If you’re shopping for a new mobile phone and don’t want to spend a fortune, then you should probably continue reading. For May 2025, there are a couple of decent mobile phone options that we have selected. You really do not have to spend top dollar to get a reliable device. These phones offer modern features, stylish designs, and strong performance, all while keeping your wallet happy.
Whether you’re after long battery life, clean software, fast 5G, or great cameras, there’s something on this list that should suit your needs. This guide looks at some of the best smartphones under $400 currently available. Each phone listed brings something special to the table, and we’ve chosen models that stand out for their value, features, and build quality. Let’s take a closer look.
Best Smartphones Under $400
1. CMF Phone 2 Pro
Nothing’s sub-brand CMF is better known for accessories, but the CMF Phone 2 Pro proves the company is serious about budget phones, too. At just under $300, this phone punches above its weight with a clean design, near-stock Android experience, and a unique modular back panel that allows for accessory add-ons like a cardholder or stand.
What makes it shine is the blend of simplicity and polish. The 120Hz AMOLED screen is bright and fluid, and the phone runs smooth thanks to a MediaTek Dimensity chip. While the camera is basic, it handles daylight shots well, and the lack of bloatware helps the whole system feel more responsive. For people who want something affordable, practical, and stylish, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is easy to recommend.
2. Poco X7
The Poco X7 is a solid choice for users who care about speed and media. Xiaomi’s Poco line continues to offer great performance for the price, and the X7 is no exception. For about $300, you get a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip, 5G, and a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Gaming is smooth, and the 5,100mAh battery easily lasts a day. Poco also includes 67W fast charging, which takes the battery from near empty to full in under an hour. The camera setup is versatile, with a 64MP main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and decent video quality for casual use. MIUI may not be for everyone, but the raw specs and battery tech make the X7 a top pick for power users on a budget.
Best Smartphones Under $400
3. vivo T4 5G
Technically just above the $400 mark, the vivo T4 5G still deserves mention for users willing to stretch their budget slightly. This device was released just last month, and it offers one of the most balanced experiences in this price range, combining an eye-catching design with a capable camera and high refresh-rate display.
The standout feature is its huge 7300 mAh Li-Ion battery, a capacity that you don’t find on many smartphones. It supports 90W wired fast charging which means users can get a full charge in about an hour. It also supports 7.5W reverse wired charging which means it can power smaller devices like watches, earpods etc.
The T4 comes with a 50MP OIS main camera, which performs well in both day and night shots. It also comes with stereo speakers and a bright 6.77-inch AMOLED screen running at 144Hz, making it one of the smoothest displays on this list. The Funtouch OS has improved in recent years, and while it still has a learning curve, it adds useful features.
If you don’t mind going a little over budget, the T4 5G offers a better battery and display than most phones in this price segment. If you are lucky, you may get a good deal from any of the popular e-retailers for less than $400.
4. Motorola Edge 60 Neo
Motorola has built a strong reputation for clean Android software and dependable hardware, and the Moto Edge 60 Neo continues that trend. Priced at around $330, it combines a 144Hz OLED display with a sleek build and solid cameras.
This phone is ideal for people who want a clean UI, good battery life, and a lightweight device. The 32MP front-facing camera is especially good for video calls and selfies, while the 50MP main rear camera handles everyday photography well. With 68W TurboPower fast charging and a vegan leather back design, the Edge 60 Neo feels more premium than its price suggests.
If you’re tired of bloated UIs and want something elegant and simple, this Motorola model delivers without compromise.
Best Smartphones Under $400
5. Samsung Galaxy F56 5G
Samsung’s Galaxy F56 5G is one of the better budget offerings from the brand in 2025. It hits that $300 mark while still providing a good mix of features for everyday users. The phone has a 6.74-inch Super AMOLED+ screen, a 120Hz refresh rate, and One UI 7 based on Android 15.
It’s powered by the 4nm Exynos 1480, which ensures solid everyday performance and 5G support. Samsung’s software commitment also gives this phone an edge—users can expect multiple years of OS and security updates, which isn’t always guaranteed at this price point. Samsung will offer 6 major upgrades, up to Android 21. The camera is a 50MP main shooter backed by a depth sensor, which performs reliably in most lighting.
The Galaxy F56 may not break any performance records, but it nails the basics with a polished experience, good battery life, and a bright, responsive screen.
Final thoughts
The market for sub-$400 smartphones in May 2025 is surprisingly competitive. Whether you’re a gamer, a casual user, or someone who just wants reliable performance without overspending, there’s a phone here for you.
The CMF Phone 2 Pro is great for minimalists and those who value clean software. The Poco X7 is perfect if you care about speed and charging time. The vivo T4 Ultra, while slightly over budget, offers top-tier camera features and an incredibly smooth screen. Motorola’s Edge 60 Neo keeps things elegant and bloat-free, while the Samsung Galaxy F56 5G brings Samsung’s trusted ecosystem into a budget-friendly package.
All five phones are solid picks, each with its strengths. With so many well-rounded choices available, buying a budget phone in 2025 doesn’t mean settling for less—it just means being smart with your money.
