Top-Rated Budget Smartphones of 2024

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about getting a new smartphone, huh? It’s super exciting but can also feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. Let’s break it down and look at three popular choices: the Google Pixel 8a, the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, and the OnePlus Nord 3 5G. Each of these smartphones has something special to offer, whether it’s an amazing camera, long battery life, or powerful performance. All three are unlocked, so you have the flexibility to choose your carrier without any hassles.

Smartphones have come a long way from the days when they just made calls and sent texts. Remember the very first iPhone? It was a game-changer and kicked off a tech revolution that now includes these advanced Android devices. Owning a smartphone today means having a mini-computer in your pocket that can assist with nearly every aspect of your life, from navigating city streets to organizing your calendar. Smartphones aren’t just about connectivity anymore; they’re about enhancing our daily lives with convenience and efficiency.

In this article, you’ll get a closer look at each of these smartphones. We’ll start with the Google Pixel 8a, renowned for its top-notch camera and robust security features. Next, we’ll look at the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G with its impressive battery life and extended warranty. Lastly, we’ll dive into the OnePlus Nord 3 5G, celebrated for its generous RAM and significant storage options. Ready? Let’s go!

Google Pixel 8a – Unlocked Android Smartphone with Advanced Camera, 24-Hour Battery, and Strong Security – 128GB, Bay

This image is property of Amazon.com.

The Google Pixel 8a is more than just a budget smartphone; it’s your ultimate companion for capturing life’s moments, staying connected, and ensuring your data is secure. This device is perfect for photography enthusiasts who want the power of an advanced camera at an affordable price. Whether you’re a social media aficionado needing stunning images and videos or someone who values long battery life and enhanced security, the Pixel 8a fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. From its 24-hour battery life that keeps you going all day to its robust security features, this smartphone is designed for those who demand quality and reliability without breaking the bank.

The Google Pixel 8a caught our eye for numerous reasons. First, its advanced Pixel Camera is remarkable for a phone in this price range, thanks to Google AI, which takes the guesswork out of photo editing and ensures high-quality results every time. The 24-hour battery life is another huge plus, allowing you to go about your day without constantly reaching for the charger. Moreover, its extensive security features, including rapid emergency services contact and spam call filtering, give us peace of mind. All these features are wrapped in a sleek design with 128GB of storage, making it one of the best budget smartphones for 2024.

The Google Pixel 8a’s primary aim is to offer high-end features at a budget-friendly price. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

• Advanced Pixel Camera: The camera on this device is genuinely noteworthy. Thanks to Super Res Zoom, you can get close-up shots without needing an extra lens. Google’s AI enhances photo quality, fixes blurry images, and even creates perfect group shots where everyone is looking their best. Features like Audio Magic Eraser help in capturing videos by reducing background noises.
• 24-Hour Battery Life: This feature ensures that you can go about your day without the constant anxiety of your phone dying. Perfect for busy individuals and frequent travelers.
• Security Features: From spam call filtering to rapid emergency services contact, the Pixel 8a offers a robust set of security features to keep you safe and your data secure.
• 128GB Storage: This ample storage ensures that you have enough space for all your photos, apps, and files without needing additional storage solutions.

The overall quality of the Google Pixel 8a is impressive for a budget smartphone. It doesn’t skimp on build quality or essential features. The camera performance is top-notch thanks to Google’s AI, making it easy to capture high-quality photos and videos. The battery life and security features are equally impressive, which makes this phone highly reliable for daily use. The build quality feels premium, and with 128GB of storage, you’re unlikely to run into any storage issues.

The Pixel Camera on the Google Pixel 8a is a standout feature, making it easy to capture incredible photos and videos. With Photo Unblur, even your old, blurry pictures can be improved with just a few taps.

The battery life promises up to 24 hours on a single charge, ensuring that you can keep the phone working all day long without needing a midday recharge. This is perfect for those always on the move.

Security is a strong point for the Pixel 8a. It offers features like Call Screen, which can detect and filter out spam calls, and even provides the ability to rapidly contact emergency services, sharing your accurate location if needed.

