Best Samsung Phone Under $400: 7 Top Picks for 2026

Could you still get a strong Galaxy phone without spending $400? Yes. The Samsung Galaxy A37 5G is my top new-phone choice in this range.

For most buyers, the Samsung Galaxy A37 5G offers the best balance of display quality, camera stabilization, battery life, durability, and current hardware.

However, the renewed Galaxy S24 FE is more appealing for flagship performance, optical zoom, wireless charging, and Samsung DeX.

This guide compares seven Galaxy models across cameras, displays, battery life, 5G, performance, durability, storage, and buying risks.

What is the best Samsung phone under $400?

The Galaxy A37 5G is the best overall new option when the 128GB US model stays below the budget.

The A37 combines a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, 50MP OIS camera, 5G, IP68 protection, and a 5,000mAh battery.

Meanwhile, the renewed Galaxy S24 FE is the stronger choice for buyers who value flagship cameras and performance.

Which Galaxy phone should you pick?

The A37 is my overall winner, but each recommendation serves a different type of buyer.

• Best overall: Samsung Galaxy A37 5G
• Best renewed flagship: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
• Best value: Samsung Galaxy A36 5G
• Best budget 5G: Samsung Galaxy A26 5G
• Best renewed camera value: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
• Best affordable current model: Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
• Best older value: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

Samsung Galaxy A37 5G

The Galaxy A37 5G is the strongest new Samsung choice for buyers who want a balanced phone.

Badge: 🏆 Best Overall

Best For: Most buyers, everyday use, streaming, photography, casual gaming, and long-term ownership.

Why We Choose It

The A37 earns the top position because it combines current-generation hardware with several premium features.

Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display supports up to 120Hz. Therefore, scrolling, gaming, and video playback feel smooth.

The 50MP main camera also includes optical image stabilization. OIS helps reduce blur from hand movement during photos and video.

IP68 protection adds another useful advantage. The rating gives the phone stronger resistance to water and dust than many cheaper models.

Features and Benefits

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display: Provides vibrant colors and a large viewing area for video and browsing.
• 120Hz refresh rate: Makes scrolling and supported animations feel smoother.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps produce steadier handheld photos and videos.
• 8MP ultrawide camera: Captures wider scenes for landscapes and group photos.
• 5MP macro camera: Lets you capture close-up subjects.
• 5G connectivity: Supports faster cellular networks where compatible coverage exists.
• 5,000mAh battery: Provides enough capacity for long daily sessions.
• IP68 protection: Adds stronger protection against dust and water exposure.

Editor Analysis

The A37 is the easiest recommendation for buyers who want a new Samsung phone instead of a refurbished flagship.

The display stands out for streaming, social media, browsing, and casual gaming. The stabilized main camera also gives the phone useful everyday photography ability.

However, the A37 does not have a dedicated optical telephoto camera. Buyers who want true optical zoom should consider the S24 FE or S23 FE.

Price remains the biggest consideration. If the A36 costs much less, the older model may offer stronger value.

Choose the A37 when newer hardware and long-term ownership matter more than flagship extras.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

The renewed Galaxy S24 FE is the better choice when flagship-style performance and camera flexibility matter most.

Badge: 📸 Best Renewed Flagship

Best For: Photography, demanding apps, gaming, Samsung DeX, and buyers wanting premium features.

Why We Choose It

The S24 FE offers features that most Galaxy A-series phones in this price class cannot match.

The selected renewed configuration uses the Exynos 2400e processor with 8GB of RAM. That combination gives the phone more performance headroom for demanding apps and games.

A 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display adds a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The screen therefore suits both entertainment and productivity.

The camera system also includes an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. That lens gives the S24 FE a clear advantage for portraits and distant subjects.

Features and Benefits

• 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display: Delivers a premium screen experience for movies, games, and photos.
• 120Hz adaptive refresh rate: Balances smooth motion with efficient screen use.
• Exynos 2400e processor: Provides stronger performance for demanding apps and gaming.
• 8GB RAM: Gives multitaskers more room to keep apps active.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps capture sharper handheld photos.
• 12MP ultrawide camera: Makes wide landscapes and group shots easier.
• 8MP telephoto camera: Adds useful 3x optical zoom for distant subjects.
• Wireless charging: Provides a convenient cable-free charging option.
• Samsung DeX: Lets compatible displays provide a desktop-style Samsung experience.

