The best smartphones under 400 € — ranking August 2026
Finding a reliable phone without spending a fortune is our mission. We evaluated 5 current models under the 400 euro threshold, focusing on actual performance and daily usage. Discover which device best fits your digital habits among our curated selection.
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XIAOMI
Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G
Excellent performance and 200MP sensor for the best overall package.
Our score
$391.20
View on Amazon →✓ Pros
- ＋200MP camera sensor
- ＋6580mAh battery
- ＋IP68 rating
✗ Cons
- －Charger not included
- －Large physical dimensions
⚖ Verdict
The benchmark for those seeking flagship specs without breaking the budget. Performance is consistent and battery life is among the best in its class.
HONOR
90
Breathtaking curved display and ultra-fast charging.
Our score
$371.89
View on Amazon →✓ Pros
- ＋120Hz curved AMOLED display
- ＋200MP camera
- ＋66W charging
✗ Cons
- －Lacks high IP rating
- －Mono speaker
⚖ Verdict
A device that focuses on aesthetics and visual quality. Ideal for those who consume lots of video content and want a premium experience without the premium brand price tag.
Nothing
Phone (4b)
Unique design and clean software interface.
Our score
$380.41
View on Amazon →✓ Pros
- ＋Glyph bar design
- ＋5200mAh battery
- ＋120Hz display
✗ Cons
- －50MP camera only
- －33W charging
⚖ Verdict
Perfect for those seeking a lean software experience and aesthetics that stand out from the crowd. The generous battery offsets the slower charging speed compared to rivals.
realme
C100 5G
Endless battery life with fast charging at an affordable price.
Our score
$238.71
View on Amazon →✓ Pros
- ＋6600mAh battery
- ＋144Hz display
- ＋45W charging
✗ Cons
- －Entry-level camera
- －LCD display
⚖ Verdict
The king of battery life in this segment. Ideal for those who spend entire days away from power outlets and do not have high photography demands.
realme
14x 5G
The best entry-level compromise with a 120Hz screen.
Our score
$172.22
View on Amazon →✓ Pros
- ＋120Hz display
- ＋50MP camera
- ＋Octa-core processor
✗ Cons
- －No adapter in box
- －Cheap plastic build
⚖ Verdict
It's impossible to ask for more at this price. Great as a second phone or for those approaching 5G smartphones for the first time without sacrificing fluidity.
📖 PREXO · 2 min read
Buying guide
How to choose your new smartphone
Choosing the right device depends on how you use technology throughout the day. If your usage is mostly social media and media consumption, focus on an AMOLED display with a high refresh rate for superior visual smoothness. For those who take many photos, the main sensor resolution is a key indicator, though software processing is just as important as the megapixel count.
Never ignore battery capacity and charging speed. A phone that dies on you by 6:00 PM forces you to carry power banks, negating the benefit of a slim design. Always look for at least 45W fast charging to regain significant power in minutes.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid being blinded by astronomical numbers like 200MP if optical image stabilization (OIS) is missing, as photos will be blurry in low light. Do not take the inclusion of a charger in the box for granted, as many manufacturers sell them separately, effectively increasing your final cost. Be wary of phones with low internal storage or no expansion, as Android and apps take up more space each month. Finally, do not neglect IP ratings against water and dust; a small investment in protection today saves you from an expensive repair tomorrow.
Frequently asked questions
Is a new smartphone better than a refurbished flagship?
It depends on the software longevity you seek. A recent model offers software support for years, whereas an old flagship might be at the end of its life cycle, potentially exposing you to security risks.
Does RAM really matter?
Yes, it is crucial for multitasking. With 8GB or more, you will manage dozens of apps open simultaneously without sudden system slowdowns.