The smartphone market has come a long way in recent years, with many budget-friendly options now offering high-end features and capabilities. If you’re in the market for a new phone but don’t want to spend a fortune, you’re in luck! There are plenty of great options available for under $500.
A phone in the $400 to $500 range is considered a mid-range one since most of them come with important specs in flagship phones. Although smartphone prices are increasing daily, with your $500 budget, you can still get one of the best phones out there, depending on the most fascinating feature.
A built-in stylus, a brilliant, high-definition OLED screen, a crisp and clear camera, or a long-lasting battery are all options available. You can acquire a phone that meets your needs for half the cost of a flagship if you can focus on the one or two things most essential to you and are ready to make other sacrifices.
Since there are numerous phones out there with many features that they use to advertise their product, we have helped you narrow your search to the best in the market. You are in the right place if you are searching for the best phones under $500.
The best smartphone for under $500 in 2023
1. Best iPhone Under $500 – iPhone SE 2022
Released date: March 2022 | Display: 4.7 inches, Retina IPS LCD, 750 x 1334 pixels | CPU: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) | GPU: Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | RAM: 4GB RAM | Storage: 64GB/128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Single 12MP | Front camera: Single 7Mp | OS: iOS 15.4, upgradable to iOS 16.3 | Battery: Li-Ion 2018 mAh, 20W fast charging, 7.5W wireless Charging | Dimension: 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm | Weight: 144 g
The Apple iPhone SE (2022) is a budget-friendly smartphone that packs the latest technology in a compact and familiar design. This phone is designed for Apple fans on a budget. This newest iteration of the iPhone SE series features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display and is powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip. The same chip powers the iPhone 13 series, delivering blazing-fast performance. The camera system includes a 12-megapixel primary lens that captures vibrant images and 4K videos and a 7-megapixel front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and FaceTime calls.
The iPhone SE (2022) also has advanced features like wireless charging, fast charging, and water and dust resistance. It runs on the latest version of Apple’s iOS operating system, iOS 15.4, which offers a sleek and intuitive user interface, access to millions of apps, and robust privacy and security features. The Operating system could be upgraded to the latest version iOS 16.4. The device is also designed to work seamlessly with other Apple products, such as the Apple Watch, AirPods, and Mac computers.
In terms of storage, the iPhone SE (2022) is available in three options: 64GB, 128GB, and 256 GB. The device features a compact, ergonomic design that’s easy to hold, with a durable glass and aluminum body that feels premium. Despite its affordable price point, the iPhone SE (2022) doesn’t compromise performance, features, or quality.
The Apple iPhone SE (2022) is an excellent choice for a powerful, budget-friendly smartphone. With its advanced technology, sleek design, and user-friendly interface, this device is perfect for people who want a reliable, high-quality smartphone without breaking the bank. If you want one of the best phones under $500, the iPhone SE 2022 should be among your options.
2. Best Android phone under $500- Google Pixel 7A
Released date: May 2023 | Display: 6.1 inches OLED display, HDR, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Google Tensor GS (5 nm) | GPU: Mali-G710 MP7 | RAM: 8GB RAM | Storage: 128GB ROM | Rear camera: Dual 64MP + 13MP | Front camera: Single 13Mp | OS: Android 13 | Battery: Li-Po 4385 mAh, 18W fast Charging | Dimension: 152 x 72.9 x 9 mm | Weight: 193.5g
The Google Pixel 7a is hands down the best Android Phone under $500. The price of this device is way below the features you are getting. It comes packed with cutting-edge technology, modern design, and impressive performance, making it one of the best choices for users looking for a premium smartphone experience.
The Pixel 7a features a 6.1-inch OLED display with 1080 x 2400 pixels. The screen is surrounded by slim bezels and protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, making it durable and resistant to scratches and cracks. The back of the phone is made of polycarbonate material and is available in four colors: Coral, Charcoal, Sea, and Snow.
Under the hood, the Pixel 7a is powered by a powerful Google Tensor GS (5 nm) processor with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The device is equipped with a 4385mAh battery, which provides users with extended battery life and the ability to use their phone all day without worrying about running out of power.
