Top Picks: The Best Mobile Phone Under £500 for 2026

Finding a great phone without spending a fortune is totally doable these days. Seriously, you don’t need to drop a ton of cash to get something that feels good in your hand and takes decent pictures. We’ve been looking at what’s out there for 2026, and it turns out there are some really solid options if you’re trying to keep things under £500. It’s kind of wild how much you can get for your money now compared to even a few years ago. So, if you’re in the market for a new phone and don’t want to break the bank, stick around. We’ve got some top picks for the best mobile phone under £500.

Key Takeaways

• The Google Pixel 8A stands out as a top choice for its excellent camera and Google’s software smarts, all within budget.
• Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE offers a big display and good performance, making it a strong contender for the best mobile phone under £500.
• OnePlus 12R provides a smooth experience and decent battery life, proving you don’t need to spend big for a good phone.
• The upcoming Google Pixel 9a is expected to continue the Pixel line’s tradition of great value and camera performance.
• Even Apple has options like the iPhone 16e that can be found around the £500 mark, offering a taste of the Apple ecosystem.

1. Google Pixel 8A

Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 8A. This phone has been a real standout in the sub-£500 category, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. Google really packed a lot of their smart features into this one without making your wallet cry.

It feels like a much more expensive phone than it is, especially when you consider the camera. You get that signature Pixel photo quality, which is pretty fantastic for everyday shots. Plus, features like Circle to Search are genuinely useful, not just some gimmick. It runs on the Tensor G3 chip, the same one you’d find in some of their higher-end models, so performance is smooth sailing for most tasks.

Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:

• Display: A nice, vibrant screen that’s easy on the eyes.
• Camera: Excellent main camera for those spontaneous moments, plus ultrawide and selfie options.
• Performance: Powered by the Google Tensor G3, so it handles apps and multitasking well.
• AI Features: Access to some of Google’s clever AI tools that actually make life a bit easier.

While it might not have all the bells and whistles of the absolute top-tier phones, like wireless charging or the most cutting-edge camera sensors, the Pixel 8A gets so much right for the price. It’s a solid all-rounder that punches well above its weight. If you’re looking for a reliable phone with a great camera and smart software without breaking the bank, this is definitely one to consider. You can check out more about its capabilities here.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE

After a few years of Fan Edition phones that were just okay, Samsung really hit the mark with the Galaxy S25 FE. It feels like they took a lot of what made the pricier Galaxy S25+ so good and managed to fit it into a more affordable package.

This phone is a strong contender if you’re looking for a near-flagship experience without the flagship price tag. While it does make a few cuts, especially in the secondary cameras, the main and selfie cameras are still really solid. You get a great-looking display, a snappy processor that handles daily tasks and even some gaming with ease, and a battery that should comfortably get you through the day.

Here’s a quick look at what stands out:

• Build and Display: It boasts a premium feel with a gorgeous 6.7-inch AMOLED screen that’s vibrant and sharp.
• Performance: Powered by a top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, it’s fast and responsive for pretty much anything you throw at it.
• Cameras: The main and selfie cameras are strong performers, capturing detailed and colorful shots. The supporting cameras aren’t as impressive, but they’re usable.
• Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery is a real workhorse, easily lasting a full day for most users.
• Software: Samsung’s One UI 8 is clean, intuitive, and comes with an impressive seven years of promised software updates, which is a huge plus for longevity.

While it might not be the absolute cheapest option, if your budget is pushing towards the £500 mark and you want a phone that feels and performs like a much more expensive device, the S25 FE is definitely worth a close look. It’s a smart choice for those who want a bit of everything without breaking the bank.

3. OnePlus 12R

Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 12R. This phone is kind of an interesting one because it sits in that sweet spot where it’s not the absolute top-tier, but it packs a serious punch for the money. It’s a solid performer that doesn’t break the bank.

