Best Smartphones Under $300 in 2026 (AMOLED & 5G)
Best Smartphones Under $300 in 2026 (AMOLED & 5G): ranked by real specs like camera hardware, battery capacity, and display refresh rate. This guide is tailored for tech-savvy individuals who prioritize display quality, camera performance, and connectivity without breaking the bank. Each smartphone on our list offers a unique set of features, making it essential to understand the nuances between them. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G stands out with its Super AMOLED display and extensive software support, while the OnePlus Nord N30 5G impresses with its fast charging and high RAM capacity. When choosing the best smartphone for your needs, consider factors such as display technology, camera capabilities, software support, and additional features like water resistance and wireless charging. Use the buttons above to check current prices and availability.
Top picks
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The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G tops our list with its vibrant 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, comprehensive camera system, and exceptional software support. Its IP67 rating and long-lasting 5,000mAh battery further enhance its appeal, making it the most versatile choice. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The OnePlus Nord N30 5G stands out with its 108MP camera and the fastest charging speed in this segment at 50W. Its 8GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking, making it ideal for those who prioritize performance and speed. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
With a large 6.7-inch pOLED display and a built-in stylus, the Moto g stylus 5G (2024) is perfect for creative tasks and media consumption. Its 5,000mAh battery and wireless charging capability provide added convenience. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The Google Pixel 7a excels in photography with its 64MP camera and AI-driven enhancements. It also offers wireless charging and a compact design, making it ideal for users who value camera performance and portability. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The TCL 50 XL 5G offers a massive 6.78-inch display and includes a charger in the box, providing excellent value for its price. Its expandable storage and NFC support add to its appeal. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
How to decide
Display and Design
In the realm of budget smartphones, display technology plays a pivotal role in user experience. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing vibrant colors and smooth motion, which is ideal for media consumption and gaming. In contrast, the OnePlus Nord N30 5G and TCL 50 XL 5G utilize IPS LCD panels with similar refresh rates but lack the contrast and deep blacks offered by AMOLED technology. The Moto g stylus 5G (2024) offers a 6.7-inch pOLED display, which, while not AMOLED, still delivers rich colors and excellent viewing angles. The Google Pixel 7a's compact 6.1-inch OLED display, though smaller, is perfect for those who prefer a more portable device. Consider the display size and technology that best fits your usage patterns.
Camera Capabilities
Camera performance is often a deciding factor for smartphone buyers. The OnePlus Nord N30 5G leads with a 108MP main camera, offering detailed shots and decent lossless zoom in good lighting conditions. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G features a versatile 50MP triple camera system with optical image stabilization, ideal for capturing steady shots and videos. The Google Pixel 7a, renowned for its computational photography, boasts a 64MP main sensor and excels in still photography with features like Super Res Zoom. The Moto g stylus 5G (2024) provides a balanced 50MP camera with OIS, suitable for everyday photography. Evaluate your photography needs to choose the best camera setup.
Performance and Battery Life
Performance is a key consideration, especially for multitasking and gaming. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is equipped with the Exynos 1380 chipset, offering robust performance for daily tasks and moderate gaming. The OnePlus Nord N30 5G, powered by the Snapdragon 695 5G, provides a balance of performance and power efficiency. The Moto g stylus 5G (2024) features the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, delivering smooth performance with the added benefit of a built-in stylus for creative tasks. Battery life is another critical factor, with all options providing around 5,000mAh capacity, ensuring a full day of usage. Consider the processor and battery that align with your usage demands.
Software Support and Features
Software longevity and additional features can significantly enhance the smartphone experience. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers the longest software support with four years of OS updates and five years of security patches, ensuring your device remains up-to-date. The Google Pixel 7a provides three years of OS upgrades and five years of security updates, along with AI-driven features like Magic Eraser. The Moto g stylus 5G (2024) and OnePlus Nord N30 5G offer shorter support windows but include unique features like a built-in stylus and fast charging, respectively. Assess the importance of software updates and features for your usage.
Conclusion
Each smartphone on this list offers unique strengths, from the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G's superior software support to the OnePlus Nord N30 5G's fast charging capabilities. For those who prioritize photography, the Google Pixel 7a is a standout choice, while the Moto g stylus 5G (2024) caters to creative users with its built-in stylus. Warranty and availability are generally reliable across these models in the US. Use the buttons above to see live pricing and stock.