Best Phones Under £300 (UK, 2026)

Reviewed for performance, camera, battery – updated Jan 2026

• 🥇 CMF Phone 2 Pro – Best overall value with standout telephoto camera → Check Price on Amazon UK
• 🔄 Samsung Galaxy A17 5G – Best for long-term updates & reliability → Check Price on Amazon UK
• ⚡ OnePlus Nord CE 5 – Best charging & premium display experience → Check Price on Amazon UK

👉 Scroll down to see full reviews and Amazon UK links

Introduction

Who is this guide for? UK buyers on a budget who want a quality smartphone without paying flagship prices. If you’re looking to spend £300 or less, you’ll be glad to know that “cheap phones are closer to flagship than ever” in terms of features and performance[1]. In 2026, you can get fast performance, great cameras, long battery life, and vibrant displays even on affordable handsets. This means you can comfortably buy a phone outright and use a cheap SIM-only plan, avoiding expensive contracts[2].

What makes a great sub-£300 phone in 2026? It comes down to value for money. All our picks run Android, since even the cheapest new iPhone (the iPhone 16e) costs about double this price range[3]. We’ve focused on new models available in the UK that offer the best mix of performance, camera quality, battery endurance, and display – without breaking the bank. These recommendations are vetted by tech experts and based on real testing[4], so you can trust that they deliver on their promises. We remain independent and user-focused in our selection, highlighting honest pros and cons for each device.

How we chose the picks: We looked at the latest releases and reviews, considering factors like processing power, software support, camera capabilities, battery size, and overall build quality. After comparing dozens of budget smartphones, we’ve narrowed it down to the top three phones under £300 that truly offer great value in 2026. Let’s dive into the picks!

Top 3 Picks

1. CMF Phone 2 Pro – Best All-Round Value

The CMF Phone 2 Pro’s bold design and triple camera system offer premium flair at a budget price.

The CMF Phone 2 Pro is a stylish budget smartphone that punches well above its price. Co-developed by Nothing’s new sub-brand, it features a bold, unique design with modular bolt-on accessories for extra functionality[5]. Importantly, this 2025 release fixed many of its predecessor’s flaws – you now get better cameras (a triple camera setup) with a larger main sensor, a much improved 6.77-inch AMOLED display, and even an IP54 water-resistant rating[6].

Under the hood, the CMF Phone 2 Pro runs on a capable MediaTek chipset, and it comes with Nothing OS (Android) that’s clean and bloat-free[5]. Day-to-day performance is smooth, and the battery is a generous 5,000 mAh (with 33W fast charging) – enough for all-day use. One standout feature is its 50 MP 2× telephoto camera, which is “near-unheard of for cheap phones” and allows for crisp zoom shots that budget rivals can’t match[7]. The phone even supports NFC for Google Pay, so you can tap to pay (a new addition in this model)[8].

✅ Why this pick

Pros:

• 📸 Top-tier cameras – Even includes telephoto lens; great night shots for the price
• 🌈 Smooth 120Hz AMOLED display – Sharp, colourful, and bright at 6.77"
• 🔄 Long software support – 3 years of Android OS + 6 years of security updates
• 💳 NFC & great value – Contactless payments + packed features for just £219

Cons:

• 💧 Minor drawback: Only splash-proof (IP54), not waterproof — and fixed back cover style

CMF Phone 2 Pro: → Check Price on Amazon UK

Main standout feature: The versatile triple-camera system – especially that 50 MP telephoto lens – sets the CMF Phone 2 Pro apart. You simply don’t find true optical zoom and such camera prowess on other phones at this price point[7].

Who it’s best for: Photographers and tinkerers on a budget. If you appreciate a phone with stylish design and modular add-ons, and you want great photos without spending a fortune, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is ideal[11]. It’s also great for anyone who plans to keep their phone for years, thanks to the extended software support (though brands like Samsung still lead in long-term updates)[12].

Amazon UK Check: Check price on Amazon UK – This phone often comes in well under £300, making it one of the best-value buys of 2026 for savvy shoppers. Check our website for more details about CMF Phone 2 Pro.

2. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G – Best for Long-Term Reliability

Samsung’s Galaxy A17 5G offers a sleek design and a promise of updates into the 2030s, making it a safe long-term choice.

The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G continues Samsung’s formula of delivering solid budget phones that tick all the boxes[13]. At first glance, it looks similar to last year’s model (the A16), but that’s not a bad thing – you still get a sleek design, a large 6.7″ Super AMOLED screen (1080p, 90 Hz) that’s vibrant and “punchy,” and Samsung’s slick One UI software on top of Android[14][15]. The performance is handled by an Exynos 1330 chip with 4–8 GB RAM options, which is smooth for everyday use. And yes, it has 5G for fast network speeds.

