10 Best Smartphone Under 200 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a solid choice for a smartphone under $200. Its large 6.7-inch AMOLED display offers crisp and vivid visuals, making it great for watching videos or browsing the web. The 128GB of internal storage, with the option to expand up to 1.5TB, ensures you have plenty of space for your photos, apps, and more. Plus, the 2.4 GHz processor and 4GB of RAM should handle everyday tasks smoothly, though it may struggle with more demanding applications or multitasking.

The triple-lens camera system allows for versatile photography, capturing clear shots whether you're taking group photos or close-ups. Battery life is another highlight, with the Super Fast Charging feature allowing you to quickly recharge and stay connected. The phone's IP54 rating indicates good durability against dust and splashes, making it reliable for daily use. Running on Android 14 with Samsung's One UI, it promises a user-friendly experience coupled with six years of OS and security updates, ensuring long-term value.

However, keep in mind that the 4GB RAM might limit performance for intensive tasks, and while durable, the build quality might not feel as premium compared to higher-end models. It’s a balanced smartphone that offers great value for its price, especially with the additional $25 Amazon Gift Card included in the launch bundle.

The Motorola Moto G 5G (2023) is a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a smartphone under $200. With its impressive 5G compatibility, it is well-suited for users who want access to fast mobile data. Powered by a Snapdragon 480 processor and equipped with 4GB of RAM, the performance is decent for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and video streaming. The 128GB of storage provides ample space for apps, photos, and videos, and there’s also the option to expand storage if needed.

One of the standout features is the 48MP camera system, which is capable of capturing detailed photos in various lighting conditions. The dedicated Macro Vision lens allows users to get close-up shots, adding versatility to the camera setup. The 6.5-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate enhances the viewing experience, making scrolling and gameplay smooth and enjoyable. Additionally, the Dolby Atmos sound and stereo speakers provide a nice audio experience, especially for media consumption.

Battery life is a significant strength of this model. With a 5000mAh battery, users can expect over a day of usage without needing to recharge, which is a big plus for those on the go. The inclusion of Android 13 also ensures users have access to the latest software features. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The display resolution is relatively low at 1600 x 720, which may not satisfy users looking for high-definition visuals. Additionally, while the processor performs adequately for everyday tasks, more demanding applications or heavy multitasking might lead to slower performance. The build quality is typical of budget smartphones — functional but not premium — so it may not withstand rough handling as well as higher-end models.

The Moto G 5G (2023) serves as an excellent option for those seeking a reliable smartphone with good camera capabilities, solid performance for most tasks, and impressive battery life, making it a great fit for everyday users on a budget.

The Samsung Galaxy A15 offers a good balance of features for a smartphone under $200. Its 6.5-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 provides a sharp and vibrant viewing experience, which is commendable for this price range. The phone's battery life is another strong point, with a 5000 mAh capacity allowing for extended use without frequent recharging, making it ideal for those on the go. The inclusion of Android 13.0 ensures a modern and user-friendly interface.

In terms of performance, the phone is powered by a 2 GHz MediaTek Helio processor, coupled with 6GB RAM and 128GB of storage. This setup is capable enough for everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and light gaming. The storage capacity is generous for the category, allowing ample space for apps, photos, and files.

Camera quality is often a focus for smartphone users, and while the Samsung Galaxy A15 includes a front camera, detailed specifications are not provided, which suggests it may only be satisfactory rather than impressive. For users prioritizing photography, this might be a point of consideration.

The build quality, typical of Samsung's products, is reliable, though not particularly premium given the price constraints. The phone is lightweight, which enhances portability, although the plastic build may not feel as sturdy as more expensive devices.

The 4G connectivity is standard for budget devices, and the phone being factory unlocked provides flexibility for users choosing their carrier. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the dual SIM feature, which is beneficial for those managing multiple phone numbers.

The Samsung Galaxy A15 is a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable performance and modern features without breaking the bank, but those seeking high-end camera functionality might need to look elsewhere.