• Advanced Camera: Easily the most significant advantage. The Pixel Camera, combined with Google AI, ensures you get the best shots, whether it’s a group photo or a zoomed-in shot.
• Strong Battery Life: The 24-hour battery life is a huge advantage for heavy phone users.
• Robust Security Features: From call screening to quick emergency services access, the phone is designed to keep you safe.
• 128GB Storage: Plenty of room for apps, photos, and more.
• No Extra Telephoto Lens: While the Super Res Zoom is excellent, some might miss the presence of an actual telephoto lens.
• Limited Availability of Colors: The Pixel 8a comes in limited color options, which might be a bummer for those wishing for more variety.
• Mid-Range Processor: While the performance is generally good, heavy gamers might find it lacking compared to premium models.

The Google Pixel 8a stands out as an excellent choice in the budget smartphone segment for 2024. Its camera capabilities, battery life, and security features make it highly appealing, breaking the conventional notion that budget phones can’t offer high-end features.

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, Unlocked Smartphone, 128GB Storage, 8GB RAM, 2-Day Battery, 50MP Camera, Navy Blue, 3-Year Warranty (UK)

This image is property of Amazon.com.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is designed to be your everyday companion, perfect for a multitude of tasks ranging from social media scrolling to work-related multitasking. With its high-speed 5G capabilities, it ensures you’re always connected, making it great for streaming your favorite shows, browsing the internet, and even gaming on the go. Thanks to its 2-day battery life, you won’t have to worry about constantly charging your phone, thus making it reliable for all-day use.

At a price that won’t break the bank, the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G offers a number of premium features. One of the standout elements is its 6.6″ FHD+ Super AMOLED display which provides vibrant, immersive visuals that make everything from videos to video calls a delight. Versatility and performance are two main reasons why this phone has quickly become a favorite among budget smartphone users. The 128GB internal storage along with 8GB of RAM ensures smooth operation and ample space for all your apps, files, and media. And let’s not forget the sleek Awesome Navy design which adds style points to its impressive functionality.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G aims to be a jack-of-all-trades, making it ideal for anyone who requires a reliable, feature-rich smartphone without the premium price tag. Its 5G functionality ensures you’re always ahead of the curve when it comes to connectivity. Here’s a rundown of its key features:

• 6.6″ FHD+ Super AMOLED Display: With 1,000 nits of brightness and up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, the screen is both vibrant and responsive.
• 50MP High-Resolution Wide-Angle Camera: This makes for crisp, detailed shots even in low light conditions. The 32MP Selfie Camera with Portrait Mode ensures your selfies are Instagram-ready.
• Super Fast Charging: Thanks to a 5,000mAh battery, you can enjoy up to 2 days of battery life, minimizing downtime.
• Durability: With an IP67 rating and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, this phone is built to withstand the elements.
• Performance: The Octa-Core processor paired with 8GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking and gaming.
• Storage: 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card.
• Security: Enhanced security with Samsung Knox Vault.

The overall quality of the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is thoroughly impressive given its budget-friendly category. The build quality features a metal frame and 3-camera layout, making it both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The user experience is another highlight; the smartphone is equipped with a snappy interface and optimized software that make day-to-day operations a breeze. The display technology offers excellent color accuracy and brightness, even under direct sunlight, thanks to Vision Booster.

Additionally, the security features like Samsung Knox Vault add an extra layer of protection for your sensitive data. The inclusion of water and dust resistance (IP67 rating) ensures that the phone can handle various environments, from the beach to a rainy day in the city. The 3-year manufacturer extended warranty is another excellent feature, providing peace of mind and making this an investment that truly lasts.

