Top Pick Phones for Back-to-School from a Parent's Perspective: Here Are My Top 5 Choices
Best Back-to-School Phone Deals in 2023
In the market for a new phone for the upcoming school year? Look no further! Here are some of the best deals available this back-to-school season.
The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) at Best Buy is a standout offer. Priced at just $149.99 with activation or $249.99 unlocked, this mid-range device is discounted from its original price of $399.99. With additional savings of $250 available if activating with AT&T or Verizon, this phone offers a vibrant 120Hz OLED display, a solid Snapdragon processor, and wireless charging.
Verizon is also offering free devices starting from August 7, 2023. This includes deals on the iPhone 16, Samsung S25, and Google Pixel 9 phones, alongside attractive monthly payment options on tablets and smartwatches. To qualify, you just need to sign up for an Unlimited Ultimate or Unlimited Plus plan on a new line of data. The iPhone 16e, in particular, does not require a device trade-in.
Amazon and Best Buy are also offering wide-ranging back-to-school discounts on tech products, including smartphones. Although the exact phone deal details for Amazon aren't specified, it's worth checking both sites for the latest offers.
Durability is an important factor to consider when buying a phone for a child. The Moto G (2025) is a budget-friendly option, costing less than $200, but it has a dim screen and can only withstand splashes of water. For a more durable option, the iPhone 16e is now Apple's cheapest model, priced at $599. It has IP68 water resistance and a battery life of 12:41 hours.
For those who value camera quality, the iPhone 16e has a single rear camera that took excellent pictures in testing. It also features a 48MP main camera and a 12MP front camera. The Google Pixel 9a, on the other hand, offers improved coverage in crowded venues with its Wi-Fi based W+ network.
If you're looking for a phone with AI-powered features, the Samsung Galaxy A56 supports Circle to Search and Object Eraser. It also guarantees six years of software and security updates. Although it hasn't been tested for screen brightness and battery life, it's available at a discount at Walmart.
Lastly, for those who want a unique and premium device, the Motorola Razr (2025) is a foldable phone with a 6.9-inch display. Although it's the most expensive option on the list at $699, it runs apps on its 3.6-inch cover display and excels in battery life with 18:31 hours. It's available at a discount at Total Wireless.
Remember, Corning's Gorilla Glass can safeguard against cracked or scratched screens, so be sure to consider this when making your purchase.
These deals are part of broader back-to-school sales running through late July and early August 2023, so act fast to take advantage of these great offers!
[1] Best Buy Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) Deal [2] Amazon and Best Buy Back-to-School Discounts [3] Verizon Back-to-School Deals
- In addition to phone deals, consider upgrading your home-and-garden lifestyle with smart home gadgets that are also on sale during back-to-school season.
- For those who enjoy technology and aren't just focused on smartphones, check out the home-and-garden section of Amazon and Best Buy for discounts on gadgets such as wireless earbuds, smart speakers, and gaming accessories.
- While shopping for a new smartphone, don't forget to treat yourself to some lifestyle upgrades. Home-and-garden essentials, like a new smart vacuum cleaning device or a high-resolution smartwatch from the tech category, are also part of the back-to-school sale at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
