Best Phones Under $500: Top Picks, Budget-Friendly Options with Ultra Specs
by Faraz Khan
Mobile phones are always a part of every human being’s life. However, the considerations for keeping smartphones are very diverse. Some people use smartphones just for day-to-day use, such as calling, messaging, documenting, and sometimes capturing moments. On the other hand, millennials keep smartphones as if they were their body parts. They carry devices anywhere, everywhere, and anytime. Their focus is on using high-end devices to complete simple tasks and for content creation, gaming, and complex multitasking.
Nowadays, companies manufacture devices while keeping the second type of user behavior in mind. They add long-lasting batteries, modern processors, and aesthetic designs to their smartphones. Some popular brands like Xiaomi and Realme are pioneers in making high-quality gaming smartphones that are within people’s budgetary limits. On the other hand, the godfather of the mobile phone industry “Apple” totally revolutionized the industry by adding almost impossible features in their phones like Face ID and Touch ID, Animoji and Memoji, Augmented Reality, and Siri Shortcuts.
Note: These advanced features also have some limitations. Face ID can be fooled by twins or masks, AR can drain your battery quickly, and Siri might not always understand your commands. However, they represent Apple’s next-level R&D process of mobile technology and give us a glimpse of what the future might hold.
We understand it’s becoming more challenging for the global audience to buy high-end mobile devices at the best prices. Due to the dance of competition, companies are integrating modern technology, features, and specs in their mobile devices to outrank each other. To solve this global chaos, our expert team prepared this Best Phones Under $500 buying guide for you. We have tested each product and ranked them respectively in terms of specs, features, and prices.
Best Smartphones Under $500 Price Tag
Devices in the $500 price range typically offer transparent, colorful screens and high refresh rates, resulting in a smooth user interface and a satisfying viewing experience. Users can use advanced camera systems equipped with multiple lenses, AI-enhanced photography, and high-resolution video capabilities to pleasantly take photographs and film of professional-grade quality. Furthermore, these smartphones frequently incorporate powerful processors that can effortlessly handle resource-intensive applications and multitasking. One notable feature in this category is the impressive battery life since most models provide rapid charging and long-lasting daily performance. This compiled list walks you through the best mobile phones under $500.
For an informed selection process, we break this list into two categories: Android and Apple.
Best Android Phones Under 500
Google Pixel 7A
The Google Pixel 7A is a modern and competitive smartphone that falls within the $500 price range while still providing features often found in premium models. Packed with the Google Tensor G2 CPU, which also powers Google’s premium Pixel 7 series, this device guarantees smooth and quick performance for gaming, streaming, and web browsing activities.
However, the Pixel 7A offers more than sheer processing capability. The device features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The display is an absolute delight whether you’re catching up on the latest series or scrolling through photos.
Regarding photography capabilities, the Pixel 7A’s camera configuration is exceptional. It has a 64MP rear sensor that captures highly detailed and vibrant photographs. Perfect for Instagrammers, this camera performs exceptionally well in all lighting conditions, particularly in low-light settings.
The Pixel 7A performs well in terms of battery life. The 4410mAh battery guarantees that you can last the entire day without needing to recharge. In addition, the storage options of 128GB to 256GB provide enough room to accommodate all your applications, photographs, and media files.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 90Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 64MP rear, 8MP front
- Battery: 4410mAh
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Unbeatable camera quality
- Clean & user-friendly software
- Tensor G2 performance
Cons:
- No expandable storage for adding extra memory
- Average battery life may not last a full day for heavy users
Why Choose It: The Pixel 7A offers exceptional camera quality at an unbeatable price, making it the Android champion for photography enthusiasts. The clean software experience and powerful Tensor G2 processor are just the icing on the cake. However, be mindful of the storage limitations and average battery life if those are major priorities for you.
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is more than a mobile phone; it is a portal to a more immersive and vibrant digital encounter. The device features a remarkable 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display that offers a smooth and enjoyable experience with its 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing the responsiveness of every touch, swipe, and scroll.
The Samsung Exynos 1280 processor, operating behind the scenes, guarantees a visually impressive and exceptionally swift user experience. The A54 5G effortlessly manages multitasking between apps and smoothly navigates complex web pages without interruptions.
The triple-lens camera system offers a wide range of options for photography millennials. The primary sensor, with a resolution of 50 megapixels, records your surroundings with exceptional precision. In contrast, the secondary ultrawide lens, with a resolution of 12 megapixels, provides a broader perspective by capturing a larger field of view.
