Trying to find the best gaming phone under 100 dollars can feel like searching for a unicorn – it’s tough, but not entirely impossible if you know where to look and what to expect. Let’s be real, you won’t be snagging a brand-new, top-tier gaming beast for that price. Those shiny new devices with cutting-edge processors and high refresh rate screens often cost upwards of several hundred dollars, sometimes even over a thousand! Instead, our mission here is to uncover some seriously capable, budget-friendly options that can still deliver a fun gaming experience without draining your wallet. We’re talking about used or refurbished phones that were once considered flagship models, now available at a fraction of their original price, perfect for lighter games and classic emulation.
Many folks automatically assume “gaming phone” means playing the latest, most graphically intense titles like “Genshin Impact” or “Call of Duty Mobile” on ultra settings. If that’s your goal for under $100, you might need to adjust your expectations a bit. The phones we’re looking at won’t compete with the likes of the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro or the RedMagic 9S Pro, which pack powerful Snapdragon Gen 3 processors and at least 8GB of RAM. However, for a sub-$100 budget, you can find a reliable device that excels at retro gaming, a vast library of casual and indie mobile games, and even some older 3D titles with adjusted settings. The key is to prioritize the right specs and know where to shop for the best deals. You’ll be surprised what kind of gaming fun you can unlock when you approach this budget smart!
Realistic Expectations: What $100 Gets You in Mobile Gaming
Let’s get this out of the way upfront: a brand-new phone built specifically for heavy-duty gaming at under $100 simply doesn’t exist today. Most “budget gaming phones” advertised in 2025, like the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G or the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro, are still in the $200-$400+ range. Even what Best Buy lists as “cheap gaming phones” such as the Motorola Edge 2024 or OnePlus Nord N30 5G are well above our $100 target.
So, what does that mean for your search? It means you’re going into the used and refurbished market. This is where the real value is hiding. Many older flagship phones, even from just a few years ago, still pack enough punch to run a lot of mobile games surprisingly well. Think of it like buying a used car. you might not get the latest model with all the bells and whistles, but you can definitely get a dependable ride that gets you where you need to go. For example, some older phones with a Snapdragon 845 chipset can run PlayStation 2, GameCube, Wii, and 3DS games at full speed with some tweaking. That’s pretty awesome for such a low price point!
When you’re shopping in this price range, you’ll need to make some compromises. You probably won’t get a cutting-edge camera, the latest Android version with long-term software updates, or a pristine, scratch-free body. But if your main goal is to game, these are often sacrifices worth making. Focus on the core performance components, and you’ll find a phone that can be a fantastic portable gaming machine for a fraction of the cost. You can often find great deals on these through platforms like Back Market or Swappa.
Key Specs to Prioritize for Gaming on a Budget
When you’re trying to squeeze every bit of gaming performance out of a sub-$100 phone, you need to be smart about which specifications matter most. Forget about fancy features you won’t use. we’re focusing on the essentials that make games run smoothly. Finding the Best Gaming Laptop Under $1000 CAD: Your Ultimate Guide
Processor: The Brains of Your Gaming Machine
This is arguably the most crucial component. For under $100, you’ll be looking for older, but still capable, flagship processors. Chips like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 or 845 are fantastic targets. Why? Because they were high-end just a few years ago and can still handle a lot of tasks, including many games, quite well. Avoid anything below a Snapdragon 700 series if you can, as performance will drop off significantly. MediaTek Dimensity 900 or higher is also a decent alternative if you happen to find a phone with it at this price point. These older chips, especially the Snapdragon 845, are powerful enough to run impressive game emulators for systems like PlayStation 2, GameCube, and even Nintendo 3DS with the right setup.
RAM: Smooth Multitasking and Game Loading
While modern gaming phones boast 8GB or even 12GB+ of RAM, for our budget, you’ll realistically be looking for phones with at least 4GB of RAM. If you can snag a phone with 6GB, that’s even better! More RAM means your phone can handle running games and background apps more efficiently, leading to faster loading times and fewer stutters. It might not be “future-proof” for the most demanding new titles, but for older games and emulators, 4GB to 6GB is usually enough.
