The Best Cheap Phones (UK): 12 SIM-Free Smartphones Under £400

You don't need to spend £1,000 on a phone. Today's budget and mid-range phones have big screens, good batteries and decent cameras, and many of them support 5G.

We've picked 12 SIM-free phones from Laptops Direct, from a simple £119 Samsung to the stylish Nothing Phone (4a). SIM-free means the phone isn't locked to a network, so you can use any SIM card or SIM-only deal.

Ways to save

• Buying SIM-free and pairing it with a cheap SIM-only plan is often cheaper than a contract
• Refurbished and "Grade A" phones cost less and still come with a warranty
• See all smartphones at Laptops Direct

The quick picks

• Cheapest: Samsung Galaxy A05s, £119
• Best big battery on a budget: TCL K70 Power, £188.97
• Best under £250: Motorola Moto G77, £229
• Best for reading and eye comfort: TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro, £289
• Best all-rounder: Samsung Galaxy A37 5G, £349
• Best design: Nothing Phone (4a), £399

What to look for in a cheap phone

• 5G or 4G. 5G is faster where it's available. A 4G phone is fine if you mainly use Wi-Fi, call and message.
• Storage. 128GB is enough for most people. Choose 256GB if you take lots of photos and videos.
• Software updates. Phones get security updates for a set number of years. Samsung's newer A-series phones usually get longer support than older or very cheap models.
• Screen size. Most phones here are 6.7 inches or bigger, which is great for video but harder to use one-handed.
• Refurbished. A refurbished phone can save a lot. Check the grade and the warranty before you buy.

So, which cheap phone should you buy?

On a tight budget: the Samsung Galaxy A05s does the basics well for £119.

For the best value 5G phone: the Motorola Moto G77 or Samsung Galaxy A27.

For the best all-round phone under £400: the Samsung Galaxy A37 5G or the Nothing Phone (4a).

Common questions

Is it better to buy a phone SIM-free?

Often, yes. Buying SIM-free and choosing a SIM-only plan is usually cheaper over two years than a phone contract, and you can switch network whenever you like.

What is the best cheap phone in the UK?

For most people, the Samsung Galaxy A37 5G is a great all-rounder for the price. If you want the cheapest decent phone, the Galaxy A05s costs £119.

Are refurbished phones worth it?

They can be, as long as you buy from a trusted shop with a warranty. Check the condition grade and battery health if it's listed.

Do cheap phones get software updates?

Yes, but for different lengths of time. Check the manufacturer's update policy before you buy, especially if you keep phones for years.

Related guides

• The Best Tech Gifts Under £50
• The Best Power Banks
• The Best Gaming Phones

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