1. Excellent Display: The 6.6″ FHD+ Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate offers vibrant colors and smooth visuals.
2. High-Resolution Cameras: The 50MP Wide-Angle and 32MP Selfie cameras produce high-quality photos and videos, even in low light.
3. Long Battery Life: With a 5,000mAh battery, you get up to 2 days of use on a single charge.
4. Fast Charging: Super Fast Charging capabilities ensure you don’t waste time plugged in.
5. Durability: Built with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
6. Performance: The Octa-Core processor and 8GB RAM ensure smooth multitasking and gaming.
7. Expandable Storage: Comes with 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD.
8. 3-Year Warranty: Provides long-term peace of mind with an extended manufacturer warranty.
9. Plastic Back Panel: While the device is sturdy, the plastic back panel may not feel as premium as glass or metal alternatives.
10. No Wireless Charging: Unlike some higher-end models, this phone does not support wireless charging.
11. Preinstalled Bloatware: The phone comes with several pre-installed apps which can be a bit cumbersome.
12. Single Speaker: The audio quality is decent but lacks the depth provided by stereo speakers.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is your ideal choice if you seek an affordable yet feature-packed smartphone. From its splendid display and camera quality to long battery life and security features, this device shines in multiple areas, making it an excellent pick for anyone on a budget.

OnePlus Nord 3 5G Smartphone, 16GB RAM, 256GB Storage, Misty Green (UK, 2-Year Warranty)

This image is property of Amazon.com.

Let’s dive into the captivating world of the OnePlus Nord 3 5G Misty Green, a budget-friendly marvel that truly defines what it means to be a top-rated smartphone in 2024.

If you’re hunting for a smartphone that balances performance, aesthetics, and affordability, the OnePlus Nord 3 5G is right up your alley. This device is perfect for users who are on the go and need a dependable, high-performing device. Whether you are a student, a professional, or a content creator, you’ll find that this smartphone fits seamlessly into your everyday life.

We love the OnePlus Nord 3 5G for several reasons:

1. Design Elegance: Its Misty Green finish is subtly glossy and feels luxurious, thanks to the celadon glass finish. It boasts a sleek profile that’s just 8.15mm thick, making it both portable and comfortable to hold.
2. Power-Packed Performance: The handset comes with a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset paired with LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring that all your tasks, whether intensive gaming or multitasking, are handled efficiently.
3. Display Delight: The 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and a 120 Hz adaptive dynamic frame rate for buttery-smooth scrolling and an immersive visual experience.
4. Camera Capabilities: The Sony IMX890 Main Camera with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) allows you to capture stunning photos, ensuring that every moment counts.
5. Dual Speakers with Dolby Atmos: For an immersive audio experience, perfect for streaming your favorite shows or playing games with rich, surround sound quality.

The primary aim of the OnePlus Nord 3 5G is to offer a premium, flagship-worthy experience without the hefty price tag. Its primary features include:

• Design: The Misty Green version features a glossy celadon glass finish that is both anti-glare and anti-fingerprint. Plus, the Tempest Gray variant offers a frosted texture.
• Performance: Equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset and up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, this device promises lightning-fast performance, whether it’s gaming, streaming, or multitasking.
• Display: The 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display with a 120 Hz dynamic frame rate ensures seamless visuals and effortless swipes.
• Camera: The Sony IMX890 Main Camera features OIS for steadier shots and sharper images.
• Audio: Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos offer an all-around immersive audio experience.

OnePlus Nord 3 5G stands tall when it comes to overall quality. Its build quality is exceptional, living up to OnePlus’s reputation for creating robust yet elegant devices. The handset’s slim profile and flat-edge design contribute significantly to its ergonomic feel.

In terms of performance, the addition of MediaTek Dimensity 9000 and LPDDR5X RAM ensures the smartphone is no slouch. The 16GB of RAM combined with RAM-Vita guarantees you can handle multiple applications, heavy games, and more, all at once without any lag.

The visual and audio features are also top-notch. The 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display guarantees eye-popping visuals, and the 120 Hz refresh rate means interactions are always smooth. Not to forget, the Dolby Atmos duets enhance the overall multimedia experience, making it a joy to watch content or play games.