Storage capacity will not be a cause for worry, as choices are available with 128GB or 256GB. Download applications, capture numerous photographs, and record movies without concerns about storage limitations.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 1280
- Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP depth sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Stunning Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Long-lasting battery life
- Capable triple-lens camera system
Cons:
- Processor may not be the most powerful on this list
- Camera system isn’t a top contender, but still good
Why Choose It: If a big, beautiful display and a long-lasting battery are your priorities, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is the perfect match. It’s a fantastic choice for entertainment enthusiasts who want a phone that can keep up with their viewing habits. Just keep in mind that the processor might not be the absolute fastest, and the camera system caters more towards everyday use rather than professional photography.
Google Pixel 6A
If you’re looking for a more affordable way to experience the features of Google, you might want to consider the Google Pixel 6A. This device is equipped with the innovative Google Tensor chip, which provides a highly responsive and user-friendly experience.
The Pixel 6A comes with a 6.1-inch OLED screen that enhances colors and details, providing a vibrant visual experience for activities such as browsing through your photo gallery or watching the latest Netflix series. The display guarantees that each interaction is both pleasurable and easily understandable.
Although the camera of the Pixel 6A may be slightly inferior compared to the 7A, it remains exceptional within its category. It uses Google’s renowned computational photography to generate highly detailed and sharply colored images. The Pixel 6A not only contains a remarkable camera and processor, but also provides a battery life that lasts throughout the entire day, accommodating even the most demanding of schedules.
Whether you’re a loyal Pixel user or new to the ecosystem, the Google Pixel 6A offers a perfect blend of affordability, high performance, and exceptional photography capabilities.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Google Tensor
- Display: 6.4-inch OLED, 90Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 12.2MP rear, 8MP front
- Battery: 4410mAh
- Storage: 128GB
Pros:
- Great camera quality for the price
- Clean and user-friendly software
- Google Tensor chip offers good performance
Cons:
- Camera falls slightly behind the Pixel 7A
- Only 128GB storage option
- Average battery life may not last a full day for heavy users
Why Choose It: The Google Pixel 6A is the perfect choice for budget-conscious Android users who still prioritize a great camera and a clean software experience. It offers significant savings compared to the Pixel 7A, but with some minor compromises in camera quality and storage options.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) is ideal for individuals who love doodling, taking detailed notes, or using the precise touch input provided by its built-in pen. The Moto G Stylus has a stylus and offers a high-quality experience with its expansive 6.8-inch LCD display that features an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. This guarantees a smooth and seamless experience when swiping and scrolling and enhances the clarity and vibrancy of graphics, making it ideal for both media fans and multitaskers.
This model’s camera features are highly proficient in capturing various moments in life, thanks to its adaptable 50 MP main camera, which guarantees clear and detailed photographs at all times. The phone is equipped with an 8MP ultrawide lens, which enables you to capture wider views. Additionally, it has a 2MP macro sensor that allows for close-up photographs with precise focus.
The MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor offers sufficient computational capacity for ordinary tasks. Although it may not succeed in high-performance benchmarks, it achieves an optimal equilibrium between efficiency and capability. Packed with a sizable 5000mAh battery, the Moto G Stylus 5G is designed to endure a full day of demanding usage without frequent recharging.
The 128GB or 256GB storage options provide ample capacity to save all your works, photographs, and applications. With such abundant storage capacity, you can conveniently store all your necessary data without worrying about running out of room.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 700
- Display: 6.8-inch LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Built-in stylus for drawing, note-taking, and precise navigation
- Large screen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- Capable camera system and long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Processor may not be ideal for heavy gaming or multitasking
- Lower display quality compared to AMOLED displays on some phones
Why Choose It: If you crave the versatility of a built-in stylus and prioritize a large screen for entertainment or productivity, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) is a compelling option. However, if raw processing power is your main concern, you might want to consider other phones on this list.
Samsung Galaxy M54
The Samsung Galaxy M54 embodies engineering excellence, blending excellent performance with cost efficiency in a single device. It has a 6.6-inch AMOLED display, which delivers superb visual fidelity boosted by a 90Hz refresh rate. This display is rigorously calibrated to give better brightness and color accuracy.
The Galaxy M54’s foundation is the Samsung Exynos 1280 CPU, a mid-range chipset used for efficiency and performance. This CPU allows robust multitasking capabilities and supports advanced mobile applications without compromising energy efficiency. The integration of this chipset with the device’s system architecture provides an optimal user experience.
Photographically, the gadget sports a powerful triple-lens camera system, which combines a 64MP primary sensor for high-resolution photos, a 12MP ultrawide sensor for capturing large landscapes, and a 5MP depth sensor for better bokeh effects in portrait mode. This configuration is supported by advanced algorithms and software optimization.
