Finding a good phone doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune anymore. Seriously, the prices have come down a lot, and you can get some really solid devices without emptying your wallet. We’ve checked out a bunch of phones that are under $500, and honestly, a lot of them are pretty impressive. You get good cameras, they run smoothly, and the screens look great. It feels like you’re getting a lot of the fancy stuff you see on the super expensive phones, but for way less cash. Plus, many of these get updates for a good while, so they’ll keep working well for a long time. So, if you’re looking for the best phones below 500, you’ve come to the right place.
Key Takeaways
- You don’t need to spend over $500 to get a great phone with good features like a solid camera and smooth performance.
- Many phones under $500 now include features previously only found on expensive flagship models.
- Affordable phones are getting regular software and security updates, helping them last longer.
- The Google Pixel 8A is a top pick, offering features similar to its more expensive siblings and a great camera.
- Last year’s Google Pixel 7A is still a strong contender if you want to save even more money and can find it on sale.
Google Pixel 8A
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 8A. This phone really shook things up in the under-$500 category. It packs a lot of the smarts you’d expect from Google’s pricier phones, like those neat AI tricks for editing photos and the handy Circle to Search feature. Honestly, it feels like you’re getting a much more expensive device for your money.
One of the big draws is the camera. It’s surprisingly good for this price point, capturing clear shots even when the light isn’t perfect. Plus, the Tensor G3 chip inside means everything runs pretty smoothly, whether you’re just browsing or playing a game. It’s not quite the same as the flagship Pixels – you miss out on things like wireless charging and maybe a slightly better camera sensor – but for most people, those differences aren’t a dealbreaker.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: A vibrant screen that’s easy on the eyes.
- Performance: Powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip for snappy operation.
- Camera: A solid 64MP main sensor that takes great photos.
- AI Features: Access to Google’s smart software enhancements.
It’s a really strong contender if you want that clean Google software experience and a camera that punches above its weight without breaking the bank. It definitely sets a high bar for what a budget phone can be.
OnePlus 12R
Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 12R. This phone has been floating around for a bit, and honestly, it’s a pretty solid choice if you’re looking for something that feels more premium than its price tag suggests. It really hits a sweet spot between performance and cost.
Under the hood, it’s packing a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. Now, that might be last year’s top-tier processor, but don’t let that fool you. It still chews through games and everyday tasks without breaking a sweat. Plus, the display is a real treat – a 6.78-inch AMOLED that’s smooth and bright, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos a pleasure. It even has this neat wet-touch technology, so you can still use the screen accurately even if it’s raining. Pretty handy, right?
When it comes to charging, the 12R is quick. You get 80W wired charging, which means you can go from zero to a full battery in just over half an hour. That’s seriously fast and a lifesaver when you’re in a rush.
Here’s a quick look at some of its key features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Charging: 80W wired
- Battery: Decent all-day life
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
Now, it’s not perfect. The software support isn’t as long as some competitors, and the camera, while decent for everyday shots, won’t blow you away, especially the selfie camera. Also, they don’t include the charger in the box, which is a bit of a bummer. But for the money, the OnePlus 12R offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you value speed and a good screen.
Samsung Galaxy A15
Samsung’s Galaxy A15 is a pretty solid choice if you’re trying to keep costs down. It’s one of those phones that just gets the job done without a fuss. You get a decent 90Hz screen that looks good for everyday use, and Samsung promises a really long time for software updates, which is a big deal for a phone in this price range.
It’s not going to blow you away with super-fast performance or amazing camera shots in tricky lighting, but for browsing, social media, and casual photos, it’s perfectly fine. Plus, it’s got this IP54 rating, meaning it can handle a bit of dust and water splashes, which is nice.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: A 90Hz screen for smoother scrolling.
- Software Support: Six years of security updates promised.
- Durability: IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
- Performance: Uses the Samsung Exynos 1330 chipset.
It’s worth noting that newer models like the A16 or A17 exist, and they might offer slight improvements, but the A15 often gets discounted, making it a really attractive option if you’re on a tight budget. It’s a sensible pick for anyone who wants a reliable phone that will last a good while without costing a fortune.
Motorola Moto G86 5G
Okay, so let’s talk about the Motorola Moto G86 5G. Honestly, when you first pick this thing up, it feels pretty nice. The back, especially on the blue one I saw, has this sort of premium feel that you don’t always get in this price range. It’s a good-looking phone, and Motorola clearly put some thought into the design, which is a nice change of pace.
And that screen? It’s a 6.67-inch pOLED that refreshes at 120Hz. That means scrolling through your feeds or watching videos is super smooth. It really makes a difference for everyday use, making everything look pretty vibrant and fluid.