The A17’s key upgrade is in the camera department: Samsung added optical image stabilisation (OIS) to the 50 MP main camera, meaning sharper photos and steadier video, especially in low-light situations[16]. Alongside that are a 5 MP ultrawide and a 2 MP macro lens – not the highest resolution secondary cameras (they’re a bit “lacklustre” in quality)[17], but handy to have. Battery life is excellent thanks to a 5000 mAh battery, easily lasting a full day, and it supports 25W fast charging to top up quickly[18]. Samsung also retains nice extras like a microSD card slot for expandable storage and a 3.5mm headphone jack on this model, catering to traditionalists.

✅ Why this pick

Pros:

• 🔄 6 years of updates – Longest support in this range (till 2031!) = max long-term value
• 🌈 Big 6.7″ AMOLED screen – Vivid colours, smooth 90Hz scrolling + Gorilla Glass
• 🔋 Reliable all-day battery – 5000 mAh + 25W fast charging
• 🛠️ Samsung polish – Sleek build, One UI features, NFC + microSD included

Cons:

• ⚠️ Watch for: Minor upgrade over A16 and Weak secondary cameras (main lens still strong)

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G → Check Price on Amazon UK

Main standout feature: Unbeatable longevity. For a sub-£300 device, the Galaxy A17’s combination of long-term updates (6 years!)[19] and Samsung’s build quality means this phone is built to last. It’s a set-and-forget phone that will stay secure and usable for many years, outlasting most of its competitors in software support.

Who it’s best for: Value-first buyers who want a worry-free experience and plan to keep their phone for as long as possible[19][23]. If you’re the type to hang onto a phone until it dies, the A17 is a perfect match. It’s also great for anyone who prefers Samsung’s ecosystem and wants a big, quality display for media, without paying Galaxy S-series prices.

Amazon UK Check: Check price on Amazon UK – The Galaxy A17 5G is widely available in the UK, often around the mid-£200s, making it a fantastic deal for a phone with flagship-like support and a trusted brand name. Alternatively - visit our product page for more details under: Samsung Galaxy A17 5G

3. OnePlus Nord CE 5 – Best for Premium Feel & Fast Charging

The OnePlus Nord CE 5 looks and feels more premium than its price, featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display and sleek design.

The OnePlus Nord CE 5 is a budget phone that doesn’t feel like one – OnePlus has managed to deliver a handset that could be mistaken for a far pricier device. The Nord CE 5 has a confident design with an all-black polycarbonate frame and composite back that “do an excellent job of making you think this is a phone that belongs at the premium end”[24]. It even boasts IP65 dust and water resistance, a rarity in this price category (meaning it’s protected from rain and splashes)[25].

Up front you get a bright 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a silky-smooth 120Hz refresh rate, which is easy to view outdoors and perfect for scrolling and watching videos[26]. Performance is snappy thanks to the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex chip paired with 8GB RAM – OnePlus’s OxygenOS software is well-optimized, and during testing “no issues [were encountered] when playing titles like Call of Duty Mobile”[26]. In other words, it can handle popular games and multitasking with ease.

Battery is another highlight: the Nord CE 5 packs a huge 5,200 mAh battery that easily lasts through a full day of heavy use[27]. When you do need to charge, OnePlus’s 80W SuperVOOC fast charging can refill the battery from 0 to 100% in under 50 minutes – incredibly convenient[28]. For cameras, you get a 50 MP main shooter (with OIS for steady shots), an 8 MP ultra-wide, and a depth/macro lens. The main camera performs well in good light, capturing sharp and vibrant images[29]. Low-light photography is its weak point (no dedicated night mode magic here, and details can drop in the dark), and the additional lenses are just average. Still, for everyday snaps and social media, it gets the job done.

✅ Why this pick

Pros:

• ✨ Premium design + UI – Slim, stylish, water-resistant (IP65) + refined OxygenOS experience
• 🎥 Fantastic display – 6.77″ AMOLED, ultra-smooth 120Hz – great for videos and scrolling
• 🔋 Top-tier battery life – 33+ hrs in tests + blazing-fast 80W charging (charger included)
• 🚀 Strong all-round performance – Handles gaming + multitasking better than most at this price

Cons:

• ⚠️ Downsides: Tinny speaker, no Gorilla Glass, and low-light camera performance is average

OnePlus Nord CE 5 → Check Price on Amazon UK

Main standout feature: Fast charging and battery combo. The Nord CE 5 not only lasts long, it also juices up unbelievably fast – an 80W charge is something even many flagships lack. This means you can get a day’s power in just a quick charge session, which is a game-changer if you’re always on the go.