The Galaxy M54’s storage choices are extensive, with 128GB or 256GB options catering to a wide range of data storage requirements. It is powered by a 5000mAh battery capable of handling extended usage times without regular recharging. This high-capacity battery is crucial in sustaining device endurance throughout tough workloads and continuous application use.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 1280 (or equivalent)
- Display: 6.6-inch AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 64MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP depth sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Large AMOLED display with a good refresh rate
- Balanced performance for everyday tasks
- Versatile triple-lens camera system
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Camera may not be the absolute best compared to some flagships
- Processor might not be ideal for power users or heavy gamers
Why Choose It: The Samsung Galaxy M54 is a fantastic option for users who want a phone that excels in most areas without breaking the bank. The large AMOLED display is perfect for watching videos or gaming, the camera system is versatile, and the battery life should keep you going all day. This phone is a well-rounded choice for anyone seeking a reliable and feature-packed phone under $500.
Nokia G400 5G
The Nokia G400 5G is an appealing choice for individuals who want to take advantage of the capabilities of 5G technology without spending a significant amount of money. This device provides more than just connectivity; it allows you to experience dependable and affordable technology. The Nokia G400 5G, equipped with the highly efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ processor, guarantees seamless performance across various applications. This chipset, specifically designed for 5G, guarantees accelerated internet speeds and delivers improved responsiveness at your fingertips.
This screen includes a 6.5-inch LCD display with a refresh rate of 90Hz, resulting in a smoother experience when swiping and scrolling. Although the camera configuration, consisting of a 48MP primary lens, 5MP ultrawide lens, and 2MP depth sensor, may not be as impressive as those found in high-end smartphones, it can deliver satisfactory results considering its price range. The primary lens captures intricate and vivid photographs, the ultrawide lens expands your perspective, and the depth sensor enhances the dimensionality of your portraits.
The Nokia G400 5G excels in terms of battery life. Its powerful 5000mAh battery enables prolonged usage throughout the day, reducing the necessity for frequent charging. The Nokia G400 5G offers a generous 128GB of internal storage, allowing you to conveniently store all your applications, photos, and media without the hassle of constantly managing storage capacity. It is not merely a gadget; it is a discerning option for users who prioritize both performance and price.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ (or equivalent)
- Display: 6.5-inch LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 48MP main, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP depth sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Storage: 128GB
Pros:
- Affordable price with 5G connectivity
- Decent processor for everyday use
- Large display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Average camera system
- Lower processing power compared to some phones on this list
- Lower display quality compared to AMOLED displays
Why Choose It: The Nokia G400 5G is the perfect choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize having the latest 5G connectivity at an unbelievable price. It delivers the essentials for everyday use, with a decent processor, large display, and long battery life. However, if you’re a photography enthusiast or require top-tier processing power, you might want to consider other options.
Realme GT Neo 3T
Discover the excitement with the Realme GT Neo 3T, a smartphone thoughtfully designed for gamers that brings innovation to the affordable mobile market. With the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8100 CPU, this gadget can easily support graphically intensive games.
The Realme GT Neo 3T offers impressive performance and a visually captivating experience. It features a 6.62-inch AMOLED display with a high refresh rate of 120Hz, guaranteeing sharp and bright visuals for every frame.
Although the Realme GT Neo 3T camera may not be the main attraction, it possesses a fantastic triple-lens configuration that is quite capable when you are not engaged in gaming. The camera setup consists of a 64MP primary lens for capturing highly detailed and vibrant photographs, an 8MP ultrawide lens for capturing wide-angle images, and a 2MP macro sensor for capturing intricate details of the surrounding environment.
The Realme GT Neo 3T stands out for its exceptional battery performance, including a 5000mAh battery and rapid charging features, which are essential for mobile gamers. This implies a reduced dependency on power sources and an increased opportunity to engage in missions and achieve higher rankings on leaderboards. The Realme GT Neo 3T offers ample storage capacity of either 128GB or 256GB, allowing you to comfortably store all your games, applications, and media files.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8100 (or equivalent)
- Display: 6.62-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 64MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro sensor
- Battery: 5000mAh with fast-charging capabilities
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Powerful processor ideal for gaming
- Smooth high refresh rate display for blur-free visuals
- Gaming-focused design elements
- Fast-charging capabilities
Cons:
- Camera system takes a backseat to gaming performance
- User experience might vary depending on the specific software version
Why Choose It: The Realme GT Neo 3T is the ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers who crave a phone that can handle even the most demanding mobile titles. The powerful processor, high refresh rate display, and gaming-focused features make it a compelling option. However, if a well-rounded camera system is high on your priority list, you might want to consider other phones on this list.
Read More: Best 5G Tablets for Gamers, Artists & Professionals
Best Iphones Under $500
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
Are you interested in buying the Apple iPhone at a more affordable price? The iPhone SE (2022) offers a combination of high-quality features and affordability, making it an ideal choice for users seeking an entry-level device. The iPhone SE comes with the Apple A15 Bionic chip, which is also used in Apple’s premium flagship models. This advanced chip provides a frictionless and highly responsive user experience.
