Which Smartphone to Buy Under $270? Prioritizing a Great Camera!

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Hello. Here's the situation: I want to buy a new smartphone with a budget of up to $270. The main priority is a high-quality camera (as good as possible within this budget).

Other specs like RAM, storage, display resolution, and processor are less important since I rarely play games or use heavy applications. Camera quality is the top priority.

In recent years, smartphones are released almost daily, making it difficult for those not deeply familiar with technology to keep up. I understand that flagship-level devices are out of reach at this price, but please recommend the most suitable options without marketing gimmicks or unnecessary features. If possible, include pros and cons. I believe many people share this question. Thanks in advance.

Alexander.

Dmitry Sazhko

Lifehacker Author.

Hello, Alexander. When searching for a smartphone with an excellent camera, a straightforward approach is to check the DxOMark top list and pick from there. However, those are mostly flagship models that are quite expensive. If you're looking for something more affordable, you'll need to consider more balanced devices. Here are some options under $270 that might suit your needs:

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S

Rear cameras include a 48MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide (119°), 5MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor. The main module uses Super Pixel technology to combine 4 pixels into 1, capturing more light and reducing noise for better photos in challenging conditions. The front selfie camera is 16MP.

Other advantages: Excellent battery life, powerful hardware, stylish design.

Drawbacks: MIUI interface may not appeal to everyone.

Price: starting from approximately $245.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro

If you’re willing to wait a bit, ordering the more advanced Pro version from AliExpress is a good choice. It features a 64MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide (119°), 5MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor. Supports 4K video recording, RAW format shooting, and a Pro mode with extensive manual controls. The front camera is also 16MP.

Pros: Same advantages as the Note 9S but with stronger internals, faster charging, and NFC support.

Cons: MIUI interface.

Price: starting from about $230.

Samsung Galaxy A51

For Samsung enthusiasts, the Galaxy A51 is a solid choice and one of the most popular models globally. It has a quad-camera setup: 48MP main, 12MP ultra-wide (123°), 5MP macro, and 5MP depth sensor. It supports 4K video at 30fps. The front camera is a sharp 32MP, ideal for selfie lovers.

Other advantages: Stunning AMOLED display, under-screen fingerprint sensor.

Drawbacks: Occasional interface lag, average battery life.

Price: starting from around $245.

realme XT

The main camera features a 64MP Samsung GW1 sensor with phase detection autofocus, paired with 8MP, 2MP, and 2MP modules. It performs well in daylight and slightly less so in low light, but the night mode helps improve shots. It supports pixel binning and Smart HDR for enhanced photo quality in complex lighting. The selfie camera is 16MP.

Pros: Under-display fingerprint scanner, powerful hardware, large storage capacity.

Cons: Uncomfortable volume button placement.

Price: starting from approximately $260.

Huawei Nova 5T

If you can stretch your budget by about $40, the Nova 5T offers truly impressive cameras. It features a Leica quad-camera system with 48MP + 16MP + 2MP + 2MP sensors. AI optimizes shooting modes for various conditions but can be disabled for RAW capture and post-processing. The front camera is 32MP.

Other advantages: Powerful internals, unique design, fast charging.

Drawbacks: Higher price, slippery body, average battery life.

Price: starting from around $310 (with promo code HOME11).

Do you know other great smartphones with excellent cameras under $270? Share your recommendations in the comments!

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