Best smartphones under $400 – October 2025

To find a great phone without breaking the bank can be hard, especially when so many mid-range models claim to offer top-tier power at a lower cost. In 2025, several brands have raised the bar for what users can expect from phones priced under $400. These phones now give strong chips, high refresh rate screens, long software support, and even some AI tools. This guide looks at the best picks in October 2025, showing their key strengths and limits to help you pick which gives the best mix for you.

The Pixel 9a may not be perfect, but it remains an easy pick for those seeking a phone that just works. Its 6.3-inch P-OLED screen, paired with a 120Hz refresh rate, gives it a visual smoothness rare in this price range. Under the hood, it runs on the same Tensor G4 chip found in Google’s top models, letting the 9a handle tough tasks with ease.

Photo work is another strong side. The 48MP main lens gives sharp, clear shots, while the 13MP wide and selfie cams give solid results. Though the lack of a zoom lens cuts down on range, most users will find the image quality more than fair for daily use.

However, the real value of this phone lies in Google’s software. Running Android 15 with sure updates for seven years, the Pixel 9a is unmatched. AI tools like Call Screen and Live Translate add to the ease, even though not all top tools are available.

The battery life is fair, though the slow 23W charge may annoy heavy users. The look is plain, but the power, software, and long-term trust make the Pixel 9a one of the best full picks below $400.

The Nothing Phone (3a) brings a bold style to the mid-range world. Its semi-clear back, with the fun Glyph light setup, makes it easy to spot. Past its looks, it shines with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip and a 6.77-inch 120Hz OLED screen that gives bright hues and smooth moves.

The 5000mAh cell gives top life, lasting a full day of mixed use. Software care is strong too, with six years of fixes and the new Key tool, which will gain more use with time.

Still, the cam setup is where the Phone (3a) falls short. The main lens does well in bright light but drops in dark spots, and the wide cam gives fair but not great shots. Yet, the phone’s strong speed, neat software, and bold look make it right for those who want style and ease more than pro-level photo work.

Samsung’s Galaxy A56 keeps the brand’s habit of steady mid-range phones. It has a top look like the Galaxy S25+, with a slim frame and fine build. The screen is bright and sharp, giving a clear view both inside and out.

One UI 7 gives a neat software setup packed with handy AI tools that blend well with daily tasks. Samsung’s six-year fix plan also makes sure the phone will stay safe and fresh for years. Speed in daily use is smooth, though heavier games or multi-tasks can show its limits.

The main back cam gives good shots in most scenes, but the side lenses lack sharpness. Sound is a weak side too, with bland audio that makes users lean on headsets. Still, the Galaxy A56’s mix of safe software, fine look, and steady speed makes it a smart, well-kept pick.

The Honor 400 stands out for its camera skills and rich feel. Priced well below most rivals, it uses a 200MP main lens that gives clear shots with a rich tone. Its face modes, made with Studio Harcourt, add a pro flair rare in this range. The wide-angle and selfie cameras add more range, even with no zoom lens.

In looks, the phone gives a sleek style like high-end ones. The 6.55-inch AMOLED screen shows bright hues and smooth flow, while the 5300mAh cell gives long use. Honor’s MagicOS adds AI tools made to ease work and tailor to user needs.

Speed is mostly steady, though the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip can lag in heavy play. The charge rate is also cut down from the old Honor phones. Yet, the full worth is great, given the six years of updates.

OnePlus keeps its place in the low-cost range with the Nord 5, though this round brings both gains and drops. The phone drops the full metal frame of the old model, going for a light build, some may find it less fine. Battery size and charge rate are both cut a bit, but still fair for most users.

The Nord 5’s 6.83-inch AMOLED screen, though, is one of the best here, with a sharp view and true hues. The look of OxygenOS stays neat and quick. AI tools add smart help like app hints and use-based aid. OnePlus also gives four years of OS upgrades and six years of safe patching, keeping it secure for a long while.

The cam is fine but not top-tier, with the main lens giving fair shots and the side cams being less firm. Still, for users who like OxygenOS and a large, bright screen, the Nord 5 is a nice pick that blends smooth use with visual draw.

To pick the best phone under $400 in October 2025 depends on what you value most. The Pixel 9a wins on long life and fair power, the Nothing Phone (3a) gives bold style and solid parts, and the Galaxy A56 gives safe use with long support. The Honor 400 fits photo fans who want a fine camera at a low price, while the OnePlus Nord 5 fits those who like neat software and bright screens.

Each phone shows a new view of what a low-cost phone can be, and all prove how far mid-range phones have grown. Whether you value looks, speed, or long support, these phones show that top use no longer needs a top price.