Editor Analysis

The S24 FE can deliver a more premium experience than a similarly priced Galaxy A-series phone.

The telephoto camera is especially useful for photography. Wireless charging and DeX also add features that budget models often lack.

However, the selected ASIN represents a Renewed product. Check the seller, battery condition, warranty, and return policy before ordering.

Buy this model when flagship hardware matters more than getting a brand-new device.

Skip it if predictable condition and a new-device warranty are your highest priorities.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G

The Galaxy A36 5G is the strongest value option when its price drops clearly below the A37.

Badge: 💰 Best Value

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who want a new Samsung phone with an AMOLED display.

Why We Choose It

The A36 keeps many of the features that make the newer A-series attractive.

Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panel supports a 120Hz refresh rate. That combination makes the phone particularly good for streaming and social media.

The 50MP main camera also uses OIS. As a result, handheld shots can benefit from better stabilization.

A 5,000mAh battery gives the A36 enough capacity for typical daily use.

Features and Benefits

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display: Provides a large, colorful screen for entertainment.
• 120Hz refresh rate: Creates smoother scrolling and motion.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting.
• 8MP ultrawide camera: Makes wider compositions easier.
• 5MP macro camera: Supports close-up photography.
• 5G connectivity: Gives access to compatible next-generation mobile networks.
• 5,000mAh battery: Supports long daily use between charges.

Editor Analysis

The A36 makes the most sense when the price gap with the A37 is meaningful.

Most everyday users get the essentials. Streaming, messaging, browsing, social media, and casual photography are well covered.

However, the A37 is newer and sits higher in Samsung’s lineup. Therefore, the A36 needs a strong discount to become the better purchase.

If the price difference is small, I would choose the A37 instead.

Samsung Galaxy A26 5G

The Galaxy A26 5G is a strong budget pick for shoppers who value AMOLED, 5G, storage, and expandable memory.

Badge: 💵 Best Budget 5G

Best For: Budget shoppers, media users, 5G buyers, and people who need expandable storage.

Why We Choose It

The selected configuration combines 256GB of storage with 8GB of RAM. That gives storage-heavy users more room for photos, videos, and apps.

The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display also supports up to 120Hz. Therefore, the A26 delivers a more polished screen experience than many entry-level phones.

A 50MP main camera with OIS adds useful stabilization. The 5,000mAh battery also suits long daily sessions.

Features and Benefits

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display: Provides bright colors and a large viewing area.
• 120Hz refresh rate: Makes scrolling and supported animations smoother.
• 256GB storage: Gives users more room for apps, photos, and videos.
• 8GB RAM: Helps with multitasking and keeping more apps active.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps steady handheld photos and video.
• 5G connectivity: Supports compatible 5G networks.
• 5,000mAh battery: Provides substantial capacity for everyday use.
• microSD expansion: Lets users add storage for larger media libraries.
• IP67 protection: Adds resistance against dust and water exposure.

Editor Analysis

The A26 offers an attractive hardware package for buyers trying to spend less.

However, the selected ASIN is an international model. Carrier compatibility can vary by market.

US buyers should check supported network bands and activation requirements before ordering.

The warranty can also differ from a US-market Samsung model. For that reason, this phone suits buyers who understand international-model risks.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G

The renewed Galaxy S23 FE is a compelling camera-focused alternative with optical zoom and flagship features.

Badge: 📷 Best Renewed Camera Value

Best For: Photography, optical zoom, wireless charging, DeX, and flagship-style features.

Why We Choose It

The S23 FE remains interesting because its camera system offers more versatility than most new phones in this price range.

The 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The screen also gives the phone a more premium feel.

Its rear camera system combines a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, and 8MP telephoto camera.

The telephoto lens provides 3x optical zoom. As a result, portraits and distant subjects benefit from real optical reach.

