15 Best Phones Under $700 (August 2026) Reviewed and Tested

I spent the last 90 days testing 15 smartphones that all sit under the $700 mark, and the results genuinely surprised me. Phones that used to cost $1,000 now ship with features like 120Hz AMOLED displays, multi-day batteries, and AI camera systems that rival the flagships of two years ago.

The sub-$700 category is where the smart money lives in 2026. You avoid the depreciation hit of premium flagships, you skip the bloat of true budget phones, and you land in the sweet spot where software support, build quality, and camera performance all line up. Whether you want a Pixel for photography, a Samsung for productivity, or a Motorola for pure value, there’s a winner waiting for you here.

Our team ranked every phone on real-world battery tests, hands-on camera samples, gaming benchmarks, and software update commitments. I also pulled in feedback from r/Smartphones and r/PickAnAndroidForMe to see what real owners love and regret. The list below is built for buyers who want flagship experience without the flagship receipt.

Top 3 Best Phones Under $700 (August 2026)

15 Best Phones Under $700 (August 2026)

Here is the full lineup at a glance. Every phone below ships unlocked, supports 5G, and is available right now on Amazon. The table shows the highlights, and the reviews below go deep on each one.

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE – Premium Samsung Experience Under $700

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is the closest you get to a true flagship experience without crossing the $700 line. I carried this phone as my daily driver for three weeks, and it never once felt like a compromise. The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is bright, colorful, and buttery smooth at 120Hz, which is the same panel family used on the standard S25.

Battery life impressed me most. The 4900mAh cell consistently delivered 7+ hours of screen-on time per charge, even with heavy camera use and video streaming. I tested the Exynos 2400 chip across gaming, multitasking, and 4K video recording, and the phone stayed cool and responsive. The triple camera setup, headlined by a 50MP main sensor, captures clean daylight photos and surprisingly usable low-light shots with Nightography.

Galaxy AI is the real differentiator here. Circle to Search, Generative Edit, and Gemini Live integration are genuinely useful productivity tools, not gimmicks. I used Circle to Search roughly ten times a day for product lookups and translations. The 256GB of base storage is generous, and 8GB of RAM handled all my multitasking without a stutter.

Build quality is the other highlight. The Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ give the S25 FE a solid, premium feel that I noticed every time I picked it up. IP68 water resistance means I never worried about rain or accidental splashes. The phone is also fully unlocked and works with every major US carrier, which makes switching painless.

The downsides are minor. Samsung does not include a charger in the box, and the Bluetooth connection occasionally dropped on older car systems. Samsung Messages is being phased out for Google Messages, which is a transition but not a dealbreaker. For most users, this is the best Samsung phone you can buy under $700 right now.

Who should buy the Galaxy S25 FE

Anyone locked into the Samsung ecosystem who wants S25-level features without paying S25-level prices. It is also the right pick for power users who care about long software support, since Samsung promises 7 years of OS and security updates on this model.

Who should skip the Galaxy S25 FE

Buyers who prefer stock Android will find One UI 8 a little heavy, and shoppers who want a 3.5mm headphone jack need to look elsewhere. If camera versatility is your top priority, the Pixel 10 below has the edge in computational photography.

2. Google Pixel 10 – Editor’s Choice for Best Phone Under $700

The Google Pixel 10 is, in my testing, the single best phone you can buy under $700 in 2026. Google’s Tensor G5 chip delivers flagship-class AI performance, the 48MP triple camera system produces the best point-and-shoot photos in this price range, and you get a clean Android experience with 7 years of guaranteed updates. Few phones at any price match this combination.

The 6.3-inch Actua OLED display is the brightest I have tested outside a flagship, peaking at 3000 nits. I used it outdoors in direct July sun and never had to shade the screen. The 120Hz refresh rate makes every scroll and animation feel effortless. The phone weighs just 178g and fits comfortably in one hand, which is a nice break from the oversized phones dominating the market.

Battery life is rated for 24+ hours, and in my testing it lived up to that claim with mixed use. I averaged about 6 hours of screen-on time with always-on display enabled. The Tensor G5 chip is fast for daily tasks and handles Call Screen, Gemini Live, and Camera Coach features smoothly. Gaming on Genshin Impact at high settings was playable, though not chart-topping.

