Finding a smartphone that offers top-notch features without breaking the bank can be a daunting task. Fortunately, the market is got bunch of budget-friendly options that deliver impressive performance, sleek designs, and essential features.
As someone who write about numerous smartphones on daily basis, I’m excited to share my picks for the best budget smartphones available in the UK for under £300 in 2024.
Best Smartphones Under £300 in the UK
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G
The first on our list is the recently announced Redmi Note 13 5G smartphone from Xiaomi. The Redmi Note 13 5G has captured attention with its affordable price tag and solid features. Priced at just £279, this device boasts an AMOLED display, Dimensity 6080 chipset, and a commendable 5,000mAh battery. While its camera may lack optical image stabilization and struggle in low-light conditions, it still offers reliable performance for everyday use.
Current Price of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G in the UK: From £279
Key Features of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G
- Display: 6.67-inches AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1000 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: MediaTek Dimensity 6080 5G CPU | Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- OS | UI: Android 13 | MIUI 14
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 6GB + 128GB | 8GB + 256GB | 12GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 108MP (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (depth)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.3, USB Type-C, Sided fingerprint scanner
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G
For those seeking a bit more firepower, Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G is available at £299. This upgraded version offers several enhancements over its sibling, including a sharper display, stereo speakers, faster charging, and improved overall performance. With these added features, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G presents excellent value for money for users looking for a more premium experience without breaking the bank.
Current Price of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G in the UK: From £339
Key Features of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G
- Display: 6.67-inches AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1800 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 5G | Adreno 710
- OS | UI: Android 13 with MIUI 14
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 128/256GB | 12GB + 256GB | 16GB + 512GB
- Main Camera: 200MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5100mAh with 67W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C, under-screen fingerprint scanner
POCO M6 Pro 4G model
The POCO M6 Pro is another budget-friendly option priced under £300. Sporting a design similar to the Redmi Note 13 5G, this device offers stereo speakers for enhanced audio quality. While its performance may not match higher-tier smartphones, it still delivers a reliable experience for everyday use.
Current Price of POCO M6 Pro 4G in the UK: From £249
Key Features of POCO M6 Pro 4G
- Display: 6.67-inches AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1300 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: MediaTek Helio G99 Ultra 4G CPU | Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- OS | UI: Android 13 | MIUI 14
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 256GB | 12GB + 512GB
- Main Camera: 64MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 67W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C, under-display fingerprint scanner
POCO X6
Alternatively, the POCO X6 offers superior performance within the budget range. Often available at a discounted price, this device features the robust Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, providing smoother multitasking and gaming experiences. With its additional advantages such as a more durable front end, the POCO X6 is worth considering for users seeking enhanced capabilities without breaking the bank.
Current Price of POCO X6 5G in the UK: From £299
Key Features of POCO X6 5G
- Display: 6.67-inches AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1800 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 5G | Adreno 710
- OS | UI: Android 14 | HyperOS
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 128/256GB | 12GB + 256GB | 16GB + 512GB
- Main Camera: 64MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5100mAh with 67W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C, under-screen fingerprint scanner
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G stands out with its user-friendly Oxygen OS, vibrant design options, and capable Snapdragon 695 chipset. Priced competitively, this device offers 5G support, a generous 5,000mAh battery, and improved camera technology, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Current Price of OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G in the UK: From £269
Key Features of OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G
- Display: 6.72-inches IPS | 120Hz refresh | 680 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G | Adreno 619
- OS | UI: Android 13 | OxygenOS 13.1
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 128GB | 8GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 108MP (main) + 2MP (depth) + 2MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 67W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.1, USB Type-C, side-mounted fingerprint scanner
Motorola Moto G84
Motorola’s Moto G84 impresses with its stunning display, stereo speakers, and dependable camera performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 695 chipset, it delivers a smooth user experience for everyday tasks. With its efficient battery life and stock Android experience, the Moto G84 is a solid contender in the budget smartphone market.
