Complete guide to choosing the best low-cost Android phones in 2020

In today's world, the enormous variety of low-cost Android phones The vast array of available devices on the market allows any user to access technology without emptying their wallet. Whether you're looking for an affordable smartphone for calls, messaging, and basic navigation, or a more powerful all-rounder at a reasonable price, here's the definitive guide. Let's analyze the best cheap Android phones, reviewing reference models among the most economical, analyzing the keys to making the right choice and completing the article with tips, comparisons and expert opinions so you can find the perfect device for your needs.

Low-cost Android phones: what the market offers today

The Android operating system has the advantage of being available on devices for all budgets. From the most advanced smartphones to truly low-cost handsets, the number of options in affordable and entry-level models increases every year without sacrificing key features such as battery life, display, camera, or design. But what should you expect from a affordable Android mobile?

• Good value for money: Most options allow for smooth daily use, good battery life, access to social networks, and, in many cases, more than decent cameras for their range.
• Variety of ranges: There are smartphones from less than 100 euros, ideal for very basic use or as a first phone, to powerful mid-range models for less than 300 or 400 euros that offer specifications close to the high-end models of just a few years ago.
• Extra features: Fast charging, large screens, fingerprint or face unlock, NFC, splash resistance and 4G/5G connectivity are starting to become common even in cheap phones.

Before diving into the list and analysis of recommended models, let's break down everything you should consider to make the right purchase.

How to choose the best low-cost Android phone: key factors

1. Screen: Nowadays, even in budget phones, you'll find IPS or AMOLED panels with HD+ or Full HD+ resolution, generous diagonals (5,5 to 6,7 inches), and high refresh rates (90Hz or even 120Hz on phones under €300). Look for sufficient brightness and good touch response.
2. Battery: One of the great strengths of low-cost smartphones. Capacity typically ranges from 3.000 to 6.000 mAh, allowing for full days of use without problems, and some models even exceed two days of battery life.
3. Processor and memoryEntry-level phones typically feature low- to mid-range MediaTek, Unisoc, or Qualcomm chipsets, along with 2 to 6 GB of RAM. The more RAM, the better multitasking performance. Budget mid-range phones now feature Snapdragon 6xx/7xx or MediaTek G processors and more RAM.
4. StorageThe standard size starts at 32GB, although it's recommended to look for 64GB or more. Ideally, they can be expanded with a microSD card.
5. CamerasMobile photography has taken a huge leap forward. 13, 48, or even 108 MP main sensors have spread to affordable ranges, although the most important thing is the processing and the actual experience, not just the megapixels.
6. Connectivity: NFC, dual Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, and increasingly, 5G. Check for FM radio, a headphone jack, or dual SIM if these are essential for you.
7. Extras and finishes: Facial recognition, fingerprint reader, splash resistance (IP52-IP53), fast charging (18W, 30W…), modern design and solid construction.

The best affordable Android phones: an updated guide by price range

What's the best low-cost Android phone for every budget? Here's a detailed selection and comparison that compiles and expands on information from leading experts, such as Xataka, El País, Business Insider, and our own analyses, so you don't miss a single one.

Cheap Android phones for less than 100 euros

• Xiaomi Redmi 7A: One of the best value smartphones. Compact (5,45" screen), Snapdragon 439 processor, 2GB of RAM, 4.000mAh battery, splash protection, and a 13MP main camera. Ideal for entry-level users, seniors, or as a second phone.
• Doogee X90: A functional handset for under 70 euros. 6,1" display, 16GB expandable storage, 3.400 mAh battery, and dual rear cameras (5+8MP). Enough for calls, texts, and a few apps.
• Blackview A60: It includes a 4.080 mAh battery, a dual rear camera with a 13MP main sensor, a 6,1" display, and expandable storage. Perfect for those looking for durability at a very low price.
• Vernee X2: It stands out for its 6.350 mAh battery (one of the best battery life in the segment), 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. Highly recommended if battery life is a priority.
• Motorola Moto E6 Play: A safe bet for less than 100 euros, with a 5,5” screen, 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, and a 13MP camera.
• Huawei Y5 2019: Mediatek processor, 2GB RAM, 16GB internal storage, 5,71” display, face unlock, and 13MP main camera.
• Alcatel 1S: 3GB RAM, 32GB storage, 5,5” HD+ display and dual 16MP rear camera.
• Wiko Y70: Focused on simplicity and ease of use, 5,99” screen and 3.730 mAh battery.

These models meet the requirements for calls, messaging, browsing, and basic social networking. If you're looking for something more powerful or with a better camera and battery, check out the following ranges.