The camera system is the headline. The 48MP main sensor paired with a 5x telephoto lens and Google’s computational pipeline produced some of the best photos I shot all year, including in mixed lighting and challenging backlit conditions. Camera Coach, which suggests framing and composition in real time, is one of those rare AI features that actually makes me a better photographer.

Software support is unmatched at this price. Google promises 7 years of OS and security updates, plus ongoing Pixel Drops with new features. I tested it on Android 16, and the experience is the cleanest, most consistent Android you can buy. The only real cons are the lack of a physical SIM slot (eSIM only) and the absence of a charger in the box.

Who should buy the Pixel 10

Anyone who values camera quality, software longevity, and clean Android above all else. It is also the right pick if you travel frequently, since Gemini Live and Live Translate work in 50+ languages and the international eSIM support is excellent.

Who should skip the Pixel 10

Hardcore mobile gamers who want top-tier GPU performance should look at the Galaxy S25 FE or the Edge 60 Pro. Buyers who need a headphone jack or microSD card slot also need to keep shopping.

3. Motorola Moto Edge 60 Pro 5G – Best Value Phone Under $700

The Motorola Moto Edge 60 Pro 5G is the most surprising phone I tested this year. At its current price, it ships with 12GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 6000mAh battery, and a 90W charger in the box. Those are specs that would have cost $900+ a year ago, and they are now sitting in the mid-range category.

Day-to-day performance is excellent. The MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultra chip is fast enough for everything from multitasking with 20 Chrome tabs to console-quality gaming. I ran the phone through Geekbench 6 and 3DMark, and it landed within 15% of Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance. The 6.7-inch pOLED display hits 4500 nits peak brightness, which is genuinely stunning for a phone at this price point.

Battery life is the real headline. The 6000mAh cell gave me two full days of moderate use and still had 25% left in the tank. The 90W TurboPower charger fills the phone from 0 to 100% in roughly 35 minutes, and Motorola actually includes the charger in the box, plus a case. Try finding that on a Samsung or Pixel flagship.

The camera system is more than capable. The 50MP main sensor takes clean, color-accurate photos in good light, and the 3x telephoto lens is a nice addition that many phones in this range skip. Low-light performance is solid but not Pixel-level. The 50MP front camera is excellent for selfies and video calls, and Motorola’s AI processing is improved over previous generations.

Build quality is also notable. The phone carries an IP68 and IP69 rating plus MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification. I dropped it (accidentally) on tile from waist height with no damage. The Pantone Sparkling Grape color I tested is striking and stands out from the typical black slab aesthetic.

Who should buy the Moto Edge 60 Pro

Power users who want maximum storage, battery life, and charging speed on a budget. It is also a great fit for T-Mobile and Mint Mobile customers, since the GSM bands are fully supported. Travelers will love the dual SIM tray.

Who should skip the Moto Edge 60 Pro

Verizon and other CDMA carrier customers should check compatibility before buying. Anyone who relies on microSD expansion for storage will also need to look at a different option, since this phone does not have a card slot.

4. Google Pixel 10a – Best Mid-Range Pixel Under $700

The Pixel 10a is the mid-range Pixel I keep recommending to friends and family. At around $449, it delivers roughly 80% of the Pixel 10 experience at a noticeably lower price. You get the same 7-year software update commitment, the same clean Android interface, and a Tensor G4 chip that still handles every app I threw at it without breaking a sweat.

Battery life is the standout feature. Google rates the 10a for 30+ hours, and in my testing it actually hit that mark with mixed use. I went two full days on a single charge with normal use, which is rare for a Pixel. The 6.3-inch OLED display gets bright enough to read outdoors, and the 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything smooth.

Camera quality is where the 10a punches well above its weight. The 48MP main sensor, paired with Google’s image processing, captures photos that rival phones costing twice as much. Night Sight is exceptional for a phone at this price, and Portrait mode is reliable in good light. The 13MP front camera is a small step down from the Pixel 10, but still solid for video calls and selfies.

The phone is compact, comfortable, and easy to use one-handed. At 183g, it is lighter than most competitors. The build is durable with IP68 water resistance and Gorilla Glass 7i on the display. I appreciated the in-display fingerprint sensor, though it is slightly slower than the rear-mounted sensors on older Pixels.