Who it’s best for: Those who want a premium experience on a budget. If you care about having a phone that looks stylish, feels fast, and won’t die halfway through the day, the OnePlus Nord CE 5 is for you[36]. It’s especially suited to users who watch a lot of videos or play games casually, thanks to the excellent screen and battery. You’ll appreciate the high-end touches (like the 120Hz display and water resistance) without paying flagship prices.

Amazon UK Check: Check price on Amazon UK – The Nord CE 5 often retails around £250–£300 in the UK. It’s a popular mid-range choice, so keep an eye out for deals that can make this an even sweeter bargain. Alternatively for more information go to our product detail page OnePlus Nord CE 5.

Comparison Table: Key Specs

For a quick side-by-side glance, here’s how our top 3 phones under £300 compare on core specifications:

All three phones feature 5G connectivity, NFC for Google Pay, and dual SIM support (plus headphone jacks on the Samsung and OnePlus). The displays are all at least Full HD resolution and easy on the eyes, and each phone’s battery comfortably lasts a full day of use. 📊

CMF Phone 2 Pro: → Check Price on Amazon UK

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G → Check Price on Amazon UK

OnePlus Nord CE 5 → Check Price on Amazon UK

What to Consider When Buying a Budget Phone

Choosing a sub-£300 smartphone involves a few trade-offs. Keep these factors in mind to find the best budget phone for your needs:

• Performance & Gaming: Budget phones in 2026 are quite powerful. Most pack mid-range processors and around 8GB RAM, which handle everyday tasks (web browsing, social media, streaming) smoothly. They can even manage popular games at medium settings – for instance, the Nord CE 5 “encountered no issues” running Call of Duty Mobile[26]. However, don’t expect flagship-level graphics or frame rates in the most demanding 3D games[44]. If gaming is a priority, look for models touted for performance (e.g. Poco X7 Pro with its strong chipset)[45], but be aware you might sacrifice some battery life or camera quality in those cases.
• Software Updates: Pay attention to how long the manufacturer will support the phone with updates. Some budget models get only 1–2 years of Android updates (or even none beyond bug fixes), which could leave you outdated sooner[34]. Brands like Samsung stand out by offering up to 6 years of updates even on budget models[19], ensuring your phone stays secure and feels fresh with new features over time. If you plan to keep your phone for 3+ years, choosing a model with a strong update policy (like the Galaxy A17) is a smart move.
• Camera Quality: Cameras have improved on affordable phones – many now include 50 MP sensors and multiple lenses. In good lighting, you can get sharp, social-media-ready photos from a £300 phone. But remember, secondary cameras (like ultra-wide or macro) are often lower resolution and “limited in performance”[46]. Low-light photography and video stabilization may not match flagship phones unless the device has extras like OIS[16]. If camera is a priority, look for standout features (e.g. the CMF Phone 2 Pro’s telephoto lens[7]) and read camera reviews to see how a phone performs in real-world scenarios.
• Display & Design: One big perk of modern budget phones – you often get a large, high-quality display. Many sub-£300 devices now feature Full HD+ resolution and even high refresh rates (90Hz or 120Hz) for smoother scrolling[20]. This makes a huge difference in day-to-day use, making content look crisp and fluid. That said, budget phones typically use LCD or standard AMOLED panels (which are still very good) rather than the very brightest or highest-resolution OLEDs of flagships. In terms of design, expect durable plastics instead of glass or metal – but that’s not a bad thing. Plastic builds can be quite sturdy (and don’t shatter like glass) and often make the phone lighter. Some phones in this range even boast water resistance (IP ratings) and nice design flourishes. Overall, you can get a phone that looks and feels surprisingly premium without spending a fortune[24].
• Battery Life & Charging: Most budget phones come with large batteries (around 4500–5000 mAh), which often means all-day battery life or more[47][48]. In fact, many inexpensive phones outlast some high-end ones because of their efficient chips and lower-res screens. If longevity is important, check reviews for battery tests – for example, some models like Motorola’s G series or the OnePlus Nord CE 5 can last well beyond a day on a charge[31]. Also look at charging tech: some phones offer only basic 15W-25W fast charging, while others include 50W, 80W or higher. A higher watt charger can fill your battery much quicker – e.g. 0 to 50% in half an hour[28] – which is great for busy users. Just note that very fast charging can heat the battery more, but manufacturers optimize it to be safe.
• Build & Extra Features: Finally, consider the little features that matter to you. Do you need a microSD card slot for extra storage? Many budget Androids (especially Samsung and Motorola) still include this, whereas some others do not[41]. How about a headphone jack for your wired earphones? If that’s important, check if the phone has one (Samsung’s A series and some mid-rangers often do; many newer designs are dropping it). NFC is another feature – luckily, most UK models now include NFC for Google Pay, but double-check if you plan to use contactless payments (years ago some cheaper models skipped it, though our top picks all have it[8]). Lastly, build quality: while metal frames or glass backs are rare under £300, you can still get a phone that feels solid. Some have a water-repellent coating or even an official IP rating, which is a bonus for durability. Case in point: the Moto G56 is IP69 rated (fully waterproof) despite a plastic build, proving ruggedness is possible on a budget[49]. Read reviews to see if a phone feels well-built or if there are any known durability issues.

