Time was, buying the best cheap smartphone meant serious compromise. From potato-quality cameras to sluggish processors that can barely handle scrolling, the budget end of the smartphone world was a sad, maddeningly slow place. But no more.
Today, you don’t need to spend flagship money to get a great smartphone. In fact, the cheaper end of the market is more competitive than ever, with brands packing high refresh-rate displays, capable cameras and long battery life into phones that cost a fraction of premium models. You can also get away with the sensible approach of buying phones that have been out for a year or so, getting more bang for your buck.
Whether you’re after a reliable everyday handset, a secondary device, or simply want something that covers the basics without costing a fortune, there are plenty of strong options out there. The key is knowing where corners have been cut – and, more importantly, which compromises actually matter once you’re using the phone every day.
From Google’s consistently excellent Pixel A-series, to budget-friendly Motorola phones and Apple’s most accessible iPhone, I’ve tested and assessed the latest cheap smartphones to find the ones worth your money in 2026.
Read more: Best phones, reviewed by a tech expert
The best cheap phones for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Google Pixel 9a: £349, Amazon.co.uk
- Best for performance – Poco M8 pro 5G: £299, Mi.com
- Best for big-screen streaming– Motorola G77: £249.99, Argos.co.uk
- Best for Apple fans – iPhone 17e: £599, Currys.co.uk
Read more: Best Android phones, reviewed by a tech expert