Finding a good phone without spending a fortune is totally doable these days. Honestly, you don’t need to drop a grand to get something that works well for everyday stuff. We’ve checked out a bunch of phones that won’t break the bank, and it turns out there are some really solid options out there. These best phones below $500 often pack features you’d expect on way pricier models, like decent cameras and smooth screens. Plus, they usually get software updates for a while, so they’ll keep working well.
Key Takeaways
- You can find great phones for under $500 that have good cameras, perform well, and have nice big screens.
- Many affordable phones now include features that used to be only on expensive flagship models.
- Buying a phone for less than $500 means you can often get a good deal and a device that lasts.
- Software and security updates are common even on cheaper phones, helping them stay useful longer.
- The Google Pixel 8A is a top pick, offering many of the same features as more expensive phones for a lower price.
1. Google Pixel 8A
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 8A. This phone really surprised me, honestly. For a device that sticks to that $500 price point, it packs a serious punch. It feels like Google took a lot of the good stuff from their more expensive phones and just put it into this one. You get a lot of those neat AI tricks, like Circle to Search, which is surprisingly handy for just about anything you see on screen. Plus, it’s got that clean Pixel look and runs on the Tensor G3 chip, which means it handles everyday tasks and even some heavier stuff pretty smoothly.
Sure, the pricier Pixel 9 or 10 might have a slightly better camera or a bigger screen, and maybe wireless charging, but for most people, those differences aren’t going to make or break the deal. The Pixel 8A really sets a high bar for what you should expect from a phone in this price range. It even snagged an Editor’s Choice Award, which tells you something.
Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:
- Display: 6.1 inches
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Cameras: 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 13MP selfie
- Colors: Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, Porcelain
It’s not perfect, of course. The software support period isn’t as long as some might hope, and you won’t find wireless charging here. But considering the price and the overall experience, the Pixel 8A is a really strong contender if you’re looking for a solid, smart phone without breaking the bank.
2. Google Pixel 7A
Even though the Pixel 8A is out, the Pixel 7A still holds its own as a solid choice under $500, especially if you can find it on sale. It really brought a lot of the premium Pixel experience down to a more accessible price point.
What made the 7A stand out was its use of Google’s Tensor G2 chip, the same one found in the pricier Pixel 7. This meant you got access to some of those neat AI features, like advanced photo editing and language translation, without paying flagship money. The 64-megapixel main camera was also a big deal, taking photos that were surprisingly good for the price, often rivaling what you’d get from phones that cost quite a bit more.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Display: 6.1 inches
- Main Camera: 64-megapixel
- Colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral
While it might not have the absolute latest bells and whistles of its successors, the Pixel 7A offers a really balanced package. You get a great camera and smart software features that make everyday use a bit more convenient. Just remember to check for deals, as it makes an already good value even better.
3. OnePlus 12R
Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 12R. This phone has been around for a bit, and while it’s not the absolute newest kid on the block, it still holds its own, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down. It’s a solid choice if you want something that feels a bit more premium without the flagship price tag.
OnePlus has a knack for packing in some pretty impressive tech. The 12R comes with a screen that’s really nice to look at, and the battery life is usually a strong point. You can expect it to keep going for a good while, maybe even two days if you’re not constantly glued to it. Plus, the charging is super fast – we’re talking going from zero to full in about half an hour with the right charger. That’s a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry.
It’s not perfect, though. The camera is decent for everyday shots, but don’t expect it to compete with the top-tier phones, especially in low light. Also, it’s a bit of a bummer that it doesn’t get as many software updates as some other brands. And if you were hoping for wireless charging, you’re out of luck here.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:
- Display: A big, vibrant screen that’s great for watching videos or scrolling through social media.
- Performance: It handles most apps and games without breaking a sweat, thanks to a capable processor.
- Battery: Strong endurance, and incredibly fast wired charging.
- Build: Feels pretty good in the hand, with a design that’s similar to its more expensive siblings.
So, if you can find it at a good price and can live with its few shortcomings, the OnePlus 12R is definitely worth a look.
4. Nothing Phone (3a)
Alright, let’s talk about the Nothing Phone (3a). This phone really tries to stand out, and honestly, it mostly succeeds. It keeps that signature Nothing look with the transparent back and the cool Glyph lights, which is pretty neat. The screen is a 6.7-inch AMOLED that’s bright and colorful, and it feels smooth when you’re scrolling around. Plus, the battery life is solid; it lasted over 15 hours in our tests, which is great if you’re always on the go.
What’s really interesting is that for a phone under $400, it actually has a dedicated telephoto lens. That’s not something you see every day in this price range. It means you can zoom in on things without losing too much quality. The main camera is also pretty good, and the ultrawide is decent.
