Best Smartphones for Students: Affordable, Stylish and Functional 

While the traditional role of smartphones as communication devices has taken a back seat, they now serve as powerful tools for entertainment, productivity, and accessing a vast digital ecosystem. Smartphones have transformed education and refined the way students study, they have opened up new avenues for students to access unlimited resources across the internet. 

With hundreds of smartphones being released yearly, it can be hard to find a smartphone that fits your budget and needs as a student! Sacrificing your desires to fulfil your academic needs sounds like the right thing to do. That’s why we’re here to help you find the perfect smartphone for students.

But does the perfect smartphone for students exist?

Samsung's A-series smartphones are perfect for students, with good battery life, powerful processors and plenty of RAM. The phones come with vibrant super AMOLED display. A large internal storage capacity provides enough space for your assignments, class notes and selfies! All this paired with 5G connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy A series gives you all this at a budget-friendly price.

Key Features Students Should Look for in a Smartphone

When choosing a smartphone as a student with a limited budget, you should always make sure to choose a phone that provides features worth the money spent. Let us look at some of the key features of smartphones to consider: 

Performance: Running multiple apps in the background of your smartphone has become a norm. Multitasking has become a basic feature present in any smartphone. However, a good smartphone should be able to handle multiple apps running in the background without slowing down. This is where a powerful processor and good RAM come into play. A phone with a fast processor and at least 6GB to 8GB of RAM ensures smooth performance, allowing you to seamlessly switch between apps, take notes or browse the web without any lag. 

Storage: Apps have become a core part of the smartphone ecosystem. Almost all services today work through apps and apps require a lot of storage space. With countless photos of notes, PDFs of assignments, study materials and more, it is essential to have a phone with a good internal memory of at least 128 GB. If the phone comes with a slot for an extra memory card, much better the offer.

Battery Life: A student's life is filled with busy schedules consisting of classes and after-school unwinding activities such as sports. It is hard to find time between these activities to charge your phone. A smartphone that comes with a battery capacity of 4000mAh - 5000mAh is built to last throughout the day. 

Connectivity:  Connectivity is an essential component of any smartphone. As a student, getting access to high-speed internet can be a game-changer for your studies and assignments. A phone with 5G technology is a must for a student as it can help you download documents and videos in the blink of an eye and stream educational videos with zero buffering. 

Affordability: Making sure you stay within your budget is important. However, affordability doesn’t mean you have to go for less features. Many budget-friendly smartphones offer long battery life, good performance and good storage capabilities. Look for options that strike a balance between price and performance to ensure that you're getting the most value for your money without compromising on quality. Smartphones that offer features like 5G and good RAM within your budget range will be the best investment in the long run.

Top Picks for Students 

Let us look at some budget-friendly phones that cater to student’s needs as well as come with great features:

Samsung Galaxy A06

The Samsung Galaxy A06 is a budget-friendly smartphone featuring a 6.7-inch HD+ display and comes with a powerful MediaTek G85 processor and a 50MP primary camera.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A06
• RAM - 4 GB & 6 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 128 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.7”
• Processor Type - MediaTek G85
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 4G/LTE
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Light Blue, Black, Gold

Why it's great for students?

• Octa-Core Processor for smooth multitasking and performance.
• Stylish and sleek design with multiple colours   
• Powerful performance available at affordable rates
  

Samsung Galaxy A16

The Samsung Galaxy A16 is an affordable smartphone that comes with a 6.7-inch FHD+ display, a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and a 50MP main camera. It also provides great battery life and heavy storage, making it a great choice for students on a budget.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A16
• RAM - 4 GB & 6 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 128 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.7”
• Processor Type - MediaTek Dimensity 6300
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 4G/LTE
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 5 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Gray, Green, Black

Why it's great for students?

• 5000mAh battery for all-day usage without frequent recharging.
• MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor ensures smooth multitasking
• Choose between 4 GB or 6 GB RAM for lag-free performance at an affordable price.

