Money You don’t need to spend $1,000 on a phone. Here’s how to get a smartphone for under $300. September 29, 2020Jefferson Graham, USA TODAYComments Off on You don’t need to spend $1,000 on a phone. Here’s how to get a smartphone for under $300. What to look for in a budget phone: As much power as you can afford, the ability to add extra storage and a decent battery.