Android phones between 100 and 200 euros: the authentic quality low-cost

• Realm C67: One of the most recommended phones in this segment for 2024. It features a 6,72" Full HD+ display, Snapdragon 685 processor, a 5.000 mAh battery with fast charging, and a 108MP main camera. It offers a side-mounted fingerprint reader and a USB-C port.
• Xiaomi Redmi 13C: A large 6,74" LCD screen, high-capacity battery, 50MP main camera, and 3,5mm jack make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize screen and battery life.
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G: 6,67" AMOLED, Snapdragon 685, triple camera with 108MP sensor, 5.000 mAh battery, and 33W fast charging. Perfect for those looking for a multimedia experience and advanced photography without breaking the bank.
• POCO M6 Pro: Large panel, reliable processor and 5.000 mAh battery, with a 50MP main camera.
• Motorola Moto G73: Pure Android experience, fluid display and 5.000 mAh battery.
• Samsung Galaxy A15: For those looking for a classic and reliable brand, with an AMOLED display and 50MP main camera.

All of these phones stand out for offering quality displays, good battery life, and main cameras that exceed expectations in this range. They're ideal for students, young people, and any user who wants a phone that will last for years.

Android phones from 200 to 300 euros: low-cost mid-range, close to high-end

• POCO X6 5G: A favorite among value-for-money experts in 2024. 6,67" 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, up to 12GB of RAM, 5.100mAh battery, 67W fast charging, and a 64MP main camera. It stands out for its performance, battery life, and multimedia experience.
• Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G/5G: Triple camera with up to 200MP sensor, AMOLED display, fast charging, and a thoughtful design. Perfect for photography and multimedia content.
• Motorola Moto G84 5G: A capable mid-range phone with an elegant design, a 120Hz pOLED display, a Snapdragon 695, 8GB of RAM, and a 5.000mAh battery. Pure Android with frequent updates.
• Samsung Galaxy A34 5G: IP67 protection (water and dust), 120Hz AMOLED display, Dimensity 1080, good cameras and long-lasting battery.
• OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G: Elegant, powerful for everyday use, large screen, 5.000 mAh battery and 67W fast charging, with very fluid OxygenOS.
• Motorola edge 40 neo: 144Hz curved pOLED display, premium design, Dimensity 7030 processor and 50MP main camera.

This range offers the perfect balance between affordable price and high-end features. These models are suitable for all types of uses: gaming, photography, multitasking, and demanding applications.

Android phones between 300 and 400 euros: the leap to the premium mid-range

• Nothing Phone (3a): A carefully designed device with a 6,77" AMOLED display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, up to 12GB RAM/256GB storage, triple camera, and a unique software experience. Perfect for those seeking quality, exclusivity, and a great price.
• Redmi Note 14 Pro +: 6,67” AMOLED display, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, 5.110 mAh battery with 120W ultra-fast charging, triple camera and Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor.
• Xiaomi 14T: Mediatek Dimensity 8300 Ultra, 6,67” AMOLED display with 4.000 nits peak brightness, triple Leica camera, 5.000 mAh battery and ultra-fast charging.
• Google Pixel 8a: Six years of guaranteed updates, a reference-quality camera, a pure Android experience, and efficient battery life. It stands out for its best photography and software updates.
• Realme GT 6T: 5.500 mAh battery with 120W charging, optimal performance and agile experience.
• Samsung Galaxy A55: Everything you'd expect from a premium mid-range: AMOLED display, good camera, updated software, and attractive design.

These models are ideal for demanding users looking for a phone that will last for years, with a guarantee of good photography, battery life, updates, and enough power even for gaming or content editing.

Comparison and analysis of the most recommended Android phones

Let's review some of the most recommended models in the previous lists, expanding on technical details, notable opinions, and scores obtained in specialized analyses:

Xiaomi Redmi 7A

This phone remains one of the best options in the sub-€100 range. It features a Snapdragon 439 processor, 2GB of RAM, 16 or 32GB of internal storage (expandable), a 4.000mAh battery, a 5,45-inch HD+ display, and a 13MP main camera. Xiaomi focuses on durability and resistance, with splash protection. It's highly valued for its robustness, battery life, and stability for simple use.

Realme C67

Voted by several experts as the best phone around €150-170, it stands out for its large Full HD+ panel, 108MP main camera, 5.000 mAh battery with fast charging, and very smooth performance. It includes a side-mounted fingerprint reader, an attractive design with youthful colors, and good overall performance.

LITTLE X6 5G

In the mid-range approaching the high-end for a reasonable price, the POCO X6 5G stands out for its 120Hz AMOLED display, the power of its Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, the possibility of choosing up to 12GB of RAM, fast storage, and a 64MP main camera assisted by AI. It is a favorite among those looking for a smartphone for gaming, video, and multitasking. Its battery and 67W fast charging place it among the elite in terms of autonomy.

