Top Picks: The Best Phones for Under $500 in 2025

Finding a good phone without spending a fortune is totally doable these days. Seriously, you don’t need to drop a grand to get something that works well for everyday stuff like calls, photos, and browsing. We checked out a bunch of phones that cost less than $500, and honestly, some of them are pretty impressive. It feels like manufacturers are packing more and more features into these cheaper models, which is great for our wallets. So, if you’re in the market for a new phone and want to keep it under $500, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up some of the best phones for under $500 that won’t disappoint.

Key Takeaways

• You can get a quality smartphone for under $500, with many offering features found on more expensive devices.
• Google’s Pixel 8A is a top contender, offering a great camera and AI features similar to pricier Pixel models.
• Last year’s Google Pixel 7A is still a solid choice if you want to save even more money.
• Apple’s iPhone SE provides a budget-friendly entry point into the iOS ecosystem with a powerful chip.
• Consider refurbished models, like the iPhone 13, for potential savings on slightly older, but still capable, devices.

1. Google Pixel 8A

Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 8A. This phone really surprised me, honestly. For a device that sits comfortably under the $500 mark, it packs a serious punch, especially with its AI features. It feels like you’re getting a taste of Google’s flagship tech without the flagship price tag.

Under the hood, it’s running the Tensor G3 chip, which is the same one you’ll find in the more expensive Pixel 8 models. This means you get access to some pretty neat AI tricks, like Circle to Search, which is surprisingly handy for quickly looking up things you see on your screen. The camera system is also quite good for this price point. You’ve got a 64-megapixel main sensor that takes solid shots, especially in good lighting. Plus, there’s a 13-megapixel ultrawide and a 13-megapixel selfie camera, so you’re covered for most situations.

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

• Display: 6.1 inches
• Processor: Google Tensor G3
• Rear Cameras: 64MP (wide), 13MP (ultrawide)
• Front Camera: 13MP
• Colors: Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, Porcelain

One thing to keep in mind is that while the Pixel 8A is a great option, Google has since announced the Pixel 9A, which might be worth looking into if you’re considering a future purchase. The 8A does lack wireless charging, which is a bit of a bummer, and the software support period isn’t as long as some might hope for. Still, for everyday use, photos, and messing around with Google’s smart features, the Pixel 8A is a really strong contender in the budget phone market.

2. Apple iPhone SE

Alright, let’s talk about the Apple iPhone SE. If you’re an Apple person but don’t want to spend a fortune on the newest iPhone, this one might be up your alley. It’s got that classic iPhone look, which, honestly, you’ll either love or find a bit dated. But don’t let the old-school design fool you; it packs Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, the same one you’d find in some of the more expensive models, and it supports 5G. So, performance-wise, it’s pretty zippy.

One of the standout things about the SE is its size. It’s got a smaller 4.7-inch screen, which is kind of rare these days. If you prefer a phone that’s easy to use with one hand and doesn’t feel like a brick in your pocket, this is a big plus. It also comes with wireless charging, which is handy.

Now, where it falls a bit short is the camera. It’s a single 12-megapixel lens, and it doesn’t have things like Night Mode. While Apple does use some clever software processing like Deep Fusion and Smart HDR4 to make photos look good, especially in decent lighting, it’s not going to compete with phones that have multiple lenses and more advanced features. Video, though? It shoots really nice 4K video at 60 frames per second, which is pretty impressive.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Processor: Apple A15 Bionic (Solid performance for the price)
• Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD (Compact and easy to handle)
• Camera: Single 12MP rear, 7MP front (Good for everyday shots, but lacks advanced features)
• Connectivity: 5G support
• Charging: Supports wireless charging

So, if you’re looking for a compact iPhone with good performance and don’t need the absolute latest camera tech, the iPhone SE is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid choice for Apple fans on a budget.

3. OnePlus 12R

Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 12R. This phone is kind of a sweet spot if you’re looking for something that feels a bit more premium without completely emptying your wallet. It packs a punch with its performance, making it a solid choice for everyday use and even some gaming.

One of the standout features here is definitely the charging speed. We’re talking 80W fast charging, which means you can go from zero to a full battery in about half an hour. That’s seriously convenient when you’re in a hurry. Plus, the screen has this neat ‘wet-touch’ technology, so you can actually use it without much fuss even if your fingers or the screen are a bit damp – handy for those unexpected rain showers.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Display: A good-sized 6.78-inch screen that’s bright and responsive.
• Processor: It uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, which is still quite capable for most tasks and games.
• Charging: Super-fast 80W wired charging.
• Battery: Generally offers good battery life, often lasting a full day for most people.

Now, it’s not perfect. The software support isn’t as long as some other phones out there, which is a bit of a bummer for long-term use. And while the cameras are decent for casual shots, they might not blow away photography enthusiasts, especially in low light. Still, for the price, the OnePlus 12R offers a really strong package, especially if speed and a smooth user experience are high on your list.

4. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G. If you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, this one’s definitely worth a look. It really hits a sweet spot for value, offering a good mix of features that you usually only see on pricier devices.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the display. It’s a pretty big 6.7-inch screen, and it’s got a 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations feel nice and smooth. Plus, Samsung is actually promising a really long support life for this phone – we’re talking five years of OS updates and six years of security patches. That’s pretty impressive and means you won’t have to worry about upgrading for a good while.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:

• Big Display: A 6.7-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.
• Long-Term Support: Samsung’s commitment to updates means your phone stays current and secure for years.
• Durability: It comes with an IP54 rating, so it can handle dust and water splashes without too much fuss. This is a nice touch for a phone in this price range.
• Storage Flexibility: You get a microSD card slot, which is always a welcome feature if you need more space for photos and apps.

When it comes to performance, it handles everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos without any hiccups. The cameras are also surprisingly decent for the price point, capturing clear shots with good color. It’s a really well-rounded option, especially if you’re already a fan of Samsung’s One UI software and its handy features. For anyone wanting a reliable daily driver that offers a lot for its cost, the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a strong contender.

5. Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2024)

If you’re someone who’s always worried about your phone dying, the Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2024) might just be your new best friend. This phone is a battery champ, easily lasting over 12 hours in our tests, which is pretty impressive when you think about how much we all use our phones these days. It’s got a big 6.7-inch screen that looks good, especially with its 120Hz refresh rate making everything feel super smooth when you’re scrolling or playing games. Plus, it supports both 30W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, so topping it up isn’t a hassle.

What else makes it stand out?

• Entertainment Ready: The large display, combined with Dolby Atmos support and surprisingly decent speakers, makes watching videos or listening to music a more immersive experience, even without headphones.
• Solid Performance: Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor, it handles everyday tasks without much fuss. While it’s not going to win any speed races against flagship phones, it’s more than capable for browsing, social media, and most apps.
• Good Value: Motorola phones often see discounts, and this model is no exception. You can often find it on sale, making it an even better deal. It’s a sensible choice if you want a reliable phone that won’t break the bank. You can often find this model on sale, sometimes with a 35% discount.

It’s worth noting that while Motorola released a 2025 version, the 2024 model generally offers better performance, so it’s the one to aim for if you’re looking at this line.

6. Google Pixel 7A

Even though Google has released newer models, the Pixel 7A still holds its own as a solid choice for anyone looking for a capable smartphone without breaking the bank. It really brought a lot of the premium Pixel experience down to a more accessible price point.

The Tensor G2 chip inside means you get access to some pretty neat AI features, like advanced photo editing and language translation, which you’d normally find on more expensive phones. It’s not just about the software, though. The 64-megapixel main camera takes some seriously good pictures, often rivaling phones that cost quite a bit more. It’s a great option if you care about taking nice photos without fussing over settings.

Here’s a quick look at what it offers:

• Processor: Google Tensor G2
• Display: 6.1-inch screen
• Cameras: 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 13MP selfie
• Colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral

While it might not have all the bells and whistles of the latest flagships, like wireless charging or the absolute fastest charging speeds, the Pixel 7A offers a really balanced package. It’s a phone that just works well for everyday tasks, and if you can find it on sale, it’s an even better deal.

7. TCL Flip 4 5G

Okay, so if you’re tired of all the fancy smartphones and just want a phone that, you know, phones, then the TCL Flip 4 5G might be your jam. TCL really went back to basics with this one, giving it a fresh look and making sure it can connect to 5G networks. It’s a flip phone, so it’s got that classic feel, but with some modern upgrades.

This phone is basically built for talking, with a battery that just keeps going. Seriously, you can get up to 40 hours of talk time on a single charge. That’s like, a whole work week if you’re not constantly on the phone. It’s also got Wi-Fi, which is nice, and a USB-C port for charging, which is way better than those old micro-USB things.

What’s inside?

• Operating System: KaiOS – it’s simple and gets the job done.
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 – good enough for what this phone does.
• Connectivity: 5G and Wi-Fi – so you can stay connected.
• Camera: A 5MP camera is included, which is handy if you need to snap a quick picture.
• Audio: It even has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is becoming a rare find these days.

This phone is a good choice if you’re trying to cut down on screen time or if you just prefer a simpler way to communicate. Typing out long texts on the physical keypad takes effort, which honestly, might be a good thing for some of us. It’s a solid, affordable option for staying in touch without all the distractions.

8. OnePlus Nord N30 5G

Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus Nord N30 5G. This phone is kind of a middle-of-the-road option, you know? It’s not going to blow you away with super high-end features, but it gets the job done for most people.

One of the things that stands out is its charging speed. You can get a pretty significant charge in a short amount of time, which is handy when you’re in a rush. It also has a decent battery life that should get you through a full day without too much trouble, though heavy users might need a top-up.

When it comes to performance, it’s powered by a processor that’s capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and even some light gaming. Don’t expect it to run the most demanding games on the highest settings, though.