Storage: Space for Your Games
Games take up a lot of space, and you don’t want to constantly delete apps to make room. Look for a phone with at least 64GB of internal storage. If you find one with 128GB, that’s a sweet spot. Even better if the phone has a microSD card slot, which lets you expand storage easily and affordably with an SD card. Also, try to find phones with faster storage types like UFS 2.1 or higher if possible, as this affects game loading speeds.
Display: Your Window into the Game World
While a 120Hz refresh rate is ideal for smooth gameplay on newer phones, it’s rarely found under $100. For our budget, a 60Hz display is common, but still perfectly fine for many games. Look for a screen that’s at least 5.5 inches, with a Full HD 1080p resolution. An AMOLED display will offer more vibrant colors and deeper blacks compared to an LCD, which enhances the visual experience, but it’s not a deal-breaker at this price. The Samsung Galaxy S9, for example, comes with a beautiful Super AMOLED display that, even years later, still looks fantastic for gaming. Best GPU for a $1000 Build: Your Ultimate Guide for 2024
Battery Life: Powering Your Play Sessions
Gaming drains battery fast, so a decent battery is crucial. Aim for a phone with a battery capacity of at least 3000mAh, with 4000mAh or more being ideal. Fast charging capabilities are a bonus, letting you get back into the action quickly. Remember, used phones might have some battery degradation, so checking the battery health if the seller provides it is a good idea. Sometimes, a quick search on Amazon for “portable power bank” can give you an affordable way to extend your playtime.
Top Picks for Used/Refurbished Gaming Phones Under $100
Alright, let’s talk about some specific models that tend to hit that sweet spot of performance and affordability in the refurbished market. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate, and availability can vary, but these are generally good targets.
1. Google Pixel 3 or 3a/3 XL if lucky
The Google Pixel 3, powered by the Snapdragon 845, is a fantastic option if you can find it for $70-$100. It offers a clean Android experience, and while official support has ended meaning no new Android versions directly from Google, it can often run newer versions via custom ROMs if you’re into that. The camera was top-notch for its time, and the overall performance is still solid for many games. Just be aware of its smaller battery and lack of a microSD slot. Sometimes, you might even find a Pixel 3a or 3 XL in this range, which can offer slightly better battery life. The Pixel 6A, for instance, with its Google Tensor J1 chipset, can handle PUBG Mobile and Asphalt 9 smoothly at 60fps, even if it might heat up. While the Pixel 6A is typically over $100, it shows the potential of older flagship-level chips.
2. Samsung Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus
Another strong contender with the Snapdragon 845 in the US variant, the Samsung Galaxy S9 is excellent for emulation and general mobile gaming. It boasts a gorgeous Super AMOLED display that still holds up incredibly well. The design is sleek, and it often has better storage expansion options than some Pixel models. The S9 Plus offers a larger screen and battery, which are definite perks for gaming. These devices also supported USB-C video out, which means you could potentially dock them and play on a TV with a USB-C to HDMI cable and a Bluetooth controller.
3. LG V30
If you can find an LG V30 for cheap, it’s a hidden gem. While it has the slightly older Snapdragon 835 chip, it was a solid performer in its day and is still capable of good retro emulation. One of its standout features for gamers is the support for USB-C video out, allowing you to easily connect it to a monitor or TV for a bigger screen experience. Plus, LG phones often came with excellent audio components, which is a nice bonus for immersive gaming with headphones.
4. Older iPhones iPhone 7, iPhone 6s
If you’re an Apple fan, you might find an iPhone 7 or iPhone 6s for under $100. These phones still run iOS smoothly for many apps and a wide array of mobile games, especially those optimized for the Apple ecosystem. While they won’t offer the same level of Android emulation flexibility, they can handle many popular titles from the App Store. The main downsides will be battery life which might be significantly degraded on older units, so look for a replacement or a refurbished unit with a new battery and a fixed, non-expandable storage. When looking for these, make sure to check platforms like Back Market for refurbished iPhones which often provide battery health guarantees.
