You know the feeling. Your current phone is slowing down. Apps take an extra second to open. The battery dies before dinner. And you don't want to spend a fortune on a flagship. That's where the "best cell phone deals today" come in. The trick is finding a phone that actually works on your carrier, has enough storage, and won't frustrate you six months from now.
The phones here range from no-frills unlocked models that work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs, to carrier-locked bundles that include service, to international variants with expandable storage. Some are blazing fast with 5G, others rely on 4G LTE but make up for it with massive batteries. We've sorted through the options so you can find the one that fits your situation without getting burned by compatibility issues.
TL;DR: The Moto G 5G 2024 is the best all-round unlocked phone for US networks. The Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE is the best Samsung pick for T-Mobile users. The Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A16 5G comes with a year of service included. The Motorola Moto G15 4+512GB is the storage king for media hoarders.
| # | Product | Display | Storage | Camera | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moto G 5G 2024 (Sage Green) | 6.6" 120Hz IPS | 128GB + microSD up to 1TB | 50MP Quad Pixel | Anyone who wants a capable unlocked 5G phone on a budget |
| 2 | Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (Gray, 128GB) | 6.7" Super AMOLED 90Hz | 128GB + 4GB RAM | 50MP + 2MP macro | T-Mobile/MVNO users who want a Samsung with a great screen |
| 3 | Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (Black, 128GB) | 6.7" Super AMOLED 90Hz | 128GB | 50MP triple | Tracfone customers who want a new phone and a year of service |
| 4 | Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025 (Saphire Blue, 64GB) | 6.7" 120Hz IPS | 64GB | 50MP Quad Pixel | Tracfone users who want 5G and a 120Hz display |
| 5 | Motorola Moto G15 4G LTE (Gray, 4+128GB) | 6.72" IPS 1080p | 128GB + microSD | 50MP + 5MP ultrawide | T-Mobile users who want a headphone jack and FM radio |
| 6 | Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE (Black, 64GB) | 6.7" PLS LCD | 64GB + microSD | 50MP + 2MP depth | T-Mobile users who need the absolute basics |
| 7 | Motorola Moto G15 4G LTE (Celeste, 4+512GB) | 6.72" IPS 1080p | 512GB + microSD | 50MP + 5MP ultrawide | Heavy media downloaders on T-Mobile networks |
| 8 | CostMvp S25Ultra 4G (Black, 4GB+32GB) | 6.6" HD+ | 32GB + microSD up to 256GB | 16MP rear + 13MP front | Budget shoppers who need a basic unlocked phone for T-Mobile |
| 9 | CostMvp S25Ultra 4G (Pink, 4GB+32GB) | 6.6" HD+ | 32GB + microSD up to 256GB | 16MP rear + 13MP front | Same as above, in pink |
| 10 | AOZVEIZ 17 PMAX (Gold, 16GB+512GB) | 6.99" HD+ | 512GB + microSD | 108MP + 68MP | Shoppers who want a huge screen and massive battery no matter the brand |
How we picked
- Carrier compatibility is everything. A great phone is useless if it doesn't work on your network. We prioritized phones that clearly state which carriers they support, and we flagged the ones that are locked to Tracfone or only work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs. CDMA carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and their subsidiaries require a different set of bands, and many of these phones won't work there.
- Storage and expandability. The base storage on many budget phones is tight (32GB or 64GB). We looked for models that support microSD cards, and we noted which ones have generous built-in storage for people who load up on music, photos, and offline maps.
- Display quality and refresh rate. A 90Hz or 120Hz screen makes scrolling and animations feel smoother. We gave extra weight to phones with Super AMOLED panels (better contrast and colors) over basic LCDs, especially for media consumption.
- Battery capacity. Every phone here has at least a 5000mAh battery, but some include fast charging while others ship without a charger at all. We noted that detail because it affects your out-of-box experience.
- Software and updates. Phones running Android 12 or older are already behind on security patches. We preferred models that ship with Android 14 or 15, and we flagged the ones stuck on Android 12.
- Unlocked vs. locked. A truly unlocked phone lets you switch carriers later. A locked phone (like Tracfone models) is tied to that carrier. Both have their place, but we distinguished them clearly so you know what you're getting.
