10 Best LG Phones in 2026

LG stopped making phones a few years back, but that doesn’t mean the hunt for a good, cheap handset is over. Some of LG’s last models still hold up well, and the used market is full of them. At the same time, Samsung and Motorola have stepped up with compelling alternatives that compete head-to-head on specs and price. The challenge is sorting through the locked-versus-unlocked confusion, the carrier quirks, and the “renewed” versus new condition questions. We’ve dug into ten of the most popular budget phones you’ll find today, including the best LG phones still available, to help you pick the right one for your situation.

The picks range from the stylus-equipped LG Stylo 6 to the modern Samsung Galaxy A17 5G and the sleek LG Velvet 5G. Some are new, some are refurbished, and some are locked to specific carriers. Whether you need Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, or something unlocked, there’s a phone here that fits.

TL;DR: The LG Stylo 6 Unlocked is the one most people should consider for its huge screen and built-in stylus. The Moto G 2025 is the best all-rounder with great battery life and a sharp display. The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G wins on software updates and future-proofing. The LG Velvet 5G delivers a premium design at a low cost.

#	Product	Display	Storage / RAM	Carrier Compatibility	Best for
1	LG Stylo 6 Unlocked	6.8" FHD+ FullVision	64 GB / 3 GB	Unlocked (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Boost, Cricket, Metro)	Stylus lovers and note-takers
2	Moto G 2025	6.7" 120Hz	128 GB / 4 GB	Unlocked (all major US carriers)	All-around performance and battery
3	Samsung Galaxy A17 5G	6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED	128 GB / not specified	Unlocked (US carriers)	Long-term software support and AI features
4	LG Velvet 5G (Aurora Grey, Renewed)	6.8"	128 GB / not specified	T-Mobile/Sprint unlocked (no CDMA)	Premium design and 5G on a budget
5	LG Velvet 5G (Silver, Renewed)	6.8"	128 GB / not specified	GSM unlocked (T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T)	AT&T users who want 5G
6	LG Velvet 5G (White, Verizon Locked, Renewed)	6.8"	128 GB / 6 GB	Verizon Locked	Verizon subscribers who want a sleek phone
7	LG G8 ThinQ (Verizon Locked, Renewed)	6.1" QHD+ OLED	128 GB / 6 GB	Verizon Locked	A compact, high-end display and headphone jack
8	LG Stylo 6 (T-Mobile Locked, Renewed)	6.8" FHD+ FullVision	64 GB / 3 GB	T-Mobile Locked	T-Mobile users who need a stylus
9	LG K51 (GSM Unlocked, Renewed)	6.5" HD+ FullVision	32 GB / 3 GB	GSM Unlocked (T-Mobile, AT&T)	Absolute basics on a tight budget
10	Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (International Model)	6.7" Super AMOLED 90Hz	128 GB / 4 GB	T-Mobile and MVNOs only	Dual SIM users and GSM-only networks

How we picked

• Carrier compatibility is king. A phone that won’t work on your network is worthless. We looked for unlocked models where possible and noted carrier locks clearly so you don’t end up with a paperweight.
• Stylus versus no stylus. The LG Stylo line is one of the few affordable phones with a built-in stylus. If you take notes or doodle, that’s a huge plus. If you don’t, you’re paying for something you won’t use.
• Performance for daily tasks. We considered chipset, RAM, and software smoothness. A 120Hz display helps, but not if the processor stutters. We prioritized phones that feel responsive in common apps.
• Camera quality matters, but only so much. On budget phones, you’re not getting flagship photos. We looked for reliable daylight shots and usable night mode, with a preference for higher megapixel sensors and multiple lenses.
• Battery life and charging. A 4,000 mAh battery is the floor. Anything larger is a bonus. Fast charging (or TurboPower) can make a bigger difference than raw capacity on a busy day.
• Software updates and security. LG phones are mostly stuck on Android 11 or 12 with few updates. Samsung’s Galaxy A series promises years of OS and security patches, which is a strong advantage for longevity.

1. LG Stylo 6 Unlocked Smartphone: Best for Stylus Fans

Pros

• Built-in stylus works smoothly for notes and sketches
• Huge 6.8-inch FHD+ display is great for media
• Unlocked for all major US carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and more)
• 4,000 mAh battery handles a full day easily

Cons

• 3 GB of RAM can feel sluggish with many apps open
• No 5G; limited to 4G LTE
• Plastic build feels a bit hollow

Best for: Anyone who wants a large-screen phone with a useful stylus, on any carrier.