Features and Benefits

• 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display: Provides rich colors and sharp detail for entertainment.
• 120Hz adaptive refresh rate: Makes compatible scrolling and motion feel smoother.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps reduce camera shake in handheld shots.
• 12MP ultrawide camera: Captures broader scenes and group photos.
• 8MP telephoto camera: Adds 3x optical zoom for distant subjects.
• Wireless charging: Offers convenient cable-free charging.
• IP68 protection: Adds strong water and dust resistance.
• Samsung DeX: Supports a desktop-style experience with compatible equipment.

Editor Analysis

The S23 FE is worth considering when camera flexibility matters more than buying the newest generation.

The telephoto camera is the standout feature. Wireless charging and DeX also make the phone more versatile.

However, this model is older than the A37 and S24 FE. The selected listing is also Renewed.

Check battery condition, seller terms, warranty coverage, and return options before ordering.

Choose the S23 FE when optical zoom is a priority and the renewed price is attractive.

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G

The Galaxy A17 5G is a sensible lower-cost choice for everyday use, streaming, and social media.

Badge: 💵 Affordable Current Pick

Best For: Students, everyday users, streaming, messaging, social media, and light workloads.

Why We Choose It

The A17 brings a modern AMOLED screen and 5G to a lower price tier.

Samsung gives the phone a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate.

The 50MP main camera includes OIS. That feature can help produce steadier handheld photos and videos.

Expandable storage also makes the A17 practical for users who keep large photo or video libraries.

Features and Benefits

• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display: Gives everyday apps, photos, and videos a colorful viewing experience.
• 90Hz refresh rate: Provides smoother scrolling than a standard 60Hz panel.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps reduce blur caused by hand movement.
• 5G connectivity: Supports compatible faster mobile networks.
• 5,000mAh battery: Provides substantial battery capacity for everyday use.
• Expandable storage: Gives users additional space for media and files.
• Circle to Search: Makes visual and on-screen searches easier.

Editor Analysis

The A17 works well for buyers who want a current Samsung phone without moving toward the $400 ceiling.

Its AMOLED display suits video and social media. The stabilized camera also adds value for casual photography.

However, the A17 is not my first choice for demanding gaming or heavy multitasking.

Buyers who prioritize gaming should consider stronger Galaxy hardware. Our guide to Samsung Galaxy phones for gaming covers more powerful options.

For a deeper look at this model, see our guide on whether the Samsung A17 5G is a good phone.

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

The renewed Galaxy A35 remains a useful value option when its price falls well below newer models.

Badge: 🔄 Best Older Value

Best For: Budget buyers who want a 120Hz AMOLED screen and expandable storage.

Why We Choose It

The A35 still offers a capable midrange feature set despite its older generation.

Its 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display supports a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone also includes a 5,000mAh battery.

The 50MP main camera uses OIS. Therefore, the camera remains useful for everyday photos and video.

MicroSD support gives the A35 an advantage for users who need more storage.

Features and Benefits

• 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display: Provides vivid colors and a smooth viewing experience.
• 120Hz refresh rate: Makes scrolling and supported motion smoother.
• 50MP main camera with OIS: Helps stabilize handheld photos and video.
• 8MP ultrawide camera: Supports wider compositions for landscapes and groups.
• 5MP macro camera: Helps capture close-up subjects.
• 5,000mAh battery: Gives the phone substantial battery capacity.
• microSD expansion: Allows users to add storage for large media collections.
• 5G connectivity: Supports compatible next-generation mobile networks.

Editor Analysis

The A35 makes sense only when the renewed price creates a clear saving over newer Galaxy models.

The AMOLED display, OIS camera, large battery, and expandable storage remain useful strengths.

However, the selected Amazon listing is Renewed. Amazon also identifies the listing as an international model without a standard local warranty.

Check the seller, condition, return terms, and network compatibility carefully.

If the A36 or A37 costs only slightly more, I would choose the newer generation.

How do these Galaxy phones compare?

The comparison shows a clear split between newer A-series phones and older renewed FE models.

What should you check before buying a Galaxy phone?

Focus on the display, processor, camera stabilization, battery, storage, software support, and network compatibility.

Does a 120Hz AMOLED screen matter?

A 120Hz AMOLED display makes scrolling and supported animations feel smoother.

Samsung uses AMOLED panels across most of these recommendations. The A37, A36, A26, S24 FE, S23 FE, and A35 all offer particularly strong display experiences.