1. Moto G 5G 2024: Best Overall Unlocked Phone
Pros
- Fully unlocked, works on all major US 5G carriers (check bands)
- 120Hz display with Dolby Atmos stereo speakers
- Vegan leather back that resists fingerprints
- Up to 1TB microSD expansion
- 50MP camera with quad pixel technology for low light
Cons
- Only 4GB of RAM can feel tight with heavy multitasking
- No headphone jack
- Processor is mid-range, not for gaming
Best for: Anyone who wants a capable, US-market unlocked phone with 5G and a great screen without spending flagship money.
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The Moto G 5G 2024 is the most popular phone in this roundup, and for good reason. It's a proper US-market phone with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, 5G support, and a 120Hz IPS display that feels buttery smooth. The vegan leather back is a nice touch that makes it look more expensive than it is, and it stays smudge-free. The 50MP camera uses pixel binning to capture better low-light shots than most phones in this tier, and the Macro Vision lens lets you get close to subjects.
The 4GB of RAM is the biggest compromise. You can still run two apps side by side, but switching between Chrome, Maps, and a game will cause reloads. If you're a heavy multitasker, you might want to look at the Galaxy A16 or the Moto G15 with more RAM. But for the price, the Moto G 5G 2024 delivers a polished experience that most people will be happy with. The 5000mAh battery gets you through a full day easily, and TurboPower charging gives you a quick top-up when you're in a hurry.
2. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB): Best Samsung for T-Mobile Users
Pros
- Super AMOLED 90Hz display looks fantastic
- 128GB of built-in storage
- Reliable Samsung build quality
- Good camera for the category
Cons
- Only works on T-Mobile and its MVNOs in the US (no AT&T, no Verizon)
- No charger included in the box
- No 5G support
Best for: T-Mobile customers who want a Samsung phone with a beautiful screen and solid performance, and don't need 5G.
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This is the international model of Samsung's Galaxy A16, which means it's a 4G LTE phone that works on T-Mobile and its MVNOs (Metro, Mint, Tello, etc.) but not on Verizon, AT&T, or their subsidiaries. If you're on T-Mobile or one of its flanker brands, this is a strong pick. The Super AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate is a step above the LCD panels on most competitors. Colors pop, blacks are deep, and scrolling is smooth.
The 50MP camera takes decent daylight shots, and the macro lens is useful for close-ups. The 5000mAh battery lasts a day and a half with moderate use. Just be aware that Samsung doesn't include a charger in the box, so you'll need to supply your own USB-C power adapter. The phone ships with Android 14 and Samsung's One UI, which is clean and well-supported with updates. If you're looking for the best cell phone deals today that include a Samsung phone and you're on T-Mobile, this is the one to beat.
3. Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (128GB, with 1-Year Plan): Best All-in-One Bundle
Pros
- Includes a full year of Tracfone service
- 5G connectivity on Verizon's network
- Super AMOLED 90Hz display
- 128GB storage
Cons
- Locked to Tracfone; you can't switch carriers
- No charger included
- Plan is prepaid-style, not unlimited data
Best for: Someone who wants a new phone and a year of service without a monthly contract, and is comfortable with Tracfone's prepaid plans.
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This is the same Galaxy A16 hardware as the previous pick, but with a key difference: it's locked to Tracfone and comes with a one-year plan. That means you get a phone and service for a single upfront cost. The phone runs on Verizon's network, so coverage is excellent. The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display is the same gorgeous panel, and the 50MP camera system is identical.
The trade-off is that you're tied to Tracfone for at least a year. Tracfone's plans are pay-as-you-go or limited-minute bundles, so if you're a heavy data user, this might not be the right fit. But if you need a reliable phone with minimal hassle, this bundle is one of the most straightforward deals you'll find. The sales rank suggests it's a popular choice, and for good reason. Keep in mind that Tracfone's activation process is simple, but you'll need to follow the steps carefully.
4. Tracfone Motorola Moto G 2025 (64GB): Best Budget Tracfone with 120Hz
Pros
- 120Hz display for smooth scrolling
- 5G connectivity
- 5000mAh battery with TurboPower
- Stereo speakers with Bass Boost
Cons
- Only 64GB of storage (no microSD mentioned)
- Locked to Tracfone
- 64GB fills up quickly with apps and media
Best for: Tracfone customers who want the smoothest display and fastest charging in this price range.
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The Motorola Moto G 2025 on Tracfone is a strong competitor to the Galaxy A16 bundle. It has a 120Hz display, which is even smoother than the Samsung's 90Hz, and the 50MP camera system is similar. The 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging means you can get hours of power from a few minutes of charging. The stereo speakers with Bass Boost are surprisingly good for movies and music.
