With EE's 4G LTE network firmly in place in the UK and more on the way from rivals, here's our list of the cheapest 4G enabled smartphones.
When buying a new smartphone you might assume that it comes with all the latest technology and the ability to connect to any mobile network you choose. While this would be ideal, it's unfortunately far from the truth. See: What is 4G? A complete guide to 4G.
A smartphone needs to have the right hardware chip to support 4G networks so you need to check the specifications carefully to avoid disappointment. See also: 4G LTE rollout schedule in the UK.
If you're looking for a 4G capable smartphone and you're on a budget then you've come to the right place. Here are the five cheapest 4G smartphones in the UK based on SIM-free prices.
Here are the five cheapest 4G smartphones in the UK:
1. Huawei Ascend P1 LTE
- Rating: TBC
- Reviewed on: TBC
- Price: £245 inc. VAT
The cheapest 4G smartphone we can find, by a few quid, is the Ascend P1 LTE from Huawei. It has a 4.3in screen, 1.5GHz dual-core processor and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.
2. HTC One SV
- Rating:
- Reviewed on: 7 February 13
- Price: £259 inc. VAT
Our verdict: The HTC One SV is a mid-range Android phone that has a comfortable design, 4G capabilities and reasonably good battery life. However, the low resolution screen and mediocre camera make it overpriced. A good but far from great smartphone.
- Rating: TBC
- Reviewed on: Coming soon
- Price: £300 inc. VAT
Sony's Xperia SP is a smaller and cheaper version of its flagship Xperia Z, but it still offers 4G connectivity. This Android 4.1 Jelly Bean handset has a 4.6in 720p display, a 1.7GHz dual-core processor and an 8Mp rear facing camera.
- Rating:
- Reviewed on: 21 November 12
- Price: £354 inc. VAT
Our verdict: The Lumia 820 is a smaller and cheaper version of the 920 but doesn't pack the same punch, especially in key areas such as the screen and camera. We like the interchangeable covers and decent battery life.
- Rating:
- Reviewed on: 15 April 13
- Price: £394 inc. VAT
Our verdict: The Motorola Razr HD offers superb build quality and battery life along with a nice screen and great battery life. However, its £400 asking price means that it's probably worth spending the extra for a rival flagship smartphone or saving some money by opting for the Google Nexus 4.
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