• Stunning Design: The Misty Green finish looks and feels premium.
• High Performance: Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9000 and up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, this phone is built for speed.
• Immersive Display: The 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display with a 120 Hz dynamic frame rate ensures smooth and stunning visuals.
• Impressive Camera: The Sony IMX890 Main Camera with OIS captures high-quality, stable photos.
• Dolby Atmos Audio: For an enriched audio experience, the dual speakers with Dolby Atmos are a great addition.
• Battery Life: While the phone performs impressively, heavy use can lead to more frequent charging.
• Limited Availability: Sometimes, it can be hard to get your hands on this model due to high demand.
• No Expandable Storage: You cannot expand the existing 256GB of internal storage, which may be a drawback for some users.

The OnePlus Nord 3 5G Misty Green strikes a harmonious balance between affordability and high-end features. You’re left with a device that’s not only visually appealing but also versatile and high-performing. A true testament to OnePlus’s slogan, “Never Settle.” Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or capturing life’s moments, this smartphone is ready to keep up with you every step of the way.

Comparison of Google Pixel 8a, Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, and OnePlus Nord 3 5G

When it comes to choosing a new smartphone, it’s essential to compare the specifications and features to find the right one for you. In this comparison, we’ll look at the Google Pixel 8a, Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, and OnePlus Nord 3 5G—three fantastic smartphones each designed to meet different needs and preferences.

Google Pixel 8a

The Google Pixel 8a impresses with its advanced Pixel Camera and robust software features powered by Google AI. It offers a 6.1-inch Full HD+ display, 128GB of storage, and a 24-hour battery life. This phone excels in photography with features like Super Res Zoom, Photo Unblur, Audio Magic Eraser, and more. Security is also top-notch with advanced call screening and safety features.

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G stands out with its 6.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, and Vision Booster for enhanced visibility under bright light. This phone packs a 50MP wide-angle camera and a 32MP selfie camera, perfect for capturing crisp shots even in low light. It boasts a 2-day battery life, IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and an option to expand storage via a microSD card up to 1TB.

OnePlus Nord 3 5G

The OnePlus Nord 3 5G combines high performance and sleek design, featuring a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset and up to 16GB of RAM. Its 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display provides an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is equipped with a Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS and dual speakers with Dolby Atmos for a fully immersive experience.

Comparison Table

Below is a table highlighting the key specifications of each smartphone to help you compare them easily:

Choosing the right smartphone depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize camera capabilities and robust AI features, the Google Pixel 8a is compelling. For excellent display quality and extended battery life, the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is an excellent choice. If you seek high performance and a sleek design, the OnePlus Nord 3 5G fits the bill perfectly. Happy smartphone hunting!

Conclusion: Which Smartphone Should You Choose?

After closely examining the Google Pixel 8a, Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, and OnePlus Nord 3, it’s clear that each device caters to different needs and preferences. Here’s a quick summary to help you make the best choice!

Google Pixel 8a

If you value an advanced camera, security, and a seamless Google ecosystem, the Google Pixel 8a is for you. It offers impressive photography capabilities, fantastic software integration, and a solid 24-hour battery life. The main drawback is its storage, capped at 128GB with no expandability option.

Great for: Photography enthusiasts, Google ecosystem users, and those who prioritize security.

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is an all-rounder with a stunning 50MP camera, 2-day battery life, and a solid 3-year manufacturer warranty. With 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage, it’s well-equipped for multitasking. The Awesome Navy aesthetic is sleek, but some users might find Samsung’s software bloat a bit overwhelming.

Great for: Power users, Samsung fans, and those who need long battery life and reliable performance.

OnePlus Nord 3 5G

For those who crave top-notch performance and ample storage, the OnePlus Nord 3 5G is a strong contender. With 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it’s perfect for heavy users. Its Misty Green design is unique and attractive. The 2-year warranty is reassuring, though some might find its camera performance not as stellar as the Pixel or Galaxy.

Great for: Performance seekers, multitaskers, and users who need substantial storage.

Recommendations

• For the Camera and Security Buff: Google Pixel 8a
• For the Battery Life and Versatility Geek: Samsung Galaxy A55 5G
• For the Heavy Multitasker and Storage Hunter: OnePlus Nord 3 5G

Choose based on what matters most to you, and you’ll end up with a device that suits your lifestyle! 😄 Happy choosing!

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.