Cricket Wireless runs on AT&T’s network, which means you get solid nationwide coverage without the postpaid bill. The phone selection has improved significantly - you’re no longer limited to entry-level devices. Whether you want a no-fuss daily driver under $150 or a capable mid-ranger with a great camera, Cricket’s lineup covers it. These are the five best smartphones to use on Cricket Wireless in 2026.
| Product | Best For | Est. Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A16 | Best overall value | $150-$200 | ★★★★★ |
| Motorola Moto G Power | Best battery life | $120-$170 | ★★★★★ |
| Samsung Galaxy A35 | Best camera under $300 | $250-$300 | ★★★★☆ |
| Motorola Moto G Play | Best entry-level pick | $80-$120 | ★★★★☆ |
| Samsung Galaxy A55 | Best mid-range overall | $300-$400 | ★★★★☆ |
1. Samsung Galaxy A16 - Best Overall Value on Cricket
The Samsung Galaxy A16 hits the sweet spot of performance, display quality, and longevity for Cricket Wireless users. It offers a smooth 90Hz display, a capable multi-lens camera, and Samsung’s promise of multiple years of OS updates - rare at this price tier. It handles everything from social media and streaming to navigation without breaking a sweat.
2. Motorola Moto G Power - Best Battery Life
The Moto G Power earns its name. With a massive 5000mAh battery, this phone routinely lasts two full days between charges under normal use. It’s a practical workhorse for people who are hard on their devices - outdoor workers, travelers, or anyone who forgets to charge overnight. The near-stock Android experience keeps things clean and fast.
3. Samsung Galaxy A35 - Best Camera Under $300
If photography matters but a flagship budget doesn’t, the Galaxy A35 is where Samsung’s camera engineering trickles down to an accessible price. The triple-camera setup handles daylight photos well and the optical image stabilization makes a genuine difference in video. For Cricket users who want more than a snapshot camera but aren’t ready to spend flagship prices, this is the pick.
4. Motorola Moto G Play - Best Entry-Level Choice
The Moto G Play is the right answer when the budget is tight and reliability matters more than specs. It handles calls, texts, messaging apps, and basic browsing cleanly, and the battery holds up through a full day of moderate use. Motorola’s near-stock Android keeps it running smoothly for longer than most devices at this price point.
5. Samsung Galaxy A55 - Best Mid-Range for Power Users
The Galaxy A55 steps into near-flagship territory with its AMOLED display, fast processor, and advanced camera array. For Cricket Wireless users who want the best possible experience on a prepaid plan, this is the top of the range. The build quality feels premium, and it ships with Samsung’s full suite of productivity and security features.
What to Look For
- AT&T band support: Cricket uses AT&T infrastructure, so confirm the phone supports LTE Band 2, 4, 12, and 17 for consistent coverage.
- Unlock status: Buy unlocked from Amazon or major retailers if you want immediate flexibility to switch carriers later.
- Battery capacity: For prepaid users who may not always have charger access, a 4500mAh+ battery is worth prioritizing over raw processor speed.
- OS update policy: Samsung and Motorola both offer multi-year update commitments on their mid-range lines - check the specific model before buying.
Final Thoughts
Cricket Wireless works best when paired with a phone that was designed for reliability and longevity rather than maximum specs. The Samsung Galaxy A16 is the best all-rounder for most users, while the Moto G Power wins for anyone who prioritizes battery life above everything else. All five picks here will run smoothly on Cricket’s LTE and 5G network with no carrier-specific limitations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my own phone to Cricket Wireless?+
Yes. Any unlocked GSM phone that supports AT&T's LTE bands can be used on Cricket Wireless. You'll need a compatible Cricket SIM card and an active Cricket plan. Before switching, use Cricket's online BYOD checker to confirm your specific device model is supported on their network.
What is the best budget smartphone for Cricket Wireless?+
The Motorola Moto G series consistently delivers the best value on Cricket's network. Models like the Moto G Power and Moto G Play offer large batteries, reliable performance for everyday tasks, and are available at Cricket stores or via Amazon for well under $200. They're ideal for users who don't need flagship specs.
Do Cricket Wireless phones work if I switch to another carrier later?+
Cricket phones purchased directly from Cricket may be carrier-locked initially. After 6 months of active service, Cricket will unlock the device upon request at no charge. Once unlocked, the phone will work with any compatible GSM carrier. Phones purchased unlocked from Amazon or other retailers have no lock period.