Best Camera Phones Under $250 (2025) — Budget Phones with Great Cameras
Finding a phone that takes sharp, share-ready photos and won’t break the bank is easier than ever. In 2025 many budget phones include 50MP sensors, solid night modes and usable ultrawide cameras — features that used to cost double. This guide explains what to look for, gives real, current picks under $250, and shows how to get better photos from a budget device.
Why a $250 phone can now take great photos
Manufacturers have standardized larger sensors, quad-pixel or pixel-binning modes, and smarter image processing into affordable models. That means you can buy a device that takes excellent daylight shots, respectable low-light images, and stable 1080p video — all for under $250 in many markets. Several recent budget models ship with 50MP main sensors and computational photography features borrowed from higher-end siblings.
What to look for in a budget camera phone (quick checklist)
- Main sensor resolution & pixel tech: 50MP with quad-/pixel-binning often beats a 12MP sensor that has poor processing.
- Aperture & pixel size: Wider aperture (lower f-number) and larger pixel size help in low light.
- Image processing / software: Phones that get regular camera algorithm updates usually produce better results.
- Ultra-wide + macro: Useful, but for best results focus on main + ultra-wide.
- Optical image stabilization (OIS): Rare under $250 but a big plus if present.
- Battery & storage: Shoot lots of photos — 5,000mAh batteries and expandable storage are helpful.
- Build & display: A bright screen helps you judge photos accurately.
Our top picks (real models you can find under $250)
Note: prices vary by region and promotions — check local retailers. Below are current budget camera phones that reviewers and manufacturers position in the sub-$250 category.
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1. Motorola Moto G Play (2024) — Best value camera for tight budgets
The Moto G Play (2024) brought a 50MP main sensor and Quad Pixel technology to a very low price point (launch prices around $150 in many markets). It’s one of the fastest ways to get a high-resolution main camera without spending much — good daylight shots, decent night shots thanks to pixel-binning, and long battery life. If you want the best camera-per-dollar under $200, this model is a strong contender.
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2. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G — Reliable AMOLED display + 50MP camera
Samsung’s Galaxy A15 5G often lands near or under $200 depending on deals. It features a 50MP main sensor and Samsung’s well-optimized camera software for punchy daylight photos. The benefits here are a bright Super AMOLED screen (great for reviewing shots) and Samsung’s update/support track record for budget models. For everyday shooters who value color and display quality, the A15 is a smart pick.
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3. POCO (X/ M series) — Big sensors, big screens, small price
POCO’s budget models (M6, M6 5G and similar) have targeted aggressive specs: 50MP or even 108MP sensors on some variants, large displays and long-life batteries — all often priced below $200 in many regions. POCO’s emphasis is raw specs: big sensor, big battery and custom camera modes — great if you want more megapixels and value. Expect competent daytime photos and usable night-mode performance for casual shooters.
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4. Xiaomi / Redmi Note series (various regional variants) — Good optics at low cost
Xiaomi’s Redmi family frequently includes 50MP main cameras on models priced under $250 in many markets. These phones give flexible shooting (main + ultrawide + macro), reliable image processing and lots of customization in the camera app. If you find a Redmi or Xiaomi model with a 50MP main sensor within budget, it’s usually a solid camera-first buy.
How we chose these picks
We focused on devices that reviewers and manufacturers currently list with 50MP (or higher) main sensors, solid image processing and honest pricing under $250 in at least one major market. Sources include hands-on reviews, manufacturer pages and buying guides that specifically test budget camera performance.
Real-world camera tips for budget phones (get more from your phone)
- Use main lens for the best shots. The main sensor usually has the largest pixels and best processing — use ultrawide only when you need it.
- Turn on ‘AI’ or night mode when needed. Many budget phones’ night modes stitch multiple frames for cleaner low-light images.
- Hold steady or use surfaces. Without OIS, steadiness matters — brace your phone on a table for long exposures.
- Avoid digital zoom. Crop after shooting instead of zooming in — digital zoom degrades image quality.
- Shoot in RAW (if available). RAW files let you correct exposure and white balance in post, improving results.
- Keep lens clean. Smudges ruin shots — wipe the camera glass before important photos.
Video on a budget: what to expect
Most phones under $250 can record stable 1080p video at 30–60fps. If you need sharper video or stabilization, look for models that advertise OIS or ‘electronic stabilization’ (EIS). Don’t expect flagship-level 4K stabilization — but you can still get smooth clips suitable for social media.
Should you buy new or refurbished?
Refurbished or “open-box” units can be an excellent way to get a higher-tier camera at a sub-$250 cost (e.g., slightly older mid-rangers). Buy from reputable sellers with warranties, and check the camera and battery health before finalizing the purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes! Many budget phones in 2025 feature 50MP sensors, advanced image processing, and night mode. Brands like Samsung, Motorola, POCO, and Xiaomi offer excellent camera performance at this price range.
Some of the best options include the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, Motorola Moto G Play (2024), POCO M6, and Xiaomi Redmi Note series. They deliver sharp photos, reliable performance, and long battery life.
Yes, most modern budget phones under $250 come with night mode powered by AI and multi-frame processing. While not flagship-level, they perform very well for casual low-light photography.
Most budget phones in this range support 1080p at 30–60fps. A few models may support basic 4K recording, but for smoother stabilization and higher quality, you’ll usually need a mid-range or flagship device.
Yes, refurbished phones can be a smart choice if bought from trusted sellers with warranties. You can often get a higher-tier phone with better cameras at a sub-$250 price.
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