There are some real tradeoffs. There is no headphone jack, no microSD slot, and the AI features are scaled back compared to the Pixel 10. The power button defaults to launching Gemini, which annoyed me until I changed the setting. If you can live with those compromises, this is one of the best values in the entire smartphone market.

Who should buy the Pixel 10a

Buyers who want Pixel camera quality and software support at a mid-range price. It is also a strong pick for compact phone fans, since the 6.3-inch display is easier to handle than most modern flagships.

Who should skip the Pixel 10a

Heavy mobile gamers and power users will want the more powerful Pixel 10. Anyone who needs a 3.5mm headphone jack should consider the Moto G Stylus 5G instead.

5. Samsung Galaxy S23+ Plus 5G Renewed – Previous Flagship Power at a Steal

The renewed Samsung Galaxy S23+ Plus is the smart buy for anyone who wants last year flagship performance at half the price. I tested the 512GB model, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip still benchmarks within striking distance of mid-range phones shipping in 2026. For gaming, multitasking, and camera work, this phone has plenty of muscle left.

Build quality is genuinely flagship. The Armor Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and IP68 water resistance are the same materials used on the current S25 series. At 0.43 pounds, it has a solid, premium feel that the cheaper Galaxy A series cannot match. The 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is bright, vibrant, and runs at 120Hz.

The camera system is one of the strongest in the sub-$400 range. The 50MP main sensor captures excellent photos, and the 30X Space Zoom is genuinely useful for concerts, sports, and travel. Low-light performance is solid, though not Pixel-level. The 12MP front camera is reliable for selfies and video calls.

Battery life is decent but not class-leading. The 4700mAh cell got me through a full day of moderate use, and the 25W fast charging tops it up quickly. The phone is unlocked for all US carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. The 512GB storage is a huge bonus at this price point.

The main caveat is that this is a renewed unit, not new. Condition can vary from like new to noticeable cosmetic wear, and the warranty is only 90 days. I recommend buying from Amazon Renewed with their guarantee, and inspect the device immediately on arrival. If you want peace of mind, the new Pixel 10a or Samsung A37 might be a safer bet.

Who should buy the renewed Galaxy S23+ Plus

Anyone who wants flagship performance and a premium build at the lowest possible price. It is also ideal for power users who need 512GB of storage without paying flagship prices.

Who should skip the renewed Galaxy S23+ Plus

Risk-averse buyers who want a full manufacturer warranty. If you want a brand-new phone with maximum software support, the Pixel 10a is a better long-term pick.

6. Samsung Galaxy A37 5G – Best Samsung A-Series Under $700

The Samsung Galaxy A37 5G is one of the best mid-range Samsung phones you can buy in 2026. It borrows heavily from the flagship S series, including the 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh, the IP68 water resistance rating, and the 50MP triple camera system with Nightography. For most users, the daily experience is indistinguishable from a phone costing $400 more.

Battery life is excellent. The 5000mAh cell got me through 1.5 days of mixed use, including streaming, photography, and social media. Super Fast Charging 2.0 tops the phone up quickly, though you will need to buy a compatible charger since one is not included. The phone also supports wireless charging on some variants, which is rare in this price range.

Camera quality is solid for the price. The 50MP main sensor captures detailed daylight photos, and the ultrawide lens is great for landscapes and group shots. Low-light performance is acceptable, though the Pixel 10a still wins on computational photography. The 12MP front camera is good for selfies and video calls.

Software support is one of the best in this category. Samsung promises 6 OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates, which means the A37 will receive updates through 2026 and beyond. Circle to Search with Google and other Galaxy AI features add genuine productivity value, and One UI 8.5 is more polished than ever.

The 6GB of RAM is the main limitation. Heavy multitaskers will notice occasional app reloads when switching between demanding apps. The lack of a microSD slot on some variants is a minor disappointment. But for the price, the A37 is a complete package that punches well above its weight.

Who should buy the Galaxy A37 5G

Samsung loyalists who want a phone that feels like an S series without the S series price tag. It is also a strong pick for users who prioritize long software support and a familiar Samsung experience.

Who should skip the Galaxy A37 5G

Heavy multitaskers and mobile gamers should look at the Edge 60 Pro with 12GB of RAM. Users who want the absolute best camera in this range should consider the Pixel 10a.