Here’s a quick look at some specs:

• Display: 6.72-inch LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB (expandable via microSD)
• Rear Cameras: 108MP main, 2MP macro, 2MP depth
• Front Camera: 16MP
• Battery: 5,000 mAh
• Charging: 50W wired

It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable 5G phone that won’t break the bank. The camera system is pretty good for the price, especially the main 108MP sensor, which can capture some detailed shots in good lighting. Just keep your expectations in check for the secondary cameras – they’re more for show than serious photography.

Overall, the Nord N30 5G is a sensible pick for someone who needs a functional smartphone with 5G connectivity and doesn’t want to spend a fortune. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s a dependable device.

9. Apple iPhone 13 (Refurbished)

Okay, so buying a brand-new iPhone can really put a dent in your wallet, right? That’s where looking at refurbished models comes in handy, and the iPhone 13 is a solid choice if you want that Apple experience without paying top dollar. You’re basically getting a phone that’s been checked over, fixed up if needed, and resold, often with a warranty. It’s a smart way to snag a device that’s still pretty capable.

What you get with a refurbished iPhone 13 is a phone that still feels modern. It’s got that familiar design with the notch, a great dual-camera system that takes really nice pictures, especially in good lighting, and it’s powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip. That chip is no slouch; it handles everyday tasks, apps, and even some gaming without breaking a sweat. Plus, you get access to the whole iOS ecosystem, which is known for being user-friendly and getting regular software updates for years.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Display: A vibrant 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display that looks great for watching videos or browsing.
• Cameras: A dual 12MP camera system (wide and ultrawide) that captures excellent photos and 4K video.
• Performance: The A15 Bionic chip ensures smooth operation for most tasks.
• Battery Life: Generally good enough to get you through a full day of moderate use.
• Build: Durable Ceramic Shield front cover and water resistance.

Now, it’s not going to have all the bells and whistles of the absolute latest models. You won’t get the Dynamic Island, and features like advanced AI capabilities might be limited compared to newer iPhones. Also, remember that MagSafe charging might not be included or might work differently depending on the specific refurbished unit. But honestly, for most people just wanting a reliable iPhone that performs well and takes good photos, a refurbished iPhone 13 is a really sensible pick. It’s a good balance of features, performance, and price.

10. Motorola Moto G Play 2026

Motorola’s Moto G Play 2026 is their most affordable entry into the 5G world, coming in at a very low price point. If you’re on a super tight budget and absolutely need 5G, this phone might be on your radar. However, it’s important to know that performance can be pretty sluggish. Apps and websites can take a noticeable amount of time to load, which might get frustrating if you’re used to faster phones.

While it does offer 5G connectivity for the first time in the Play series, and it packs a decent 5,200mAh battery, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more pep. It also comes with a 6.7-inch display that refreshes at 120Hz, which is nice for smoother scrolling, and it even has a headphone jack.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Display: 6.7-inch, 120Hz refresh rate
• Battery: 5,200mAh
• Connectivity: 5G
• Extras: Headphone jack, IP52 water and dust resistance

Honestly, for just a little bit more money, you can often find the Motorola Moto G Power 2025 on sale. The Power 2025, while not a speed demon itself, offers a much better performance experience than the Play 2026. Plus, it usually comes with better cameras and a few more features that make it a more well-rounded device. So, unless the absolute lowest price is your only concern, you might want to consider stretching your budget just a bit for the Moto G Power 2025.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. You really don’t need to drop a ton of cash to get a solid phone these days. We looked at some great options that pack a punch without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re after a decent camera for everyday shots, a screen that’s nice to look at, or just something that runs smoothly for all your apps, there’s something out there for you. It’s pretty cool how much you can get for under $500 now. Just remember to think about what you actually need in a phone, and you’ll find a winner from our list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best phone you can get for under $500?

The Google Pixel 8A is a top choice because it’s almost as good as the pricier Pixel 8. It has the same powerful chip, a great camera, and cool AI features, making it a fantastic deal for the money.

Do cheaper phones still have good cameras?

Yes, many phones under $500 have really good cameras now. While they might not be *exactly* as amazing as the super expensive phones, they take clear and colorful pictures that are great for everyday use and sharing online.

Can I get an iPhone for under $500?

Apple’s iPhone SE is available new for under $500. You can also often find a refurbished iPhone 13 for around that price, which gives you a more modern design and features with a one-year warranty from Apple.

How long will these cheaper phones get software updates?

Some companies offer several years of software and security updates for their budget phones, which helps them last longer and stay secure. Google’s Pixel phones, for example, often promise up to 7 years of updates.

Are there any special features on these budget phones?

You’d be surprised! Many phones under $500 include features you’d usually only find on expensive phones, like super smooth screens (120Hz refresh rate), fast charging, and even cool AI tricks like ‘Circle to Search’.

Should I buy a phone now or wait for newer models?

If you see a great deal on a 2025 phone you like, it’s probably a good time to buy. However, many new budget phones come out in the first half of the year. If you’re not in a hurry, waiting a few months might get you the latest 2026 models.