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. We’ve checked out a bunch of phones that cost less than $500, and honestly, some of them pack features you’d expect on way pricier models. Whether you’re after a decent camera, a big screen, or just something reliable, there are some solid options out there. This list is all about the best phones for under $500 that actually deliver.
Key Takeaways
- You can get a great phone for under $500 with good cameras, performance, and displays.
- Many cheaper phones now include features found on expensive flagship models.
- Affordable phones often receive several years of software and security updates.
- Consider carrier compatibility, camera, battery, storage, and size when choosing.
- Google’s Pixel 8A and OnePlus 12R are strong contenders in the under-$500 market.
1. Google Pixel 8A
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 8A. This phone really surprised me, honestly. For a device that costs under $500, it packs a serious punch. It feels like you’re getting a much more expensive phone for a fraction of the price.
What stands out is the Tensor G3 chip, the same one you find in Google’s pricier models. This means you get access to all those neat AI features, like Circle to Search, which is surprisingly handy for everyday use. The camera setup is also pretty solid, with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide. Photos come out looking good, especially in decent lighting. It’s definitely a step up from what you might expect in this price range.
Here’s a quick look at some specs:
- Display: 6.1-inch FHD+ (rumored 90Hz)
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Main Camera: 64MP
- Ultrawide Camera: 13MP
- Battery: Around 4,500 mAh
Battery life is generally good, getting you through a full day without too much worry. It doesn’t have wireless charging, which is a bit of a bummer, but that’s one of the few compromises you’ll find. If you’re looking for a phone that balances performance, camera quality, and smart features without emptying your wallet, the Pixel 8A is a really strong contender. It’s a great example of how far budget phones have come, and you can read more about its capabilities on Google’s official site.
2. OnePlus 12R
Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 12R. This phone has been making some waves, and for good reason. It really feels like it punches above its weight class, offering a pretty premium experience without completely emptying your wallet. It’s a solid choice if you want good performance and fast charging on a budget.
One of the standout features has to be the charging speed. We’re talking 80W fast charging here, which means you can go from zero to a full battery in just over half an hour. That’s seriously convenient when you’re in a rush. Plus, the screen has this neat wet-touch technology, so you can actually use it accurately even if it’s raining or your fingers are a bit damp. Pretty handy, right?
When it comes to performance, it’s running on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. While it’s not the absolute latest, it still has plenty of juice for most things, including playing games without much fuss. The display is also quite nice – a 6.78-inch AMOLED that’s bright and smooth, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos a pleasure.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Charging: 80W wired fast charging
- Battery: Large capacity for all-day use
- Special Feature: Wet-touch display technology
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 if you plan on keeping your phone for many years. Also, while the cameras are decent for everyday shots, they might not blow you away, especially in low light. And you don’t get a charger in the box, which is a bit of an annoyance these days.
Overall, though, the OnePlus 12R is a really strong contender in the under-$500 market. It balances performance, fast charging, and a good display really well. Just keep those minor drawbacks in mind.
3. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G
Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G. If you’re someone who likes a phone that looks pretty good and doesn’t break the bank, this one’s worth a look. It’s got this 6.7-inch screen that’s nice and smooth because of its 90Hz refresh rate. Scrolling through stuff just feels a bit nicer, you know?
One thing that’s really cool, and honestly a bit rare these days, is that it has a microSD card slot. So, if you need more space for your photos or apps, you can just pop one in. Samsung is also promising a lot of software updates for this phone – like, five major OS updates and six years of security patches. That’s pretty darn good for a phone in this price range, meaning it should stay useful for a long time.
This phone is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable device with a good screen and a long support life without spending a fortune.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:
- Display: A 6.7-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.
- Storage: Expandable storage via a microSD card slot.
- Software Support: Five OS updates and six years of security updates.
- Durability: It’s got an IP54 rating, so it can handle dust and light water splashes.
Now, it’s not going to blow you away with super-fast performance or have the best cameras for tricky low-light shots, especially the ultrawide and macro lenses. But for everyday tasks, browsing, and staying connected, it does the job. Plus, Samsung’s One UI software adds some neat features for multitasking. It’s a sensible pick if you value longevity and a decent user experience over top-tier specs.
4. Motorola Moto G Power 5G
If you’re tired of your phone dying halfway through the day, the Motorola Moto G Power 5G is a solid choice. This phone is all about that battery life. Seriously, it just keeps going. In tests, the battery lasted over 12 hours, which is pretty impressive. Plus, it charges up pretty fast, both with a cable and wirelessly.
It’s got a nice big 6.7-inch screen that looks good for watching videos or just scrolling through stuff. The speakers are surprisingly decent too, with some bass that makes watching movies or listening to music more enjoyable without needing headphones. It runs on Android, and Motorola keeps it pretty clean, so it’s easy to get around.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Display: 6.7-inch, 120Hz refresh rate
- Battery: 5,000mAh (expect over 12 hours of use)
- Charging: 30W wired, 15W wireless
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7020
- Operating System: Android 14
Now, it’s not perfect. The camera isn’t going to win any awards, especially if you try to zoom in. And while the performance is fine for everyday tasks like browsing and social media, don’t expect it to handle heavy 3D gaming smoothly. Also, Motorola’s promise for software updates is a bit shorter than some competitors, so if you plan to keep a phone for many years, that’s something to think about. But for a phone that won’t quit on you and offers a good screen for entertainment, the Moto G Power 5G is a strong contender.
