In 2026, several budget-friendly smartphones priced under 200 euros are being highlighted as strong options for consumers looking for affordability without sacrificing too much in performance or features. Among these are the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G, Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 4G, and Honor 400. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 4G is praised for its curved edges and well-constructed plastic back, along with an AMOLED 120 Hz screen that offers a smooth viewing experience. However, it uses a MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra processor, which can struggle with more demanding tasks. The device also includes a large 6,000 mAh battery, a 108 megapixel main camera with a depth sensor for portrait photography, and a 120 Hz AMOLED display. Some users, however, have reported that its HyperOS 2.0 software includes too many ads and pre-installed apps, which can be intrusive. The Samsung Galaxy A17 is also available for under 200 euros, featuring an AMOLED screen with a 90 Hz refresh rate, an Exynos 1330 processor, and a 50 megapixel wide-angle lens. It is notable for offering six years of software updates, which is a significant advantage for long-term users. However, the phone is described as having somewhat sluggish performance during more demanding tasks, despite its 5G capabilities. This makes it more suitable for basic use rather than heavy multitasking or gaming. The Honor 400 stands out for its 6.55-inch AMOLED screen with an adaptive refresh rate, a 5,300 mAh battery, and a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, which offers a balance between performance and efficiency. It runs on MagicOS, which is based on Android and includes AI features, along with six years of software updates. Another affordable option is the Realme C75, which features an LCD screen, a MediaTek Helio G92 Max processor, and a 5,885 mAh battery that can be fully charged in 85 minutes. It also includes a 2-year Android update policy and is available in multiple color and storage options, making it versatile for different user preferences. Other budget models include the Xiaomi Redmi 15C, which has a 6.9-inch screen, a MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra processor, and a 6,000 mAh battery with 33 W fast charging. While it provides a decent photography experience with a 50 megapixel sensor in bright conditions, its performance in low light is limited. The Samsung Galaxy A05s is an entry-level model with a 6.7-inch LCD screen, a Snapdragon 680 processor, and a 5,000 mAh battery with 25 W fast charging. It includes a 50 megapixel main lens but struggles with performance in low light and during gaming sessions. Refurbished smartphones under 200 euros are also recommended, with models like the Google Pixel 7a and Samsung Galaxy A17 standing out for their strong software updates and performance. The Pixel 7a is especially noted for its excellent photography capabilities, thanks to its dual rear sensors and advanced Google software processing. Both the Samsung Galaxy A17 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 4G are suggested as top choices for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable and feature-rich smartphones.