Top 5 Best Value 5G Phones in 2024
In order to benefit from the many 5G service options that the three major carriers—AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—offer in the United States, you must have a phone that can support 5G. Determining which phones are compatible with which 5G networks might be challenging, but Gadgetex is here to make the process easier. We have reviewed and covered mobile phones for many years, so we know a lot about 5G. Generally speaking, most phones have at least one 5G function. Low-cost gadgets like the Editors’ Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and high-end ones like the Apple iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9 are among our top choices. To become a 5G expert yourself, read the reviews of our top options and familiarize yourself with our 5G buying guide below.
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Top 5 Best Value 5G Phones in 2024
1: Apple iPhone 16
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
- Accessories will not be original, but will be compatible and fully functional. Product may come in generic Box.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The iPhone 16 is the most affordable model in Apple’s 2024 iPhone series. All of the company’s phones have undergone some improvements this year, and the basic iPhone 16 now performs and has features more in line with the Pro variants. It has the same Action Button and Camera Control, for example, and has a generational upgrade in processor and memory to enable Apple Intelligence. It’s a nearly complete kit that comes with modern radios, high-quality hardware, fast charging, and a long battery life. Although content creators would prefer the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s more power and professional video skills, the iPhone 16 remains our Editors’ Choice winner and the greatest choice for most people.
Year after year, the vanilla iPhone keeps evolving slowly. Even though the iPhone 16 keeps many of the design elements of the iPhone 15, it still makes major advancements thanks to a few features that Apple has incorporated into all iPhone 16 versions.
The 16 model, which weighs 6.0 ounces and has dimensions of 5.81 by 2.82 by 0.31 inches (HWD), is the smallest and lightest iPhone. The 16 Plus is 6.33 by 3.06 by 0.31 inches and weighs 7.03 ounces. With the exception of the display, it has every feature that the 16 possesses. The 16 Pro weighs 7.03 ounces and measures 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.32 inches, making it slightly larger than the 16. The Pro Max is substantially larger at 6.42.
The iPhone 16 (and 16 Plus) has aluminum frames and Apple’s Ceramic Shield on the front and rear. Apple claims that its glass is twice as robust as Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, which is included in the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S24. The frame and glass panels’ matte textures add a little extra traction. The phone can withstand up to 30 minutes of submersion in water up to five feet deep thanks to its IP68 designation, which shields it from dust and water. Nevertheless, unless you are quite certain that you won’t drop it, it is recommended to put a case on the phone. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus come in five different colors: white, pink, black, ultramarine, and teal. The Ultramarine variant, which is a pretty blue that occasionally verges on purple, was the one we tested.
The most noticeable outward changes to the iPhone 16 are two additional buttons. The iPhone 16 is the first device to use the Action Button, which made its debut on the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max last year. The Action Button, a small key situated just above the two volume buttons, takes the position of the ringer switch. You can configure the Action Button to mute your phone, turn on the flashlight, record a voice memo, or start your favorite shortcut. The button is quite useful, even though it is a little small. Second, the iPhone 16 and the Pro models share the same Camera Control key. With the Camera Control, you may instantly access the camera to snap a photo or record a video.
Pros
- High-quality hardware
- Most affordable iPhone 16 model
Cons
- 60Hz display
2: Google Pixel 8a
- Meet Google Pixel 8a, the Google AI phone; with the incredible Pixel Camera and top-rated security features to help protect your data[1]
- Unlocked Android 5G smartphone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- The Pixel Camera gives you amazing photo and video quality; Google AI helps you create perfect group shots with Best Take and fix blurry images with Photo Unblur[3]
- The 6.1-inch Pixel 8a Actua display is even brighter and more vibrant; it’s fast and responsive for smoother scrolling, video streaming, and switching between apps on your phone[4]
- Google AI helps with everyday tasks; search anything right from the app you’re in, just by drawing a circle around an image, text, or video[5]; get a summary of emails and brainstorm ideas with Gemini[6]; and avoid spammers with Call Assist[7]
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The Google Pixel 8a is among the best midrange phones on the market right now. Google’s G3 CPU, practical AI technologies, good cameras, and seven years of software support are among its major features, which are also shared by the $699 Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Both of these drawbacks are negligible considering how much else you’re getting for the money. We do wish it supported faster charging and had more recent protective glass on the front, though. The Pixel 8a wins our Editors’ Choice award for midrange Android phones because of its competitive performance and reasonable price.
