Looking for the best smartphones under $300 in 2026 February? This guide presents the top budget-friendly smartphones you can buy for under 300 USD in the USA. These unlocked phones offer exceptional value for money, delivering powerful performance and essential features without the high price tag.
Smartphones are essential in our daily lives, but they don’t have to be expensive to meet your needs. Thankfully, there are plenty of great smartphones available for under $300 that provide excellent performance, stunning displays, and versatile cameras. In this article, we review some of the best smartphones in this price range, helping you find a device that balances quality and affordability.
These smartphones feature vibrant displays, fast processors, and durable batteries, and many even come equipped with 5G connectivity, ensuring you’re ready for the future of mobile networks. Whether you’re looking for a phone with a high-resolution camera, stylus support, or a sleek design, this list has something for every preference and budget.
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Check out our selection of the top 10 best unlocked smartphones under $300 in the USA, offering best-in-class specifications for a fantastic mobile experience without breaking the bank.
Best Smartphone to Buy under 300 dollars in USA 2026 February
Motorola Moto G Power (2025)
Price: $299 (Approx)
The Motorola Moto G Power (2025) remains a top pick for users valuing long-lasting battery life combined with solid everyday performance and a rugged design. It’s built with endurance in mind at a budget-friendly price point.
Measuring 166.6 x 77.1 x 8.7 mm and weighing 208g, the phone sports a Gorilla Glass 5 front with an eco-leather back and plastic frame. Its IP68/IP69 certifications let it withstand immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes and resist dust. The device is also MIL-STD-810H tested for durability in rough environments.
The 6.8-inch IPS LCD screen runs at a smooth 120Hz, with a 1080 x 2388 resolution and 385 ppi density, delivering sharp images, though it cannot match OLED vibrancy. Gorilla Glass 5 further protects from scratches and accidental damage.
Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset (6nm) powers the Moto G Power with a combination of two Cortex-A76 cores at 2.4 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0 GHz, aided by the Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It offers 128GB storage and 8GB RAM, expandable via microSDXC.
The phone’s camera system includes a 50MP primary rear sensor with optical image stabilization and an 8MP ultrawide lens, capturing good 1080p video at 30fps. The 16MP front-facing camera is well-suited for selfies and video calls.
The highlight is the 5000mAh battery, providing up to two full days of use. It supports 30W wired and 15W wireless charging. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos output quality sound, and a 3.5mm headphone jack is retained for audio lovers.
For those seeking long battery life, dependable performance, and a tough build, the Moto G Power (2025) offers impressive value in its segment.
Samsung Galaxy A36
Price: $349 (Approx)
The Samsung Galaxy A36 delivers a polished mid-range experience combining premium design with robust performance and software longevity. It suits users wanting style and functionality without flagship prices.
With dimensions of 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4 mm and a weight of 195g, it has a glass front and back protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+ and a plastic frame. Its IP67-rated body defends against dust and water immersion. Dual nano-SIM and eSIM support add versatility.
The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display shines with 120Hz refresh, HDR10+, and up to 1900 nits brightness for vibrant, smooth visuals and sunlight readability. The 1080 x 2340 resolution delivers a crisp 385 ppi.
Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4nm) and Adreno 710 GPU, the A36 provides smooth gaming and multitasking. Storage options include 128GB/6GB RAM up to 256GB/12GB RAM with UFS 2.2 storage speed. It runs Android 15 with One UI 7 and supports up to six major OS updates.
The rear triple camera system consists of a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 5MP macro lens, capable of 4K video at 30fps. The 12MP front also supports 4K video recording.
A 5000mAh battery powers the phone with fast 45W wired charging (66% in 30 min). Wireless charging is absent. Stereo speakers create immersive sound, though no 3.5mm jack is included.
With Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and an under-display fingerprint sensor, the Galaxy A36 is a comprehensive mid-tier phone combining performance, features, and long-term software assurance.
Oscal Pilot 3
Price: $299 (Approx)
The Oscal Pilot 3 from Blackview is a rugged, high-tech smartphone designed for users in demanding environments who require durability and advanced AI capabilities alongside strong hardware.
It measures 182.2 x 86 x 14.5 mm, weighs 357g, and boasts IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications for resistance to water, dust, drops up to 2 meters, and harsh conditions. A 120-lumen flashlight is built-in for emergencies.
Its 6.78-inch IPS LCD screen features a full HD+ 1080 x 2460 resolution at 396 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate, 750-nit brightness, and Gorilla Glass 5 protection with Mohs hardness 5.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset (6nm) with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, the Pilot 3 offers 12GB RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage expandable via microSD. It runs Android 15 with Blackview’s DokeOS 4.1 UI.
The triple camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, a 20MP night vision camera with infrared lights, and a 2MP depth sensor. The front camera is 32MP with HDR. Video recording goes up to 1440p at 30fps.
Its massive 7,500mAh battery supports 33W fast charging and 6W reverse wired charging, suitable for extended outdoor use.
