Phones under $200 are becoming more functional and offer better value than they did in the past. The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G, priced at $200, is our top pick for the best phone under $200. It comes with 5G support for faster data, NFC for contactless payments, and a decent software and security support timeline. Samsung promises two years of software updates and five years of security updates for the Galaxy A14 5G, making it a reliable choice for several years.
If photography is more important to you than 5G, consider the $200 Moto G Stylus for its better camera quality. For those looking for a cheaper option, the $160 Galaxy A03S is also a good choice, although it only has 32GB of storage space.
The $200 Moto G Stylus lacks 5G support but comes with a built-in stylus and a decent 50-megapixel main camera. It offers a consistent 90Hz refresh rate on its 6.5-inch display. However, Motorola’s software and security update policy for the G series phones may be a drawback for some users.
The $160 Galaxy A03S is a budget-friendly option with a 6.5-inch screen, good for essential tasks like watching videos and playing games. It comes with four years of security updates, making it a durable choice for those on a tight budget.
The $170 Moto G Play stands out for its long-lasting battery life but may be frustrating to use due to its underpowered performance. It comes with a MediaTek Helio G37 processor, 3GB of RAM, and only one software update to Android 13.
When considering phones under $200, it’s essential to prioritize features like screen size, camera quality, and battery life. Every phone on this list has been thoroughly tested by CNET’s expert reviews team to provide accurate and reliable information. While cheaper phones may have some compromises, they still offer good communication capabilities and essential features.
For those looking for phones under $100, options are available, but they usually come with significant compromises. The TCL 30 Z, priced at $70, is one of the cheapest Android 14 phones but may lack modern features like a USB-C charging port. Flip phones are also a viable option for those primarily interested in phone calls, with some models supporting modern apps like WhatsApp and Google Assistant.
Overall, phones under $200 offer good value for essential tasks and basic communication needs, with some trade-offs in terms of features and performance. If you’re willing to expand your budget, phones under $300 or $500 may offer more advanced features and capabilities.