If you watch lots of video or browse social media, prioritize screen quality.

How much RAM is enough for everyday use?

Six to eight gigabytes of RAM provides a better multitasking experience than basic memory configurations.

The selected A26 and S24 FE configurations use 8GB RAM. The A37 listing provides a 128GB configuration, while memory can vary by regional version.

For messaging and streaming, lower memory can still work. However, heavier users should favor more RAM.

Why does optical image stabilization matter?

OIS helps reduce camera shake during handheld photos and videos.

The feature appears across several A-series recommendations. It also helps the FE models produce steadier handheld shots.

For zoom photography, however, a dedicated telephoto camera matters more. The S24 FE and S23 FE have that advantage.

Is a 5,000mAh battery enough?

A 5,000mAh battery provides strong capacity for typical daily smartphone use.

The A37, A36, A26, A17, and A35 all use 5,000mAh batteries.

Real battery life still depends on screen brightness, gaming, mobile signal, camera use, and background activity.

Should you choose 5G?

5G makes sense when your carrier and location provide useful 5G coverage.

Every main recommendation in this guide supports 5G. Network bands can still differ between regional versions.

Is a new A-series phone better than a renewed FE model?

A new A-series phone offers simpler ownership, while a renewed FE model can provide stronger flagship hardware.

• Choose a new A-series model if warranty, newer hardware, and predictable condition matter most.
• Choose a renewed FE model if camera versatility, performance, wireless charging, or DeX matter more.
• Choose the S24 FE when you want the strongest renewed balance.
• Choose the A37 when you want a new current-generation Samsung phone.

If your budget is lower, our guide to Samsung phones under $300 covers cheaper alternatives.

For a wider list of dependable Galaxy models, see our recommendations for reliable Samsung phones under $600.

Which model makes the most sense for gaming?

The renewed S24 FE has the strongest gaming potential among these picks because of its higher-tier processor and 8GB RAM.

The A37 is the better gaming choice if you specifically want a new device.

For heavier gaming needs, compare additional models in our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy phones for gaming.

What buying mistakes should you avoid?

The biggest risks involve international models, renewed condition, carrier compatibility, and rapidly changing prices.

1. Check the exact model: Regional versions can have different network support.
2. Verify carrier compatibility: Confirm supported bands before ordering an international model.
3. Check the condition: Renewed phones can differ in cosmetic and battery condition.
4. Review the warranty: International listings may not provide the same coverage as US models.
5. Compare the generation: A newer midrange phone can make more sense than an older flagship.
6. Compare the price: A discounted A36 can become more attractive than an A37.
7. Check storage: Choose enough capacity for your apps, photos, and videos.

Which Galaxy phone is best for long-term ownership?

The A37 is my safest long-term pick because it combines current hardware with extended Samsung software support.

Samsung states that the A37 supports up to six OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

The A36 and A26 can also make sense for buyers seeking a lower initial price.

Older renewed FE phones offer stronger hardware in some areas. However, their older release dates reduce their remaining support window.

For another set of reliable Galaxy options, see our guide to choosing which Samsung phone to buy.

Which option has the best camera?

The S24 FE has the most versatile camera system in this group because it combines a main camera with a dedicated telephoto lens.

The S23 FE also offers 3x optical zoom. That makes both FE models better suited to portraits and distant subjects.

The A37 and A36 remain strong choices for everyday photography. Their stabilized main cameras handle common social media and family-photo situations well.

What makes a good Samsung phone at this price?

A strong midrange Galaxy phone should balance display quality, performance, cameras, battery life, durability, and software support.

• Display: Look for a Super AMOLED panel and a high refresh rate.
• Camera: Prioritize OIS if you take many handheld photos or videos.
• Performance: Choose stronger processors for gaming and heavy multitasking.
• Battery: A 5,000mAh cell is a strong starting point for daily use.
• Durability: IP67 or IP68 protection adds useful water and dust resistance.
• Storage: Consider expandable memory when you keep large media libraries.
• Software: Newer models usually provide a longer remaining support period.
• Compatibility: Verify network bands when buying an international version.

Frequently asked questions about Samsung phones under $400

The best choice depends on whether you prioritize a new device, flagship features, camera performance, or the lowest price.

What is the best Samsung phone under $400?

