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10 Best Budget Gaming Phone 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G A Series Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Light Gray
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G positions itself as a compelling option for those seeking a budget-friendly gaming phone. With a 2.4 GHz CPU and 4GB of RAM, it provides sufficient performance for light to moderate gaming. However, for intensive gaming, you might find the RAM limiting, as more demanding titles could struggle. The 6.7-inch AMOLED display is a highlight, offering vibrant colors and crisp detail, ideal for gaming visuals. It's also a decent size for immersive gameplay.
Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,270
Display
Most important from
844 reviews
#2
Google Pixel 8a - Unlocked Android Phone with Google AI, Advanced Pixel Camera and 24-Hour Battery - Obsidian - 128 GB
The Google Pixel 8a is an unlocked Android phone that stands out for its strong camera capabilities and AI features but may not fully satisfy the needs of avid gamers on a budget. With its A-Series CPU and 8 GB of RAM, the performance is decent for casual gaming. However, it might struggle with more demanding titles due to the lack of a dedicated gaming GPU, which can lead to lower frame rates and reduced graphics quality in graphically intense games.
#3
Motorola Edge+ | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/512 | 50 MPCamera | Intersteller Black, 161.16x74x8.59
The Motorola Edge+ (2023) stands out in the budget gaming phone market due to its impressive specifications and features geared for gaming and multimedia enjoyment. One of its significant strengths is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, delivering powerful performance that ensures smooth gameplay and fast app launches. Coupled with 8 GB of RAM, this phone can handle multitasking effectively, allowing users to switch between games and other apps seamlessly. The stunning 6.67-inch pOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate provides vivid colors and fluid motion, enhancing the gaming experience significantly.
Rating
9.1
Display
Battery Life
Most important from
861 reviews
Top 10 Best Budget Gaming Phone 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.7 score
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G A Series Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Light Gray
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G A Series Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Light Gray
Processor (CPU): 2.4 GHz
RAM: 4 GB
Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED
Battery Life: 5000 mAh
Storage: 128GB, expandable to 1.5TB
Chosen by 1270 this week
Google Pixel 8a - Unlocked Android Phone with Google AI, Advanced Pixel Camera and 24-Hour Battery - Obsidian - 128 GB
Google Pixel 8a - Unlocked Android Phone with Google AI, Advanced Pixel Camera and 24-Hour Battery - Obsidian - 128 GB
Processor (CPU): A-Series
RAM: 8 GB
Display: 6.1 Inches, 1080 x 2400
Battery Life: up to 24 hours
Storage: 128 GB
Motorola Edge+ | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/512 | 50 MPCamera | Intersteller Black, 161.16x74x8.59
Motorola Edge+ | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/512 | 50 MPCamera | Intersteller Black, 161.16x74x8.59
Processor (CPU): Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM: 8 GB
Display: 6.67-inch pOLED, 165Hz
Battery Life: Over a day
Storage: 512 GB
Tracfone | Motorola Moto g Play 2024 | Locked | 64GB | 5000mAh Battery | 50MP Quad Pixel Camera | 6.5-in. HD+ 90Hz Display | Sapphire Blue
Tracfone | Motorola Moto g Play 2024 | Locked | 64GB | 5000mAh Battery | 50MP Quad Pixel Camera | 6.5-in. HD+ 90Hz Display | Sapphire Blue
Processor (CPU): Snapdragon 680
RAM: 4GB, expandable to 6GB
Display: 6.5-inch HD+ 90Hz
Battery Life: up to 46 hours
Storage: 64GB, expandable to 1TB
OnePlus Open, 16GB RAM+512GB, Dual-SIM, Emerald Dusk, US Factory Unlocked Android Smartphone, 4805 mAh Battery, 67W Fast Charging, Hasselblad Camera, 120Hz Fluid Display
OnePlus Open, 16GB RAM+512GB, Dual-SIM, Emerald Dusk, US Factory Unlocked Android Smartphone, 4805 mAh Battery, 67W Fast Charging, Hasselblad Camera, 120Hz Fluid Display
Processor (CPU): Snapdragon 3.2 GHz
RAM: 16 GB
Display: 6.31" exterior, 7.82" interior, 120Hz
Battery Life: 4805 mAh
Storage: 512 GB
Related Products
Motorola Moto G Power 5G | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50 MPCamera | Mineral Black
Motorola Moto G Power 5G | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50 MPCamera | Mineral Black
Processor (CPU): MediaTek Dimensity 930
RAM: 4GB
Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ 120Hz
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage: 128GB
