Best smartphone under 300 Swiss francs: how to get the most for your money

With a budget of 300 Swiss francs, you are at the most interesting point in the phone market: this is where brand-new entry-level devices meet former flagships enjoying a second life. The right strategy decides how much phone you really get.

The fundamental choice: new and basic, or used and formerly expensive

For the same money, you get either a new device that was built as a budget model from day one, or a refurbished device that cost two or three times as much two or three years ago. The difference shows in details that spec sheets hide: better displays, higher-quality builds, stronger cameras and often more remaining years of updates on the ex-flagship.

Team iPhone: the classics

In this price range, depending on condition and availability, the contenders are the iPhone SE (2022), the iPhone 11 and sometimes even the iPhone 12. The SE scores with the newest chip of the bunch and a long update future, while the 11 and 12 offer a large display and a dual camera. All three are a safe bet as certified devices with a 1-year warranty.

Team Android: new mid-range or used S series

On the Android side, new Samsung A-series models compete with used S-series flagships from previous years. Our recommendation usually goes to the ex-flagship: better display, better camera, higher-quality build. You will find the details in our guide Which Samsung Galaxy to buy.

The budget checklist

• Battery health first: On cheap devices, a weak battery is the most common hidden cost. With us, the measured value is shown on every device; from 85 percent you are in the green.
• Check the update window: Better a model with several years of support ahead than the last generation before support ends.
• Choose the condition wisely: The Fair category is the cheapest, technically tested to the same standard, and invisible under a case.
• Check the outlet: Discounted individual items end up in the outlet, and sometimes that buys you a whole device class more.

Conclusion

Under 300 Swiss francs, the certified ex-flagship beats the new budget device almost every time: more quality, more camera, more joy, with a 1-year warranty and 14-day returns. Browse our affordable phones or head straight to the smartphone range with the price filter.