The Pixel 8a resembles the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in appearance due to its rounded corners and camera bar. The back of the Pixel 8 Pro is matte rather than glossy like the Pixel 8. It resists fingerprints and grime well. You can see four of the nine antenna wires that encircle the camera bar. The phone comes in four color options: Aloe (green), Bay (blue), Obsidian (black), or Porcelain (off-white). I tried out the Porcelain version.
A 6.1-inch OLED display takes up the front of the gadget, but the bezel is also noteworthy. Although it is thicker than the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, I don’t find it distracting or impede with the device’s performance. The black ring that surrounds the Pixel Watch’s screen is somewhat reminiscent of the bezel. Although it’s simple to overlook, you could initially notice it.
The 8a has a sleek, sophisticated look thanks to its use of glass and aluminum. Gorilla Glass 3 covers the front, which is several generations old. The IP67 certification of the Pixel 8a, like that of the Pixel 7a, is good but not quite as spectacular as that of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which have IP68 ratings. The Samsung Galaxy A35 is rated IP67, whereas the Galaxy S23 FE offers IP68 protection. Generally speaking, the difference between an IP67 and IP68 rating shouldn’t worry you unless you plan to submerge your phone in water on a frequent basis. Unintentional spills and rain shouldn’t damage the Pixel 8a.
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Excellent cameras
Cons
- Older protective glass on the front
3: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- CIRCLE & SEARCH¹ IN A SNAP: What’s your favorite influencer wearing? Where’d they go on vacation? What’s that word mean? Don’t try to describe it — use Circle to Search1 with Google to get the answer; With S24 Series, circle it on your screen and learn more
- REAL EASY, REAL-TIME TRANSLATIONS: Speak foreign languages on the spot with Live Translate²; Unlock the power of convenient communication with near real-time voice translations, right through your Samsung Phone app
- NOTE SMARTER, NOT HARDER: Focus on capturing your notes and spend less time perfecting them; Note Assist³ will summarize, format, and even translate them for you; All of your notes are organized neatly so that you can find what you need
- BRING DETAILS OUT OF THE DARKNESS: Brighten up your night with Nightography on S24 Ultra; Want a closer look? Zoom in from a distance, even in low light
- MORE WOW, LESS WORK: Turn every photo into a post-worthy masterpiece; Move or remove objects; Fill in empty space; Simply snap a pic and take it from great to jaw-dropping with Generative Edit⁴
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The Galaxy Note dream is brought back to life with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the only smartphone in the company’s range featuring a S Pen stylus. Even though it’s a lot of phone, no other gadget can match its top-tier processor, stunning display, top-tier cameras, practical AI features, and built-in stylus. The slightly smaller and less costly Galaxy S24+ might be a better choice if you don’t need the S Pen or the extra camera zoom, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra is our Editors’ Choice for high-end Android phones because of its unwavering dedication to excellence.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the biggest and most expensive member of the S24 family, which also includes the $799 Galaxy S24 and the $999 Galaxy S24+. It differs from its less expensive stablemates with its squared-off design, built-in S Pen stylus, and farther-reaching cameras.
The Ultra is definitely a huge phone, measuring 6.40 by 3.11 by 0.34 inches (HWD) and weighing 8.22 ounces. The redesigned design of the S24 Ultra makes it feel lighter even though it weighs only 0.03 ounces less than the S23 Ultra. However, this is a pretty huge device, so those who prefer to use their phones with one hand won’t find it tempting. If that’s your position, the S24+ (6.2 by 3.0 by 0.30, 6.95 ounces) and S24 (5.79 by 2.78 by 0.30 inches, 5.93 ounces) are more rounded, lighter, and smaller.
