Top 10 Best Smartphones You Can Buy Under $500 in 2025

Top 10 Best Smartphones You Can Buy Under $500 In 2025

Finding a high-quality smartphone without breaking the bank has never been easier in 2025. With advancements in technology, many budget-friendly phones now offer impressive features like powerful processors, sharp displays, and excellent cameras—all for under $500.

Whether you’re a casual user or someone who wants solid performance on a budget, this list highlights the top 10 smartphones that deliver great value without compromising on quality. Read on to discover which devices offer the best bang for your buck this year.

10. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G - $200

Why it made the list: Incredible value at just $200 with AMOLED display

The Galaxy A16 5G is priced at just $200, so it is super cheap. Performance is adequate, as long as you don't expect too much out of it. At this price point, it's remarkable what Samsung has managed to include.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
• Display: 6.7" Super AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main + 5MP ultrawide + 2MP macro
• Battery: 5,000mAh with standard charging
• Software: One UI with Samsung's update commitment
• Connectivity: 5G included at entry-level price

What Makes It Special?

For just $200, getting a Super AMOLED display and 5G connectivity represents exceptional value in the entry-level smartphone segment.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable at just $200
• Super AMOLED display at entry-level price point
• Samsung's software support and ecosystem
• 5G connectivity included
• Decent camera for basic photography needs
• Reliable brand backing

Cons:

• The Galaxy A16 5G is not the most stylish phone around
• Performance is basic - adequate but don't expect gaming performance
• Limited RAM and storage options
• Slower charging speeds
• Build quality reflects the budget price

Best For: First-time smartphone users, emergency backup phone needs, extreme budget constraints, basic smartphone requirements

9. Moto G Power (2025) - $280

Why it's functional: Clean software and appealing design with decent performance

The 2025 edition of the Moto G Power brings modest improvements to the popular budget phone. You get a beefier processor and a slightly larger, 6.8-inch display, but contrary to the "power" in its name, the battery size is not exactly powerful at a quite average 5,000 mAh size.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: MediaTek processor (upgraded from previous generation)
• Display: 6.8" LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main camera
• Battery: 5,000mAh with standard charging
• Software: Clean Android experience
• Build: Motorola's reliable construction

What Makes It Special?

If you want the clean software, decent performance, 120Hz refresh rate, and an overall appealing design with a Motorola logo, the 2025 edition of the G Power is all of that.

Pros:

• Clean software experience with minimal bloatware
• Large 6.8" display good for media consumption
• 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling
• Reliable Motorola software updates
• Very affordable at under $300
• Appealing design aesthetic

Cons:

• The Moto G Power (2025) also uses an LCD screen while most other budget phones have switched to a more vibrant OLED panel
• Average 5,000mAh battery despite "Power" branding
• Limited performance for demanding applications
• Basic camera capabilities

Best For: Basic smartphone users, those prioritizing clean software over cutting-edge specs, budget-conscious buyers, fans of larger displays

8. iPhone 16e - $600 (Often $500 with trade-ins)

Why it's here: Apple's entry-level model offers excellent value within the iOS ecosystem

Apple has now discontinued the iPhone SE and its entry-level model is the iPhone 16e. At $600, this model is not as cheap as the SE series, but it offers excellent value. In fact, it's so good that most people should actually buy it INSTEAD of the more expensive iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Apple A18 (flagship-grade performance)
• Display: 6.1" Liquid Retina, 60Hz
• Cameras: 48MP main + 12MP ultrawide
• Software: iOS 18 with Apple Intelligence support
• Build: Premium aluminum and glass construction
• Storage: 128GB base model

What Makes It Special?

Compared to the iPhone 15, it has roughly the same design and display quality, but offers a much faster processor and supports Apple Intelligence. For iOS users, this represents the most affordable way to access Apple's ecosystem.