Now, there’s a catch, especially if you’re in the U.S. It’s mainly available through Nothing’s Beta program, so it’s not exactly easy to just walk into a store and buy one. It’s a bit of a hassle, but if you’re a fan of the brand or just want something a bit different, it might be worth the effort. The performance is okay, not a huge leap from the previous model, but it gets the job done for everyday tasks. Given the rising costs of phone components, finding a phone with these features at this price point is becoming rarer. You can check out more about the current phone market to see how things are changing.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED (2392 x 1080), 120Hz refresh rate
- Cameras: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (2x optical zoom), 32MP front
- Battery: Long-lasting with fast charging
- Design: Unique transparent build with Glyph interface
- Price: Around $379
5. Motorola G86 5G
The Motorola G86 5G really tries to stand out, and honestly, it does a pretty good job. It’s got this premium feel to it, especially the Cobalt Blue version, which is a nice change from the usual plastic-y budget phones. It’s clear they put some thought into how it looks and feels in your hand.
When you turn it on, you’re greeted by a big 6.67-inch pOLED display that runs at 120Hz. It makes everything look smooth, whether you’re just scrolling through feeds or watching videos. It’s a really nice screen for the price point.
Under the hood, it’s running a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3. For everyday stuff like browsing, messaging, and social media, it’s perfectly fine. Don’t expect to play heavy 3D games on it, though; it’ll start to struggle there. Motorola’s version of Android is pretty clean, which is always a plus.
One of the best things is the battery. It’s a big 5000mAh cell, and it can easily last you a day and a half if you’re not pushing it too hard. Plus, the 30W charging is quick enough to get you back up to 50% in about half an hour. The main downside here is the camera; it’s just okay, not great. If photos are your top priority, you might want to look elsewhere, but for everything else, the G86 5G is a solid pick. You can find more details about its display specs if you’re curious.
6. Motorola G06
Alright, let’s talk about the Motorola G06. This phone is definitely aimed at folks who need something super affordable, maybe for a kid or just as a backup device. It’s not going to blow you away with speed, but it gets the basic stuff done.
One of the standout features for this price point is its battery life. Seriously, you can hammer this thing pretty hard and still end the day with a decent amount of juice left. It’s the kind of phone that can easily last you a full day, maybe even two if you’re not constantly glued to it.
Motorola also kept some of the things we like, like a headphone jack and a microSD card slot, which are getting harder to find these days. The screen is a decent size, and while the main camera is okay for quick snaps, don’t expect miracles.
The biggest downside is probably the software support – you only get a couple of years of updates. If you plan on keeping your phone for a long time, that’s something to think about. Also, if you’re into heavy gaming or multitasking, you might notice it chugging along a bit. But for everyday tasks like texting, browsing, and social media, it’s a solid little workhorse that won’t break the bank.
7. Samsung Galaxy A15
Samsung has a knack for making phones that just work, and the Galaxy A15 is no exception. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for something reliable without breaking the bank. This phone offers a good balance of features for its price point.
One of the standout aspects is the display. It’s a decent size, making it nice for watching videos or browsing. Plus, Samsung usually puts a lot of effort into their screens, so you can expect good colors and brightness.
When it comes to performance, the A15 handles everyday tasks pretty well. You won’t be playing the most demanding games at max settings, but for social media, emails, and general app use, it’s perfectly capable. It also comes with a pretty big battery, which is always a plus for getting through a full day without needing to hunt for a charger.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- A large, vibrant display
- A capable main camera for everyday shots
- Long-lasting battery life
- Samsung’s promise of several years of software updates, which is great for keeping the phone secure and up-to-date.
While it might not have all the bells and whistles of a flagship, the Galaxy A15 is a sensible pick for anyone who needs a dependable smartphone for daily use. It’s a good example of Samsung’s Galaxy A series phones that aim to provide a lot of value.
8. Poco M7 Pro
Alright, let’s talk about the Poco M7 Pro. This phone is kind of a dark horse in the budget category, and honestly, it’s got some neat tricks up its sleeve. It really tries to pack in features you’d normally see on more expensive phones, which is pretty cool for the price.
When you look at what you get, it’s a solid package. The display is usually pretty decent for watching videos or scrolling through social media, and the battery life is often a strong point. You know, the kind of phone that just keeps going all day without you having to hunt for a charger.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:
- Performance: It usually comes with a processor that can handle everyday tasks without much fuss. Don’t expect it to win any speed races, but for browsing, apps, and light gaming, it’s generally up to the job.
- Camera: The camera system is usually a mixed bag, as is common in this price range. You’ll get usable shots in good lighting, but don’t push it too hard in low light conditions. It’s good for quick snaps, though.
- Battery: This is often where Poco shines. You can expect a large battery that should easily last you a full day, maybe even two if you’re not a heavy user.
- Design: Poco phones often have a distinct look. It might not be the most premium-feeling, but it’s usually sturdy and has a design that stands out a bit from the crowd.
It’s not perfect, of course. The software can sometimes have a few extra apps pre-installed that you might not want, and the camera quality won’t blow you away. But if you’re looking for a phone that gets the basics right and offers a good battery life without breaking the bank, the Poco M7 Pro is definitely worth a look.