Where to Buy These Used Gems
Your best bets for finding these phones under $100 are specialized refurbished marketplaces:
- Back Market: This platform focuses specifically on refurbished electronics and often provides warranties e.g., 1-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee and quality inspections. You can search for specific models like a refurbished Google Pixel 3 here.
- Swappa: Known for its user-to-user marketplace with staff verification, Swappa is a safe place to find used phones. They check listings to ensure they meet their strict requirements.
- Amazon Renewed: Amazon’s own refurbished program offers used products that have been inspected and tested to work and look like new. They typically come with a 90-day guarantee.
- The iOutlet/Reebelo: Other reputable refurbished tech sellers that offer quality tested devices, often with warranties.
- Local Marketplaces e.g., Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree: You might find incredible deals here, but always exercise caution. Meet in a safe public place, inspect the phone thoroughly, and test it before buying.
What Kind of Games Can You Actually Play?
Now that we’ve talked about the hardware, let’s get to the fun part: what games can you actually enjoy on a gaming phone under $100? You’ll be surprised by the sheer volume of entertainment available!
Retro Emulation: A Blast from the Past
This is where older flagship phones truly shine. With a Snapdragon 845 or even 835, you can transform your budget phone into a powerful retro gaming handheld. You can emulate: Understanding Exchange Rates: The Basics You Need to Know
- Classic Consoles: NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, Nintendo 64.
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance GBA, Nintendo DS.
- Older PlayStation & PSP: PlayStation 1 PS1 and PlayStation Portable PSP games run very well.
- More Demanding Systems: PlayStation 2 PS2, GameCube, and even Nintendo Wii and 3DS can be playable with the right emulator and tweaks on a Snapdragon 845 or better. Imagine playing classic “Zelda” or “Super Mario Sunshine” on your phone!
For this, you’ll need to download emulators from the Google Play Store many are free, some are paid and often better, like PPSSPP Gold for PSP emulation and find game ROMs ensure you own the original games legally.
Casual & Indie Mobile Games: Endless Fun
The Google Play Store and Apple App Store is packed with millions of games, and a huge percentage of them are designed to run well on less powerful hardware. These often offer incredible depth and replayability without needing cutting-edge graphics.
- Puzzle Games: “Monument Valley,” “The Room” both paid, but often found for under $10 and are masterpieces.
- Action/Adventure: “Slither.io,” “Hunter Assassin,” “Stack,” “Jump Drive,” and “Scream Go Hero” are all lightweight and highly addictive, often under 100MB, and many can be played offline.
- RPGs/Strategy: “Stardew Valley” a beloved farming RPG, “Terraria” 2D crafting/adventure, “Bloons TD6” tower defense are fantastic options, though they might cost a few dollars.
- Older Ports: Many classic PC and console games have excellent mobile ports that are well-optimized. Think titles like “Baldur’s Gate,” “Rome: Total War,” or “Knights of the Old Republic.” These often offer a full, premium experience for under $10.
Lighter Competitive & 3D Games
While you won’t be maxing out “Genshin Impact,” some phones with a Snapdragon 845 or similar can handle popular competitive games like “PUBG Mobile” or “Asphalt 9” on smooth graphics settings at decent frame rates maybe 30-45fps, or even 60fps with some heating on powerful older chips like the Pixel 6A’s Tensor. Expect to play with medium or low graphic settings for the best experience. Overheating can be an issue with extended sessions on demanding titles, so a phone cooler might be a useful and often cheap accessory.
Enhancing Your Budget Gaming Experience
Even with a sub-$100 phone, you can significantly improve your mobile gaming setup with a few affordable accessories. The Best Laptops Under $1000: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
Mobile Gaming Controllers
This is a must! Turning your phone into a Switch-style handheld can elevate your gaming, especially for emulators and games that support controllers.
