want to know is your phone's internal storage size. You should move beyond what the phone says on the sticker and check the RAM and internal storage on the phone. The selling agent may want to convince you that you can use a micro-SD card to expand the phone's storage capacity. Still, it would be best if you always remembered that using a phone with larger internal memory is better than using an external SD card.

Settling for a smartphone with at least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal memory should suffice unless you intend to use your phone as an external hard drive for your computer. So before you rush for that phone with 256GB of internal memory, make sure it falls within your budget, and it has other features you were looking for. Now that you've finished this guide, you can revisit the list of products and find the best mobile phone under $300 for you!

FAQ

Q: Can you play games with a budget phone?

Although mobile gaming is increasingly becoming popular, not everyone is willing to spend top dollar buying a gaming phone. The best mobile phones under $300 run on chips from MediaTek and Qualcomm, so they can handle some light games.

Apart from plenty of power and bright screens, some budget phones are built with gaming in mind. Some brands like Realme, Xiaomi Redmi, and TCL have excellent gaming phones. Avid gamers can get a phone with six or 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and an octa-core CPU under $300 for seamless gaming. 

However, make sure you have some gaming breaks to avoid occasional frame drops in intense games. 

Q: Do phones under $300 have long-lasting batteries?

There’s so much potential in the best mobile phones under $300, some with an incredible battery life that can be compared to flagship models.

For instance, the Moto G Power (2021), a battery life champ under $300, has won the hearts of many. The 5000mAh can last for more than a day, even when performing demanding tasks. While this is just an example of some long-lasting battery phones under $300, you’ll find many others with exceptional battery life.

Motorola is one of the brands that don’t disappoint when it comes to producing phones under $300 with long-lasting batteries.

Q: What features should I look out for in best phones under $300?

Buying a budget mobile phone can be a daunting task. However, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Choosing the best mobile phones under $300 begins by first identifying the features you want.

Some of the crucial components to look out for are the RAM and ROM of the phone. Despite your low budget, you will find mobile phones with a reasonable memory and storage space. Any phone with a storage capacity above 4GB is a great pick for that budget.

Most mobile phones within the $300 budget range are equipped with a high-power battery that can run for hours on a single charge. Reliable budget phones have a capacity of 3000mAh and above.

You also shouldn’t overlook the features of the camera. Anything above 8MP will take care of your photography needs.

Q: How long should I expect my budget phone to last?

The durability of any phone depends on the frequency of use and how you handle it. In special cases, low budget phones outlive the premium ones. However, be realistic with your expectations.

One of the components that’s likely to break down fast is the battery. With an average capacity of 3000mAh, these phones may require to be charged more than once each day. Such high charging frequencies mean your battery may not last for long.

Besides the battery and the charging system, other components remain functional for a long time. The good news is that replacement batteries are readily available.

Q: Does the brand matter when buying a budget phone?

Brands matter because brands differ in their quality standards. But, because you are working on a budget, they also do not matter as much. Basically, it all depends on how you look at the features of the phone.

Premium brands such as Samsung and LG have in recent times launched low budget products targeting the average consumer. Although these products have top-notch quality, some of their specifications may not deliver the best results.

Brands such as Motorola are known for the best phones under $300 in the market today. Their features almost match the premium smartphones.

Although brands matter, you can still find exceptional phones from lesser known brands. So take your time to conduct adequate research to find what will meet your unique needs.