Best Budget iOS Phones Under $300 Reviewed
1. iPhone SE (2020)
Price: Starting around $199
Display: 4.7 inches Retina HD
Processor: A13 Bionic chip
Camera: 12 MP rear, 7 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 13 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
The iPhone SE (2020) is a standout option for budget-conscious consumers who crave the Apple ecosystem. Featuring the powerful A13 Bionic chip, it offers flagships-level performance. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display is vibrant, making for an enjoyable media experience. With a 12 MP rear camera, the iPhone SE captures stunning images in various lighting conditions, while the 7 MP front camera supports Portrait mode for selfies.
The device retains a classic design, reminiscent of the iPhone 8, featuring a compact body that’s easy to hold. Moreover, the iPhone SE supports wireless charging and provides excellent battery life, making it ideal for everyday use. Its iOS updates guarantee software longevity, ensuring the phone remains relevant and secure over time.
2. iPhone 7
Price: Approximately $200 (pre-owned)
Display: 4.7 inches Retina HD
Processor: A10 Fusion chip
Camera: 12 MP rear, 7 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 14 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 32GB, 128GB, 256GB
The iPhone 7, although a few years old, still holds its ground as a reliable budget phone. The A10 Fusion chip provides decent speed for everyday tasks like browsing and social media. The 4.7-inch Retina display ensures that content looks stunning, and its water-resistant design offers durability against spills and splashes.
The 12 MP rear camera excels in various conditions, and while it doesn’t have multiple lenses like modern phones, it still produces excellent photos. The battery performance is decent, and the iPhone 7 benefits from lasting software support as it is compatible with the latest versions of iOS. The device also comes with stereo speakers, enhancing the multimedia experience on a budget.
3. iPhone 8
Price: Around $220 (pre-owned)
Display: 4.7 inches Retina HD
Processor: A11 Bionic chip
Camera: 12 MP dual rear, 7 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 14 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 256GB
The iPhone 8 is a solid choice for budget buyers, combining classic aesthetics with modern capabilities. Its A11 Bionic chip can handle most applications smoothly, from casual gaming to productivity tasks. The design features glass on both sides, enabling wireless charging.
The dual-camera system captures stunning photos with excellent color reproduction and depth of field effects. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display ensures videos and images look sharp, and with IP67 water resistance, you can feel comfortable using it around water. As an added bonus, the iPhone 8 supports fast charging, allowing for more convenience on the go.
4. iPhone XR (Refurbished)
Price: Starting at approximately $250 (refurbished)
Display: 6.1 inches Liquid Retina HD
Processor: A12 Bionic chip
Camera: 12 MP rear, 7 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 16 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
While slightly above the 300-dollar mark when new, refurbished options of the iPhone XR often fall below this threshold. The A12 Bionic processor ensures speed and responsiveness, making it suitable for both casual and demanding applications. The larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display is perfect for multimedia consumption, offering vibrant colors and a significant screen real estate compared to smaller models.
The camera delivers impressive photos with Smart HDR and Portrait Mode features, while the battery life is class-leading, making it a great companion for those on the move. The device’s design includes Face ID for secure unlocking, elevating its appeal beyond standard budget devices.
5. iPhone 11 (Used)
Price: Approximately $299 (used)
Display: 6.1 inches Liquid Retina HD
Processor: A13 Bionic chip
Camera: Dual 12 MP rear, 12 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 17 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
For those willing to explore the used market, the iPhone 11 is a highly recommended choice. With an A13 Bionic chip, it offers superb speed and efficiency. The dual-camera setup enables versatile photography, with Night Mode allowing for impressive low-light shots. The front camera also supports 4K video recording, making it ideal for content creators.
The larger 6.1-inch display enhances the viewing experience for video streaming and gaming. Plus, with a robust battery life, users can enjoy extended use without frequent recharging. The iPhone 11 remains a favorite in the Apple community for offering flagship features at a budget-friendly price.
6. iPhone 12 Mini (Used)
Price: Starting around $300 (used)
Display: 5.4 inches Super Retina XDR
Processor: A14 Bionic chip
Camera: Dual 12 MP rear, 12 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 15 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
If you’re looking for a compact size without sacrificing performance, the iPhone 12 Mini is an excellent option, especially in the used market. The A14 Bionic chip provides top-tier performance, facilitating effortless multitasking and gaming. The vibrant 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR display offers incredible brightness and color accuracy.
The dual-camera system effectively captures stunning photos with advanced features like Night Mode and Deep Fusion. Although the battery life is slightly shorter than its larger counterparts, it still provides a full day’s use under moderate conditions. The iPhone 12 Mini is 5G-capable, making it future-proof for users who want faster internet speeds.
7. iPhone XS (Refurbished)
Price: Around $275 (refurbished)
Display: 5.8 inches Super Retina HD
Processor: A12 Bionic chip
Camera: Dual 12 MP rear, 7 MP front
Battery Life: Up to 14 hours of video playback
Storage Options: 64GB, 256GB
The iPhone XS, while older, remains a noteworthy choice in the budget category. The A12 Bionic chip runs iOS smoothly, ensuring users can enjoy apps, games, and media without a hitch. The 5.8-inch Super Retina HD display offers stunning visuals and immersive experiences, which is especially appealing for video watching.
The dual-camera system provides excellent photographic capabilities, particularly with the Portrait mode. Refurbished units come with the added advantage of affordability without significant compromises in performance. Most importantly, with customization options available, users can find a configuration that suits their needs.
In-Store Purchase or Online: Where to Buy?
When considering these budget iOS phones, prospective buyers can opt for various pathways to purchase. Authorized Apple retailers often provide refurbished models with warranties, heightening the sense of security. Sites like Amazon, eBay, and Best Buy also often feature competitive pricing for used or refurbished devices. Always ensure to check the return policy, especially when purchasing electronics online.
Important Features to Consider
When shopping for a budget iOS phone, consider the following features for optimal selection:
- Performance: The processor and RAM dictate how fluidly a phone runs various applications. Aim for models with newer chipsets.
- Camera Quality: High-resolution cameras with supplemental features like Night Mode significantly enhance photography experiences.
- Battery Life: Look for devices with longer battery lives, especially if you’re a frequent traveler.
- Software Updates: Choosing models that are still supported with recent iOS updates can prolong the device’s lifespan and usability.
- Storage Options: Factor in your usage needs. If you store many apps, photos, or videos, choose a model with ample storage.
By keeping these aspects in mind, users can select a budget-friendly iOS phone that meets their needs without exceeding their budget.