One of the standout features here is the charging speed. We’re talking 80W fast charging, which is pretty wild. You can go from zero to a full battery in just over half an hour. Seriously, that’s faster than most people can make a cup of coffee. Plus, the screen has this ‘wet-touch’ technology, meaning you can actually use it without a fuss even if it’s raining or your fingers are a bit damp. Pretty neat.

Under the hood, it’s running a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Now, that might be a generation old by 2026 standards, but honestly, it’s still more than capable for pretty much anything you throw at it, including gaming. The camera setup is decent for everyday shots – don’t expect professional-level photos, but for casual snaps and sharing online, it does the job.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:

• Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset – still very capable.
• Charging: Blazing fast 80W wired charging.
• Display: Large, responsive screen with wet-touch technology.
• Battery: Good endurance for a full day’s use.

However, it’s not all perfect. The software support isn’t as long as some competitors, which is a bit of a bummer if you plan to keep your phone for ages. Also, while the main camera is fine, don’t expect miracles from the other lenses, and there’s no wireless charging. Still, if you want a phone that feels fast and charges up in a flash without costing a fortune, the OnePlus 12R is definitely worth a look.

4. Google Pixel 9a

Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 9a. This phone is seriously impressive for what it costs. It really hits that sweet spot between price and performance, making it a top contender for anyone not wanting to break the bank. You get a really nice 6.3-inch P-OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and watching videos feel super fluid. Plus, it’s packing the same Tensor G4 chip you’d find in the higher-end Pixel 9 models, so performance is pretty snappy.

When it comes to photos, the 48MP main camera is a real winner for everyday shots. You know, just point and shoot and get a good picture. The 13MP selfie camera is also quite good, and the ultrawide lens does a decent job. It’s a shame there’s no dedicated zoom lens, but for most people, this camera setup is more than enough. What really sets the Pixel phones apart, though, is the software. You’re getting a clean Android 15 experience, and Google promises a whopping seven years of updates. That’s pretty much unheard of in this price range and means this phone should serve you well for a long time. It’s also one of the first in line to get future Android versions, which is a nice perk.

Here’s a quick look at some specs:

• Display: 6.3-inch P-OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Google Tensor G4
• Main Camera: 48MP
• Ultrawide Camera: 13MP
• Selfie Camera: 13MP
• Battery: Decent, but charging is a bit slow at 23W wired.
• Durability: IP68 water and dust resistance

Battery life is solid, though the 23W wired charging feels a little behind the times. And honestly, the design is pretty standard – nothing flashy. But if you’re looking for a reliable phone that nails the important stuff, especially the camera and software updates, the Pixel 9a is a fantastic choice. It even earned a CNET Editors’ Choice award for its value, which is saying something. You can often find great deals on phones like this, so it’s worth checking out current pricing.

5. iPhone 16e

Alright, let’s talk about the iPhone 16e. So, Apple’s been doing this thing where they ditch the old SE models and bring in something new for the budget-conscious. This year, it’s the 16e. It’s definitely the most feature-packed ‘cheaper’ iPhone you can grab right now, but, and this is a big ‘but’, it’s still pricier than a lot of the Android options out there. We’re looking at a $599 price tag, which feels a bit steep if you’re trying to keep costs down.

What do you get for that money? Well, it’s got that speedy A18 chip, so it’s not going to feel slow. The screen is a nice OLED, and the whole thing feels pretty premium in your hand, which is nice. Plus, it’s ready for all the Apple Intelligence stuff that’s rolling out, though honestly, most of that is still a bit of a mystery and might not even be that useful yet. It’s more about future-proofing, I guess.

Now, for the downsides. The camera is a single 48-megapixel shooter. It’s pretty good, don’t get me wrong, but it lacks that ultrawide lens you find on other phones, even some cheaper ones. And here’s a weird one: it supports wireless charging, but Apple skipped the MagSafe magnets. That means you can’t just snap on those magnetic chargers or accessories without a special case. It feels like a silly omission, especially at this price point.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Display: 6.1-inch OLED
• Processor: Apple A18
• Rear Camera: 48MP
• Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB (no expansion)
• Special Note: No MagSafe support

If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and just want a new iPhone without breaking the bank on the latest flagship, the 16e is probably your best bet. It’s compact, powerful, and will get software updates for ages. Just be aware of what you’re missing out on, especially MagSafe.

6. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G. If you’re looking for a phone that won’t break the bank but still gets you a solid experience, this one’s worth a look. It really hits a sweet spot for people who want a reliable phone with a good screen and decent cameras without spending a fortune.

One of the standout things about the A16 5G is how long Samsung promises to support it. We’re talking about five years of operating system updates and six years of security patches. That’s pretty impressive for a phone in this price range, meaning it should stay up-to-date and secure for a good long while. It’s a nice change from phones that get forgotten after a year or two.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:

• Display: A 6.7-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling and animations feel smoother than on phones with a standard 60Hz display.
• Storage: It comes with a microSD card slot, which is always a plus. You can add more storage if you need it, which is handy for photos and videos.
• Durability: It’s got an IP54 rating, so it can handle dust and water splashes. Not exactly waterproof, but it’s good to know it won’t die if you get caught in a light rain shower.
• Software: It runs on Android with Samsung’s One UI on top. This interface adds some useful features for multitasking and customization.

Performance-wise, it handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and watching videos without much fuss. The cameras are also surprisingly capable for the price, especially the main sensor. While it might not compete with the top-tier flagships, it takes perfectly good pictures for sharing online or just remembering moments. It’s a sensible choice if you need a dependable device that offers a lot of value, especially considering the long software support. For a budget-friendly option, it’s hard to ignore, though some might find the Moto G 2026 has a slightly nicer look and feel.

7. Google Pixel 7A

Okay, so the Pixel 7A. This phone was a pretty solid choice when it came out, and honestly, it still holds up okay, especially if you can find it on sale. It’s got that Google Tensor G2 chip, which means you get some of those neat AI tricks and photo editing features you’d find on the more expensive Pixel 7. The camera is also a big plus here; it takes really good pictures, often rivaling phones that cost more.

Think of it as a more affordable way to get a lot of what makes Pixel phones great. It might not have all the bells and whistles of the newer models, like wireless charging for accessories or the absolute latest processor, but for everyday use, it’s a dependable device. The 64-megapixel main camera is definitely a standout feature for its price point.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Processor: Google Tensor G2
• Display: 6.1 inches
• Main Camera: 64-megapixel
• Ultrawide Camera: 13-megapixel
• Selfie Camera: 13-megapixel
• Colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral

It’s a good option if you want a great camera and Google’s smart software without breaking the bank. Just keep an eye out for deals, as the newer models are starting to take its place.

8. Nothing Phone (4a)

Alright, let’s talk about the Nothing Phone (4a). Now, Nothing has made a bit of a strategic move this year, deciding to focus on the mid-range market instead of a flagship. So, this isn’t going to be a top-tier device, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you’re watching your wallet.

What we’re seeing here is a phone that tries to bring some of that unique Nothing design flair to a more accessible price point. You know, the transparent back, the cool Glyph lights – it’s all still there. It’s a phone that definitely stands out from the crowd visually.

Under the hood, it’s packing a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, which is pretty decent for everyday tasks and even some light gaming. You’re likely getting a good amount of RAM, probably around 12GB, and a solid 256GB of storage. The display is a 6.7-inch AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate, so scrolling and watching videos should feel really smooth.

Here’s a quick look at some of the specs:

Battery life is usually a strong point for Nothing phones, and the (4a) is no exception. You can expect it to last a full day, maybe even longer, with moderate use. Plus, it supports fast charging, which is always a plus when you need to top up quickly.

