5 Least Expensive Samsung Phones to Buy in 2025: Samsung continues to dominate the smartphone market with a diverse range of devices, from premium flagships to budget-friendly options.For cost-conscious consumers, Samsung’s Galaxy A series offers impressive features at affordable prices, making them ideal for those who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
These entry-level phones provide solid displays, decent cameras, long-lasting batteries, and extended software support, ensuring value for money.
The Importance of Budget Samsung Phones
Samsung’s Galaxy A series has become synonymous with affordability, delivering features like 5G connectivity, AMOLED displays, and robust software updates that were once exclusive to mid-range or flagship devices. In 2025, these budget phones cater to users who need reliable devices for everyday tasks—calling, texting, browsing, and light gaming—without the high cost of premium models like the Galaxy S25 series or Z Fold 7. With prices starting as low as $170, Samsung’s budget lineup ensures accessibility while maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and durability. Below, we explore the five least expensive Samsung phones for 2025, focusing on their specs, strengths, and trade-offs.
Top 5 Least Expensive Samsung Phones for 2025
1. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G ($199)
The Galaxy A16 5G is Samsung’s most affordable 5G phone in 2025, priced at just $199, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking modern connectivity. It features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling for streaming and browsing. Powered by the Exynos 1330 chipset with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB RAM options and 128GB or 256GB storage, it handles daily tasks like email and social media with ease, though heavy gaming may cause slight lag.
The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 5MP ultra-wide, and a 2MP macro camera, producing decent photos in good lighting, paired with a 13MP front camera for selfies. Its 5,000mAh battery lasts up to two days with moderate use, and it supports 25W fast charging. With six years of Android OS and security updates (until 2031), the A16 5G offers unmatched longevity for its price, making it ideal for those who want a future-proof budget phone.
2. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G ($170)
The Galaxy A15 5G, priced at $170, is the cheapest Samsung phone available in 2025, offering remarkable value for basic smartphone needs. It sports a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring sharp visuals for videos and apps. The MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage (expandable via microSD), provides solid performance for casual use, though it’s not suited for demanding tasks like gaming. The triple-camera system features a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide, and a 2MP macro, delivering good photos in daylight but struggling in low light.
A 13MP selfie camera handles basic video calls. The 5,000mAh battery supports up to two days of use and 25W charging, and the phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and NFC for tap-to-pay. With four years of OS updates and five years of security patches, the A15 5G is a reliable pick for minimalists or first-time buyers.
3. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G ($299)
Priced at $299, the Galaxy A25 5G offers a step up in performance and display quality, making it a great choice for users who want a bit more polish. Its 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother animations and scrolling than the A15 or A16. The Exynos 1280 processor, paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage (expandable), handles multitasking and light gaming well, though it may heat up during intensive tasks.
The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP main camera with optical stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 5MP macro, offering better photo quality than its cheaper siblings, especially for social media. The 13MP front camera is adequate for selfies. With a 5,000mAh battery and 25W charging, it lasts up to two days, and features like a headphone jack and microSD slot add versatility. Samsung promises four years of OS updates and five years of security patches, ensuring long-term reliability.
4. Samsung Galaxy A26 5G ($299)
The Galaxy A26 5G, also priced at $299, is a strong contender in Samsung’s budget lineup, offering a larger display and improved software support. It features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, ideal for gaming and media consumption. Powered by an Exynos chipset (specific model varies by region) with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, it performs comparably to the A25 but feels slightly more responsive for casual tasks. The triple-camera system includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 5MP macro, with a 12MP front camera for selfies.
Its 5,000mAh battery supports 25W charging and lasts nearly two days. The A26 stands out with six years of Android OS and security updates, matching the A16’s longevity and outpacing many competitors like the Moto G Power (2025). Its Gorilla Glass Victus Plus protection adds durability, making it a great pick for value-driven buyers.
5. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G ($399)
The Galaxy A35 5G, priced at $399, is the most expensive of Samsung’s budget phones but offers premium-like features that justify the cost. It boasts a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth performance. The Exynos 1380 chipset, paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage (expandable), handles multitasking and casual gaming, though it may warm up under heavy loads. The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP main camera with optical stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 5MP macro, producing punchy, detailed photos in good lighting, though low-light performance is average. A 13MP front camera ensures clear selfies. The 5,000mAh battery lasts nearly two days and supports 25W charging, and its premium design feels sturdy. With four years of OS updates and five years of security patches, the A35 is ideal for those who want a near-midrange experience at a budget price.
Key Considerations for Budget Samsung Phones
These phones prioritize affordability, but they come with trade-offs. Camera performance is generally decent in daylight but struggles in low light, and processing power is sufficient for daily tasks but not for heavy gaming or multitasking. AMOLED displays are a highlight across the board, offering better visuals than many competitors in this price range, like the Moto G Power (2025). Software support is a major strength, with the A16 and A26 offering six years of updates, outlasting most budget phones. Always check for deals, as Samsung often discounts these models, especially during sales events like Galaxy Unpacked.
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Tips for Buying Budget Samsung Phones
- Check Carrier Deals: Retailers like Amazon, T-Mobile, or Samsung often offer discounts or bundles, reducing prices further.
- Consider Storage Needs: Most models support microSD cards, but base storage (128GB) may fill up quickly for media-heavy users.
- Prioritize Software Updates: The A16 and A26’s six-year support makes them ideal for long-term use.
- Test Camera Needs: If photography is a priority, the A35 or A25 offer better stabilization and ultra-wide lenses.
- Verify 5G Compatibility: Ensure your carrier’s 5G bands are supported, as some models vary by region.
FAQs
Are budget Samsung phones worth buying in 2025?
Yes, Samsung’s Galaxy A series offers excellent value with AMOLED displays, 5G connectivity, and long software support. Models like the A16 and A26 provide six years of updates, ensuring longevity.
How do these phones compare to other budget brands?
Samsung’s budget phones stand out for their AMOLED displays and extended software updates, often surpassing competitors like Motorola’s Moto G series in display quality and support duration. However, they may lag slightly in processing power for gaming.
Can I use these phones for gaming?
Light gaming is possible, but heavy titles may cause lag, especially on the A15 and A16. The A35 and A26 handle casual games better due to stronger chipsets and 120Hz displays.
Do these phones support 5G?
Yes, all five phones (A15, A16, A25, A26, A35) support 5G, making them future-proof for faster networks. Check carrier compatibility for optimal performance.
Where can I find the best deals on these phones?
Check Samsung’s official website, Amazon, or carriers like T-Mobile for discounts, especially during events like Galaxy Unpacked or Black Friday. Unlocked models offer flexibility but may cost more upfront.