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 Moto G Play 2024 offers a solid package for a budget smartphone. Its Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB of RAM should provide decent performance for everyday tasks and entertainment, although it may struggle with more demanding applications. The 6.5-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate is a nice touch for smoother visuals, though the 720p resolution might not be as sharp as higher-end models.

The 50MP camera, while promising, effectively captures 12.5MP images by combining pixels, which should still be good for general photography but may fall short in low-light scenarios compared to more advanced sensors. With 64GB of internal storage and the option to expand up to 1TB via microSD card, there’s ample space for media and apps. The standout feature is the 5000mAh battery, which should easily last a full day or more on a single charge.

Running on Android 13, the phone provides up-to-date software with a user-friendly interface. The build quality includes a sleek design with a durable matte finish and splash protection, though it’s not fully waterproof. The addition of stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support enhances the multimedia experience. However, the phone's weight and plastic build may feel less premium. If you need a reliable and capable smartphone under $200, the Moto G Play 2024 is a strong contender, particularly for those who prioritize battery life and storage expansion.

The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is a strong contender for anyone looking for a smartphone under $200 with standout features. Its 6.7-inch pOLED display offers vibrant colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making video watching and scrolling feel fluid and sharp. The built-in stylus is a useful addition if you like jotting notes or sketching, which is rare in this price range. Battery life is impressive thanks to the large 5000mAh battery, promising over a day of typical use, and fast 30W charging means you won't be tethered to a charger for long. The 50MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization delivers clear and stable photos, especially in low light, which is better than many phones in this budget.

Performance-wise, the Snapdragon QSD8250 processor combined with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is quite generous for this price, ensuring smooth multitasking and plenty of space for apps and media. The 'RAM Boost' feature can help improve speed by using some storage as extra memory, although this slightly decreases available storage. Build quality stands out with a unique caramel latte color and a soft vegan leather finish, offering a premium feel not common at this price. The phone runs on the latest Android 14, providing up-to-date software and security.

There are some minor downsides including the somewhat basic CPU compared to higher-end phones, which might limit heavy gaming or intensive apps. Also, while the stylus is handy, it’s not as advanced as those on premium stylus phones. The phone weighs 190 grams, which is average but might feel a bit large due to its size. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) delivers excellent value for users wanting a large, colorful display, long battery life, solid camera, lots of storage, and a built-in stylus, all running the latest Android—making it a great choice for everyday use and creativity on a budget.