Samsung Galaxy A55

The Samsung Galaxy A55 is a high-performance smartphone with a stunning display, advanced camera system and long-lasting battery life. With the latest software features and a sleek design, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking a premium smartphone experience.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A55
• RAM - 8 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 128 GB & 256 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.6”
• Processor Type - Exynos 1480
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 5G
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 12 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Awesome Ice Blue, Awesome Lilac, Awesome lemon, Awesome Navy

Why it's great for students?

• In-display fingerprint scanner for secure access.
• Built to last, IP67 waterproof certified
• 5G connectivity for lightning-speed internet 

Samsung Galaxy A35

The Samsung Galaxy A35 features a vibrant display, a powerful camera and a strong processor. With excellent connectivity, long-lasting battery life and the latest software, A35 provides a premium mobile experience.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A35
• RAM - 8 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 256 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.6”
• Processor Type - Exynos 1380
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 5G
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Awesome Ice Blue, Awesome Lilac, Awesome lemon, Awesome Navy

Why it's great for students?

• The 6.6” is ideal for watching videos, browsing, and online learning
• Modern design with vibrant colours
• Plenty of space to store your assignments, apps, photos and videos 

Additional Models to Consider

Let us look at some more phones in the same price range that can be a right fit for students: 

Samsung Galaxy A25

The Samsung Galaxy A25 combines a vibrant Super AMOLED display and triple-camera setup to provide powerful performance with generous RAM and storage. With long-lasting battery life, sleek design and advanced connectivity features, it’s a top choice for those seeking a stylish, all-in-one smartphone.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A25
• RAM - 6 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 128 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.5”
• Processor Type - Exynos 1280
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 5G
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Black, Blue, Yellow

Why it's great for students?

• Powered by the Exynos 1280 Octa-core processor for efficient multitasking
• Powerful features at affordable rates
• Stylish and sleek design, available in multiple colours

Samsung Galaxy A05S

The Samsung Galaxy A25 combines a vibrant Super AMOLED display and triple-camera setup to provide powerful performance with generous RAM and storage. With long-lasting battery life, sleek design and advanced connectivity features, it’s a top choice for those seeking a stylish, all-in-one smartphone.

Specifications

• Series - Galaxy A Series
• Model Name - Galaxy A05S
• RAM - 4 GB
• Battery - 5000mAh
• Storage - 128 GB 
• Screen Size - 6.7”
• Processor Type - Snapdragon 680
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network - 4G/LTE
• Sim cards - Dual Sim
• USB Interface - USB Type - C
• Camera Resolution (Rear) - 50 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Black, Silver, Violet

Why it's great for students?

• The 50 MP camera comes equipped with AI assistance
• Expandable storage possible
• Long-lasting battery life

Honor 90 5G Smartphone

The Honor 90 5G Smartphone combines a stunning AMOLED display and an impressive camera system, offering powerful performance with ample RAM and storage. With a long-lasting battery and a sleek, premium design, it's an excellent choice for those who want both style and functionality in one device.

Specifications

• Series: Honor 90 Series
• Model Name: Honor 90 5G
• RAM: 12 GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Storage: 512 GB
• Screen Size: 6.7”
• Processor Type: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network: 5G
• SIM Cards: Dual SIM
• USB Interface: USB Type-C
• Camera Resolution (Rear): 200 MP + 12 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Emerald Green, Diamond Silver, Midnight Black

Why it's great for students?

• 5G connectivity
• High-resolution camera for great photography.
• Large RAM and storage to store apps, documents, and media without compromise.
• Sleek and premium design with a choice of elegant colours.
• Long-lasting battery to support all-day use.
  
  

Motorola Edge 50 5G Smartphone

The Motorola Edge 50 5G Smartphone offers an immersive OLED display and a high-performance camera system, combined with ample RAM and storage. With a powerful battery, sleek design, and advanced 5G connectivity, it's a great choice for those seeking a premium smartphone experience.

Specifications

• Series: Motorola Edge Series
• Model Name: Motorola Edge 50 5G
• RAM: 12 GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Storage: 512 GB
• Screen Size: 6.7”
• Processor Type: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network: 5G
• SIM Cards: Dual SIM
• USB Interface: USB Type-C
• Camera Resolution (Rear): 50 MP + 50 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Interstellar Black, Polar Blue

Why it's great for students?