The S24 Ultra’s display is shielded by Corning Gorilla Armor, which Corning says is more resilient than any other smartphone glass it manufactures. The business also claims that Gorilla Armor is less reflective and can minimize glare by up to 75%, depending on the lighting. In comparison to other phones I’ve tested, the Ultra actually seems almost paper-like and has fewer reflections.
The front glass is completely flat, unlike the curved panels of earlier generations. Samsung says this change was made in response to customer input. The flat screen makes it easier to use the S Pen because there is less likelihood that the curving edge may recognize your palm as input. Additionally, it makes the S Pen easier to use because drawing on curved glass was challenging.
Samsung hasn’t changed the rear camera’s design: It has a laser focus module and four rear cameras, three large and one small. The Ultra’s rear panel features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and has a matte appearance to prevent fingerprints. The Ultra comes in the following color options: Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet, and Titanium Yellow. A gray titanium frame encircles the gray and violet variants, while color-matched frames outline the black and yellow ones. If you want a different hue, you may buy Titanium Orange, Titanium Green, or Titanium Blue models, but exclusively on Samsung’s website. The gray frame of the orange variant is lighter than that of the blue and green ones. Only the Ultra variant has access to the titanium material. Armor Aluminum from Samsung is used in the S24 and S24+. With the exception of the yellow model, which receives a dark gray S Pen, the supplied S Pen is the same color as the titanium frame.
Pros
- Speedy performance
Cons
- Big
4: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- CIRCLE IT. FIND IT. SEE IT: Make huge discoveries when you use Circle to Search¹ with Google on the large screen of Galaxy Z Fold6; Circle those shoes on your feed and easily see where to buy them; Search is easier than ever on an expansive screen
- TWO SCREENS. ZERO LANGUAGE BARRIER: Say bye to being lost in translation & hi to fluency in up to 16 languages with Interpreter with Galaxy AI; In FlexMode, phone displays translations on both sides of the screen for easy in-person conversation²
- SMART AI EDITS. BRILLIANT PHOTOS: Editing photos is even easier on the large screen of Galaxy Z Fold6; See more detail as you instantly fix imperfections, move and remove objects and enhance colors using AI smart tools like Generative Edit and more³
- IMMERSIVE SCREEN. IMPRESSIVE GRAPHICS: Level up your screen and level up your gaming experience; Totally immerse yourself with Galaxy Z Fold6 thanks to a huge screen, a lightning-fast processor and incredibly realistic graphics
- MULTIPLE WINDOWS. MULTIPLE POSSIBILITIES: Edit, scroll and organize; Or chat, shop and stream — all at the same time on up to three windows; When it comes to viewing and doing more, Fold6 is built to handle more⁴
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly versatile phone that can handle nearly any task you throw at it, carrying on where the Z Fold 5 left off. Its increased durability, reduced weight, and improved cover screen experience all add to its luxury feel, which is in line with its pricing, even though the improvements over its predecessor aren’t very noteworthy. The incredible camera system, seven years of software support, and the state-of-the-art Galaxy AI features are further highlights. Our main complaint about the Z Fold 6 is its limited charging capabilities, but that doesn’t stop it from taking home our Editors’ Choice award. It’s the best huge foldable phone out there, to put it simply.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 weighs 8.43 ounces and has dimensions of 6.04 by 2.68 by 0.48 inches (HWD) when closed and 6.04 by 5.22 by 0.22 inches when open. Compared to the Z Fold 5, which weighs 8.92 ounces, measures 6.10 by 2.64 by 0.53 inches closed, and extends to 6.10 by 5.11 by 0.24 inches unfurled, it is shorter, wider, thinner, and lighter. In contrast, the outdated $1,799.99 Google Pixel Fold is incredibly heavy. It weighs 9.98 ounces, measures 5.50 by 3.10 by 0.50 inches when closed, and folds out to 5.50 by 6.24 by 0.23 inches. When closed, all three of these gadgets fold flat, which is a need for all modern foldable phones.