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The LG Stylo 6 is the last true stylus phone from LG, and it’s still one of the best budget options for note-takers. The 6.8-inch FHD+ FullVision display dominates the front, and the stylus slides out from the bottom right corner. It’s not as precise as a Galaxy Note S Pen, but for jotting down ideas, signing documents, or even quick sketches, it’s perfectly usable. The phone ships with LG’s own note and memo apps, and the stylus has a button for quick actions.

Performance is adequate for basic tasks, but 3 GB of RAM limits multitasking. If you keep a lot of tabs open in Chrome or switch between heavy apps, you’ll notice slowdowns. The MediaTek Helio P35 chip is old and not a gaming champ. But for social media, email, video streaming, and occasional note-taking, it gets the job done. The unlocked version we recommend works on every major US carrier, including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Boost, Cricket, and Metro. That’s rare in this price range.

The camera system has a 13 MP main lens, a 5 MP wide angle, and a 2 MP depth sensor. Photos in good light are decent, but low-light shots are noisy. The selfie camera is 13 MP and fine for video calls. Battery life is a strong point: the 4,000 mAh cell easily lasts a day of moderate use, and there’s a USB-C port for charging. The biggest trade-off is the lack of 5G and the dated software (Android 11 with LG’s skin, no major updates expected). If you can live with that, it’s a unique and capable phone.

2. Moto G 2025: Best All-Rounder

Pros

• 6.7-inch 120Hz display is super smooth for a budget phone
• 5,000 mAh battery lasts well over a day
• 50 MP main camera with good daytime shots
• Vegan leather back looks and feels premium
• Unlocked for all US carriers and includes 5G

Cons

• No water resistance, only water repellent
• 4 GB RAM is fine but not future-proof for heavy gaming
• Selfie camera is only 16 MP and mediocre in low light

Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, well-rounded daily driver without breaking the bank.

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The Moto G 2025 is not an LG phone, but it’s the strongest competitor in this price bracket. Motorola has refined the budget formula, and this generation gets nearly everything right. The 6.7-inch IPS LCD runs at 120Hz, making scrolling and animations noticeably smoother than the 60Hz panels on most of these LG models. It’s not AMOLED, but colors are decent and brightness is sufficient outdoors.

Power comes from a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chip with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage (expandable via microSD). It handles everyday apps without stuttering, and 5G connectivity is a nice bonus for faster data. The 50 MP main camera uses pixel binning to produce 12.5 MP photos that look sharp and well-exposed in daylight. Night shots are passable with Night Mode, but don’t expect miracles. The 16 MP front camera is adequate for video calls.

Battery life is the standout: 5,000 mAh combined with Motorola’s efficient software means two days of light use is realistic. TurboPower charging (up to 30W, though the charger is sold separately) gets you hours of power in minutes. The phone also features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a headphone jack, and a clean near-stock Android 14 experience with a few useful Moto gestures. Motorola promises a couple of OS updates and security patches, though nothing like Samsung’s commitment. If you want a phone that just works well for everything, this is the one to beat.

3. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G: Best for Software Updates and AI

Pros

• 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with vibrant colors
• Promised 6 OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates
• Super Fast Charging (up to 25W)
• IP54 dust and splash resistance
• Circle to Search and other Galaxy AI features

Cons

• No charger included in the box
• Only 128 GB storage, but expandable to 2 TB
• No headphone jack

Best for: Users who keep their phone for years and want the latest software features.

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Samsung’s Galaxy A17 5G is the most future-proof phone on this list. It launched in early 2026 with Android 15, and Samsung guarantees six years of OS upgrades and security patches. That means you could be running Android 21 by the time this phone is done. For anyone who hates upgrading every two years, that’s a compelling argument.

The display is a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panel with full HD+ resolution. It’s bright, colorful, and has deep blacks, making it the best screen in this roundup for watching video. The 90Hz refresh rate isn’t as smooth as the Moto’s 120Hz, but it’s a noticeable step up from 60Hz. The camera setup includes a 50 MP main sensor and a 2 MP macro lens (plus a depth sensor). Main camera photos are good in good light, with accurate colors and decent dynamic range. Low light is okay, but not flagship level. The phone records 1080p video.

