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.
The article provides consumer advice based on technical specifications and market availability.
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