Pros:

• Much faster A18 processor with Apple Intelligence support
• Premium iOS experience with long software support (6+ years typical)
• Excellent camera performance with computational photography
• High-quality build materials and construction
• Access to Apple's ecosystem and services

Cons:

• $600 base price pushes budget limits without trade-ins
• 60Hz display when Android competitors offer 120Hz
• More expensive than equivalent Android alternatives
• Limited customization compared to Android
• No USB-C on some models

Best For: iOS ecosystem users, anyone wanting premium build quality, users prioritizing long-term software support, Apple service integration

7. Moto G (2025) - $299

Why it's dependable: Classic Moto reliability with surprisingly capable cameras

The latest version of the $199 Moto G does the sort of things you expect from a Moto budget phone — last a long time on a charge — while throwing in a few surprises. The cameras turn out to be pretty capable, and Motorola has extended the amount of software support you get.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300 (upgraded from previous gen)
• Display: 6.7" LCD, 120Hz refresh rate, 720p resolution
• Cameras: 50MP main camera system
• Battery: 5,000mAh with reliable all-day performance
• Software: Near-stock Android experience
• Storage: Multiple configurations available

What Makes It Special?

The Moto G series has built its reputation on delivering reliable, no-nonsense smartphones, and the 2025 edition continues this tradition while adding some welcome improvements.

Pros:

• Extended software support from Motorola compared to previous years
• Clean, near-stock Android experience without bloatware
• Reliable battery life that Moto G is known for
• Very affordable $299 price point
• Surprisingly capable camera for the price
• Classic Motorola build quality

Cons:

• 720p resolution, so colors don't pop as much as on OLED screens and you can see some pixelization
• It still has 4 GB of RAM on board, which feels way too low for 2025 standards
• LCD screen while most competitors have moved to OLED
• Limited gaming performance

Best For: Ultra-budget users, fans of clean Android experience, anyone wanting reliable Motorola quality, users with basic smartphone needs

6. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G - $300

Why it's a steal: Premium features like AMOLED display and 50MP camera at budget price

Samsung's Galaxy A25 5G is priced competitively, but it does its best to bring premium features to the budget segment. Things like its AMOLED screen and 50MP triple camera array aren't very common on phones that retail for under $500, let alone at the A25's $300 price point.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Samsung Exynos 1280
• Display: 6.5" Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main + 8MP ultrawide + 2MP macro
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
• Special Features: 3.5mm headphone jack
• Software: One UI with extended support

What Makes It Special?

For just $300, the Galaxy A25 5G delivers features you'd typically expect to pay much more for. With the Galaxy A25, battery anxiety won't creep up on you, as its 5,000mAh cell provides excellent battery life. The A25 even includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for audiophiles still clinging to their wired headsets.

Pros:

• Super AMOLED display uncommon at this price point
• Excellent battery life lasting easily through full days
• Includes increasingly rare 3.5mm headphone jack
• Samsung's mature and polished software experience
• 5G connectivity included
• Very competitive $300 price point

Cons:

• Exynos 1280 processor isn't as efficient as Snapdragon alternatives
• 25W charging is slower than many competitors
• Plastic build throughout
• Limited to basic camera features compared to premium models

Best For: Budget-conscious Samsung fans, users who want AMOLED display under $300, anyone needing headphone jack, first-time smartphone buyers

5. OnePlus 12R - $450

Why it's still relevant: Last year's flagship killer remains an outstanding choice

The OnePlus 12R brings the company back to its flagship-killing days with its fantastic performance, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. It also includes an impressive 6.78-inch OLED display, and a massive 5,500mAh battery for hours of use. It's a lot of flagship power at a firmly mid-range price.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (still flagship-grade)
• Display: 6.78" OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 2MP macro
• Battery: 5,500mAh with 100W SUPERVOOC charging
• Storage: 256GB standard (no microSD slot)
• Software: OxygenOS based on Android 14

What Makes It Special?