The camera system is one of the most impressive features of the Pixel 7a. The phone has a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP front-facing camera, capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. The device also features advanced camera software, including Night Sight and Portrait modes, which enhance the quality of images taken in low light conditions and provide a shallow depth of field effect.
Regarding software, the Pixel 6a runs on Android 13, the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system. The device is also part of the Android One program, which will receive regular software and security updates, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and security patches.
The Google Pixel 7a is an excellent choice for a high-quality smartphone with premium features and performance. With its impressive display, powerful processor, long battery life, and advanced camera system, it is a device that offers an exceptional smartphone experience. Buy the Google Pixel 7a if you are searching for the best phones under $500 with premium features.
3. Best Camera Phone under $500- Google Pixel 7
Released date: October, 2022 | Display: 6.3 inches AMOLED display, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | GPU: Mali-G710 MP7 | RAM: 8GB RAM | Storage: 128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Dual 50MP + 12MP | Front camera: Single 10.8Mp | OS: Android 13 | Battery: 4355 mAh, 20W fast wired and wireless charging | Dimension: 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm | Weight: 197g
The Google Pixel 7 is your best camera phone for under $500 in 2023. This device is a premium smartphone that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design. It features a 6.3-inch AMOLED display with a 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution, providing vivid and clear visuals. The phone runs on the latest Android 13 operating system, delivering smooth and seamless performance.
The Google Pixel 7 is powered by the best processor from Google, the Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) processor, making it fast and efficient for even the most demanding tasks. The 8GB of RAM and 128/256GB of internal storage ensure you can easily store all your essential data and multitask. With 5G capabilities, you can experience lightning-fast internet speeds, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and web browsing.
One of the most notable features of the Google Pixel 7 is its camera system. It boasts a 50MP primary camera and a 12MP ultra-wide camera, delivering stunning, high-quality images. The Night Sight mode lets you capture clear and vivid photos even in low light conditions. The phone also supports 4K video recording, making it ideal for capturing moments of high quality.
Although you will notice that the camera megapixel on Google’s smartphone is always very low, the number of megapixels alone does not determine how good the camera is. Seeing that you are now getting a 50MP camera from the Google Pixel 7 shows how clear and crisp the cameras are. The Google Pixel 7 has one of the best camera systems we have seen so far in any device. It competes with flagship phones like the Samsung Galaxy S23 and iPhone 14 regarding the camera you get from this device.
The Google Pixel 7 is designed to be both practical and stylish. The metal and glass build is slim, lightweight, and excellent. The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor allows for quick and secure access to your device. The phone is also IP68 rated, making it water and dust-resistant, giving you peace of mind knowing your device is protected.
The Google Pixel 7 is an excellent smartphone for anyone looking for a premium device with advanced features. The powerful performance, impressive cameras, and sleek design make it a top choice for those who want the best. You can stay connected and entertained all day with long battery life and fast charging capabilities. This device should be your priority if you want the best camera phone for under $500.
4. Best Phone Screen under $500- Samsung Galaxy A73
Released date: March 2022 | Display: 6.7 inches Super AMOLED Plus display, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1080 x 2400 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | GPU: Adreno 642L | RAM: 6GB/8GB RAM | Storage: 128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Quad 108MP + 12MP + 5MP + 5MP | Front camera: Single 32Mp | OS: Android 12, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5 | Battery: 5000 mAh, 25W fast charging | Dimension: 163.7 x 76.1 x 7.6 mm | Weight: 181g
The Samsung Galaxy A73 is a powerful and versatile smartphone designed for modern users who demand better display, performance, and style. The production on this phone is one of the best out there, competing with top-end smartphones. This device boasts a large 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, providing vivid and crisp visuals for an immersive viewing experience.
The A73 is powered by a Snapdragon 778G processor, 6/8GB of RAM, and 128/256GB of internal storage, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience, even with demanding applications and multitasking.
The camera system of the Galaxy A73 is exceptional, with a 108MP primary camera, 12MP ultra-wide lens, 5MP telephoto lens, and 5MP macro lens. The camera’s advanced features, such as 4K video recording and 8K video playback, make it an ideal choice for capturing life’s precious moments. The device also features a large 5000mAh battery, which provides all-day battery life and supports 25W fast charging.