5. Google Pixel 7A
Even though Google has newer models out, the Pixel 7A is still a solid choice if you’re looking for a phone under $500, especially if you can find it on sale. It really brought a lot of the premium Pixel experience down to a more affordable level when it came out.
The camera on this thing is seriously good for the price. You get a 64-megapixel main sensor that takes pictures that hold up really well, even compared to more expensive phones. Plus, it has that Google magic with its Tensor G2 chip, which means you get neat features like advanced photo editing tools and pretty good language translation. It feels like a much pricier phone in your hand when you’re using those smart features.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Display: 6.1 inches
- Main Camera: 64 megapixels
- Front Camera: 13 megapixels
- Colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral
While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the latest flagships, like wireless charging for other devices or the absolute fastest charging speeds, it nails the important stuff. The software experience is clean, and you get those helpful Pixel-specific features that make everyday use a bit easier. If you want a great camera and a smooth, smart phone without spending a fortune, the Pixel 7A is definitely worth considering, especially if you can snag it for less than its original price.
6. TCL Flip 4 5G
TCL has really shaken things up with their latest affordable flip phone, the Flip 4 5G. It’s not just a minor update; they’ve given it a whole new look, boosted the battery life, and added 5G connectivity. This phone is a breath of fresh air if you’re tired of super-smartphones that do way too much.
This device is a fantastic choice for anyone who primarily wants a phone for talking and texting, without all the digital distractions. It’s built for people who appreciate a simpler way to stay connected. The call quality is really good, and get this – the battery can last up to 40 hours of talk time on a single charge. That’s practically a whole work week without needing to find an outlet, which is pretty wild these days.
If you’re looking to cut down on screen time and digital noise, the Flip 4 5G is a solid option. It lets you text and browse the web, but because you’re typing on a physical number pad, you’ll probably think twice before sending a long email. It’s a good way to slow down and be more intentional about how you use your phone.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
- Connectivity: 5G and Wi-Fi are included, so you can stay in touch.
- Charging: It uses a standard USB-C port, which is convenient.
- Audio: You still get a 3.5mm headphone jack, a nice touch for those who prefer wired headphones.
- Camera: There’s a 5MP camera, which is handy for quick snaps when you need them.
Under the hood, it runs on KaiOS and uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 processor. It’s not going to win any speed races, but for its intended purpose, it gets the job done. TCL replaced the older Flip 3 with this model in late 2025, and it’s a definite improvement for those seeking a straightforward, reliable flip phone.
7. Samsung Galaxy S8
Okay, so the Samsung Galaxy S8. It feels a bit like bringing a classic car to a modern race, right? But hear me out. Even though this phone has been around for a while, it still holds its own, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down. When it first came out, it was a big deal. It had this really sleek design with curved edges that looked super futuristic, and the screen was just gorgeous.
Performance-wise, it was a beast. Powered by a Snapdragon 835 chip and 4GB of RAM, it handled apps and multitasking pretty well back in the day, and honestly, it’s still decent for everyday stuff like browsing, social media, and checking emails. You won’t be playing the most demanding games on high settings, but for regular use, it’s surprisingly capable. It’s a good example of how a well-built phone from a few years ago can still be a solid choice. You can often find it for a really good price now, making it a smart pick if you’re on a tight budget.
Here’s a quick look at what made it stand out:
- Camera: It had a really good camera for its time, capturing sharp photos with nice colors. It was definitely a highlight.
- Display: The Infinity Display was a game-changer, offering vibrant visuals and an immersive viewing experience.
- Build Quality: Samsung really nailed the premium feel with this one, using glass and metal that felt great in the hand.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The fingerprint scanner placement was a bit awkward, and Bixby, Samsung’s virtual assistant, wasn’t exactly a fan favorite. But for the price you can find it at now, those are minor quibbles. If you’re looking for a phone that offers a premium feel and a good camera without spending a fortune, the Galaxy S8 is definitely worth considering. It’s a testament to Samsung’s engineering that it remains a viable option. You can check out more details on its performance if you’re curious.
8. iPhone 16e
Alright, let’s talk about the iPhone 16e. Now, I know what you’re thinking – an iPhone under $500? It’s a bit of a stretch for what we usually consider budget-friendly, but hear me out. If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and don’t want to shell out for the latest and greatest, this is your ticket. It’s not exactly cheap, but if you can snag it with some carrier deals, you might even get it for next to nothing, especially if you have an old phone to trade in.