Performance comes from an Exynos chip (likely the Exynos 1580) with 128 GB of storage and 6 GB of RAM. It’s snappy for daily use and light gaming. Samsung has added Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search, which lets you circle anything on screen to search for it, and AI-assisted photo editing. The 5,000 mAh battery lasts a full day, and Super Fast Charging tops it up quickly. The phone is IP54 rated, meaning it can handle splashes and dust. The only real downsides are the lack of a charger in the box and no headphone jack. If software longevity and a great screen are your priorities, this Samsung is the best LG phone alternative you can buy.

4. LG Velvet 5G (Aurora Grey, Renewed): Best Design on a Budget

Pros

• Sleek, slim design with a premium glass and metal feel
• 6.8-inch P-OLED display is vibrant and sharp
• 5G connectivity for faster data
• Triple camera system (48 MP main, 8 MP wide, 5 MP depth)
• Affordable renewal price

Cons

• Only works with T-Mobile/Sprint; no AT&T 5G, no CDMA
• Renewed condition may have minor scratches
• No charger or accessories included in the box (generic charger only)
• Software stuck on Android 11 with no updates

Best for: T-Mobile or Sprint users who want a beautiful 5G phone for cheap.

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The LG Velvet was LG’s attempt at a mainstream premium phone before it exited the market, and it still looks modern. The Aurora Grey model has a smooth glass back and a curved edge, making it comfortable to hold despite the 6.8-inch screen. The P-OLED display is one of the best in this bunch, with deep blacks and good viewing angles. It’s a shame the software is stuck on Android 11 and LG’s UX, but for basic use it’s still functional.

The 48 MP main camera takes decent photos in good light. The 8 MP ultra-wide is useful, and the 5 MP depth sensor helps with portrait mode. Video can be recorded up to 4K at 30fps. The phone has a 4,300 mAh battery that lasts a day, and it supports wireless charging. The Snapdragon 765G chip handles everyday tasks and light gaming okay, but it’s not fast by 2026 standards. The biggest limitation is carrier compatibility. This renewed model is T-Mobile and Sprint unlocked but will not work on AT&T’s 5G network or any CDMA carrier like Verizon. If you’re on T-Mobile and want a stylish 5G phone without spending much, the Velvet is a great find. Just be prepared for the quirks of a refurbished device.

5. LG Velvet 5G (Silver, Renewed): Best for AT&T GSM Users

Pros

• Same premium design and display as the Aurora Grey version
• GSM unlocked works with T-Mobile, Sprint, and AT&T
• Clean silver color looks professional
• 128 GB storage with microSD expansion

Cons

• Not compatible with CDMA networks (no Verizon, Cricket)
• Renewed condition; may have light wear
• No 5G on AT&T (only LTE)
• No warranty beyond the renewal provider

Best for: AT&T prepaid or postpaid customers who want a cheap 5G-capable phone (LTE only on AT&T, though).

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This variant of the LG Velvet is essentially the same phone as the one above, but in silver and with different carrier support. It’s GSM unlocked and works on T-Mobile, Sprint, and AT&T (note: AT&T will get LTE, not 5G). That makes it a solid choice for AT&T users who want an LG Velvet and don’t mind living with 4G speeds. The phone is still fast enough for streaming and social media, and the display is just as gorgeous.

The renewed condition means it may have minor scratches, but the price reflects that. It comes with a generic charger and USB cable only. The headphone jack is present, and the single speaker is loud but tinny. Overall, if you’re on AT&T and want a stylish, large-screen phone without paying for a new model, this is a viable option. Just temper your expectations on software support and camera performance.

6. LG Velvet 5G (White, Verizon Locked, Renewed): Best for Verizon Loyalists

Pros

• Verizon locked means it will work flawlessly on Verizon’s network
• 6.8-inch P-OLED display and premium design
• 6 GB RAM offers better multitasking than other Velvet variants
• 5G on Verizon’s mmWave and sub-6 bands

Cons

• Locked to Verizon; cannot be used on other carriers
• Renewed condition; may have cosmetic issues
• Software outdated (Android 11)
• No wireless charging? (not specified but likely)

Best for: Verizon subscribers who want a premium-looking phone with good RAM.