The A73 runs on Android 12, making it easy to use and navigate, and features Samsung’s One UI 5, which provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface. You can also upgrade the phone to the latest Android 13 and get up to four years of upgrade. The device is also IP67 rated, dust and water-resistant, making it a durable choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the device features an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure and convenient unlocking and facial recognition for an alternate unlocking option.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy A73 is a top-notch smartphone with excellent performance, stunning visuals, and versatile camera capabilities, making it a perfect choice for a high-quality smartphone. You should get this phone if you are searching for a phone with the best display for under $500.
5. Best Long Lasting Battery phone under $500- Motorola Edge+ (2022)
Released date: August, 2022 | Display: 6.6 inches OLED display, 144Hz, 1080 x 2400 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | GPU: Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | RAM: 6GB/8GB RAM | Storage: 128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Triple 50MP + 13MP + 2MP | Front camera: Single 32Mp | OS: Android 12, planned upgrade to Android 13 | Battery: 5000 mAh | Dimension: 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | Weight: 108g
The Motorola Edge is a cutting-edge smartphone with a stunning display and powerful performance with long-lasting batteries. Its 6.6-inch OLED screen curves around the edges, providing an immersive viewing experience perfect for movies, games, and other media.
Under the hood, it’s powered by the Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) processor and 6/8GB of RAM, ensuring that it can easily handle demanding apps and multitask. The device also features a triple-camera setup on the back, which includes a 50MP primary lens, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP telephoto lens, making it ideal for capturing stunning photos and videos.
The best feature of this device is its battery capacity. You are getting a 5000mAh battery that lasts up to 2 days on one charge. This is the best phone under $500 if your priority is how long the phone lasts.
Additionally, the Edge has 5G connectivity, making it perfect for streaming content, downloading files, and browsing the web quickly and smoothly. Overall, the Motorola Edge is a top-of-the-line smartphone perfect for anyone who demands the best technology and performance.
6. Best Gaming Phone under $500- Xiaomi Poco F5
Released date: May 2023 | Display: 6.67 inches AMOLED display, 120Hz, HDR10+ 1080 x 2400 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 (4 nm) | GPU: Adreno 725 | RAM: 8GB/12GB RAM | Storage: 128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Triple 64MP + 8MP + 2MP | Front camera: Single 16Mp | OS: Android 13, MIUI 14 | Battery: 5000 mAh, 67W fast charging | Dimension: 161.1 x 75 x 7.9 mm | Weight: 181g
The Xiaomi Poco F5 is the best gaming phone for under $500. This phone is powered by the latest and one of the best processors, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2. This is the same processor in the Asus ROG Phone 6 and Black Shark 5, the best gaming phones of 2024.
The phone is no doubt a premium phone with a budget price. You also get a 5000mAh battery that keeps the phone on all day and a whooping 67W fast charging that charge the phone to 100% in 30 minutes.
For the camera aspect, you are looking at a 64MP primary camera sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 2MP macro camera. These cameras capture crisp and clear pictures even in low-light conditions.
The Poco F5 can play all graphics-demanding games at the highest settings without lag. It would be best to get this phone when shopping for the best gaming phone for under $500.
7. Best phone with Stylus under $500 – Motorola Moto G Stylus (2022)
Released date: April 2022 | Display: 6.8 inches IPS display, 120Hz, 1080 x 2460 pixels | CPU: Octa-core, Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | GPU: Adreno 619 | RAM: 6GB/8GB RAM | Storage: 128/256GB ROM | Rear camera: Triple 50MP + 8MP + 2MP | Front camera: Single 16Mp | OS: Android 12, planned upgrade to Android 13 | Battery: 5000 mAh, 10W charging | Dimension: 168.9 x 75.8 x 9.3 mm | Weight: 215g
You can also get a phone with a stylus for under $500. The Motorola G Stylus (2022) is a mid-range smartphone with a built-in stylus. It was released in 2022 and featured a 6.8-inch IPS display, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a triple camera setup (50 MP primary, 8 MP macro, and 2 MP depth sensor).
The Motorola G stylus (2022) runs on Android 12. A Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor powers it with 6/8 GB of RAM and 128/256 GB of storage (expandable up to 1 TB via microSD). Other features include a 5000 mAh battery with fast charging support and a 3.5mm headphone jack.