The Z Fold 6 and Fold 5 have the same ports and buttons. The volume rocker and fingerprint sensor/power button are located on the right edge. The fingerprint sensor is not prone to errors. Thankfully, Samsung has enabled fingerprint entry while the smartphone is closed. (This was not possible with the Z Fold 5.) Face Unlock is an additional, less safe choice. A USB-C 3.2 connection for data transfer and charging is situated at the bottom right of the opened device, while dual speaker grilles are situated at the left top and left bottom of the frame. In contrast to the Z Fold 5’s grilles, which feature nine distinct holes, the latter have a sleek, slit-like appearance. One physical nano-SIM can be inserted into the SIM tray on the left frame; eSIM is also supported by the Z Fold 6.
Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protects the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and covers the rear panel and front screen. According to Corning, this glass handles drops on uneven surfaces better than the original Victus. In the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, Gorilla Armor, a more current material, offers drop protection, scratch resistance, and a 75% reduction in screen reflections. I would want to see the Galaxy Z Fold series utilize the same capabilities as the S24 Ultra, considering their more expensive starting prices.
Samsung uses enhanced Armor Aluminum for the Z Fold 6’s frame, which is 10% stronger than the Armor Aluminum used in the Fold 5. Another new feature for this model is official dust resistance. The IP48 certification for the Z Galaxy Fold 6 is higher than the IPX8 rating for the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Although the Z Fold 6 can also withstand items 1mm or larger from penetrating, both can withstand submersion in water. In contrast, the Pixel Fold is rated IPX8.
Pros
- Wider cover screen
- Improved, more durable design
Cons
- Very expensive
5: Google Pixel 9
- Google Pixel 9 with Gemini gets the best of Google AI first, so you can take amazing photos, make edits like magic, and get things done even easier
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[1]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- The award-winning Pixel Camera includes a 50 MP main sensor for incredible image and video quality, and a new 48 MP ultrawide camera for stunning Macro Focus
- Make your photos better than you can imagine with Google AI; take a picture and be in it too with Add Me[2]; Best Take helps everyone look their best; and with Magic Editor, you can reframe photos, reimagine the scenery, and more[2]
- Get more info quickly with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; instead of typing, use Gemini Live; it follows along even if you change the topic or switch the question[30]; and Pixel Screenshots helps you save things you’ll want to remember later
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The Google Pixel 9 is a compact, well-balanced Android phone with a starting price of $99 that appeals to a broad spectrum of customers thanks to its smart AI features and stylish appearance. It shares many of the same characteristics as the Pixel 9 Pro, including excellent cameras, extended battery life, consistent performance, and top-notch hardware. It guarantees the same seven-year software maintenance window and includes most of the Pro’s Gemini AI capabilities. We wish Gemini had been more advanced at launch, but its capabilities are still excellent when compared to the competition. Since it is the best mainstream Android phone for most consumers and offers a terrific price, the Google Pixel 9 is our Editor’s Choice.
The shape of the Pixel 9, a rectangular slab with rounded corners, is comparable to that of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Measuring 6.0 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches (HWD) and weighing 7.0 ounces, it is identical in size and weight to the 9 Pro. On the other hand, the Apple iPhone 15 measures 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches and weighs 6.02 ounces, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 weighs 5.93 ounces and measures 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches. The Pixel 9 is balanced and pleasant in the hand despite its relative weight.
Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 shields the 6.3-inch screen and the rear panel. Although it is not the newest glass from Corning, Victus 2, the same substance that shields the Galaxy S24, is effective at avoiding scratches and breakage. Because of its IP68 classification, the Pixel 9 is more durable because it can withstand dust and water. The iPhone 15, Galaxy S24, and Pixel 9 Pro all have the same rating.