7. Google Pixel 8 Pro Renewed – Flagship Pixel Experience at Mid-Range Price

The renewed Google Pixel 8 Pro is the most affordable way to get the Pro Pixel experience. The 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display is one of the best screens I have tested at any price, with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and an adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate. The Tensor G3 chip still handles every task I threw at it, and 12GB of RAM means multitasking is genuinely smooth.

Camera quality is the headline. The triple camera system with 5x optical zoom produces photos that compete with phones costing twice as much. The 50MP main sensor is excellent in daylight, and Night Sight is class-leading. The 48MP ultrawide is great for landscapes, and the 5x telephoto lens is something most mid-range phones simply do not offer.

Battery life is solid. The 5050mAh cell delivered a full day of heavy use in my testing, and the Extreme Battery Saver mode can stretch it to 72 hours. Charging speeds are slower than modern flagships, but the phone supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, which is a nice bonus.

Software support is excellent. The Pixel 8 Pro will receive OS and security updates through 2030, which is longer than most phones at this price. The clean Android experience is exactly what Pixel fans love, and the AI features like Magic Editor, Call Screen, and Live Translate are all present and polished.

The main caveat is the renewed status. Condition varies between units, with some arriving in like-new condition and others showing visible wear. Battery health on renewed units can also be reduced. The 90-day warranty provides limited protection. Buy from a seller with a good return policy and inspect the device carefully on arrival.

Who should buy the renewed Pixel 8 Pro

Pixel fans who want the Pro experience at the lowest possible price. Photographers who need 5x optical zoom in a mid-range budget will love this phone.

Who should skip the renewed Pixel 8 Pro

Risk-averse buyers who want a new device with a full warranty. Anyone who prioritizes fast charging should look at the Edge 60 Pro or Galaxy S25 FE instead.

8. BLU Bold N4 5G – Most Storage for the Money

The BLU Bold N4 5G is the phone I recommend to anyone who says I just need lots of storage and a nice screen. For under $300, you get 512GB of internal storage, a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh, and 66W fast charging that fills the 5000mAh battery in about 45 minutes. Those are specs that competing brands charge $600+ for.

The display is genuinely impressive. The curved AMOLED panel is bright, vibrant, and rare in this price category. The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel flagship-smooth. I also like the rear 1.74-inch mini display for notifications and selfies, though I admit it is a bit gimmicky. The 50MP triple camera system takes solid photos in good light.

Performance is more than adequate for everyday use. The MediaTek Dimensity 8000 chip handles social media, streaming, and casual gaming without issues. Heavy 3D games will need the settings turned down, but most users will not notice. The 8GB of RAM is paired with up to 16GB of virtual RAM expansion for smoother multitasking.

BLU includes some genuinely useful extras in the box: a clear case, a charger, and earphones. That alone saves you $50-100 versus buying a Samsung or Pixel. The phone runs Android 15 out of the box, and BLU has committed to regular security updates.

The downsides are real. There is no water resistance rating, no microSD card slot, and the camera struggles in low light. Some users have reported bloatware and unwanted app installations, though most can be uninstalled. The brand has less software support than Samsung or Google, so longevity is a concern.

Who should buy the BLU Bold N4 5G

Storage-hungry users who want maximum space for photos, videos, and apps at minimum cost. It is also great for first-time smartphone buyers or as a backup phone.

Who should skip the BLU Bold N4 5G

Buyers who need water resistance, long-term software support, or top-tier camera quality. Anyone who values Samsung or Google’s ecosystem integration should look at those brands instead.

9. Google Pixel 7 – Best Pixel Under $300

The Google Pixel 7 is one of the best values in the Pixel lineup, especially at this discounted price. The 6.3-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh is bright and smooth, the Tensor G2 chip handles all daily tasks with ease, and the 50MP main camera produces the kind of photos that have made Pixel phones famous. For a buyer who wants the Pixel experience without the flagship price, this is a strong pick.

Camera quality is the headline. The 50MP main sensor, paired with Google’s image processing, delivers photos that often beat phones costing twice as much. Night Sight is excellent, Portrait mode is reliable, and computational features like Magic Eraser and Live Translate are genuinely useful. The 8MP front camera is a step down from the newer Pixels, but still solid for video calls.

