Best Mobile Phones Under $100: Great Value on a Budget
Looking for the best mobile phones under $100 in the USA? You’re in the right place. Whether you need a reliable everyday phone, an unlocked device to switch carriers easily, or just a backup for travel, budget smartphones have come a long way. In this article, we’ll walk you through the top picks, what to consider when buying a phone under $100, a detailed comparison, real-user feedback, and where to buy affordable mobile phones in the USA.
Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Smartphones
Here are some of the best unlocked phones under $100 (or very close) available in the U.S., offering surprising value given the tiny budget.
• Phone Model A
Description & specs: A true entry-level unlocked phone, roughly $59–$70, with around 32 GB storage, basic camera (e.g., 5 MP), large display (around 6.2″), and Android 13 Go edition. It handles calls, texts, streaming and light apps.
Pros: Very low cost, unlocked so can work across carriers (check bands). Good for basic use (calls, messaging, light browsing).
Cons: Performance will be modest, camera quality limited, fewer updates & lower longevity than premium phones.
Price: ~$59 (USA retailer listing: unlocked phone under $100) Best Buy+2Best Buy+2
• Phone Model B
Description & specs: ~$80-$90, unlocked, ~64 GB storage, 4 GB RAM-ish, larger display (~6.5″), Android version recent, microSD support.
Pros: More storage gives more room for apps/photos; better display size.
Cons: Still entry-level chipset, may lack high-end features (5G, fast charging, high refresh rate).
Price/Availability: Several unlocked models under $100 listed in U.S. market. top5-usa.com+1
• Phone Model C
Description & specs: Around $99 (just at the limit), unlocked phone with features like 64 GB internal storage, 90 Hz refresh display, perhaps a more recognized brand, and good battery size (~5,000 mAh). For example, one listing: “Unlocked Cell Phones Under $100” features a model for $99.99. Best Buy
Pros: Best value tier in this list — you’re pushing closer to “best value phones” under $100.
Cons: Still lack of 5G in many cases, fewer upgrades/long-term support, cameras will not match mid-range/flagship phones.
• Phone Model D
Description & specs: Roughly $60-$70 unlocked, offers large battery (~5,000 mAh), basic camera set, Android Go or trimmed version, large screen (~6.6″) but simpler internals. Mentioned in round-ups of “best Android phone under $100”. Android Central
Pros: Great for budget conscious; long battery life; decent screen size.
Cons: Lower performance, perhaps only 4G, minimal upgrades, basic camera.
• Phone Model E
Description & specs: ~$50-$70, unlocked, from lesser-known brand, 32 GB storage, basic specs but legitimately under $100 and unlocked. Example listing: one for $59.99 unlocked at Best Buy. Best Buy
Pros: Very affordable entrance to smartphone world.
Cons: Limited future-proofing, likely minimal OS updates, lower quality build/camera.
Summary Table (Approximate)
| Model Tier | Price | Storage | Key Strength | Key Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (Model A/E) | $50-70 | ~32 GB | Cheapest way into smartphone; unlocked | Basic specs, minimal updates |
| Mid-Budget (Model B/D) | $70-90 | ~64 GB | More storage, larger screen, decent battery | Still modest performance, minimal 5G support |
| Top of this budget (Model C) | ~$99 | ~64 GB+ | Closest to “best value phones under $100” | Just at the price ceiling; still lower tier features |
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Phone Under $100
When shopping for affordable mobile phones, you’ll want to pay attention to several important features so you don’t end up frustrated. Here are the key factors:
1. Unlocked vs Carrier-Locked
Look for “unlocked phones under $100” so you can choose your carrier or switch later. Some budget models may be tied to a specific carrier or network bands may be limited.
2. Network Compatibility (4G/5G and Bands)
Since you’re in the U.S., check that the phone supports the proper LTE bands (and possibly 5G if you care) for your carrier. Cheaper phones may skip 5G or only support a subset of bands.
3. Storage & RAM
Even on a budget, try to aim for at least 32 GB of storage (ideally 64 GB) and a minimum of 3–4 GB RAM. This helps with app updates, performance and storage for photos/apps.
4. Battery Life & Display
Look for battery size of ~4,000 mAh or more for decent longevity. A good display size (~6″ or more) makes streaming and reading easier. Some budget phones even offer 90 Hz refresh rates.
5. Camera & Build Quality
At this price, don’t expect flagship-level cameras, but check reviews for decent results. Also check build quality: materials, durability, brand reliability.
6. Software Updates & Support
Budget phones often get fewer OS updates and security patches. If longevity matters, choose a model from a brand known for support or compatible with custom ROMs (if you’re tech-savvy).
7. Future Proofing
While under $100 you sacrifice many high-end specs, still consider things like: microSD slot (if needed), headphone jack (if you use wired headphones), USB-C port (rather than older micro-USB), and perhaps 5G if you plan to keep the phone several years.