Under the hood, it’s running a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3. For your regular stuff like checking emails, browsing the web, or messing around on social media, it’s perfectly fine. Don’t expect to play any heavy 3D games on it, though; it’ll start to chug a bit. Motorola’s version of Android is pretty clean, too, which is always a plus. No a ton of weird extra apps you don’t need.
One of the biggest wins here is the battery. It’s a big 5000mAh cell, and it can easily get you through a full day, sometimes even a day and a half if you’re not constantly glued to it. Plus, it charges up pretty fast – 30W gets you to 50% in about half an hour. The main downside, if you’re really picky, is the camera. It’s okay, but it’s not going to blow you away. Also, Motorola’s promise of only two years of software updates is a bit short compared to some others out there. Still, for the price, it’s a solid choice if you’re not a mobile gamer or a photography buff.
Nothing Phone (3a)
If you’re looking for a phone that breaks the mold a bit, the Nothing Phone (3a) might be up your alley. It’s got this cool transparent back that lets you peek at some of the insides, kind of like those old Game Boys. It feels pretty unique, and honestly, it’s a nice change from the usual all-glass or metal slabs.
This phone really stands out for its design and display, especially considering its price point. The 6.77-inch OLED screen is bright and smooth with its 120Hz refresh rate, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos feel really fluid. Plus, it packs a 5,000mAh battery, which should get you through a full day without too much trouble.
Here’s a quick look at some of its specs:
- Display: 6.77-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Chipset: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
- Rear Cameras: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 50MP periscope telephoto
- Front Camera: 50MP
What’s really interesting is that periscope telephoto lens on the back. Finding that kind of zoom capability on a phone in this price range ($459) is pretty rare, especially in North America. It means you can get some decent zoomed-in shots without losing too much quality. It’s not perfect, though. The US warranty is a bit limited, and don’t expect wireless charging or super loud speakers – they can sound a little tinny. But if you want something different that still handles everyday tasks well, the Nothing Phone (3a) is definitely worth a look.
Google Pixel 7A
The Google Pixel 7A was a really solid choice for anyone wanting a good phone without spending a fortune back in 2023. It felt like Google finally nailed the budget Pixel formula, giving you a lot of what makes the pricier models great, but for less cash.
It runs on the same Tensor G2 chip as the Pixel 7, which means you get access to some neat tricks like advanced photo editing and language translation features. And honestly, the camera is pretty impressive for this price point. The 64-megapixel main sensor captures some really nice shots, often rivaling phones that cost quite a bit more.
It’s a phone that punches above its weight, especially if you can find it on sale. While the Pixel 7 might have a slightly tougher build and faster charging, the 7A offers most of the same core experience. Plus, Google has been pretty good about updates, even for its more affordable devices. You might remember that one update in early 2026 that fixed some annoying ringback tone issues for calls, which was a nice touch for Pixel 7a owners.
Here’s a quick look at what it offered:
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Display: 6.1 inches
- Main Camera: 64-megapixel
- Colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral
If you’re looking for a phone that takes great pictures and handles everyday tasks smoothly, the Pixel 7A was definitely worth considering, especially if you snagged it during one of those end-of-year sales. It’s a good example of how much quality Google can pack into a more affordable package.
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus Nord N30 5G. This phone really tries to punch above its weight class, especially when you consider the price. It genuinely feels more premium than you’d expect for something in this budget range.
One of the standout features is the display. You get a pretty big 6.72-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. That’s not something you see every day on phones that aren’t super expensive, and it makes scrolling and watching videos feel really smooth. It’s bright enough to use outside without too much trouble, which is always a plus.
Under the hood, it’s running a Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. For everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and even some gaming, it holds up well. We didn’t run into any major slowdowns playing games like Call of Duty Mobile, which is good to see. Plus, it comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and you can add more with a microSD card if you need it.
Battery life is another strong point. The 5000mAh battery should easily get you through a full day, and if you do run low, the 50W wired fast charging is pretty quick. You can get a good chunk of power back in a relatively short amount of time.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:
- Display: A large 6.72-inch panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Performance: Capable Snapdragon 695 5G processor for daily use and moderate gaming.
- Battery: A solid 5000mAh cell with 50W fast charging support.
- Storage: 128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
Now, it’s not perfect. Don’t expect a top-tier camera system, especially in low light. Also, it lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, so you’ll want to be a bit careful around water. And while it has a headphone jack, which is nice, the loudspeaker isn’t the best for media consumption. Still, for the money, the Nord N30 5G offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you prioritize a good screen and decent performance.
Nokia G42 5G
The Nokia G42 5G is a phone that really tries to be different, and honestly, it mostly succeeds. It’s built with repairability in mind, which is pretty cool. You can actually swap out the screen or the battery yourself if something goes wrong, using parts from iFixit. That’s a big deal for a lot of people who are tired of tossing phones after a minor issue.
