The 5 Best Smartphones Under 300 € — Ranking July 2026
Finding a smartphone that doesn't lag after six months is a challenge in this price bracket. We tested the latest 2026 models to find those with smooth screens and reliable batteries. By the end of this guide, you will know exactly which device offers the best balance of performance and longevity for your daily needs.
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POCO
X9 Pro 5G
Near-flagship performance with lightning-fast 90W charging
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋Very fast 4nm processor
- ＋Full charge in 38 minutes
- ＋Bright 144Hz AMOLED screen
✗ Cons
- －Software includes several pre-installed apps
- －Plastic back materials
⚖ Verdict
The POCO X9 Pro 5G is the ultimate choice for power users. It handles demanding games without overheating and charges faster than any other competitor in this price range.
Samsung
Galaxy A38 5G
Best-in-segment display and 5-year software support
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋Exceptional Super AMOLED screen
- ＋Sharp photos with OIS
- ＋Full IP67 certification
✗ Cons
- －Slow 25W charging
- －No charger in the box
⚖ Verdict
Pick the Galaxy A38 5G if you prioritize screen quality and longevity. Its photos are class-leading, and the extended software support is unmatched for the price.
Xiaomi
Redmi Note 16 Pro 5G
Perfect balance between a 200MP camera and solid battery
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋Great 200MP main sensor
- ＋256GB base storage
- ＋Slim and modern design
✗ Cons
- －Mediocre ultra-wide sensor
- －Too many ads in the system
⚖ Verdict
The Redmi Note 16 Pro 5G offers the most balanced specs. With plenty of storage and a surprisingly detailed main camera, it stands as the best value for money in 2026.
Motorola
Edge 70 Neo
Lightweight, waterproof, and featuring a clean Google-style UI
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋Real IP68 water resistance
- ＋Fluid software without bloatware
- ＋Very lightweight in hand
✗ Cons
- －Less frequent software updates
- －Battery slightly under 5000 mAh
⚖ Verdict
The Motorola Edge 70 Neo is for those who dislike bulky phones. It provides a clean and snappy experience, with the added benefit of full immersion protection.
Xiaomi
Redmi Note 16
Essential and practical with two-day battery life
Our score
✓ Pros
- ＋Unbeatable price point
- ＋120Hz AMOLED screen
- ＋Headphone jack still included
✗ Cons
- －No 5G in this version
- －Basic performance for multitasking
⚖ Verdict
If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing a good screen, the Redmi Note 16 is the way to go. It's a reliable phone focused entirely on battery longevity.
📖 PREXO · 2 min read
Buying guide
Key factors for your 2026 purchase
The display is the most important component since you interact with it constantly. Only look for AMOLED panels with a 120Hz refresh rate. This feature ensures total fluidity in menus and social media apps. Peak brightness should exceed 1400 nits. This allows you to read texts under direct sunlight without any eye strain.
Battery capacity should be at least 5000 mAh. However, focus on the actual charging speed in real-world tests. A smartphone supporting 67W charging goes from zero to 100% in about 45 minutes. Avoid models that still require over 90 minutes for a full charge cycle.
In 2026, the processor must support 5G and feature a 4nm manufacturing process. These chips generate less heat and consume very little energy during standby. A high-quality processor handles heavy multitasking without slowdowns for at least three years of continuous use.
Buying mistakes to avoid
- Chasing Megapixels: A 200 MP camera with a tiny sensor performs worse than a high-quality 50 MP sensor. Look for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to prevent blurry night photos.
- Underestimating RAM: In 2026, 8 GB of physical RAM is the absolute minimum. Versions with 6 GB struggle to keep modern background apps open efficiently.
- Forgetting the proximity sensor: Some budget models use poor virtual sensors. These accidentally activate the screen with your cheek during calls. Choose models with a dedicated hardware sensor.
- Ignoring IP certification: A smartphone without IP54 protection risks permanent damage from light rain. Always verify splash and dust resistance before purchasing.
- Buying old flagships: A flagship from 2024 likely has a chemically degraded battery today. A new 2026 mid-range model offers better battery life and updated software support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play demanding games on these models?
Yes, current mid-range chips handle almost every modern mobile title well. You simply need to set graphic details to medium levels to maintain a steady 60 frames per second. Thermal management is excellent, preventing the phone from overheating after 30 minutes.
Is the charger included in the box?
Xiaomi and Motorola almost always include the original fast charger in the box. Samsung has removed this accessory from the entire Galaxy line, including budget models. If you choose Samsung, you will need to buy a 25W charger separately.
Is the storage expandable via MicroSD?
Many manufacturers are removing the external memory card slot even in the mid-range segment. If you take many high-resolution photos, go for the 256 GB storage version immediately. Otherwise, you will eventually have to pay for a monthly cloud storage subscription.