The best budget smartphones of 2026 so far
This guide evaluates the best budget-friendly smartphones released in 2026, specifically highlighting the Apple iPhone 17e and Google Pixel 10a. It focuses on devices priced under $700 that offer a balance of performance, camera quality, and ecosystem benefits.
Why it matters
As flagship phone prices rise, consumers are increasingly looking for mid-range alternatives that provide high-end features at a lower cost.
Everything is getting more expensive these days, but that doesn't mean you need to spend $1,200 to get a decent smartphone.Even in the age of RAMageddon, there are solid deals to be found on phones for $700 or less. Companies like Apple, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus have all released such budget or midrange handsets in the past several months. So if you're in the market for a quality smartphone that won't break the checking account, here's our pick of the best currently available options.
Why don't people recycle old smartphones?
Apple iPhone 17e
It's not the best iPhone, but it's still an iPhone.
Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable
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