Affordable and Reliable: The Best Budget-Friendly Android Choice

Buying a good budget phone can be a challenge. High-end handsets continue to get more features, but on the other end of the spectrum, there are only so many things you can skimp on before a device becomes too compromised. With the Galaxy A17, Samsung is trying to balance both sides of that equation with something that sports a solid design, a bright screen, decent cameras, and respectable battery life for just $200. And despite some flaws, the company has succeeded at making a capable phone that fits into almost every budget.

Design and display

The Galaxy A17 does a good job of demonstrating how all plastics aren’t the same. Despite having a polycarbonate frame and back, the phone never feels cheap. Everything from its buttons to its camera module feels nice and tight. The optical image stabilization system used for its rear shooters rattles, though that’s something even $1,000 flagships suffer from, so it’s not a big deal. Some small concessions for cost savings include a teardrop cutout for its front selfie cam and a small chin beneath its display, but considering its price, they’re very forgivable. There’s also only a single mono speaker and instead of an in-screen fingerprint sensor, Samsung built one into the power button on its side. Though for some, the latter might actually be a bonus.

Meanwhile, one thing the A17 has that you don’t get on high-end handsets anymore is a microSD card slot (that’s shared with its SIM tray) for expandable storage. This gives you a cheap way to increase the phone’s base 128GB of space and considering how rare this is nowadays, it’s another win for people looking for a truly affordable device.

The Galaxy A17’s screen is also surprisingly nice for its price, as it sports a 6.7-inch OLED display with up to 800 nits of brightness. Granted, its refresh rate tops out at 90Hz instead of the 120Hz you get on more expensive fare. But once again, considering how much it costs, I’m not complaining. Especially when you remember that base iPhones were still saddled with 60Hz panels as recently as 2024.

Performance

One area where budget phones often struggle is performance because skimping on RAM or the processor can save manufacturers a lot of money. And while the Galaxy A17 is generally fine considering its price bracket, I really wish Samsung had opted for a slightly newer chip. The phone comes with just 4GB of RAM (though there are slightly pricier versions with more), 128GB of onboard storage and an Exynos 1330 SoC, the latter of which is nearly three years old.

Discovering the Best Value Android Phone: Pixel 9a vs. Galaxy A17

When it comes to finding the perfect balance between performance and affordability in the world of Android phones, two contenders stand out: the Pixel 9a and the Galaxy A17. Let’s delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Pixel 9a: Unbeatable Value at $399

For many tech enthusiasts, the Pixel 9a remains a top choice due to its exceptional value for money. Originally priced at $499, this budget-friendly device now offers even greater savings at $399. With its reliable performance and user-friendly interface, the Pixel 9a is a solid option for those looking for a quality Android experience without breaking the bank.

Galaxy A17: Budget-Friendly Excellence

If you’re on a tight budget, the Galaxy A17 is a compelling alternative that doesn’t compromise on features. This affordable device delivers everything you need in a smartphone without exceeding your financial limits. With a focus on functionality and practicality, the Galaxy A17 provides a reliable mobile experience at a fraction of the cost.

Choosing the Right Fit for You

Ultimately, the decision between the Pixel 9a and the Galaxy A17 depends on your specific needs and priorities. Whether you prioritize value for money or budget-friendly excellence, both devices offer compelling options for Android users.

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