AI innovations like GPT 4.0 mini, Deepseek R1, and Gemini AI 2.0 Flash power intelligent features through Doke AI apps.
Connectivity includes Wi-Fi dual-band, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BeiDou, and QZSS. A side fingerprint sensor and many sensors ensure secure and convenient use.
An exceptional robust and smart option for users needing rugged reliability with cutting-edge AI technology.
Ulefone Armor X32 Pro
Price: $239 (Approx)
The Ulefone Armor X32 Pro is a compact, tough rugged smartphone designed to thrive in extreme conditions with night vision and military-grade certifications.
Its dimensions are 163.4 x 80.8 x 14.5 mm with a weight of 280g. It is IP68/IP69K-rated, MIL-STD-810H certified, able to handle dust, water immersion up to 2 meters for 30 minutes, and drop resistant. A 120-lumen flashlight is included.
A 5.65-inch IPS LCD display at 90Hz with 720 x 1440 resolution and Gorilla Glass 5 offers good outdoor visibility at 600 nits.
It runs Android 14 on a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset (6nm) with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G57 GPU, paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage expandable by microSD.
The triple camera unit has a 64MP main sensor, 25MP night vision camera with infrared lights, and 2MP macro lens. A 16MP front camera supports selfies and video calls. Video up to 1440p at 30fps.
The 5500mAh battery supports 18W wired charging. The phone includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS systems, NFC, infrared port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, FM radio, and a side fingerprint sensor.
A rugged yet portable tool for those working or adventuring in tough outdoor environments.
Doogee S119
Price: $279 (Approx)
The Doogee S119 stands out with its fortress-like durability paired with innovative features like a secondary AMOLED rear display, making it ideal for outdoor and professional users.
It measures 178.1 x 84.2 x 15.7 mm, weighs 368g, and is IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certified for dust, water, temperature, shock, and drop resistance.
A 6.72-inch IPS LCD screen with 120Hz and 1080 x 2400 resolution offers vibrant visuals, complemented by a 1.32-inch 466 x 466 AMOLED rear display for quick notifications and controls.
Powered by MediaTek MT8788 chipset with octa-core CPU and Mali-G72 MP3 GPU, with Android 14, 8GB RAM, and 512GB storage plus microSD expansion.
The camera system includes a 100MP main sensor, a 20MP night vision infrared camera, and a 5MP ultrawide lens. The 16MP front camera is good for selfies and calls. Video recording supports 1080p.
Its 10,200mAh battery provides multi-day use and 33W fast charging, plus 5W reverse wired charging.
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS systems, NFC, fingerprint sensor, and USB-C OTG support complete this rugged powerhouse.
TCL 605
Price: $199 (Approx)
The TCL 605 presents a reliable and affordable smartphone choice with solid performance and practical features for daily use.
It measures 165.6 x 76.2 x 8.3 mm and weighs 190g, built with a glass front and plastic back/frame. It offers IP54 splash resistance but not full submersion protection.
Its 6.7-inch IPS LCD screen runs at 90Hz with 720 x 1600 resolution at 262 ppi and 480 nits brightness, providing adequate visual clarity indoors and outdoors.
Powered by Mediatek Helio G81 chipset (12nm), with an octa-core CPU and configurations of 128GB or 256GB storage with 8GB RAM. Expandable via microSD.
The camera setup includes a 50MP main shooter with PDAF and HDR, recording 1080p video. A 5MP front camera handles calls and selfies well.
Stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack enhance audio. Connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, and USB Type-C 2.0.
The 5200mAh battery supports 18W fast wired charging, delivering dependable daily power for work and entertainment.
A practical, no-frills option for budget-conscious users seeking a smooth smartphone experience.
Samsung Galaxy A26
Price: $299 (Approx)
The Samsung Galaxy A26 offers mid-range users a blend of style, power, and durability with a feature-rich package at a budget price.
It has dimensions of 164 x 77.5 x 7.7 mm, weighs 200g, and features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and back with a plastic frame. It’s IP67-rated for water and dust resistance.
The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors at 120Hz with 1080 x 2340 resolution and 385 ppi, supported by an Always-On Display.
Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G68 GPU, it has configurations up to 256GB storage and 8GB RAM with microSD support. Runs Android 15 with One UI 7, promising six years of updates.
Triple rear cameras of 50MP with OIS, 8MP ultrawide, and 2MP macro capture sharp photos and 4K video. The 13MP front camera supports quality selfies and 1080p video.
A 5000mAh battery supports all-day use with 25W fast charging. Stereo speakers provide immersive sound, but no 3.5mm headphone jack.
With modern connectivity like Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC, the Galaxy A26 delivers solid performance and longevity for its price.
Umidigi Note 100
Price: $135 (Approx)
The Umidigi Note 100 is a budget-friendly phone balancing value and performance with a large display and solid cameras for everyday needs.
It features a sleek design measuring 167.8 x 77.4 x 7.7 mm and weighing 190g with glass front and plastic back/frame. Dual Nano-SIM support and a 3.5mm headphone jack add versatility.