By weighing these factors – performance, updates, camera, display, battery, and build – you can choose a budget phone that truly fits your needs. The good news is that in 2026, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that excel in multiple areas, so you won’t be left feeling like you compromised too much on any one thing.

FAQ

Q1: Is a £300 phone good for gaming?
A: Yes – a decent mid-range phone under £300 can handle popular games at fair settings. These phones come with capable processors and enough RAM to run games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile smoothly[26]. For example, the OnePlus Nord CE 5’s chip delivered fluid gameplay in testing[26], and some phones (like Xiaomi’s Poco X7 Pro) can even push frame rates above 60fps in demanding titles[45]. However, keep your expectations realistic: you might not be able to max out graphics settings or get the ultra-high frame rates that a £800 flagship would achieve. Very intensive games will run, but at medium settings in many cases. Overall, casual and moderate gaming are absolutely fine on a £300 phone, but hardcore gamers who want the highest performance might eventually crave something with a top-tier chipset.

Q2: How long will a budget phone last (in terms of updates and lifespan)?
A: It depends on the brand’s support policy. Some budget phones unfortunately stop getting major Android updates after a year or two, which can limit their useful lifespan if you care about new features or security patches[34]. On the other hand, brands like Samsung now offer up to 6 years of updates even on affordable models[19] – for instance, the Galaxy A17 will get updates until 2031! Generally, you can expect at least 2-3 years of software support on many reputable mid-range phones, and security updates often continue a bit longer. In terms of hardware, a well-made £300 phone (with a case and maybe a battery swap after a few years) can last 3-4 years comfortably for everyday use. The processors in these phones are powerful enough that they shouldn’t feel sluggish for a few years. Battery health might be the main limiting factor – after about 500 charge cycles (a couple of years of heavy use), the battery will hold less charge. But if you choose a device known for long support (again, Samsung or certain Noki​a/Motorola one-off models)[50][51], and you take care of it, a £300 phone can absolutely go the distance. In short, look for models with strong update commitments and consider replacing the battery down the line, and you’ll get excellent longevity from your budget handset.

Q3: Do budget phones have good cameras or should I spend more?
A: You might be pleasantly surprised – many sub-£300 phones now have very good cameras for the price. They often use high-resolution sensors (48MP, 50MP, etc.) on the main camera that can capture sharp images in daylight. For example, our top pick, the CMF Phone 2 Pro, even includes a telephoto zoom lens which is rare in this class and helps it take photos that rival much pricier phones[7]. That said, spending more can still get you advantages in photography: flagship and upper-midrange phones have larger camera sensors, better lenses, and more advanced image processing. They typically perform better in low light (less noise, more detail) and have features like optical zoom, optical image stabilization on multiple lenses, and superior video quality. Budget phones usually have one strong camera (the main one), while the secondary cameras (wide-angle, macro, depth) are just ok[46]. If you’re a casual photographer, a £300 phone will be perfectly fine for Instagram, snapshots, and even printing small photos – you’ll get good enough results in most situations. But if photography is a serious hobby or you need top-tier results (especially in challenging lighting), you might consider stretching your budget a bit more. Remember, though, that technique and lighting can matter more than pure hardware – and in good light, a budget phone can take stunning shots very close to a £800 phone’s output. For most people, budget phone cameras are “good enough” in 2026. Just manage your expectations in tricky conditions, and you’ll be very happy with the pics you can snap for the price!

Still deciding?
If you'd like to dive deeper into the specs or see how these models compare side-by-side, check out:

• 📊 Compare these phones here
• 📱 See full product details for Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
• 📱 View Redmi CMF Phone 2 Pro product page
• 📱 View OnePlus Nord CE5 product page

We update our comparisons regularly to keep things accurate and UK-focused.