5G is no longer a premium feature reserved for flagship smartphones. In 2025, you can get a genuinely capable 5G phone in the UK for under £200. This guide covers the best options available right now.
Why Upgrade to 5G?
The UK's 5G network is expanding rapidly across EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three. Benefits include faster download speeds, lower latency for gaming and video calls, better reliability in busy locations, and future-proofing as 4G networks are gradually deprioritised.
Best 5G Phones Under £200 UK (2025)
1. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G — £150 (Top Pick)
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is our top pick for budget 5G in the UK. At £150, you get:
- 6.7-inch FHD+ 90Hz display
- MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor
- 50MP triple rear camera
- 5000mAh battery with 25W charging
- 128GB storage, expandable via microSD
- Android 14, One UI 6
Available SIM-free and unlocked for all UK networks from AZ Electronics.
Verdict: The most affordable way to get 5G without sacrificing quality.
2. Samsung Galaxy A17 5G — £189.99
The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G sits just under £200 and delivers improved processing with Samsung's Exynos 1330 chip — a step up from the A16 5G for users who need more performance headroom. Available in Black, Blue, and Silver.
Verdict: Ideal for users who want stronger all-round performance alongside 5G for under £200.
What to Look for in a Budget 5G Phone
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity or Samsung Exynos 5G-capable chips
- Battery: 5000mAh minimum (5G uses more power than 4G)
- Display: FHD+ and 90Hz+ for a noticeably better experience
- Storage: 128GB as a minimum
- Network lock status: Buy SIM-free and unlocked for maximum flexibility
Is It Worth Getting 5G Under £200?
Absolutely. The price premium for 5G over 4G at this price point is minimal — the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G costs just £25 more than its 4G counterpart, yet provides access to a fundamentally better network experience. Buying 5G today means your phone will stay relevant as UK coverage expands throughout 2025 and beyond.
Shop 5G Phones at AZ Electronics
Both the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G (£150) and Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (£189.99) are available brand new and unlocked from AZ Electronics. Every phone includes a 12-month warranty, free UK delivery on orders over £50, and our 30-day returns guarantee.