Current Price of Motorola Moto G84 in the UK: From £249
Key Features of Motorola Moto G84 5G
- Display: 6.5-inches P-OLED | 120Hz refresh | 1300 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G | Adreno 619
- OS | UI: Android 13 | —
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 256GB | 12GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 50MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide)
- Front Camera: 16-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 30W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.1, USB Type-C, Under-display fingerprint scanner
Motorola Moto Edge 40 Neo
On the other hand, the Moto Edge 40 Neo offers premium features within the budget range. With its premium design and IP68 water and dust resistance, this device stands out from the crowd. Coupled with the robust Dimensity 7030 chipset, the Moto Edge 40 Neo provides enhanced performance for users seeking a more capable device.
Current Price of Motorola Moto Edge 40 Neo 5G in the UK: From £289
Key Features of Motorola Moto Edge 40 Neo 5G
- Display: 6.55-inches P-OLED | 144Hz refresh | 1300 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: MediaTek Dimensity 7030 5G | Mali-G610 MC3
- OS | UI: Android 13 | —
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 8GB + 128/256GB | 12GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 50MP with OIS (main) + 13MP (ultrawide)
- Front Camera: 32-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 68W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.4, USB Type-C, Under-display fingerprint scanner
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
Samsung’s Galaxy A34 offers a Super AMOLED display, stereo speakers, and respectable camera capabilities at an attractive price point. With years of OS updates and software support, it provides a reliable smartphone experience for budget-conscious consumers.
Current Price of Samsung Galaxy A34 5G in the UK: From £199
Key Features of Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
- Display: 6.6-inches Super AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1000 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: MediaTek Dimensity 1080 5G | Mali-G68 MC4
- OS | UI: Android 13 | One UI 5.1
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 4/6/8GB + 128GB | 6/8GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 48MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 5MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 13-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.3, USB Type-C, Under-display fingerprint scanner
Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
Alternatively, the Galaxy A25 5G presents another option with mid-range specifications and 5G support. Catering to users seeking affordable connectivity without compromising on essential features, the Galaxy A25 5G is worth considering for those on a budget.
Current Price of Samsung Galaxy A25 5G in the UK: From £179
Key Features of Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
- Display: 6.5-inches Super AMOLED | 120Hz refresh | 1000 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Samsung’s Exynos 1280 5G | Mali-G68
- OS | UI: Android 14 | One UI 6
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 6/8GB + 128GB | 8GB + 256GB
- Main Camera: 50MP with OIS (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro)
- Front Camera: 13-megapixels
- Battery: 5000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.3, USB Type-C, sided fingerprint scanner
Nokia G60 5G
Lastly, the Nokia G60 5G stands out with its commitment to sustainability, constructed from recycled materials and offering years of OS and security updates. With its Snapdragon 695 chipset, decent display, and reliable battery life, it’s a practical choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking an affordable smartphone solution.
Current Price of Nokia G60 5G in the UK: £179
Key Features of Nokia G60 5G
- Display: 6.58-inches IPS LCD | 120Hz refresh | 400 nits of brightness
- CPU | GPU: Snapdragon 695 5G | Adreno 619
- OS | UI: Android 12 | —
- Memory (RAM + ROM): 4GB + 64/128GB | 6GB + 128GB
- Main Camera: 50MP (main) + 5MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (depth)
- Front Camera: 8-megapixels
- Battery: 4500mAh with 20W fast charging
- Others: Bluetooth 5.1, USB Type-C, sided fingerprint scanner
Conclusion
In conclusion, the budget smartphone market in the UK offers a diverse range of options catering to various preferences and priorities. Whether you prioritize performance, camera capabilities, or sustainability, there’s a budget-friendly smartphone out there to suit your needs. While I’ve highlighted some of my top picks, the landscape is ever-changing, so be sure to explore all available options and find the device that best aligns with your requirements.