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The white LG Velvet is specifically model for Verizon, so it’s locked to that carrier. If you’re on Verizon, that means you won’t have any compatibility headaches. This variant has 6 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps in memory than the 4 GB versions of the Stylo. The display and design are the same as the other Velvets: a 6.8-inch P-OLED that looks fantastic for movies and a slim silhouette that feels good in the hand.

Performance from the Snapdragon 765G is adequate for 2026, but don’t expect flagship speeds. The 48 MP camera is usable but not remarkable. The 5G support on Verizon is a plus if you have coverage. Battery life is around a day. The main reason to choose this over the other Velvets is if you’re on Verizon and want the highest RAM configuration. Otherwise, the unlocked Moto G 2025 is a better value.

7. LG G8 ThinQ (Verizon Locked, Renewed): Best Compact OLED Experience

Pros

• 6.1-inch QHD+ OLED display is sharp and vibrant
• 128 GB storage and 6 GB RAM
• Boasts a 16 MP front camera and 8 MP selfie camera
• Has a headphone jack with Quad DAC
• IP68 water and dust resistance

Cons

• Locked to Verizon
• Software is on Android 11 or 12, no updates
• Battery is only 3,500 mAh
• Renewed; likely used condition

Best for: Verizon users who want a compact, high-resolution screen and a headphone jack with excellent audio quality.

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The LG G8 ThinQ was LG’s 2019 flagship, and it still holds up in several ways. The 6.1-inch QHD+ OLED is one of the sharpest displays in this lineup, with great contrast and color accuracy. It’s also a compact size that’s rare nowadays; if you find most modern phones too large, the G8 fits well in one hand. The Snapdragon 855 processor is old but still handles basic apps and light gaming okay.

The audio is a standout: there’s a headphone jack with LG’s Quad DAC, which drives high-impedance headphones much better than typical phone outputs. The 3,500 mAh battery is small by today’s standards, so expect to charge it by the evening with moderate use. The camera system has a 16 MP main lens and a 16 MP wide angle, plus a ToF sensor for depth. Photos are decent in good light but fall behind modern budget phones in low light. The IP68 rating means it can survive submersion, which is rare at this price point. The biggest drawback is the Verizon lock and the outdated software. But for a specific user who values screen quality, audio, and a smaller phone, the G8 is a hidden gem.

8. LG Stylo 6 (T-Mobile Locked, Renewed): Best for T-Mobile Stylus Users

Pros

• Same large 6.8-inch display and stylus as the unlocked version
• T-Mobile locked ensures full LTE compatibility
• 4,000 mAh battery
• Triple camera system

Cons

• Locked to T-Mobile; no other carriers
• Only 3 GB RAM and 64 GB storage
• No 5G
• Renewed condition may have wear

Best for: T-Mobile postpaid customers who want a stylus without paying for a Samsung Note.

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This is the same LG Stylo 6 as the number one pick, but locked to T-Mobile. If you’re on T-Mobile, this offers the same stylus experience and large screen at a potentially lower price than the unlocked version. The hardware is identical: 6.8-inch 1080p display, MediaTek Helio P35, 3 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, and a 4,000 mAh battery. The stylus works well for basic input.

The T-Mobile lock means it will work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs (like Mint Mobile) that use T-Mobile’s network, but not on AT&T or Verizon. The phone comes with some T-Mobile apps pre-installed. Performance is the same as the unlocked version: fine for light use, but can lag with heavy multitasking. If you’re a T-Mobile customer and the stylus is a must-have, this is the cheapest way to get it.

9. LG K51 (GSM Unlocked, Renewed): Best for Absolute Basics

Pros

• Very low cost
• GSM unlocked works with T-Mobile and AT&T
• 6.5-inch HD+ FullVision display with narrow notch
• Triple rear camera: 13 MP main, 5 MP wide, 2 MP depth
• 4,000 mAh battery

Cons

• Only 3 GB RAM and 32 GB storage (limited)
• HD+ resolution is not very sharp
• No 5G
• Android 10 or 11, no updates
• Very plasticky build

Best for: Users who need a basic phone for calls, texts, and light apps on a strict budget.

