Choosing a First Phone Under $300: iPhone or Android?

The best starting point is a phone that works with your family's setup, receives security updates, and leaves room in the price range for everyday ownership. A better camera is less useful than being able to manage the account confidently or replace a lost charging cable.

Below, our product cards show a specific available configuration under $300 USD. That price belongs to the displayed storage, color, and condition, not every configuration on the product page. Taxes, accessories, and future service are separate.

Start with the parent's device

Three useful ways to buy

iPhone 13: a familiar Apple starting point

Choose this if your family already uses Apple devices and wants the child in Family Sharing. It has a 6.1-inch display, so check whether that size feels manageable. It uses a Lightning connector: confirm the charging accessories you already own. The selected condition and storage matter more at this price than an upgrade to a Pro model.

Galaxy S23: a practical Android option

This is our Android starting point for parents who want Family Link and a USB-C phone. Samsung currently includes the S23 in its security-update scope. That is a current support check, not a promise of indefinite updates. Verify your carrier and the exact variant before buying.

iPhone 13 Connected Pack: phone and first month together

If your child needs a separate line, an eligible Connected Pack can put the phone and first month in one purchase. One month of Boost Mobile Unlimited is included in the pack price. Then service is $25/month with AutoPay. Choosing a device-only phone is also an option.

How we choose, and what we do not assume

• We check active storefront availability and select an available variant under $300 USD.
• We check current manufacturer security support and whether the setup guidance applies to that device.
• We favor meaningfully different choices over filling a row with colors of the same phone.
• We verify eSIM support for a Boost-promoted purchase path. Physical-SIM support alone does not qualify.

This is a catalog-and-documentation-based guide. We are not claiming hands-on child-safety testing. Inventory changes; a recommendation disappears when no qualifying variant is available. If you change options after opening the product page, check the new price before adding to cart.

Compare the total cost before choosing service

Ask your current carrier what one extra line would actually add to your bill, including taxes, fees, and effects on existing discounts. Compare that with a separate Boost Mobile line. The $25/month AutoPay price is for one line and should not be presented as a multi-line family discount.

Eligible Connected Packs include Unlimited Data, Talk, and Text for the included month. U.S. service and eSIM activation on a compatible device are required. Taxes and fees may apply; coverage and speeds vary. Review the current Plug phone-plan offer and the family-plan comparison.

Protect the device and prepare the handoff

A compatible case and screen protector are sensible additions, but do not assume a warranty covers accidental drops or spills. Read Plug's current warranty terms before buying additional protection. Find accessories through Shop by Device.

Then follow the iPhone or Android setup guide and complete the family checklist.

Sources and further reading

• Apple: iPhone 13 specifications
• Samsung: current security-update scope
• Google Family Link: supported family setups
• Plug: phone-plan offer

Source review: September 14, 2026. Menus, app features, and availability can change. Follow the current instructions shown on your device.