Even as last year's model, the OnePlus 12R delivers flagship performance that still competes with 2025's best. OnePlus broke the budget phone mold with the 12R, giving us outstanding performance and a premium build for $500.

Pros:

• Flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 still delivers excellent performance
• Massive 5,500mAh battery for all-day use
• 100W SuperVOOC charging is incredibly fast
• Premium build quality with curved display
• 256GB storage standard
• Excellent value as previous-generation flagship

Cons:

• Previous generation model with limited remaining software updates
• No wireless charging support
• OxygenOS can feel heavy compared to stock Android
• Camera performance trails current Pixel offerings

Best For: Performance enthusiasts on a budget, users who prioritize charging speed, anyone wanting flagship specs without current-year pricing

4. Samsung Galaxy A36 - $400

Why it's solid: Premium design with versatile camera system and Samsung's reliable software support

The more capable Galaxy A56 never made it to the U.S., but the Galaxy A36 is the next best thing, thanks to its lower cost and solid design. For the cost, it comes with a versatile triple camera system, longer battery life, and the latest One UI 7 software with 6 years of software support.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
• Display: 6.6" Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 5MP macro
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
• Software: One UI 7 based on Android 15
• Durability: IP67 water resistance

What Makes It Special?

For its under $400 cost, I'm really surprised by how good looking it is, especially with Awesome Lilac version of the handset because of how it shimmers in a rainbow pattern when the light hits it at the right angle.

Samsung has managed to bring premium design elements and software features to this budget offering.

Pros:

• Premium design that rivals more expensive phones
• Samsung's polished One UI 7 software experience
• IP67 water resistance for added durability
• Reliable brand with extensive service network
• Six years of software support
• Super AMOLED display at this price point

Cons:

• Even with this switch, it doesn't yield better performance scores compared to previous generation
• 25W charging is slower than Chinese competitors
• Plastic build despite premium appearance
• Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 isn't as powerful as flagship processors

Best For: Samsung ecosystem users, those wanting reliable brand support, users prioritizing design and software experience, anyone seeking IP67 protection.

3. Nothing Phone 3a Pro - $400

Why it's notable: Unique design with solid performance and clean software experience

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro brings something genuinely different to the budget smartphone space. Good phones aren't normally as good as the Nothing Phone 3a, which retains the distinctive design and Glyph interface that the series is known for, alongside a solid display, battery life and cameras. All for under $350.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro
• Display: 6.8" OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 50MP main + 50MP ultrawide
• Battery: 5,000mAh with fast charging
• Software: Nothing OS based on Android 15
• Special Feature: Glyph interface with customizable light patterns

What Makes It Special?

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro stands out in a sea of similar-looking smartphones with its transparent design elements and innovative Glyph interface on the back. The customizable light patterns can display notifications, charging status, and even sync with music.

Pros:

• Unique design that genuinely stands out from the crowd
• Clean software experience with no ads or bloatware
• 3 years of OS updates with AI features and 6 years of security updates
• Great value proposition under $400
• Solid camera performance for the price
• Premium build quality despite affordable price

Cons:

• MediaTek processor not as powerful as flagship Snapdragon chips
• Glyph interface may be considered gimmicky by some users
• Limited availability in some regions
• Not ideal for intensive gaming

Best For: Users wanting something genuinely different, clean software experience enthusiasts, anyone looking for unique design elements, budget-conscious buyers seeking premium feel.

2. OnePlus 13R

Why it's great: Flagship killer with premium specs at mid-range price

The OnePlus 13R has a super-fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset coupled with 12GB of RAM. Its performance destroys other Android rivals in this price range! This is OnePlus returning to its "flagship killer" roots with a phone that delivers premium performance at a mid-range price.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 flagship chipset
• Display: 6.78" LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 4,500 nits peak brightness
• Cameras: 50MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 2MP macro
• Battery: 6,000mAh with 80W fast charging
• RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage options
• Durability: IP65 rating, Gorilla Glass 7i

What Makes It Special?