Its 6.8-inch IPS LCD delivers 720 x 1600 resolution at 258 ppi with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals in a 20:9 aspect ratio.
Powered by the Unisoc T765 chipset with eight cores (2x Cortex-A76 at 2.3 GHz and 6x Cortex-A55 at 2.1 GHz) and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU; configurations include 128GB/6GB RAM or 256GB/8GB RAM plus microSD expansion.
The rear triple camera system includes a 50MP main lens, a 2MP macro, and a 2MP depth sensor, while the 16MP front camera handles selfies. Video records at 1080p 30fps.
Audio is via loudspeakers and 3.5mm jack. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS systems, and USB Type-C with OTG. No NFC but wireless FM radio is included.
A 5000mAh battery with 20W fast wired charging means the phone lasts all day.
Great for budget-conscious users seeking a large, smooth screen and reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Best Smartphone under 300 USD to Buy in USA
| Smartphone | Price |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A36 |
$349  |
| Oscal Pilot 3 |
$299 |
| Ulefone Armor X32 Pro |
$239 |
| Doogee S119 |
$279 |
| TCL 605 |
$199 |
| Samsung Galaxy A26 |
$299 |
| Umidigi Note 100 |
$135 |
Frequently Asked Questions – Featured Smartphones (2025)
1. Which phone among these has the best battery life?
The Doogee S119 offers the largest battery at 10,200mAh, delivering multi-day use on a single charge. The Oscal Pilot 3 (7,500mAh), Ulefone Armor X32 Pro (5,500mAh), and most others like Samsung Galaxy A36, Galaxy A26, and Moto G Power (2025) feature 5,000mAh batteries, ensuring long-lasting performance for daily tasks.
2. Which of these phones are best for rugged or outdoor use?
Phones designed for tough environments include the Oscal Pilot 3, Ulefone Armor X32 Pro, and Doogee S119. All are IP68/IP69K-rated, MIL-STD-810H certified, and built to withstand drops, dust, water immersion, and extreme conditions. The TCL 605 and other mainstream models have basic splash or dust resistance but lack true rugged durability.
3. Which phones offer high-quality displays for media and gaming?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 and A26 feature 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panels at 120Hz for vivid color and smooth visuals, making them ideal for media consumption. The Doogee S119 offers a 120Hz IPS LCD with an additional rear AMOLED display. The Moto G Power (2025), Oscal Pilot 3, and Umidigi Note 100 also provide high-refresh-rate screens.
4. Which devices support fast or wireless charging?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 leads with 45W wired fast charging. The Galaxy A26 offers 25W wired charging, while the Oscal Pilot 3 and Doogee S119 support 33W wired charging. Notably, the Moto G Power (2025) supports both 30W wired and 15W wireless charging. Most budget options provide standard 18–20W charging.
5. How do cameras compare across these phones?
The Doogee S119 boasts a 100MP main sensor with night vision and ultrawide support, while the Ulefone Armor X32 Pro (64MP, night vision) and Oscal Pilot 3 (50MP, night vision) are geared toward rugged photography. Samsung’s A36 and A26 feature versatile triple cameras (50MP main + ultrawide + macro). The Umidigi Note 100 and TCL 605 provide 50MP main sensors for casual photography.
6. Which phones offer expandable storage and dedicated audio features?
All listed models support expandable storage via microSD cards. For audio, the Moto G Power (2025), Umidigi Note 100, TCL 605, and Ulefone Armor X32 Pro retain the 3.5mm headphone jack. Most also offer stereo speakers, while the rugged models often include extra features like FM radio.
7. Are software updates and security a strength of any of these models?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 and A26 excel here, with up to six years of major Android updates and One UI features for long-term support. The other models typically provide standard, shorter software lifecycles.
8. Which devices are the most budget-friendly?
The Umidigi Note 100 is the most affordable at around $135, offering solid features for the price. The TCL 605 also delivers great value at $199, perfect for everyday use on a budget.
9. Are there any special features unique to these smartphones?
Yes! The Oscal Pilot 3 stands out for its integration of advanced AI models (GPT, Deepseek, Gemini) enhancing productivity and smart features. The Doogee S119 brings dual-display functionality with a rear AMOLED panel. Rugged models (Oscal, Ulefone, Doogee) offer dedicated flashlights and night vision cameras, tailored for adventure and demanding work.
10. Which phone is best for users who need both style and performance?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 is a top choice, combining a stylish premium design, Super AMOLED display, smooth Snapdragon chipset, excellent cameras, fast charging, and long-term software updates. The Galaxy A26 and Moto G Power (2025) also blend looks with practical, dependable performance.
Note:
- The price of the Mobiles may change day by day, so do check the price on the seller’s website using the buy button associated with the product.
- We put immense effort to give accurate specs, but do check for the spec at the seller’s website (Amazon, Bestbuy, etc,.) before purchasing the product.+-
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