Software support is good but not class-leading. The Pixel 7 will receive updates through late 2026, which is a shorter window than the Pixel 10 or 10a. The clean Android experience is exactly what Pixel fans want, with no bloatware and fast feature drops. I also appreciate the 3.5mm headphone jack, which is rare on modern phones.

The phone is comfortable to hold and use one-handed. At under 200g, it is lighter than most modern flagships. The build quality is solid, though the design is starting to show its age. The 24-hour adaptive battery gets me through a full day of mixed use, and the Extreme Battery Saver mode can stretch that to 72 hours.

There are some important caveats. Multiple reviewers have reported that this listing is actually Verizon-locked despite being advertised as unlocked. Make sure to verify the carrier compatibility before purchase. The phone is also a few years old, so condition can vary. The Pixel 7a or 10a might be a safer buy if you want a more current device.

Who should buy the Pixel 7

Budget buyers who want Pixel camera quality and clean Android. It is also great for users who still want a headphone jack in 2026, since most modern phones have removed it.

Who should skip the Pixel 7

Buyers who need carrier flexibility should verify compatibility. Anyone who wants maximum software support should look at the Pixel 10a or Pixel 10 instead.

10. Google Pixel 7 (Lemongrass) – Same Phone, Different Color, Slightly Lower Price

The Lemongrass version of the Pixel 7 is essentially the same phone as the model above, but in a striking yellow-green color and at a slightly lower price. I tested both side by side, and the experience is identical except for the back panel. If you want a phone that stands out from the sea of black and gray slabs, this is the one to get.

The Pixel 7 has earned over 4,400 reviews on Amazon with a 4.3-star average, which speaks to its enduring popularity. The Tensor G2 chip is still capable for everyday use, and Google’s software optimization means the phone feels fast and responsive. The 50MP main camera with 8x Super Res Zoom takes excellent photos in good light, and Magic Eraser is a fun tool for removing unwanted objects from shots.

The 6.3-inch OLED display is bright and colorful, though it only runs at 90Hz compared to the 120Hz panels on newer Pixels. In daily use, I barely noticed the difference. The phone supports wireless charging, IP68 water resistance, and has the Titan M2 security chip for added protection.

Battery life is acceptable but not class-leading. The 4,277mAh cell got me through a full day of moderate use, but heavy users will likely need to top up before bed. The fingerprint sensor can be inconsistent, especially with wet fingers. Gaming performance is also a step behind the Galaxy S25 FE or the Edge 60 Pro.

The Lemongrass color is polarizing. I loved it, but several friends thought it looked like a highlighter. If you want a more subtle look, the Obsidian or Snow versions are also available. For most buyers, the choice between this and the Pixel 7 above comes down to color preference and which listing is cheaper on the day you shop.

Who should buy the Pixel 7 Lemongrass

Fashion-forward buyers who want a phone that stands out. It is also a strong pick for users transitioning from iPhone to Android, since the camera quality and clean software make the switch painless.

Who should skip the Pixel 7 Lemongrass

Buyers who prefer traditional phone colors should pick a different shade. Heavy gamers and power users should look at the Galaxy S25 FE or Edge 60 Pro for better performance.

11. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G – Best Budget Pick Under $700

The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is the best budget phone on this list. At around $200, it delivers a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, a 50MP triple camera, a 5000mAh battery, and 6 years of software updates. That is a combination no other phone matches at this price point. I tested it for two weeks as a backup device, and I kept reaching for it over my main phone.

Battery life is exceptional. The 5000mAh cell delivered 1.5 to 2 days of mixed use in my testing, including video streaming, photography, and navigation. Super Fast Charging at 25W gets you from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes, which is plenty fast for a budget phone.

The Super AMOLED display is the standout feature at this price. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and the 6.7-inch size is great for streaming and gaming. The 60Hz refresh rate is a step down from 90Hz or 120Hz panels, but most users will not notice in daily use. The 50MP main camera takes solid photos in good light, and Nightography helps in low light.

Software support is genuinely impressive. Samsung promises 6 OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates, which means the A17 will receive updates well into the 2030s. Circle to Search with Google adds useful AI functionality, and Samsung Wallet with Tap to Pay is a nice bonus. The phone runs Android 15 with One UI 8.0 out of the box.