- GameSir X2 Pro: This controller clips around your phone, turning it into a portable console. It supports various cloud gaming platforms and can be found for around $77.
- Backbone One Controller: While often designed for iPhones, there are Android versions available. It’s a premium mobile controller that many reviewers love, available for just under $100. These types of controllers give you physical buttons and joysticks, offering a far more precise and comfortable gaming experience than touch controls alone. You can find many options for mobile gaming controllers on Amazon.
Gaming Headphones
Good audio immersion can make a huge difference. You can find excellent budget gaming headphones for under $100.
- SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless: A versatile headset that works with Android, PC, Switch, and PlayStation, offering ultra-low latency wireless audio.
- Logitech G435 Lightspeed Wireless: A lightweight and comfortable option, often available for around $79, compatible with various platforms via a USB-A dongle.
- Turtle Beach Ear Force XO One: Known for decent sound quality for its price, often available for under $80.
Having a good pair of gaming headphones will make those retro game soundtracks and in-game sound effects pop, enhancing your overall experience.
Phone Coolers
If you’re pushing your budget phone with more demanding games, it might start to heat up. A simple clip-on phone cooler can prevent thermal throttling where the phone slows down to protect itself from overheating, keeping your performance consistent. You can find various phone coolers for gaming for a low price. Turning 100 USD into UZS: Your Ultimate Bank Exchange Guide
Final Thoughts on Your $100 Gaming Phone Journey
Finding the “best gaming phone under 100 dollars” is all about smart shopping and managing your expectations. You won’t get a brand-new, cutting-edge device, but by focusing on high-quality used or refurbished older flagships like the Google Pixel 3, Samsung Galaxy S9, or LG V30, you can unlock a world of mobile gaming. These phones, with their still-capable processors and decent displays, are perfect for into extensive libraries of retro games, countless casual and indie titles, and even some older 3D games. Pair them with an affordable mobile controller or a good headset, and you’ve got a fantastic, portable gaming setup that won’t break the bank. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really play modern games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile on a phone under $100?
While you might be able to launch some modern, graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile on a refurbished phone under $100, you’ll likely have to play them on the absolute lowest graphics settings, and even then, expect significant frame rate drops, stuttering, and potential overheating. These phones are generally not designed for the demands of such titles. Your experience will be much better with older, lighter, or indie games and retro emulation.
What are the best places to buy a refurbished gaming phone for under $100?
Your best bet is to look at reputable refurbished electronics marketplaces like Back Market, Swappa, and Amazon Renewed. These platforms often offer warranties or guarantees, and devices are typically inspected for functionality. You can also check local online marketplaces, but be more cautious and always test the device thoroughly before purchasing.
What are the most important specs to look for in a budget gaming phone?
When shopping for a gaming phone under $100, prioritize the processor aim for a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835/845 or similar older flagship chip, RAM at least 4GB, ideally 6GB, and internal storage 64GB minimum, with microSD expansion if possible. A decent screen resolution 1080p and battery capacity 3000mAh+ are also important for a good gaming experience. Finding a Good Laptop Under $1000: Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Buys
Will a used phone’s battery life be good enough for gaming?
Battery life on a used phone can be a significant concern, as batteries degrade over time. While some refurbished phones come with new or certified batteries, others might have degraded capacity. It’s crucial to check the seller’s description for battery health information or policies. Even with a slightly older battery, a good portable power bank can be an inexpensive solution to extend your gaming sessions.
Can I use a controller with my budget gaming phone?
Absolutely! Using a mobile gaming controller can dramatically improve your experience, especially for emulators and games with complex controls. Many excellent options like the GameSir X2 Pro or Backbone One are available for under $100 and can effectively turn your phone into a Switch-like handheld gaming device. Just make sure the controller is compatible with your phone’s operating system Android or iOS and physical size.
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