The biggest downside is the 64GB of storage. That's enough for a moderate user, but if you take lots of photos or download offline maps, you'll run out of space. The listing doesn't mention microSD support, so you're stuck with what you have. For a light user who mostly streams and browses, this is a fine choice. The phone runs on Tracfone's network (Verizon), so coverage is broad.
5. Motorola Moto G15 4G LTE (4+128GB): Best for T-Mobile with Headphone Jack
Pros
- Headphone jack and FM radio
- 128GB storage with microSD expansion
- 5200mAh battery (larger than most)
- Ultrawide camera included
- Ships with Android 15
Cons
- No 5G support
- Only works on T-Mobile and MVNOs (no AT&T, Verizon)
- 4GB RAM may limit heavy multitasking
Best for: T-Mobile users who want a phone with a headphone jack, FM radio, and a big battery, and don't need 5G.
Check current price on Amazon →
The Moto G15 is a throwback in the best way. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack, an FM radio tuner, and a 5200mAh battery that outlasts almost everything else here. The 6.72-inch IPS display is sharp at 1080p, and the 50MP main camera with a 5MP ultrawide gives you flexibility. It runs Android 15 out of the box, which is current for 2026.
The catch is carrier compatibility. This is an international model that works on T-Mobile and its MVNOs, but not on AT&T or Verizon. If you're on T-Mobile, this is a solid daily driver. The 4GB of RAM is fine for basic tasks, but you'll feel the limits if you try to keep many apps open. The 128GB of storage is a good starting point, and you can add a microSD card if you need more. The combination of headphone jack, expandable storage, and a huge battery makes this a favorite for people who listen to music offline or want to use the phone as a media player.
6. Samsung Galaxy A06 4G LTE (64GB): The Bare Essentials
Pros
- Large 6.7-inch display
- 5000mAh battery
- 50MP main camera
- Samsung brand reliability
Cons
- Only 64GB storage (expandable with microSD)
- PLS LCD screen, not AMOLED
- 4GB RAM, heavy Android skin may slow it down
- Limited to T-Mobile/MVNOs in the US
Best for: Someone who needs a basic Samsung phone on T-Mobile and doesn't care about display quality or storage capacity.
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The Galaxy A06 is Samsung's entry-level offering. It has a 50MP camera, a 5000mAh battery, and a 6.7-inch PLS LCD display. The screen is fine for reading and basic video, but it lacks the punch of the AMOLED panels on the A16. The 64GB of storage is tight, but you can add a microSD card. The camera is single-lens (plus a depth sensor), so you won't get ultrawide shots.
This phone is best for someone who just needs a phone that works, makes calls, and runs a few apps. The Samsung software is relatively clean, but with only 4GB of RAM, it can feel sluggish after a few apps are open. The A06 is a Latin version, so carrier compatibility is the same as the A16: T-Mobile and its MVNOs only. If you're looking for the best cell phone deals today and you're on a strict budget, this is a functional option, but we'd recommend the Moto G15 or the Galaxy A16 for a better experience.
7. Motorola Moto G15 4G LTE (4+512GB): The Storage King
Pros
- 512GB built-in storage (plus microSD)
- Headphone jack and FM radio
- 5100mAh battery
- Ultrawide camera
- Android 15
Cons
- No 5G
- Only works on T-Mobile/MVNOs
- 4GB RAM is still the bottleneck
Best for: Heavy media users who store lots of music, videos, or offline maps on T-Mobile.
Check current price on Amazon →
This is the same Moto G15 as pick #5, but with 512GB of storage. That's a huge amount of space for a budget phone. You can load it with offline Spotify playlists, Netflix downloads, and maps without worrying. The 5100mAh battery keeps the phone running all day, and the headphone jack means you can use wired headphones without an adapter.
The experience is otherwise identical: the same IPS LCD display, the same MediaTek Helio G81 Extreme processor, and the same 4GB of RAM. The RAM is the limiting factor here. With 512GB of storage, you'll want to store lots of files, but you may find that the phone struggles to switch between apps smoothly. If you're the type of person who uses one app at a time and just wants a massive media library, this is a great pick. If you like to multitask, consider the Moto G 5G 2024 instead.