However, it’s not all perfect. The cameras, while improved with a dedicated telephoto lens, might not satisfy serious photographers, especially in low light. Also, in the US, it might be a bit tricky to get your hands on initially, often being part of a beta program. But if you’re looking for a phone that looks good, performs well for daily use, and doesn’t break the bank, the Nothing Phone (4a) is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate Nothing’s unique design and want a reliable daily driver.

9. Samsung Galaxy A57

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy A57. This phone is kind of like the reliable friend in the smartphone world – it does what you need it to do without a lot of fuss. It’s not trying to be the flashiest device out there, but it gets the job done, and that’s often what matters most when you’re trying to keep costs down.

The A57 offers a solid all-around experience for its price point. You get a decent screen for watching videos or scrolling through social media, and it handles everyday tasks pretty smoothly. Samsung has been pretty good about giving these A-series phones a decent amount of support, so you can expect a few years of software updates, which is always a plus. It’s a good option if you’re already in the Samsung ecosystem and want something that won’t break the bank.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Display: A good-sized screen that’s bright enough for most situations.
• Performance: Handles daily apps and browsing without much lag.
• Cameras: Capable of taking decent photos in good lighting.
• Battery: Should get you through a full day of moderate use.

It’s not going to blow you away with cutting-edge features, but for the money, the Samsung Galaxy A57 5G is a sensible choice for many people looking for a dependable smartphone.

10. Samsung Galaxy A37

Samsung’s Galaxy A series always seems to have a new model popping up, and the A37 is no exception. While it might not be the flashiest phone out there, it gets a lot of the important stuff right for folks who don’t want to spend a fortune. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable daily driver that won’t break the bank.

This phone seems to focus on giving you a good screen and decent battery life, which are pretty key for just using your phone day-to-day. You’ll likely find it handles your usual tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos without much fuss. Plus, Samsung usually packs these phones with software support, so you can expect updates for a good while, meaning you won’t feel the need to upgrade too quickly.

Here’s a quick look at what you might expect:

• Display: A nice, big screen for watching stuff or scrolling through social media.
• Battery: Should get you through a full day, maybe even longer.
• Performance: Good enough for everyday apps and multitasking.
• Software Support: Samsung’s commitment to updates means it’ll stay current.

It’s not going to blow you away with cutting-edge tech, but for the price, the Galaxy A37 offers a sensible package for anyone who just needs a phone that works well.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. Finding a solid phone under £500 in 2026 is totally doable. You don’t need to break the bank to get something that takes good pictures, runs smoothly, and looks decent. We saw some really strong contenders that pack features you’d normally only find on much pricier devices. Plus, knowing these phones get updates for a good while means you’re not just buying for today, but for the next couple of years too. It’s pretty cool how much you can get for your money these days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a phone a good value for under £500?

A good phone under £500 usually has a great camera for taking clear pictures, runs smoothly for everyday tasks like browsing and gaming, and has a nice big screen. Many of these phones also borrow cool features from more expensive models, so you get a lot for your money.

Do cheaper phones get software updates?

Yes, most affordable phones today get several years of software and security updates. This helps keep your phone running smoothly and protects it from online threats, making it last longer.

Is it better to buy a phone outright or on a contract?

Buying a phone outright often gives you the best deal in the long run. However, contracts can be easier on your wallet if you can’t pay for the whole phone at once. Just be sure to compare prices and plans carefully.

How often should I expect new phone models to come out?

New phone models are released pretty often, usually every year. If a new model is coming out soon, the price of the current one might drop, which could be a good time to buy if you’re looking for a deal.

What are the most important things to look for when buying a budget phone?

When picking a phone that doesn’t cost too much, think about how well it’s built, the quality of its screen, how fast it is, the camera system, how long the battery lasts, and if it gets software updates. These things help make sure you’ll be happy with your phone.

Can I get a phone with features like AI on a budget?

Absolutely! Many phones under £500 now include smart features powered by AI, like special camera tools or helpful search functions. You don’t always need to spend a fortune to get these advanced capabilities.