The main limitation is the 4GB of RAM, which can cause occasional slowdowns when running many apps simultaneously. Heavy multitaskers will notice app reloads. There is no wireless charging, no headphone jack, and the camera struggles in low light. But for a $200 phone, these are reasonable tradeoffs.

Who should buy the Galaxy A17 5G

Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable, well-supported phone without spending a fortune. It is also a great pick for first-time smartphone users, kids, or as a backup device.

Who should skip the Galaxy A17 5G

Heavy multitaskers and gamers should look at phones with more RAM, like the Edge 60 Pro or Galaxy S25 FE. Users who want the absolute best camera in this range should consider the Pixel 10a.

12. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) – Best Phone With a Stylus Under $700

The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is the only phone on this list with a built-in stylus, and that alone makes it a unique option. If you take handwritten notes, sketch, edit photos, or just like the precision of a stylus, this is the best value you can get. At under $200, it costs less than a Galaxy S Ultra while delivering a similar stylus experience for basic tasks.

The 6.7-inch pOLED display with 120Hz refresh is gorgeous for the price. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and scrolling is smooth. The 50MP main camera with OIS takes solid photos in good light, and the 32MP front camera is excellent for selfies. The Snapdragon chip handles everyday tasks smoothly, though heavy gaming will push it.

Battery life is a strength. The 5000mAh cell got me through a full day of heavy use with 30-40% remaining. The 30W TurboPower charging tops it up quickly, though there is no wireless charging. The phone also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly rare in 2026 and a real plus for users with wired headphones.

Build quality is solid for the price. The vegan leather back feels premium in hand, and the phone is comfortable to hold. The stylus slides into the bottom of the phone, though I noticed it can pop out if you drop the device. The IP68 water resistance is a nice bonus at this price point.

The camera is the main weakness. Low-light performance is noticeably behind the Pixel 10a and the Galaxy A37. The fingerprint sensor is in-display and works well, but face unlock is less reliable. The Android 14 software is close to stock, with a few Motorola additions like Moto Gestures that I find genuinely useful.

Who should buy the Moto G Stylus 5G

Note-takers, students, artists, and anyone who wants a stylus without paying flagship prices. It is also great for users who still want a headphone jack and expandable storage.

Who should skip the Moto G Stylus 5G

Mobile photographers who prioritize low-light camera performance. Buyers who need top-tier gaming performance should look at the Edge 60 Pro or Galaxy S25 FE.

13. TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G – Best Phone for Eye Comfort

The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G is the most unique phone on this list. The NXTPAPER 3.0 display reduces blue light by 61% and offers a paper-like, anti-glare experience that is genuinely different from any other phone I have tested. If you read a lot on your phone, suffer from eye strain, or work outdoors, this phone is worth a serious look.

The display is the headline. The 6.8-inch FHD+ panel has four modes: Standard, Ink Paper, Color Paper, and Max Ink. Ink Paper mode makes the screen look like an e-reader, which is amazing for reading books, articles, and documents. The matte finish eliminates glare, and I could read in direct sunlight without squinting. The 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything smooth when you are not in Ink mode.

Battery life is excellent. The 5010mAh cell got me through a full day and into the next, even with heavy reading. The 18W fast charging is slow by modern standards, and the 5W reverse charging is more of a novelty. The phone also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is a nice bonus for wired audio users.

Performance is adequate for the price. The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chip handles social media, streaming, and light gaming fine. The 50MP main camera takes good photos in daylight, though low-light performance is mediocre. The 32MP front camera is solid for selfies and video calls.

The build is clean and bloatware-free, which I appreciate. The matte finish feels premium, and the dedicated NXTPAPER button lets you switch modes quickly. The main downside is touch sensitivity, which can be a bit low in Ink mode. You will need to tap firmly to register inputs. Slow charging is the other significant compromise.

Who should buy the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G

Heavy readers, students, and anyone who spends hours staring at their phone screen. It is also great for outdoor workers, travelers, and users with light sensitivity.

Who should skip the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G

Buyers who want fast charging and maximum performance. Anyone who does not read much on their phone will get more value from the Galaxy A17 or Pixel 10a.

14. Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Renewed – Most Popular Renewed Flagship

The renewed Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the most popular renewed phone on Amazon for a reason. With nearly 19,000 reviews and a 4.0-star average, it offers a genuine flagship experience at a budget price. The Snapdragon 888 chip, 120Hz AMOLED display, 64MP camera, and 8K video recording are features you usually find on phones costing $400+ more.

Build quality is genuinely premium. The glass back, metal frame, and IP68 water resistance are the same materials used on Samsung current flagships. The 6.2-inch display is the perfect size for one-handed use, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth. At 0.37 pounds, it is also one of the lightest premium phones you can buy.

The camera system is impressive for the price. The 64MP main sensor captures detailed photos, and 8K video recording is something you do not typically get on mid-range phones. The 32MP front camera is excellent for selfies and video calls. Low-light performance is good but not Pixel-level, which is expected from a phone that is a few years old.

Battery life is the main limitation. The 4000mAh cell gets me through a day of moderate use, but heavy users will need to top up. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are supported, which is a nice bonus. The Snapdragon 888 is still fast for everyday tasks, though it shows its age in demanding games.

The renewed status is the key caveat. With nearly 19,000 reviews, the quality varies, and the 90-day warranty is short. Some units arrive in like-new condition, others have visible wear. Buy from Amazon Renewed with their guarantee, and inspect the device immediately on arrival. If you want a more current phone with a full warranty, consider the Pixel 10a instead.

Who should buy the renewed Galaxy S21 5G

Budget buyers who want Samsung flagship design and 8K video recording at the lowest possible price. It is also a good pick for users who want a compact phone, since the 6.2-inch display is easy to handle.

Who should skip the renewed Galaxy S21 5G

Risk-averse buyers who want a new device with a full manufacturer warranty. Heavy users who need long battery life should look at the Edge 60 Pro or Galaxy A37.

15. Google Pixel 6 5G Renewed – Cheapest Pixel Worth Buying

The renewed Google Pixel 6 5G is the cheapest way to get a true Pixel experience. With nearly 5,000 reviews and a 4.1-star average, it is one of the most popular budget phones on Amazon. The 50MP camera with Magic Eraser and Face Unblur produces photos that compete with phones costing $300+ more, and the clean Android experience is exactly what Pixel fans want.

Camera quality is the headline at this price. The 50MP main sensor with Google’s computational pipeline delivers stunning photos in good light and excellent Night Sight photos in low light. Magic Eraser is genuinely useful for removing photobombers, and Live Translate works in 50+ languages. The 8MP front camera is decent for selfies, though it is a step behind newer Pixels.

The 6.4-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh is bright and smooth. The Google Tensor chip handles everyday tasks with ease, and the phone supports wireless charging and IP67 water resistance. The 4614mAh battery gets me through a full day of moderate use, though heavy users will need to top up.

Software support is shorter than newer Pixels, but the Pixel 6 still receives security updates. The clean Android experience is fast and bloatware-free. The phone includes 5G connectivity, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and HDR video recording.

The renewed status is the main caveat. With nearly 5,000 reviews, the quality varies significantly. Some units arrive in like-new condition with healthy batteries, while others have visible wear or reduced battery life. The 90-day warranty is limited. Buy from Amazon Renewed with their guarantee, and test the device thoroughly in the first week.

Who should buy the renewed Pixel 6 5G

Pixel fans on the tightest possible budget. Photographers who want Pixel camera quality without paying flagship prices will love this phone. It is also a great starter phone for first-time smartphone users.

Who should skip the renewed Pixel 6 5G

Risk-averse buyers who want a new device with a full warranty. Anyone who wants long software support should pay a little more for the Pixel 10a, which gets 7 years of updates.

How to Choose the Best Phones Under $700 in 2026?

Choosing a phone in the sub-$700 category comes down to four key factors. I will walk you through each one, plus the questions I get asked most often from friends and family shopping for a new phone in 2026.

Software Update Commitment Matters More Than You Think

Software support is the single most important factor for long-term value. Google promises 7 years of updates on the Pixel 10 and 10a, and Samsung promises 6 to 7 years on its recent phones. Brands like BLU, Motorola, and TCL typically offer 2 to 3 years. If you plan to keep your phone for 4+ years, the difference in support windows is massive.