8. CostMvp S25Ultra 4G (Black): Ultrabudget Unlocked Phone
Pros
- Unlocked, works on T-Mobile GSM
- 5000mAh battery
- Face unlock and fingerprint sensor
- Dual SIM + microSD slot
Cons
- Outdated Android 12 with no update path
- Low-resolution 6.6-inch HD+ display
- 32GB internal storage is very small
- Weak MediaTek MTK6739 processor
- No 5G, limited to 4G LTE
Best for: The absolute minimum budget where a phone is still usable, and only on T-Mobile.
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The CostMvp S25Ultra is a no-name brand phone that tries to look like a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, but it's a completely different device. It runs Android 12, which is several years old and no longer receives security updates. The 32GB of storage fills up fast, even with a microSD card. The HD+ display has a low resolution of 576×1280, so text and images look pixelated.
On the positive side, it's unlocked and works on T-Mobile's GSM network. The 5000mAh battery is decent, and the face unlock speeds up access. But the performance is sluggish. This phone is really only suitable for someone who needs the cheapest possible device for calls and light texting, and who understands the security risks of old Android. If you can stretch to a Moto G15 or a Galaxy A06, you'll get a much better experience. We include it because it's a real product in the dataset, but we'd steer nearly everyone away from it.
9. CostMvp S25Ultra 4G (Pink): Same Phone, Different Color
Pros
- Same as the black version, plus pink color
- Unlocked for T-Mobile
- 5000mAh battery
Cons
- All the same drawbacks as the black version
- Android 12, weak processor, low-res display
Best for: Shoppers who specifically want a pink phone and are on a razor-thin budget.
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This is the exact same phone as the black CostMvp S25Ultra, just in pink. The hardware, software, and performance are identical. If you need a pink phone and have no other options, this exists. But we'd still recommend almost any other phone on this list over it. The only reason to get this is if the color is non-negotiable and the budget is absolute rock bottom.
10. AOZVEIZ 17 PMAX (16GB+512GB): The Over-the-Top Budget Behemoth
Pros
- Massive 7000mAh battery
- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage
- 6.99-inch HD+ display
- Unlocked 5G (band compatibility uncertain)
- Includes screen protector, earphones, and charger
Cons
- No-name brand with unknown quality and support
- Claims Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 but likely fake/clone specs
- 5G bands may not work in the US
- HD+ resolution is low for the huge screen size
- Android 15 but with questionable update support
Best for: Someone who wants a phablet-sized phone with a huge battery and lots of RAM on paper, and is willing to take a gamble on a generic brand.
Check current price on Amazon →
The AOZVEIZ 17 PMAX is the wild card. It claims a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 108MP camera, and a 7000mAh battery, all at a price that seems too good to be true. In the world of no-name phones, these specs are often exaggerated. The processor is likely a much weaker chip, and the camera quality will not match a name-brand 50MP sensor. The 5G bands may not cover US frequencies properly.
But the phone does have a huge 6.99-inch display, and the 7000mAh battery will legitimately last two days. It comes with a charger, screen protector, and earphones in the box, which is rare. If you're willing to accept the risk of poor performance, questionable support, and potentially fake specs, this could be a fun experiment. For most people, we'd recommend a known brand like Motorola or Samsung instead. If you're into 3D printing and tinkering, you might appreciate the gamble, and we cover the best 3d printers and accessories separately for those who want to explore that hobby.
Buyer's guide: how to choose cell phone deals
The biggest mistake people make when shopping for a budget phone is ignoring carrier compatibility. A phone might look like a steal, but if it doesn't work on your network, it's a paperweight. The phones in this roundup fall into three groups: unlocked US-market phones (like the Moto G 5G 2024) that work on most carriers, international models that only work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs, and carrier-locked phones (like the Tracfone models) that are tied to a specific provider.
Network compatibility
Before you buy anything, check which bands your carrier uses. T-Mobile and its MVNOs (Mint, Metro, Tello, etc.) use GSM technology and typically work with international phones that have the right LTE bands. Verizon and AT&T use a mix of CDMA and LTE, and many international phones lack the necessary certifications. If you're on Verizon, stick with phones from the US market or carrier-locked options. The Moto G 5G 2024 is a safe bet for most US carriers, while the Galaxy A16 and Moto G15 are best for T-Mobile users.