The iPhone SE has a 4.7-inch Retina HD display. This display brings your content to life with vivid colors and fine details, making everything from reading emails to viewing movies pleasantly entertaining. Despite being tiny, the display boasts amazing brightness and clarity.
Due to advanced capabilities like Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, and Deep Fusion, the iPhone SE captures amazing photographs that rival those of more complex systems. It captures every nuance with precision. The 12MP front camera promises your selfies are just as impressive, making every capture look professional.
While not explicitly detailed by Apple, battery life is reported by users to comfortably support a day’s usage, aligning well with the efficient power management of the A15 chip. Storage options—64GB, 128GB, and 256GB—provide sufficient space for all your programs, photographs, and media, letting you keep what you love close at hand without continuous housekeeping.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Apple A15 Bionic
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD
- Camera: 12MP rear, 12MP front
- Battery: Not officially specified by Apple, but user reports suggest average battery life
- Storage: 64GB/128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Powerful A15 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance
- Compact and comfortable design
- Excellent build quality expected from Apple
Cons:
- Smaller screen may not be ideal for everyone
- Single-lens rear camera system
- Average battery life
Why Choose It: The iPhone SE (2022) is a great option for Apple fans on a budget, or anyone who prefers a smaller phone that’s easy to handle. The A15 Bionic chip guarantees long-lasting performance, and you’re sure to appreciate the build quality and user-friendly iOS experience. However, if a large screen and a versatile camera system are high on your priority list, you might want to consider other options.
Apple iPhone 12 mini
The iPhone 12 mini showcases impressive performance and captivates with its 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This display incorporates cutting-edge technology into a compact design, providing an exceptionally engaging visual experience with sharp, vibrant colors and rich black levels.
The iPhone 12 mini’s improved camera technology will significantly appeal to photography enthusiasts. The device has a 12MP dual-lens back system, which includes wide and ultrawide lenses. This allows it to capture stunning, high-resolution images in various lighting and environmental settings. The 12MP TrueDepth front camera is highly proficient in capturing selfies and offers support for advanced functionalities such as Face ID and Animoji, increasing security and entertainment.
Although the battery life of the iPhone 12 mini may not be the best, it is adequate for the majority of users to last throughout the day. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that this efficiency results from a gadget that has been repaired to satisfy Apple’s rigorous quality criteria. Every reconditioned iPhone 12 mini goes through a meticulous refurbishment procedure, which includes comprehensive functional testing and thorough cleansing, supported by a one-year warranty. This guarantees that you will receive a product that fulfills Apple’s standards of quality and promotes sustainable consumption practices.
Detailed Specs:
- Processor: Apple A14 Bionic
- Display: 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
- Camera: 12MP dual-lens rear system (wide and ultrawide), 12MP TrueDepth front camera
- Battery: Not officially specified by Apple, but user reports suggest below average battery life compared to other options on this list
- Storage: 64GB/128GB/256GB
Pros:
- Powerful A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance
- Compact and comfortable design (perfect for one-handed use)
- Excellent build quality expected from Apple
- Access to the latest iOS updates
Cons:
- Refurbished model (not brand new)
- Smaller screen size might not be ideal for everyone
- Below average battery life compared to some competitors
Why Choose It: The iPhone 12 mini is a fantastic option for Apple fans who crave a powerful and compact phone. This gem from the iPhone 12 series offers flagship features at more wallet-friendly prices. The A14 Bionic chip guarantees excellent performance, and you’re sure to appreciate the premium build quality and access to the latest iOS updates. However, be mindful of the refurbished status, smaller screen size, and potentially lower battery life before making your decision.
FAQs
Which phone has the best camera under $500?
The Google Pixel 7A is the best option available. It has a high-quality 64-megapixel sensor that captures extremely detailed and colorful images in well-lit conditions. However, the Pixel 7A truly excels when it comes to low-light photography. Google’s advanced computational photography technology takes center stage, with features like Night Sight and Real Tone producing sharp, natural-looking pictures even in poorly lit environments.
What is the best phone for $1,000 dollars?
This budget opens the door to flagship territory, with top contenders offering the latest processors, best camera systems, stunning displays, and premium features. Some popular options include the latest iPhone Pro models, Samsung Galaxy S series phones, and flagships from brands like Google and OnePlus.
Which iPhone is the cheapest to buy?
Are you on a tight budget but still want to experience the Apple ecosystem? You can now get the iPhone SE (2022) which is the most affordable iPhone in the market that packs a powerful punch for its price. It has the A15 Bionic chip, which is also found in Apple’s flagship models, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and running your favorite apps. Although the single-lens rear camera may appear modest compared to some competitors, Apple’s software optimization guarantees high-quality photos and videos.