Samsung Galaxy A15 (SM-155M/DSN), 128GB 6GB RAM, Dual SIM, Factory Unlocked GSM, International Version (Wall Charger Bundle) (Light Blue)
Samsung Galaxy A15 (SM-155M/DSN), 128GB 6GB RAM, Dual SIM, Factory Unlocked GSM, International Version (Wall Charger Bundle) (Light Blue)
Processor (CPU): MediaTek Helio, 2 GHz
RAM: 6 GB
Display: 6.5 Inches, 1080 x 2340
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage: 128 GB
OnePlus Nord N30 5G | Unlocked Dual-SIM Android Smart Phone | 6.7" LCD Display | 8 +128GB | 5000 mAh Battery | 50W Fast Charging | 108MP Camera | Chromatic Gray
OnePlus Nord N30 5G | Unlocked Dual-SIM Android Smart Phone | 6.7" LCD Display | 8 +128GB | 5000 mAh Battery | 50W Fast Charging | 108MP Camera | Chromatic Gray
Processor (CPU): Qualcomm Snapdragon 695
RAM: 8 GB
Display: 6.7-inch LCD, 120 Hz, 2400x1080
Battery Life: 5000 mAh
Storage: 128 GB
Motorola Edge | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Eclipse Black
Motorola Edge | 2023 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Eclipse Black
Processor (CPU): MediaTek Dimensity 7030
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): MediaTek Dimensity 7030
RAM: 8 GB
Display: 6.55-inch, 2400x1080, 144Hz
Battery Life: 4400mAh, 44 Hours Talk Time
Storage: 256 GB
#10
7.1 score
Moto G Play 2023 3-Day Battery Unlocked Made for US 3/32GB 16MP Camera Navy Blue
Moto G Play 2023 3-Day Battery Unlocked Made for US 3/32GB 16MP Camera Navy Blue
RAM: 3 GB
Display: 6.5 Inches, 1600 x 720, 90 Hz
Battery Life: up to three days
Storage: 32 GB, expandable to 512 GB
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Buying Guide for the Best Budget Gaming Phone
Choosing a budget gaming phone can be a bit tricky, but with the right approach, you can find a device that offers great performance without breaking the bank. The key is to focus on the specifications that directly impact gaming performance and overall user experience. Here are some important specs to consider and how to navigate them.Processor (CPU)The processor is the brain of your phone and is crucial for gaming performance. It handles all the calculations and tasks required to run games smoothly. For budget gaming phones, look for mid-range processors from reputable brands like Qualcomm Snapdragon or MediaTek. These processors offer a good balance between performance and cost. If you play graphically intensive games, aim for a processor with higher clock speeds and more cores.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)The GPU is responsible for rendering images, animations, and videos in games. A powerful GPU ensures smooth gameplay and better graphics quality. In budget gaming phones, look for GPUs that are integrated with the processor, such as Adreno or Mali series. Higher series numbers generally indicate better performance. If you play games with high graphical demands, opt for a phone with a more advanced GPU.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is important for multitasking and running games efficiently. It allows your phone to handle multiple processes at once without slowing down. For budget gaming phones, aim for at least 4GB of RAM, though 6GB or more is preferable for smoother performance in more demanding games. If you tend to play games that require a lot of resources, more RAM will help keep your phone running smoothly.
DisplayThe display affects your gaming experience by providing clear and vibrant visuals. Look for a phone with a high-resolution screen (at least Full HD) and a refresh rate of 90Hz or higher for smoother animations and less motion blur. Larger screens can enhance your gaming experience, but they may also make the phone bulkier. If you play fast-paced games, a higher refresh rate will be beneficial.
Battery LifeGaming can drain your phone's battery quickly, so a long-lasting battery is essential. Look for phones with a battery capacity of at least 4000mAh. Some phones also offer fast charging capabilities, which can be useful if you need to recharge quickly between gaming sessions. If you play games for extended periods, a larger battery will help ensure you don't run out of power mid-game.
Cooling SystemIntensive gaming can cause your phone to heat up, which can affect performance and comfort. Some budget gaming phones come with built-in cooling systems or advanced thermal management to keep temperatures in check. If you play games for long periods or play graphically demanding games, a phone with a good cooling system will help maintain performance and prevent overheating.
StorageGames can take up a lot of space, so ample storage is important. Look for phones with at least 64GB of internal storage, though 128GB or more is preferable if you plan to install many games. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a cost-effective way to increase storage capacity. If you play many games or games with large file sizes, more storage will be beneficial.