This phone is a solid choice if you prefer smaller devices. It’s got a 6.1-inch display, which feels pretty compact compared to some of the larger phones out there these days. It’s also pretty light, making it easy to handle with just one hand. The iPhone 16e packs a punch with performance that rivals the standard iPhone 16, and it boasts impressive battery life that should get you through the day without a problem. Plus, you get that nice, sharp screen that Apple is known for, which is great for watching videos or just scrolling through your feed. It even runs Apple Intelligence, which is pretty neat for a phone in this price bracket.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Performance: Just as capable as the iPhone 16.
- Battery: You can expect leading battery life.
- Display: A sharp and clear screen.
- Camera: Dependable cameras for everyday shots.
- Charging: Features a USB-C port.
However, it’s not all perfect. You won’t find features like mmWave 5G or Wi-Fi 7 here, and the screen isn’t quite as bright as the iPhone 16’s. Also, don’t expect a super versatile camera system; it lacks ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. And a heads-up for some: it doesn’t support MagSafe charging. Still, for an Apple fan on a tighter budget, the iPhone 16e is a compelling option, offering a taste of the Apple experience without the premium price tag. You can check out more about Apple’s display tech here.
9. Poco M7 Pro
Alright, let’s talk about the Poco M7 Pro. If you’re looking for a phone that doesn’t break the bank but still gives you a pretty solid experience, this one is definitely worth a look. It really hits that sweet spot between price and performance.
For what you’re paying, you get a display that’s surprisingly good. It’s bright and clear, making watching videos or just scrolling through social media a pleasant experience. Plus, the battery life on this thing is no joke. You can easily get through a full day, maybe even two, without needing to hunt for a charger. That’s a big win in my book.
When it comes to taking pictures, the main camera does a decent job, especially in good lighting. It’s not going to compete with the super high-end phones, obviously, but for everyday snaps and sharing with friends, it’s perfectly capable. You also get 5G connectivity, which is becoming pretty standard but is still a nice feature to have for faster downloads and smoother streaming.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Display: A vibrant screen that’s great for media.
- Battery: Long-lasting, so you’re not constantly tethered to an outlet.
- Camera: A capable main shooter for casual photos.
- Connectivity: 5G support for faster speeds.
It’s a phone that focuses on the essentials and does them well. If you’re not trying to play the most demanding games or shoot professional-grade photos, the Poco M7 Pro is a smart choice. It’s one of those budget phones that just works, and honestly, that’s what most of us need. You can find more details on phones like this in our best budget phone reviews.
10. Moto G86 5G
If you’re tired of your phone dying halfway through the day, the Moto G86 5G might be the upgrade you’re looking for. It packs a seriously big 6720mAh battery, which means it can easily outlast most other phones, even some pricier ones, when it comes to just keeping going.
Seriously, we found that this phone could last a whole weekend without needing a charge. It’s not just about the battery, though. The MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor handles everyday stuff like browsing the web and scrolling through social media without any hiccups. Plus, with a massive 512GB of storage built-in, you’ve got tons of space for movies or music. The 6.67-inch screen is also really bright and looks great.
However, there are a couple of downsides. Motorola only promises two years of software updates, which isn’t as long as some other brands. Also, the design can feel a bit cheap, and the camera zoom isn’t the best. If you need the absolute latest software for a long time or a super fancy design, you might want to check out other options. But for a phone that just keeps going and going, it’s a solid choice.
The Moto G86 5G is a great pick for anyone who needs a phone that lasts multiple days on a single charge.
Key Features:
- Battery: 6720mAh cell for multi-day use
- Display: 6.67-inch bright screen
- Storage: 512GB standard
- Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 for daily tasks
- Software Support: 2 years of updates
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 phone that does what you need it to do. The phones we looked at really pack a punch, offering good cameras, decent speed, and nice big screens without breaking the bank. Honestly, a lot of these phones have features you used to only see on the super expensive models. Plus, knowing they’ll get updates for a few years means you can hang onto them longer. It’s a smart way to stay connected without feeling the pinch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to spend a lot of money for a good phone?
Not at all! Many phones under $500 have awesome features like great cameras and fast screens. You can get a really good phone without spending a fortune.
What makes a phone ‘good’ for under $500?
A good phone in this price range usually has a camera that takes nice pictures, runs apps smoothly, and has a screen that looks good. Some even have features you’d find on phones that cost way more.
Will these cheaper phones get old quickly?
Most of these phones get updates for several years, which keeps them running well and secure. This means you can use them for a long time.
Are there good Android and iPhone options under $500?
There are tons of great Android phones in this price range. For iPhones, the cheapest new models are usually a bit more than $500, but you might find older models or deals that fit your budget.
What should I look for when buying a cheaper phone?
Think about what’s most important to you. Do you need a great camera? A big screen? Lots of storage? Also, check if it works with your phone company and how long it’s expected to get updates.
Can I get a phone with a really nice screen for under $500?
Yes, many phones in this price range now have screens with high refresh rates (like 120Hz) that make scrolling and gaming look super smooth. They can be just as good as screens on much more expensive phones.