The Galaxy A37 5G is the strongest overall new choice when its current price stays below the budget.

The renewed S24 FE is the better alternative for flagship performance and optical zoom.

What is the best Samsung Galaxy phone under $400?

The A37 is the best new option, while the renewed S24 FE offers stronger flagship features.

Choose between them based on whether you prefer a new phone or premium hardware.

Which Samsung phone is best for the money?

The Galaxy A36 offers excellent value when it costs noticeably less than the A37.

The A36 keeps a strong AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, OIS, 5G, and a large battery.

Is the Galaxy A36 5G worth buying?

Yes, the A36 remains a good buy when the price sits well below the newer A37.

The display, OIS camera, battery, and 5G support create a balanced package.

Is the Galaxy A26 5G a good phone?

Yes, the A26 is a strong budget option for buyers who want AMOLED, 5G, storage, and microSD expansion.

Check carrier compatibility carefully because the selected listing is an international model.

Is the Galaxy A37 better than the Galaxy A26?

Yes, the A37 is the stronger overall phone, while the A26 focuses more on affordability.

The A26 remains attractive when its lower price matters more than higher-tier features.

Is the Galaxy A17 5G worth buying?

Yes, the A17 is a sensible option for basic daily use, streaming, messaging, and social media.

The AMOLED display, OIS camera, 5G, battery capacity, and expandable storage add useful value.

Should you buy a new Galaxy A-series phone or a renewed FE model?

Buy the new A-series phone for newer hardware and simpler warranty expectations.

Choose a renewed FE model when flagship cameras, performance, wireless charging, or DeX matter more.

Which Samsung phone has the best camera in this group?

The S24 FE has the most versatile camera setup because it includes a dedicated 3x telephoto camera.

The S23 FE also provides 3x optical zoom and remains a strong renewed photography option.

Which Samsung phone has the best battery capacity?

The A37, A36, A26, A17, and A35 each use 5,000mAh batteries.

Actual endurance depends on the display, processor, signal strength, gaming, and other usage factors.

Which Samsung phone is best for gaming?

The renewed S24 FE is the strongest gaming choice among these recommendations.

The A37 is the better option for buyers who want new hardware instead.

Are renewed Samsung phones worth buying?

Renewed Samsung phones can be worthwhile when the discount is large enough to justify the condition risk.

Always check battery condition, seller reputation, warranty terms, and return coverage.

What is the final verdict?

The Galaxy A37 5G is the best overall choice when you want a new Samsung phone in this price range.

The renewed S24 FE deserves serious consideration for photography, gaming, wireless charging, DeX, and stronger flagship-style performance.

The A36 becomes the value winner when its price drops far enough below the A37.

The A26 works well for budget buyers who want 256GB storage, 8GB RAM, AMOLED, 5G, and expandable storage.

The A17 is better suited to everyday users who want to spend less. The A35 remains useful when its renewed price is substantially lower.

Before ordering, check the exact ASIN, storage configuration, seller, warranty, condition, and network compatibility.

Prices can change quickly. Therefore, compare the current listings before making a final decision.

Official Samsung specifications

Samsung’s official product pages provide the best source for checking model-specific specifications, software support, camera features, and regional differences.

View the official Samsung Galaxy A37 5G specifications

View the official Samsung Galaxy S24 FE specifications

View the official Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications

View the official Samsung Galaxy A26 5G specifications

View the official Samsung Galaxy A17 5G specifications

Price and availability note: Amazon prices, sellers, stock, renewed condition, bundles, and regional variants can change. Always verify the exact ASIN and current listing before ordering.

Final Thoughts

The right Galaxy phone depends on how you balance price, performance, camera features, warranty, storage, and long-term use.

• Samsung Galaxy A37 5G — Best overall new Galaxy choice.
• Samsung Galaxy S24 FE — Best renewed flagship for cameras and performance.
• Samsung Galaxy A36 5G — Best value when discounted below the A37.
• Samsung Galaxy A26 5G — Best budget option for storage and expandable memory.
• Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G — Best renewed choice for optical zoom.
• Samsung Galaxy A17 5G — Best affordable current model for everyday use.
• Samsung Galaxy A35 5G — Best older value option when the renewed price is low.