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The LG K51 is the most entry-level phone here. It has a 6.5-inch HD+ display (720p), which is noticeably less sharp than the FHD panels on other phones. The MediaTek Helio P22 chip is slow even for basic tasks, so expect lags. The 32 GB storage fills up fast, and with only 3 GB RAM, multitasking is painful. The camera takes acceptable photos in bright light but struggles significantly indoors.

On the positive side, it’s GSM unlocked and works on T-Mobile and AT&T. The battery is 4,000 mAh, which can last a day and a half with minimal usage. There’s a headphone jack and a microSD slot for storage expansion. The phone runs Android 10, and it’s unlikely to ever get an update. This is strictly for someone who needs the cheapest possible phone that still has a big screen and decent battery. If you can stretch your budget, the Moto G 2025 or the Stylo 6 are far better investments.

10. Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (International Model): Best for Dual SIM and GSM Worldwide

Pros

• Dual SIM (two physical SIM slots) for international travelers
• 6.7-inch Super AMOLED 90Hz display is very good
• 50 MP main camera with decent performance
• 5,000 mAh battery
• Comes with a case

Cons

• Only compatible with T-Mobile and its MVNOs in the US (no Verizon, AT&T, or CDMA)
• International model, so US warranty may not apply
• No power adapter included
• Only 4G LTE, no 5G

Best for: Users who need dual SIM capability and are on T-Mobile or GSM networks outside the US.

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The Galaxy A16 4G LTE is an international version designed for markets outside the US. It has a dual SIM tray, which lets you use two different numbers simultaneously. The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display at 90Hz is excellent for media consumption, and the 50 MP camera captures solid photos in good light. The 5,000 mAh battery delivers great endurance.

The catch is US carrier compatibility. This phone will only work on T-Mobile and its MVNOs (like Metro, Mint). It won’t work on Verizon, AT&T, or any CDMA-based network. Also, being an international model, Samsung’s US warranty might not apply, and the software will have Samsung’s global firmware which may receive updates slower. It comes with a case, which is a nice bonus. If you’re on T-Mobile and need dual SIM, or if you travel a lot and want to use local SIMs, this is a capable option. Otherwise, the US-specific A17 is a better all-round choice.

Buyer's guide: how to choose an LG phone

The market for LG phones today is mostly second-hand, renewed, or new old stock. That means you’re shopping in a different world from buying a brand-new Samsung. Here’s what to weigh.

Carrier compatibility

This is the most critical factor. LG phones were sold through carriers, and many are locked to a specific network. Others are unlocked but may not support all bands. The LG Stylo 6 unlocked works with every major US carrier, including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and their MVNOs. But the T-Mobile locked Stylo 6 will only work on T-Mobile. The LG Velvet variants have different compatibilities: some are GSM-only (T-Mobile, AT&T), others are Verizon locked. The LG G8 ThinQ is locked to Verizon. The Samsung and Motorola phones in this list offer broader compatibility, with the Moto G 2025 being fully unlocked for all carriers. Always check the carrier before buying; a phone that doesn’t work on your network is useless.

Stylus or no stylus

The LG Stylo 6 is the only phone here with a built-in stylus. If you take notes, draw, or sometimes need precise input, that stylus is a huge advantage over the other picks. The stylus lives in the phone and pops out with a press. LG’s software includes quick notes, memo, and screen-off writing. No other budget phone offers this, so if you want a stylus, the Stylo 6 is basically your only choice at this price.

Display quality

The LG Velvet and G8 ThinQ have bright P-OLED or OLED displays with great contrast. The Samsung Galaxy A17 has a Super AMOLED panel that’s also excellent. The Moto G 2025 has a 120Hz LCD that’s smoother, but colors aren’t as rich. The Stylo 6 and K51 have standard LCD panels. If your main use is watching video, go for the Samsung or LG OLED phones.

Performance and RAM

Most LG phones here have between 3 GB and 6 GB of RAM. 3 GB is the minimum for 2026; you’ll notice slowdowns with many apps open. 4 GB is a reasonable baseline for social media and light gaming. 6 GB is comfortable for most users. The processors in these phones are older, so don’t expect to play demanding games. The Moto G 2025 has a MediaTek Dimensity 6300, which is one of the newer chips here and feels snappiest. The Samsung Galaxy A17 also has a modern chip.

