In 2025, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a decent smartphone. Whether you’re on a tight budget, buying a phone for a child or elderly family member, or simply need a backup device, there are several affordable smartphones under $100 that still provide good functionality.
While you shouldn’t expect flagship performance, many of these phones offer basic features such as calling, messaging, browsing, and light app usage without major issues.
Here are the top 5 best smartphones under $100 you can buy in 2025 in the US:
1. Nokia C110
Price: Around $89
Best For: Basic use and clean Android experience
The Nokia C110 is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a reliable device under $100. It comes with a 6.3-inch HD+ display, Android 13 (Go Edition), and a MediaTek Helio P22 processor. This phone is designed for everyday tasks like calling, browsing, and using lightweight apps.
Key Features:
- 3GB RAM / 32GB Storage (expandable via microSD)
- 13MP rear camera
- Long-lasting 3000mAh battery
- Clean Android interface
Pros:
- Reliable performance for the price
- Durable and compact build
- Clean, no-bloatware software
Cons:
- Limited performance for gaming
- Small battery compared to others
2. Moto E13
Price: Around $99
Best For: Streaming and multitasking
Motorola’s Moto E13 is one of the best-designed budget smartphones in the market, offering a surprisingly smooth experience for a phone at this price. It features a 6.5-inch display and a Unisoc T606 processor, suitable for light multitasking and media consumption.
Key Features:
- 2GB/4GB RAM options
- 64GB storage (expandable)
- Android 13 (Go Edition)
- Dolby Atmos speakers
Pros:
- Great display for media
- Excellent battery life
- Clean software experience
Cons:
- Slightly sluggish performance with many apps
- Camera is average in low light
3. UMIDIGI A13s
Price: Around $95
Best For: Stylish design and basic tasks
UMIDIGI has been making waves in the budget phone market, and the A13s is a great example. With a sleek design, decent specs, and Android 12, this phone is a great choice for light users who want a modern-looking phone.
Key Features:
- 4GB RAM + 64GB storage
- 6.7-inch display
- Dual 16MP + 8MP cameras
- 5150mAh battery
Pros:
- Big screen and good design
- Solid battery life
- Stock Android experience
Cons:
- Not widely available in local stores
- Limited software updates
4. BLU G63
Price: Around $89
Best For: Basic multimedia and social media
The BLU G63 offers a lot for its price—dual cameras, a punch-hole display, and a large 5000mAh battery. It’s not meant for gamers, but for calls, YouTube, and social media apps, it does the job well.
Key Features:
- 4GB RAM + 64GB storage
- 6.8-inch HD+ display
- Dual 13MP + 0.3MP rear cameras
- Android 12
Pros:
- Big screen
- Good storage at this price
- Decent battery
Cons:
- Build quality is average
- Occasional lag in multitasking
5. TCL 30 LE (Verizon Prepaid)
Price: Around $69 (Verizon only)
Best For: Entry-level users in Verizon network
TCL’s 30 LE is a great option if you are on Verizon’s network. It has a modern design, solid display, and a dependable performance for the price. It’s available as a prepaid option through Verizon and works great for calling, texting, and basic apps.
Key Features:
- 6.1-inch HD+ display
- 2GB RAM + 32GB storage
- Android 12
- 3000mAh battery
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Good display for size
- Reliable network coverage via Verizon
Cons:
- Locked to Verizon
- Limited RAM and storage
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a smartphone under $100, the options listed above prove you don’t need to spend big for functionality. While these phones won’t win any performance awards, they are perfect for basic users, seniors, kids, or as a secondary device.
Always check for carrier compatibility and whether the phone is unlocked before buying, especially if you’re purchasing from platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Walmart.