Storage and RAM
Budget phones often come with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. 4GB of RAM is enough for basic use, but you'll see app reloads if you switch between more than two or three apps. If you can find a phone with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, it's worth the extra. Storage is more flexible if the phone has a microSD card slot. The Moto G 5G 2024 supports up to 1TB of microSD, so you can start with 128GB and expand later. The AOZVEIZ 17 PMAX has 512GB built-in, which is massive, but the brand is questionable.
Display quality
A 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate makes the phone feel faster, even if the processor is modest. The Moto G 5G 2024 and the Tracfone Moto G 2025 both have 120Hz displays. The Galaxy A16 has a 90Hz Super AMOLED which looks better than any LCD. If you watch a lot of video, an AMOLED panel gives deeper blacks and better contrast. The cheaper phones like the CostMvp and the Galaxy A06 use basic LCDs that are less vibrant.
Battery and charging
All phones here have at least 5000mAh, which is good for a full day. The AOZVEIZ's 7000mAh is exceptional. But battery size isn't everything. Some phones (like the Galaxy A16) don't include a charger, so you need to factor that cost. Fast charging is also variable: the Moto G 5G 2024 supports TurboPower, while others max out at 18W or 25W. If you're in a hurry, a phone with fast charging makes a big difference.
Software updates
The biggest risk with ultra-budget phones is that they never get security updates. The CostMvp phones run Android 12, which is outdated. The Moto G15 and Moto G 5G 2024 run Android 14 or 15, which is current. Samsung's Galaxy A series typically gets a few years of updates. If you plan to keep the phone for more than a year, avoiding old Android versions is important for security.
Frequently asked questions
Will the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE work on Verizon?
No. This international model is designed for GSM networks. It works on T-Mobile and its MVNOs, but not on Verizon, AT&T, or any CDMA carrier. If you need a phone for Verizon, look for a US-market model or a carrier-locked Tracfone phone that uses Verizon's network.
What does "locked to Tracfone" mean?
A locked phone can only be used with Tracfone's service. You cannot insert a SIM card from another carrier. The phone will remain locked until you meet Tracfone's unlock requirements (usually 12 months of continuous service). If you plan to switch carriers soon, an unlocked phone is better.
Do these phones include a charger?
Some do, some don't. The Samsung Galaxy A16 and A06 do not include a power adapter in the box. The Motorola phones and the AOZVEIZ include a charger. The Tracfone bundles may or may not include one depending on the package. Check the product description carefully before ordering.
Can I use an international phone on AT&T?
Most international phones like the Galaxy A16 and Moto G15 are not certified for AT&T's network. Even if they have the right bands, AT&T often blocks uncertified devices. Your best bet for AT&T is a US-market unlocked phone like the Moto G 5G 2024, or a carrier-locked AT&T phone.
Which phone has the best camera?
The 50MP sensors on the Samsung and Motorola phones are similar in quality. The Moto G 5G 2024 uses pixel binning for better low-light performance. The AOZVEIZ claims 108MP, but the actual quality is likely lower due to the sensor and processing. For consistent results, stick with the Samsung or Motorola.
What is the difference between the two Moto G15 models?
The main difference is storage: one has 128GB and the other has 512GB. Both have the same processor, display, and camera. The 512GB model is better if you store lots of media, but the 4GB RAM limit is the same on both.
How long does the 7000mAh battery in the AOZVEIZ last?
It should last two days with moderate use, possibly longer if you're a light user. However, the battery life also depends on the efficiency of the processor and display, which are unknown quantities on this generic phone. The 5000mAh batteries in the name-brand phones are more predictable.
Final verdict
If you're on a major US carrier and want a phone that just works, the Moto G 5G 2024 is the best all-around choice. It's unlocked, has 5G, a 120Hz display, and enough storage. T-Mobile users should consider the Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE for its superb AMOLED screen, or the Moto G15 4+512GB if they need massive storage. Tracfone customers get a great deal with the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G that includes a year of service. The cheapest options (CostMvp and AOZVEIZ) are only for the most adventurous shoppers who are willing to accept major compromises.
The best cell phone deals today aren't about the lowest number; they're about getting the right phone for your network and your usage. If you're still unsure, focus on a phone that works on your carrier, has at least 128GB of storage (or expandable storage), and runs a recent version of Android. Everything else is negotiable. And if you're also looking for better audio to pair with your new phone, our roundup of the best noise cancelling headphones reviewed can help you block out distractions while you work.