Samsung Galaxy A34 5G

This model is recommended for offering IP67 protection, a high-quality AMOLED display, a versatile 48MP camera, and outstanding battery life. The One UI software ensures a smooth experience and frequent updates. It's one of Samsung's best value-for-money models outside of the high-end range.

Nothing Phone (3nd)

A device that has renewed the concept of the premium mid-range. It boasts an iconic design, a display with excellent brightness and color, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, up to 12GB of RAM, and a triple camera with excellent performance even in night photography. It also offers a minimalist software experience and guaranteed updates, making it a smart purchase for demanding users.

Google Pixel 8a

The Pixel 8a is synonymous with benchmark mobile photography and long-term software support. It features a 64MP main sensor, a 6,1" 120Hz OLED display, an optimized battery, and six years of Android updates. It's the phone to choose if you prioritize the camera and the pure Android experience.

Notes redmi 13 Pro

It offers a triple camera with a sensor up to 200MP, an AMOLED display, a Mediatek or Snapdragon processor depending on the version, and a 5.000 mAh battery. A bestseller thanks to its balance of quality, photographic performance, and battery life.

Motorola Moto G84 5G

Ideal for those looking for a simple and effective mobile, with experience Android almost stock, frequent updates, an excellent pOLED display, and a 5.000 mAh battery. Recommended for those who prefer clean software and a trusted brand.

Why choose a low-cost Android phone: real advantages

The affordable Android phones They are no longer devices with extremely limited features. They now allow:

• Access to WhatsApp, social networks and all popular apps no problem.
• Screen quality and multimedia experience suitable for watching series, videos and light games.
• long lasting batteries, essential for those who spend many hours away from home.
• Amazing photography for the price range, with quality main sensors.
• NFC Options (mobile payments), fingerprint reader, facial recognition and more.
• Frequent updates in models from leading brands, guaranteeing safety and new functions.

Keys to comparing and making the right choice

In addition to the technical factors already mentioned, consider these details when deciding on your next cheap Android phone:

• Software updates: Prioritize brands that guarantee support for at least two years (such as Xiaomi, Motorola, Samsung, Google, Realme…).
• Warranty and after-sales service: It's important that the brand has a presence in your country and offers technical support.
• Type of user: If it's for an older person or for very basic use, prioritize simplicity, battery life, and ease of use. If it's for a younger user, look for a good camera, screen, and sufficient power.
• Specific uses: For gaming, look for 90/120Hz displays and Snapdragon 6xx/7xx series or Mediatek G/Dimensity processors. For photography, focus on sensors, aperture, and image processing.

Advanced Tips: Getting the Most Out of a Low-Cost Android Phone

• Don't overload storage: Install only the apps you use every day and use the cloud for photos and videos.
• Disable animations and background services to improve fluency.
• Take advantage of battery saving modes if you are going to be away from home for a long time.
• Protect your terminal with case and tempered glass to extend its useful life.
• Update the system and apps frequently to enjoy security and performance improvements.

Frequently asked questions about cheap Android phones

Will a cheap mobile phone last for years?

With normal use, any leading brand phone suitable for your user profile can work perfectly for two or three years. It's key to choose one with enough RAM and frequent updates.

Can you find low-cost mobile phones with 5G?

Yes, in the mid-range (below 300 euros) there are already multiple alternatives with 5G connectivity. Among them, the LITTLE X6 5G’s most emblematic landmarks, the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G or Redmi Note 13 5G.

Are cheap Chinese mobile phones recommended?

Yes, as long as they are purchased through official retailers and come with a warranty. Brands like Xiaomi, Realme, OPPO, Vivo, and OnePlus have proven reliability and support.

Are refurbished cars worth it?

Refurbished phones can be a great option for saving money and accessing higher-end models, as long as the store offers a minimum 12-month warranty and verified condition.

Low-cost Android phones recommended by experts: what the professionals say

Recommendations from editors of leading international media outlets such as Xataka, El País, and Business Insider, as well as opinions from phone experts, all highlight the value for money of the following models in each price range:

• For less than 100 euros: Xiaomi Redmi 7A, Blackview A60, Motorola Moto E6 Play, Vernee X2.
• For less than 200 euros: Realme C67, Xiaomi Redmi 13C, POCO M6 Pro, Moto G73, Samsung Galaxy A15.
• For less than 300 euros: POCO X6 5G, Redmi Note 13 Pro, Motorola Moto G84 5G, OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite.
• Between 300 and 400 euros: Nothing Phone (3a), Redmi Note 14 Pro+, Google Pixel 8a, Xiaomi 14T, Realme GT 6T, Samsung Galaxy A55.

These recommendations are based on the most recent analysis, including battery life, camera, performance, software, and user experience.

Comparison of low-cost Android phones: summary table

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Recommended and affordable Android phones: A detailed guide with analysis, tips, and top price-performance comparisons.