9. Nokia G42 5G
Alright, let’s talk about the Nokia G42 5G. This phone is kind of a unique pick because it’s designed with repair in mind. You can actually swap out the battery or fix the screen yourself if something goes wrong. That’s pretty cool, right? It means you might be able to keep this phone running for longer, which is good for your wallet and the planet.
Under the hood, it’s running a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2. It’s not going to win any speed races, but for everyday stuff like browsing, social media, and watching videos, it gets the job done. You’re also getting 5G connectivity, so your downloads should be zippy.
Here’s a quick look at some of its features:
- Display: A decent-sized screen, good for watching stuff.
- Camera: It has a camera that takes photos. Don’t expect professional-level shots, but for casual snaps, it’s fine.
- Battery: Should last you through the day, and the big bonus is that it’s user-replaceable.
- Build: It feels pretty solid in the hand, not like a cheap plastic toy.
One thing to note is that it doesn’t have mmWave 5G, which is a faster version of 5G, but most people won’t even notice that. Also, Nokia’s software support window isn’t as long as some other brands, so keep that in mind if you like getting updates for many years. Still, for a phone that’s easy to repair, the G42 5G is a solid option if you’re tired of phones that feel disposable.
10. iPhone 16e
Alright, let’s talk about the iPhone 16e. Apple decided to ditch the old SE line and bring in this model as their budget iPhone option. It’s got a pretty nice glass and aluminum build, and the OLED screen looks sharp, which is a nice touch for a phone in this price range. It also comes with Apple’s A18 chip, so it’s not going to feel sluggish doing everyday tasks.
One of the interesting things is that it supports Apple Intelligence. Now, what that actually means for you right now is a bit fuzzy, as a lot of the cool stuff isn’t here yet. But hey, if you want to be ready for whatever AI Apple cooks up next, this phone will be prepared. It’s kind of a future-proofing move, I guess.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:
- A single 48-megapixel rear camera: It takes decent pictures, but don’t expect the versatility of phones with multiple lenses. There’s no ultrawide here.
- No MagSafe: This is a bit of a head-scratcher. It charges wirelessly, sure, but you won’t get that satisfying magnetic snap for chargers and accessories unless you buy a special case. It feels like a weird thing to leave out.
- Seven years of software updates: This is actually pretty good. It means your phone should stay up-to-date for a long time, which is a big plus for longevity.
So, is it the best phone under $500? It’s Apple’s most feature-packed budget iPhone, but it’s also on the pricier side for this category. If you’re set on an iPhone and want something new without breaking the bank, the 16e will do the job. Just be aware of what you’re giving up, like MagSafe and that extra camera lens.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. It’s pretty clear that you don’t need to break the bank to get a really good phone these days. The options we’ve looked at prove that you can still get solid cameras, smooth performance, and big, nice screens without spending a fortune. Honestly, a lot of these phones pack features that used to be only on the super expensive models. Plus, knowing they’ll get updates for a few years means they’ll keep working well for a good long while. It’s a smart way to stay connected without emptying your wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a phone a good deal under $500?
A good phone under $500 usually has a decent camera for taking nice pictures, runs apps smoothly without getting slow, and has a big screen for watching videos or playing games. Many of these phones also include cool features you’d normally find on phones that cost way more, like fast charging or special camera modes. Plus, they often get software updates for a few years, so they stay useful for a long time.
Are phones under $500 much different from expensive ones?
Yes, there are some differences, but they’re getting smaller every year! Phones under $500 might have cameras that aren’t quite as amazing in tricky lighting, or their screens might not be as super-bright. Sometimes, they don’t have the absolute fastest processors. But for everyday tasks like texting, browsing the web, and using social media, they work really well and are a great value.
Can I get a good camera on a phone under $500?
Absolutely! Many phones in this price range, like the Google Pixel 8A, have really good cameras that can take sharp and colorful photos. You might not get the absolute best zoom or the most professional-looking shots in super dark places compared to $1,000 phones, but for sharing on social media or capturing everyday moments, they’re fantastic.
How long will a phone under $500 last?
That depends on the phone and how you use it, but many affordable phones now come with promises of several years of software and security updates. This helps keep them running smoothly and protects them from new threats. If you take care of it, a phone under $500 can easily last you two to three years or even longer.
What’s the best time to buy a cheaper phone?
The best time to buy a phone is usually when you actually need one. However, if you’re looking to save money, keep an eye out for sales around major holidays or when new models are released. Sometimes, last year’s models get big discounts, offering even better value for money.
Are there any iPhones under $500?
Generally, new iPhones tend to be more expensive. The cheapest new iPhone, like the iPhone 16e, often costs more than $500. While you might find older or refurbished iPhones for under $500, the best bang for your buck in the under-$500 category is usually found with Android phones from brands like Google, Samsung, and Motorola.