8. Where You Buy & Return/Support Policy
Buying from a reliable retailer in the USA gives you easier returns, warranty support, and clarity on terms. Even budget phones benefit from a trustworthy seller.
By paying attention to these key features, you’ll increase your chances of picking a cheap smartphone USA that still delivers good value and a pleasant user experience.
Comparison of the Best Mobile Phones Under $100
Let’s compare the aspects of the models above, using the criteria we just discussed.
| Feature | Entry Tier ~$50-70 | Mid Tier $70-90 | Top of Budget ~$99 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage | ~32 GB | ~64 GB | ~64 GB or more |
| RAM | ~2-3 GB | ~3-4 GB | ~4 GB |
| Display size | ~6.0–6.3″ | ~6.3–6.6″ | ~6.6″+ with higher refresh (some) |
| Battery | ~3,500-4,000 mAh | ~4,000-5,000 mAh | ~5,000 mAh or slightly more |
| Network | Usually 4G LTE only | 4G LTE, limited bands | Possibly newer chipset, maybe 5G (if lucky) |
| Brand / support | Lesser-known brand or entry model | Better brand/model | Best within this budget, stronger brand/feature set |
| Trade-off | Lowest cost, fewer features | Balanced value | Best value under $100 but still limited compared to $200+ phones |
From the review round-ups: budget phones under $100 can indeed deliver. For instance, a list of best unlocked smartphones under $100 highlights that you can get “a lot of Android phone for under $100.” Android Central+1 Another review emphasises that “best smartphones for under $100” exist and can be unlocked for U.S. carriers. Digital Trends
Important: Expectations must be adjusted—these are affordable mobile phones, not flagships. For everyday use—calls, texts, social, streaming—they can work very well.
User Reviews and Ratings of Budget Phones
What are real users saying about cheap smartphones? Here are some insights:
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On Reddit, users discussing phones under $100 note:
“I just bought a Motorola Moto G04 for $75—it’s not complete shit and actually pretty usable.” Reddit
And:
“For a hundo, you should probably check out the Moto One 5G Ace. … $85 for a new one is hard to beat.” Reddit+1
These comments reflect that good value exists even under $100, as long as you accept trade-offs. -
Another Reddit user warns:
“All of these have very low end CPUs that’ll barely be enough for day to day task.” Reddit
This serves as a caution: performance will be modest; multitasking, gaming and heavy apps may suffer. -
Review round-ups list budget unlocked phones under $100 but often note limitations. For example:
“Although it only works on T-Mobile and its sister networks, the Redmi A5 4G is one of the few phones under $100 to come with Android 15 and a promise of three years of security updates.” Android Central
This shows some budget phones push for updates, but compatibility / carrier support may be limited.
Takeaway for you: User feedback suggests you can be very satisfied with a phone under $100 — just be clear about your expectations (light usage, not heavy gaming or premium camera). Checking compatibility, performance and support will prevent regret.
Where to Buy: Best Retailers for Affordable Phones
If you’re shopping in the USA for budget smartphones, here are some reliable places and tips:
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Major retailers such as Best Buy often have dedicated sections for “smartphones under $100” or “unlocked cell phones under $100.” For example: Best Buy lists unlocked cell phones under $100 including models priced $59.99 or $99.99. Best Buy+1
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Online marketplaces (Amazon, Walmart) can have lower prices, but check that the model is truly unlocked, compatible with US carriers, and not a foreign version with limited band support.
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Carrier deals / prepaid plans: Sometimes carriers or MVNOs offer deals where an advanced phone becomes effectively under $100 with an activation or trade-in—though you must check terms and ensure you’re comfortable with the plan requirements.
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Check return/warranty policy: Even budget phones deserve at least 30-day return window and some warranty. Buying from a trusted retailer gives more security.
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Look for unlocked phones: Search keywords like “unlocked phones under $100 USA”, “cheap smartphones USA unlocked”, “best value phones under $100”.
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Read the fine print: Sometimes the listed price is for prepaid or plan-bundle versions, or may exclude taxes/fees—so make sure the final out-the-door cost is under your budget.
Conclusion
Finding the best mobile phones under $100 in the USA is very much possible today. While you won’t get flagship features, you can get a reliable, unlocked phone — great for everyday usage, for a back-up, or as an extremely budget-friendly main device. To recap:
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Define your budget and expectations: you’ll sacrifice high-end specs but gain huge value.
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Focus on unlocked phones, check network compatibility, storage/RAM, battery/display, software support.
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Choose from entry, mid-budget, or top-budget tiers (within the under $100 bracket) depending on how much value you want.
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Read user reviews and be realistic about performance.
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Buy from reliable U.S. retailers and ensure you’re getting what you expect.
We hope this guide helps you pick an affordable mobile phone that gives you excellent value for your budget. Which budget smartphone have you used recently? Or do you have questions about a specific model or compatibility with your carrier? Please share your experience in the comments below — I’d love to hear what worked (or didn’t) and help you further.
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