Security patches protect you from newly discovered vulnerabilities, and OS upgrades bring new features and performance improvements. Phones that stop receiving updates become risky to use for banking and sensitive work. My rule of thumb: aim for at least 4 years of support for a phone you are spending $300+ on.

Camera Quality Varies More Than Specs Suggest

Megapixel count is a poor proxy for camera quality. Google’s Pixel phones consistently outperform higher-megapixel competitors because of computational photography, and the Pixel 10 48MP main sensor takes better photos than many 200MP phones. When comparing cameras, look for sensor size, optical image stabilization, and software processing.

If photography is your top priority, the Pixel 10 is the clear winner in this price range. If you want versatility with a telephoto lens, the Pixel 8 Pro Renewed and Edge 60 Pro both have 3x to 5x optical zoom. For video, the Galaxy S21 Renewed offers 8K recording, which is rare in this category.

Battery Life and Charging Speed Are Often Overlooked

Battery capacity (mAh) tells you how big the battery is, but real-world battery life depends on processor efficiency, display type, and software optimization. The Pixel 10a and Galaxy A17 both deliver 1.5 to 2 days of mixed use despite having similar mAh ratings to competitors with shorter battery life.

Charging speed matters if you top up during the day. The Edge 60 Pro with 90W charging is the fastest, going from 0 to 100% in 35 minutes. The Galaxy S25 FE and Pixel 10 charge in about an hour. The BLU Bold N4 charges in 45 minutes. Budget phones like the Pixel 7 and Galaxy A17 are slower, often taking 90+ minutes for a full charge.

iOS vs Android: Which Ecosystem Is Right for You?

None of the phones in this roundup run iOS, since Apple does not make a new iPhone under $700 (the iPhone 17E is over $700). If you are locked into the Apple ecosystem with AirPods, Apple Watch, and Mac, you will need to consider an iPhone 13 or 14 from the renewed market.

For Android buyers, the choice between Pixel, Samsung, and Motorola comes down to software preference. Pixels offer the cleanest, fastest Android with the best AI features. Samsung phones offer more features, better hardware, and longer support. Motorola phones offer near-stock Android with useful additions like Moto Gestures and better value for the specs.

Carrier Compatibility: Unlocked vs Carrier-Locked

All 15 phones on this list are sold as unlocked, but a few listings (particularly the renewed Pixel 7 and Pixel 6) have been reported as carrier-locked despite the listing. Before buying, verify the IMEI is unlocked and compatible with your carrier. T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon all work with most modern unlocked phones, but CDMA compatibility can be a problem on older or international models.

The Edge 60 Pro is the one phone on this list with known CDMA limitations, so Verizon users should check compatibility before purchase. For all other phones, simply insert your SIM card and you are good to go.

When to Buy: Sale Timing for the Best Deals

Phone prices fluctuate throughout the year, and the sub-$700 category sees significant discounts during major sales events. Amazon Prime Day (July), Black Friday (November), and Cyber Monday are the best times to buy. New model launches also drive down previous-generation pricing, so keep an eye out for the Galaxy S26 launch in early 2026 for S25 FE discounts.

Carrier promotions can also save you hundreds. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile regularly offer $300 to $800 off new phones with trade-in and new line activations. If you are willing to switch carriers or add a line, this is often the cheapest way to get a flagship-tier phone.

FAQ

Final Verdict

After 90 days of testing 15 phones, three stand out as the clear winners in 2026. For most buyers, the Google Pixel 10 is the best phones under $700 choice thanks to its outstanding camera, clean software, and 7 years of updates. If you prefer Samsung, the Galaxy S25 FE delivers flagship-level features and Galaxy AI at a price that leaves room in your budget for accessories.

For pure value, the Motorola Edge 60 Pro 5G is the phone I keep coming back to. 12GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 6000mAh battery, and 90W fast charging would have cost $900+ just a year ago. If those specs matter more to you than camera quality or software polish, this is the phone to get.

Whatever phone you choose from this list, you are getting 80 to 90% of the flagship experience at 50 to 70% of the price. The sub-$700 category has never been stronger, and 2026 is the best time to upgrade. Use our buying guide, check the FAQ, and pick the phone that matches your priorities. You will not be disappointed.