As we look ahead to 2025, the smartphone market continues to evolve with a focus on affordability and high performance within budget constraints. Our comprehensive guide highlights the top smartphones available under $150, ensuring you get maximum value without compromising on key features such as display quality, camera performance, and battery life.
Image source: skroutz.gr
HONOR X7
Billed as one of the most notable entries in the sub-$150 category, the HONOR X7 offers an IPS display measuring 6.4 inches with HD+ resolution (720×1600). The panel operates at a refreshing rate of 90Hz, providing a smooth user experience. Inside, it’s powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 680 chip, which runs at 2.4 GHz on a 6nm technology process—a significant upgrade over previous iterations offering better power efficiency. With 4GB of RAM and expandable storage up to 128GB via microSD slot, users can customize their device according to needs. The device supports Google Mobile Services (GMS), ensuring easy integration with popular apps and services.
The battery capacity is impressive for this price range, coming in at 5000 mAh with a fast charging feature rated at 22.5 watts. This ensures that your phone stays charged throughout the day without needing constant access to a charger.
Image source: consumer.huawei.com
HUAWEI nova Y70
Offering a sleek design in three colors – “Crystal Blue”, “Midnight Black”, and “Blue” – the HUAWEI nova Y70 comes equipped with an IPS display measuring 6.75 inches and featuring HD+ resolution (720×1600). While lacking the high refresh rates seen in some competitors, it remains perfectly adequate for general use.
This model is driven by HiSilicon’s Kirin 710A processor running at 2.2 GHz and paired with 4GB of RAM alongside 128GB of internal storage. Although EMUI might pose challenges for those accustomed to Android’s standard interface, it offers a unique take on customization options. For gaming enthusiasts, however, the hardware may prove insufficient for more demanding titles.
A standout feature of the nova Y70 is its massive 6000mAh battery supporting up to 22.5 watts of charging speed, making it ideal for extended usage periods.
Image source: phonesdata.com
Infinix HOT 20S
Known for its vibrant aesthetics and affordable pricing, Infinix continues to impress with the HOT 20S. This device boasts a stunning IPS panel measuring 6.78 inches with a resolution of 1080×2460 pixels and a snappy refresh rate of 120Hz—a great upgrade over previous models within this range.
Packed inside are impressive specs including a MediaTek Helio G96 processor on a 12nm tech node, capable of handling everyday tasks as well as light gaming requirements. Paired with 8GB of RAM, multitasking and app switching remain smooth even when running multiple applications simultaneously.
The battery capacity measures 5000 mAh, providing sufficient power for daily activities without needing frequent recharges. Its fast-charging capability supports up to 18W output, ensuring you can quickly top off your device before heading out.
Image source: materiel.net
OPPO A96
The OPPO A96 comes in both blue and black variants, with either 6GB or 12GB of RAM alongside 128GB storage capacity – the former fitting nicely under our budget constraints. The smartphone sports an IPS display spanning 6.59 inches at Full HD+ resolution (1080×2412).
Inside lies the well-regarded Snapdragon 680 processor paired with 6GB of RAM, which comfortably handles day-to-day operations along with some lightweight games. However, don’t expect it to run graphically intensive titles smoothly unless optimally configured.
The standout feature here is the 33W fast charging technology coupled with a standard battery capacity of 5000mAh. This means that half your phone’s battery can be refilled in just 26 minutes!
Image source: xiaomi.reviews
POCO M4 Pro 5G
Showcasing vibrant aesthetics across three color options—black, blue, and yellow—the POCO M4 Pro 5G distinguishes itself through its high-profile design. Despite being targeted towards lower budgets, this model actually brings 5G connectivity to the table.
Its IPS panel spans 6.6 inches at Full HD+ resolution with a refreshing rate of 90Hz. Inside ticks the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 810 processor working on a 6nm process, alongside 4GB of RAM and 64GB internal storage expandable via microSD card. The hardware provides adequate gaming performance but might struggle with more demanding games if not managed properly.
The battery measures 5000 mAh supporting 33W fast charging. In terms of photography, users will appreciate the 50MP main camera paired with an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens for diverse shooting scenarios.
Image source: gsmphone.co
Realme 8i
Available in two striking colors – violet and black – the realme 8i represents a solid offering within this price bracket. Its IPS display measures 6.6 inches with Full HD+ resolution (1080×2412), offering clear visuals even at higher refresh rates.
Powered by the powerful MediaTek Helio G96 processor combined with 4GB of RAM, this device handles tasks efficiently while offering decent gaming performance. The smartphone also includes dual storage options: 64 or 128GB internal storage, though we focus here on the former given our budget parameters.
The highlight lies in its impressive 50MP main camera complemented by an 8MP front-facing camera, making it suitable for those who prioritize photo-taking quality over other specs.
Image source: amazon.nl
Samsung Galaxy A13
One cannot discuss affordable smartphones without mentioning Samsung’s offerings. The Galaxy A13 exemplifies value-for-money with its PLS LCD screen measuring 6.6 inches and boasting a Full HD+ resolution (1080×2408). Running at a standard refresh rate of 60Hz, it still provides a smooth experience for everyday use.
The device is powered by the efficient MediaTek Helio G80 processor working on a 12nm tech node, alongside 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. While sufficient for basic tasks and casual gaming sessions, it may lag slightly under heavier loads.
The battery capacity stands at 5000 mAh supporting 15W fast charging, which suffices but isn’t the fastest in comparison to others on this list.
Image source: tecno-mobile.com
Tecno POVA 4
A relatively new entrant into the competitive budget segment, Tecno has made waves with its POVA 4. This model impresses particularly with its robust specifications and feature set typically found in more premium devices.
Featuring a large IPS display measuring 6.82 inches with Full HD+ resolution (1080×2460) operating at 90Hz, it caters well to users seeking high refresh rates for smoother scrolling and gaming experiences.
Beneath the hood lies the powerful MediaTek Helio G99 processor working on a cutting-edge 6nm process, paired with generous 8GB of RAM and expandable storage up to 128GB via microSD slot. Designed primarily for gamers, it includes features like graphite cooling systems and dual stereo speakers enhancing audio quality.
The standout aspect here is undoubtedly the mammoth 6000mAh battery supporting 18W fast charging, promising extended usage without needing frequent recharges.
Image source: gsmphone.co
Vivo Y35
Mirroring its predecessors, Vivo continues to deliver robust performance within tight budgets. The Y35 comes in two elegant shades: gold and black – both equally appealing.
Its IPS display spans 6.58 inches with Full HD+ resolution (1080×2408), delivering sharp visuals even when running at 90Hz. Inside ticks Qualcomm’s reliable Snapdragon 680 processor alongside 4GB or 6GB of RAM depending on variant, ensuring smooth multitasking capabilities.
One of the notable aspects is the speedy 44W charging technology that refills over 70% of your phone’s battery within just 34 minutes – an impressive feat considering most devices in this category lag behind.
Image source: phonesdata.com
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
Rounding off our list is another stalwart from Xiaomi – the Redmi Note 10S available in four eye-catching colors: white, blue, black, and violet – each offering a unique aesthetic appeal.
This device stands out thanks to its AMOLED display measuring 6.43 inches and supporting Full HD+ resolution (1080×2400) along with standard refresh rates of 60Hz. Inside powers the MediaTek Helio G95 processor paired with a generous 6GB of RAM ensuring snappy performance across various tasks.
One of the standout features here is the impressive 50MP main camera coupled with an 8MP ultra-wide lens and dual 2MP sensors for macro photography and depth sensing respectively – making it ideal for photo enthusiasts who require versatility in their cameras.
Video:
