While flagship smartphones boast impressive features, spending $1,000 is not a prerequisite for a satisfying Android experience nowadays. If you’re in need of a new smartphone and have a budget of approximately $200, there are numerous excellent options available. Surprisingly, some of the best Android phones under $200 come equipped with features like 5,000mAh batteries, multi-lens camera setups, and the promise of extended software updates.
We thoroughly evaluate various Android phones to ensure optimal performance without encountering unexpected issues down the line. If we were to recommend one Android smartphone in the sub-$200 price range, it would be the latest addition to Samsung’s lineup, the Galaxy A15 5G. Boasting a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen, a sizable battery with 25W fast charging support, and more, it offers a compelling package. Alternatively, consider Motorola’s Moto G Play (2024) for a straightforward yet functional device.
If you are shopping for sub 200$ buy used. I have bought a Note 9, S10E, LG G8, … for under 80$ each. Imagine what 200$ gets you.
None of these are getting updates though.
Yeah, buying phones that old is dumb advice
I’m 100% all for keeping old phones running for many years, but buying a note 9 in 2024 is not how to go about doing that
… Unless you put your own OS on it? Think that’s still possible in 2024, right?
even that will be out of date. when the oem stops updating a device, there’s only so much custom roms can do
That’s assuming you even can. I do not believe Snapdragon based Samsungs can be rooted/rommed.
Well you’re wrong tho, I have a S22 and rooting it was a piece of cake same as flashing a custom rom👌
You’re right, but all these phones will be better than any current budget. People who just need a phone to do basic things will probably not care updates, and they’ll be fine as long as they don’t download anything off random sites.
Yeah that’s not at all how malware distribution works these days. It’s done through hacked websites, shady ad networks, and highjacked apps.
it doesn’t matter, they don’t stop working If you are a couple of Versions behind. App developers have adopted and Always Support multiple old Versions.
Security - yeah maybe but I’d personally would feels 10x safer using a Stock Android Phone that doesn’t get updated than a up to date Samsung.
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Doesn’t have anything to do with updates, but yeah hardware might fail over time. Thats a risk you gotta take.
Yeah thats partially true, but many cricital issues get patches with Google Play Protect Updates. Also at least I’m not aware of any big hacks that happened on old Android Versions.
True yes, but id say 99% of Apps still support Android 9 which is 5 years old.
No they don’t Software becomes more demanding and so things overall feel slower. There can be cases where stuff like the battery can’t supply the voltage and thus the CPU can’t reach its peak Clockspeed, but thats pretty rare
No it became much easier since all phones now are made with glass or plastic. They now can be opened from the back which means you never have to touch the Display - the most fragile part.
Yes thats an issue but if your phone was somewhat popular you can still easily get them. I for example replaced my Galaxy S6’s screen protector last year. Still was able to easily buy one.