Under the hood, it’s running a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2. It’s not going to win any speed races against the high-end flagships, but for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and even some light gaming, it holds up pretty well. This phone offers a fabulous user experience, with good camera quality that further improves after updates. Plus, having 5G connectivity means you’re set for faster downloads and smoother streaming, which is always a plus.
Here’s a quick look at some of its features:
- Display: A decent-sized screen, good for watching videos or scrolling through feeds.
- Battery: It’s got a battery that should get you through a full day, maybe even two if you’re not a heavy user.
- Build: The repairable design is its standout feature, making it a more sustainable choice.
- Connectivity: 5G is here, so you’re future-proofed for faster mobile data.
It’s a solid option if you’re looking for something reliable that won’t break the bank and has a bit of a unique selling point with its repairability. It’s a good choice for anyone who wants a phone that lasts and can be fixed without a trip to the repair shop. You can find out more about its performance and features on Nokia’s official site.
Poco M7 Pro
Alright, let’s talk about the Poco M7 Pro. This phone is kind of a dark horse in the sub-$500 category, and honestly, it’s got some solid stuff going for it if you’re not chasing the absolute latest trends. It feels pretty good in the hand, not too big, not too small, which is nice these days.
What really stands out is the display. It’s bright and smooth, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos a bit more enjoyable. And for the price? It’s a pretty good screen.
Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:
- A capable main camera that can snap decent photos in good lighting. Don’t expect miracles, but for everyday shots, it’ll do the job.
- A decent battery life that should get you through a full day without needing to hunt for a charger.
- A processor that handles daily tasks without too much fuss. You can multitask a bit, but don’t push it too hard with heavy gaming.
It’s not perfect, of course. The software can sometimes feel a little cluttered, and it doesn’t get the same kind of long-term software support as some of the bigger names. But if you’re looking for a phone that gets the basics right without breaking the bank, the Poco M7 Pro is definitely worth a look. It’s a no-nonsense device that offers good value.
Motorola Moto G06
Okay, so the Motorola Moto G06. This phone is definitely aimed at folks who need a phone that just works for the basics, without breaking the bank. It’s not going to blow you away with super-fast performance or fancy features, but it gets the job done for everyday stuff like texting, browsing, and maybe a bit of social media scrolling. It’s a no-frills option for those on a really tight budget.
One of the things Motorola usually does well is battery life, and the G06 is no exception. You can expect it to last a full day, maybe even a bit more, depending on how much you’re using it. It also comes with a decent-sized screen, which is nice for watching videos or looking at pictures. Plus, it’s got that headphone jack and a slot for a microSD card, which are becoming pretty rare these days.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The phone can feel a bit sluggish if you try to push it too hard, like playing demanding games or running a bunch of apps at once. Also, the camera is just okay – don’t expect professional-level photos. Motorola’s software support isn’t the longest either, so if you like getting updates for a long time, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s a capable device for daily tasks, but it lacks a certain polish that you might find in slightly more expensive phones. If you’re looking for a basic, affordable smartphone and don’t need top-tier performance, the Moto G06 is worth considering, especially if you can find it at a good price. You can often find good deals on refurbished Motorola phones if you want to save even more.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. It’s pretty clear that you don’t need to drop a ton of cash to get a really good phone these days. The options we looked at prove that you can get solid cameras, smooth performance, and big, nice screens without emptying your wallet. Honestly, some of these phones pack features you’d expect on much pricier models. Plus, knowing they’ll get updates for a few years means they’ll stick around for a while. It’s a great time to be looking for a budget-friendly smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to spend a lot of money for a good phone?
Not at all! Phones under $500 have gotten super good. They often have cool features like great cameras and fast screens that you used to only find on super expensive phones. You can get a phone that does almost everything you need without emptying your wallet.
What makes a phone under $500 a good choice?
A good phone in this price range usually has a camera that takes nice pictures, runs apps smoothly without getting slow, and has a screen that’s big enough to enjoy videos and games. Many also get software updates for a few years, so they stay useful longer.
Are there any downsides to cheaper phones?
Sometimes, phones that cost less might not have the absolute best camera for tricky lighting, or they might not be made with the fanciest materials. But for everyday use, these differences are usually pretty small and don’t stop the phone from working great.
Can I get a phone with a really good camera for under $500?
Yes, definitely! Phones like Google’s Pixel series often have excellent cameras even in their more affordable models. They can take clear, colorful photos that look great for sharing with friends and family.
How long will a phone under $500 last?
Many phones in this price range now get several years of software and security updates. This means they’ll keep getting new features and stay protected from online threats, helping them last longer and feel up-to-date for a good amount of time.
Is it better to buy a phone outright or on a contract?
Buying a phone outright for under $500 means you own it completely. You can then choose a cheaper phone plan without a contract. This often saves you money in the long run compared to paying for a phone through a monthly service plan.