• Dual 50 MP cameras for exceptional photo and video quality.
• Large RAM and storage for handling apps, projects, and media with ease.
• Sleek and modern design 
• Long-lasting 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage.
  
  

Oppo Reno 11 5G Smartphone

The Oppo Reno 11 5G Smartphone boasts a vibrant AMOLED display and an advanced camera system, offering a smooth performance with generous RAM and storage. With a long-lasting battery, sleek design, and cutting-edge connectivity, it's an ideal choice for those who want both style and functionality.

Specifications

• Series: Oppo Reno Series
• Model Name: Oppo Reno 11 5G
• RAM: 12 GB
• Battery: 4500mAh
• Storage: 256 GB
• Screen Size: 6.7”
• Processor Type: Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G
• Processor Core: Octa Core
• Network: 5G
• SIM Cards: Dual SIM
• USB Interface: USB Type-C
• Camera Resolution (Rear): 64 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP
• Colour: Glowing Gold, Galactic Silver

Why it's great for students?

• 64 MP camera for clear and high-quality photography.
• Good RAM and storage.
• Stylish design with a large AMOLED display.
• Long-lasting battery for uninterrupted use throughout the day.

Regional Considerations for choosing the right smartphone in Qatar

The Samsung Galaxy A series phones all come with Arabic language installed in them. As a student in Qatar, you can simply switch the language to Arabic and make the best of your smartphone experience. The devices also come with a built-in keyboard that supports right-to-left texting. The devices are also guaranteed to come with pre-installed regional applications such as Karwa, QNB & Doha Bank apps. Samsung Pay is a highly trusted transaction app in Qatar and all these devices come fitted with the e-pay app. All these regional configurations help students to use these smartphones with ease. 

Additionally, Samsung provides a 2-year warranty to all its devices across Qatar. This can be claimed at any Samsung service centre in Qatar, which is spread all around the country. This works as an added convenience and protects students against unexpected repair costs. 

Comparison Table

Here's a side-by-side comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A06, Galaxy A16, Galaxy A55, Galaxy A35, Galaxy A25, Galaxy A05S, Oppo Reno 11 5G, Motorola Edge 50 5G & Honor 90 5G:

Tips for choosing the right Smartphone for Students

As a student, you should always strive to make the best of a limited budget in whatever choices you make. This does not mean you have to sacrifice your needs, instead make good choices that can balance the money spent and experience obtained. Make sure to follow our tips in choosing the right smartphone

• Do your research: Conduct thorough research to find a phone that fits within your budget. Search for offers and discounts, and plan your purchase accordingly. While seeking advice from friends can be helpful, remember to prioritise your own needs and preferences when making the final decision.
  
  
• Check for student discounts, exchange offers and seasonal sales that can help you get better deals and save more money.
  
  
• Go through reviews and check multiple sources to verify them. YouTube is an excellent place to find good reviews and you can even check the comments for reviews from other users.
  
  

By following these tips, you’ll be able to find a smartphone that fits within your budget and support your academic needs. 

Choosing Samsung Galaxy A Series

As we have observed throughout this blog, the Samsung Galaxy A series proves to be the most affordable and feature-full smartphone for students in Qatar. Samsung’s A-series phones are built with students in mind, offering great features that align with their needs. With all-day battery life, you can power through a day full of classes without worrying about running out of charge. The A-series C-type charger comes to the rescue if you're running late, providing fast charging that gets your phone powered up quickly. A strong processor and good RAM make multitasking easy, allowing you to effortlessly switch between apps and stay on top of both academic and entertainment demands without lag. The Super AMOLED display is clear and vibrant, making it ideal for high-quality online classes and immersive entertainment. Plus, with the phone's generous storage capacity, you can store all your assignments, study materials, and selfies in one place. And with 5G technology, you’re always connected to fast internet, whether you’re attending classes or enjoying online gaming! All available at budget-friendly rates!

With a 2-year warranty and accessible service centres all across Qatar, the Samsung Galaxy A series stands out as the ultimate student-friendly smartphone. However, it is essential that you as a student do all the appropriate research before you go ahead and make a purchase with haste. Consider your individual needs and requirements, if you feel you are limited by your budget, save more and get a better phone at seasonal sales.