At $100 or less, you're looking at something that's about as basic as it gets. Probably the best option in this category is the Motorola's 2024 Moto G Play, often discounted from its $150 list price to $100. But it does the job well enough for people who just want the bare minimum. The TCL 30 Z is unlocked and advertised as compatible with the major carriers, but it's a turd of a phone. Brands like BLU also sell new unlocked phones below $100, but they come with rock-bottom specs and limited carrier compatibility.