£300 won't buy you a new flagship, but it will buy a refurbished one from two or three generations ago, which in everyday use performs as well as or better than many new mid-rangers. We've picked the models that, according to our example prices, cost around or under that figure and are still a sensible buy.
How we chose
Being cheap isn't enough. We looked at four things:
- Enough performance for current apps for at least another two or three years.
- Years of updates left, which affect security.
- Realistic battery life.
- Availability on the refurbished market, which keeps prices stable.
1. iPhone 13: the safe bet
The most balanced iPhone you can find around this budget. The A15 chip still has plenty to spare, the battery lasts the day with normal use and it starts at 128 GB.
Ideal for: a first iPhone, or replacing an old model without any hassle.
2. iPhone 12: OLED and 5G for less
Cheaper than the 13, with an OLED screen and the flat-edged design. Its weak spot is the battery, so check its health carefully or look for a listing with a new battery.
3. Samsung Galaxy S22: a compact flagship
120 Hz display, triple camera with 3x zoom and a premium finish. UK models use the Exynos 2200 chip, which runs a little warmer and uses more battery than other versions.
Ideal for: anyone who wants a flagship Android feel and doesn't need a huge battery.
4. Google Pixel 7a: the best camera for little money
If you take lots of photos, it's hard to find anything better at this price. Clean Android, wireless charging and a good size.
5. Samsung Galaxy A54: the battery that keeps going
It's not the most powerful, but its 5,000 mAh battery, 120 Hz AMOLED display and water resistance make it a great all-rounder.
6. iPhone SE (2022): the cheapest that's still fast
A small screen and a single camera, but the same chip as the iPhone 13. Perfect for simple use or for anyone who misses the Home button.
Summary table
| Model | Best thing | Worst thing |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 | Balance and support | Lightning |
| iPhone 12 | Price and OLED | Battery is tight |
| Galaxy S22 | Display and zoom | Battery life |
| Pixel 7a | Camera | 128 GB only |
| Galaxy A54 | Battery | Limited for games |
| iPhone SE (2022) | Price and speed | Small screen |
Our advice
If you don't mind which system, the iPhone 13 is the safest buy on this list. If you prefer Android, the Pixel 7a wins on photos and the Galaxy A54 on battery.