Introduction
Finding a reliable smartphone without spending a fortune is easier than ever. This guide highlights some of the best smartphones under $100 available in 2024. Whether you are looking for a backup phone, a device for your kids, or simply want to save some money, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore budget-friendly smartphones that don’t compromise on key features.
Why Choose a Smartphone Under $100?
Choosing a smartphone under $100 comes with its set of advantages. Firstly, you’ll save money which can be allocated towards other essentials or savings. Secondly, budget phones today offer impressive features, including decent cameras, sturdy build quality, and adequate performance for everyday tasks. Finally, these phones serve as excellent options for younger users, elders, or as secondary devices.
Key Features to Look for in Budget Smartphones
When shopping for budget smartphones, keep the following features in mind:
- Battery Life: Look for phones with at least 2000mAh to ensure they last through the day with moderate usage.
- Display: A screen size between 5 to 6 inches with a resolution of 720p is ideal for a good viewing experience.
- Processor: Aim for a quad-core processor for smoother performance in handling basic tasks.
- Camera Quality: As budget phones won’t have the best cameras, look for at least 5MP rear and 2MP front cameras.
- Storage and RAM: Seek at least 16GB of storage and 2GB of RAM to ensure the phone runs efficiently.
- Operating System: Choose phones with the latest version of Android for better security and app compatibility.
Top 7 Smartphones Under $100 in 2024
Here’s a closer look at the top seven budget-friendly smartphones you can consider:
Alcatel 1
The Alcatel 1 offers a compact 5-inch display, a 5MP rear camera, and a 2000mAh battery. It runs on a quad-core processor with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, adequate for basic apps and light usage.
Nokia C1 2nd Edition
The Nokia C1 2nd Edition features a 5.45-inch FWVGA+ display, a quad-core processor, and runs Android 11 (Go edition). It has a 5MP front and rear camera and is known for its durable build and long-lasting 2500mAh battery.
Motorola Moto E6
With a 5.5-inch display and a Snapdragon 425 processor, the Moto E6 is a solid contender. It boasts a 13MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, 2GB of RAM, and a significant 3000mAh battery, ensuring ample performance for daily activities.
Samsung Galaxy A01 Core
A favorite among budget phones, the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core has a 5.3-inch display, an 8MP rear and 5MP front camera, and 1GB of RAM with 16GB of internal storage. Its efficient 3000mAh battery complements its performance.
Xiaomi Redmi 7A
The Xiaomi Redmi 7A impresses with a 5.45-inch HD+ display, Snapdragon 439 processor, and a 4000mAh battery. It offers 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, with a 12MP rear camera and 5MP front camera, making it one of the most feature-rich options at this price.
ZTE Blade A3
ZTE Blade A3 comes with a 5.5-inch HD display, a quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, along with a satisfactory 2500mAh battery. It provides an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, good for basic photography.
LG K20
LG K20, with its 5.45-inch display, quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB storage, is a considerable option. It features an 8MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, and a 3000mAh battery, offering reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Additional Considerations for Your Budget Purchase
While these phones are cost-effective, there are a few more aspects to consider. Check customer reviews to understand user experiences, especially regarding battery life and software updates. Also, watch out for limited storage space, which often necessitates minimal app installations or additional memory cards.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Budget Smartphone
Maximizing the potential of a budget smartphone involves:
- Manage Storage Wisely: Regularly clear cache and uninstall unused apps to free up space.
- Optimize Battery Use: Adjust brightness and disable location services when not needed to extend battery life.
- Use Lite Versions: Opt for ‘lite’ versions of apps like Facebook Lite or YouTube Go to save on storage and data.
Conclusion
Affordable smartphones under $100 have significantly improved, offering competitive features for a fraction of the price. Whether you’re after savings or a secondary device, these picks ensure you don’t miss much in performance or essential features. Follow our guide and make an informed choice without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are $100 smartphones reliable for daily use?
$100 smartphones are reliable for daily use, especially for basic tasks like calls, messaging, browsing, and social media.
Can I find a smartphone under $100 with a good camera?
While the camera quality in this price range is modest, you can still find decent cameras like the 12MP lens in the Xiaomi Redmi 7A.
What should I avoid when buying a budget smartphone?
Avoid outdated models, excessively low RAM and storage, and ensure the phone receives software updates for security and app compatibility.