Battery life

Battery capacities range from 3,500 mAh (LG G8) to 5,000 mAh (Moto G 2025, Samsung A16, A17). The larger batteries easily get through a full day of heavy use; the G8 will need charging by evening. The Stylo 6 and Velvet have 4,000 mAh and 4,300 mAh respectively, which are fine for moderate use.

Software support

LG phones are essentially abandoned in terms of updates. The Stylo 6 and Velvet are stuck on Android 11 or 12. No security patches will come. That’s a security risk for banking apps and long-term use. The Samsung Galaxy A17 promises six years of updates, making it the best choice if you keep your phone for several years. The Moto G 2025 will get a couple of updates but not six. The international A16 may get updates on its own schedule.

Camera

All phones here have usable cameras for daylight photos, but none will blow you away. The 50 MP sensors in the Moto G 2025 and Samsung models produce decent 12.5 MP shots. The LG Velvet’s 48 MP camera is similar. The Stylo 6’s 13 MP camera is less detailed. The LG K51 is the weakest. If photos are important, avoid the K51 and Stylo 6; go for the Moto G or Samsung.

Frequently asked questions

Are LG phones still worth buying in 2026?

Yes, if you’re looking for a cheap phone with a big screen or a stylus. The LG Stylo 6 and Velvet still perform well for basic tasks and are widely available renewed. The main downside is the lack of software updates, meaning no new features and no security patches after the ones already installed. If you only use your phone for calls, texts, and media, that’s fine. For secure online banking and modern apps, consider a Samsung with update promises.

What carriers work with the LG Stylo 6 unlocked?

The unlocked LG Stylo 6 (model B08CRYL9JJ) works with Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Boost, Cricket, Metro, and their MVNOs. It’s a universal phone that supports both GSM and CDMA networks, so it will work on most US carriers.

Does the LG Velvet 5G work on AT&T?

Only the LTE bands. The T-Mobile unlocked LG Velvet (Aurora Grey) does not support AT&T’s 5G network, but it will work with AT&T’s 4G LTE. The silver GSM unlocked Velvet also works on AT&T LTE. For 5G on AT&T, you need a different phone.

What does “renewed” mean for these phones?

Renewed phones are previously owned devices that have been inspected, cleaned, and often have a new battery or minor repairs. They may have minor cosmetic scratches. They are sold through Amazon Renewed or third-party refurbishers. They’re cheaper than new but may not include original accessories. The condition varies, so check the seller’s rating and return policy.

Which LG phone has the best camera?

The LG Velvet 5G and LG G8 ThinQ have the most capable cameras in this LG lineup. The Velvet’s 48 MP main sensor and wide-angle produce better photos than the Stylo 6 or K51. However, the Moto G 2025 and Samsung Galaxy A17 have more modern image processing and often take better pictures overall.

Should I buy a Samsung instead of an LG phone?

If software updates matter to you, yes. Samsung’s Galaxy A17 5G is a better long-term investment with six years of support. If you need a stylus, the LG Stylo 6 is the only option. The Moto G 2025 offers a smoother display and better battery life than any LG phone here. Consider what features you value most: stylus, updates, performance, or carrier compatibility.

How long will an LG phone get software updates?

LG has exited the mobile market, so no new updates are being developed. The phones you buy today will not receive any Android version upgrades or security patches. If you buy a renewed LG Stylo 6 running Android 11, it will remain on Android 11 forever. Plan to use it for basic tasks only, or consider it a temporary phone.

Final verdict

Our top pick for most people is the Moto G 2025. It’s not an LG phone, but it outperforms every LG model here in display smoothness, battery life, performance, and software support. It’s also unlocked for all US carriers. If you absolutely need a stylus, the LG Stylo 6 Unlocked is the best choice. It has a huge screen and a built-in pen at a low cost. For long-term software support and a great OLED display, the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G is the safest buy. And if you want a premium design with 5G on T-Mobile, the LG Velvet 5G is a stylish bargain.

Each phone here serves a different niche. Match your carrier, your feature priorities, and your tolerance for older software. Buy the LG Stylo 6 if you want a stylus. Buy the Moto G 2025 if you want the best all-around experience. Buy the Samsung A17 if you plan to keep your phone for years. Whatever you choose, check the carrier first.

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