The glossy rear panel is complemented by the matte-finished metal outer frame. A power button and a volume rocker are located on the right side. The buttons seem a touch stiff and have a limited range of motion. The bottom edge houses the down-firing speaker, USB-C (v3.2) port, and SIM card slot. Up to two SIM cards—one conventional and one eSIM—can be used with the Pixel 9. This is identical to rival Samsung and Apple phones.The Pixel 9 has a secure Face Unlock and an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for biometrics. Google claims that the ultrasonic sensor is 50% faster than earlier models. It demonstrated speed and dependability in testing. Face Unlock functions effectively and is sufficiently safe for usage with financial and banking applications.
Obsidian (black), Peony (pinkish), Porcelain (white), or Wintergreen are the four color options for the Pixel 9. The latter two color choices appeal to me since they add a whimsical touch. In my household, the Wintergreen model I tested was soon dubbed “Greeny.”
The Pixel 9 has a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2,424 by 1,080 pixels with a density of 422 ppi and a refresh rate of 60 to 120 Hz. The screen is marginally larger and clearer than the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch, 2,400-by-1,080-pixel panel, but having the same refresh rate. With a resolution of 2,856 by 1,280 pixels and a greater pixel density of 495 ppi, the 9 Pro’s screen is the same size. The iPhone 15 features a 6.1-inch display with a resolution of 2,556 by 1,179 pixels and a fixed refresh rate of 60Hz, but the Galaxy S24 has a 6.1-inch panel with 2,340 by 1,080 pixels and a variable refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz.
What to Look for When Buying a Value 5G Phones in 2024
1. 5G Compatibility
- Ensure the phone supports your carrier’s 5G network (sub-6 GHz, mmWave, or both).
- Check if it supports standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) 5G for future-proofing.
2. Price Range
- Value Segment: $200–$500.
- Strike a balance between price and features without sacrificing essential performance.
3. Processor and Performance
- Look for mid-range processors with 5G support:
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 6xx/7xx or Dimensity 800/900 series for solid performance.
- Samsung Exynos mid-range chips are also common in affordable 5G phones.
- RAM and storage:
- Minimum 6GB RAM for smooth multitasking.
- At least 128GB storage (expandable via microSD is a bonus).
4. Display Quality
- Screen Type: Opt for AMOLED or OLED for vibrant colors and better contrast.
- Resolution: Full HD+ (1080p) for sharp visuals.
- Refresh Rate: 90Hz or 120Hz for smoother scrolling and gaming.
5. Camera Performance
- Main Camera: At least 48MP or higher for detailed shots.
- Additional Lenses: Ultra-wide, macro, and depth sensors add versatility.
- Front Camera: Minimum 16MP for clear selfies.
- Software Features: Night mode, AI enhancements, and 4K video recording.
6. Battery Life
- Capacity: At least 4,500–5,000mAh for all-day use.
- Charging: Fast charging support (15W–33W); USB-C is standard.
7. Software and Updates
- Operating System: Look for Android 13/14 or iOS if considering Apple’s SE series.
- Update Policy: Ensure at least 2–3 years of software and security updates.
8. Build Quality and Design
- Materials: Polycarbonate for affordability; glass and metal are premium options.
- Water Resistance: Look for basic IP ratings (e.g., IP52 or IP67).
9. Connectivity and Features
- Dual SIM Support: Useful for work and personal numbers.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2: Ensure fast and stable connections.
- Expandable Storage: Check for a microSD slot if storage is a concern.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: Rare but still available in some budget models.
10. Brand Reputation
- Choose trusted brands like Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Google (Pixel), or Motorola for quality and reliability.
11. Value-Added Features
- Fingerprint Sensor: Side-mounted or under-display for quick unlocking.
- Face Unlock: Convenient for added security.
- Stereo Speakers: For enhanced multimedia experience.
12. Compare Options
- Look for reviews and comparisons of phones in your price range to ensure you get the best performance, camera, and display.
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About Author
Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde is a 23-year-old Blogger from Turkey. He is a cisco certified Network Engineer and currently doing Masters in Networks Security from the Spiru Haret University.