The OnePlus 13R is built on a simple formula. Take the best parts of a premium, "Never Settle" device and make cuts to bring the price down. The result is a phone that offers immense value with flagship performance and one of the largest batteries available.

Display Excellence: For a mid-ranger, the OnePlus 13R has a superb screen that we found looks brilliant across many environments. With a 2780×1264 resolution, pixel density of 450ppi and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, the OnePlus 13R provides vibrant colours and detail, even when used outside.

Pros:

• Flagship-level Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance
• Battery life is also phenomenal with the massive 6,000mAh capacity
• Ultra-fast 80W charging (full charge in under 30 minutes)
• Superior display quality with vibrant colors and exceptional brightness
• 12GB RAM standard across all models
• Alert slider for quick profile switching

Cons:

• Only IP65 rating versus IP68 on competitors
• The OnePlus 13R tends to lean toward warmer, more vibrant tones, often producing images with a slight yellowish tint and more saturated colors
• Shorter software support (4 years) compared to Pixel's 7 years
• $599 base price requires trade-in deals to hit $500 target

Best For: Performance seekers, mobile gamers, users prioritizing battery life and charging speed, anyone wanting flagship specs on a budget

1. Google Pixel 9a - $499

Why it's #1: The best under-$500 phone with flagship-level AI features and cameras

The Google Pixel 9a stands as the undisputed champion of budget smartphones in 2025. The Pixel 9a figures to set the standard for value phones with its combination of cutting-edge AI features, exceptional camera performance, and Google's commitment to long-term software support.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Google Tensor G4 (same as Pixel 9)
• Display: 6.3" OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Cameras: 48MP main + 13MP ultrawide
• Battery: 5,100mAh (largest ever in a Pixel)
• Software: Android 15 with 7 years of OS updates
• Durability: IP68 water resistance, Gorilla Glass 3
• Storage: 128GB ($499) / 256GB ($599)

What Makes It Special?

The Pixel 9a is powered by the same Tensor G4 processor found in the $799 Pixel 9, giving you flagship performance at a fraction of the cost. Not only does it have the best software experience in this price range, but you also get 7 years of OS updates.

The AI features work immediately out of the box, unlike some competitors where features are promised but not yet available.

Camera Excellence: The Google Pixel 8a is the best camera you can get on a smartphone for $500 or less. Google's computational photography means it excels at taking the best possible photos, and the 9a continues this tradition with improved processing and new AI features like Add Me and Magic Eraser.

Pros:

• Exceptional camera with industry-leading computational photography
• Seven years of software support with day-one Android upgrades
• All Pixel AI features work immediately unlike Apple Intelligence
• Clean Android experience with no bloatware
• IP68 water resistance at this price point
• 5,100mAh battery provides excellent battery life

Cons:

• The bezels on this phone are among the biggest I've seen on any modern Android phone in recent memory
• Not ideal for heavy gaming compared to Snapdragon-powered alternatives
• 60W charging is slower than some Chinese competitors
• No wireless charging

Best For: Photography enthusiasts, Android purists, users who want long-term software support, anyone seeking the best overall package under $500.

What to Look For in a Budget Smartphone in 2025?

The line between budget and flagship phones continues to blur each year, and 2025 is no exception. Here's what you should prioritize when shopping for a smartphone under $500:

Key Features to Prioritize

Performance: Look for phones with flagship or near-flagship processors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/3, Google Tensor G4, or even last year's premium chips. These deliver smooth performance for daily tasks, gaming, and multitasking without the premium price tag.

• Camera Systems: Computational photography has revolutionized budget phone cameras. Features like night mode, portrait mode, and AI scene detection now deliver impressive results even on sub-$500 devices. Many budget phones now include multiple lenses for versatility.
• Display Quality: OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates are becoming standard in this price range. Look for displays that get bright enough for outdoor use (at least 1000 nits) and offer vibrant colors for media consumption.
• Battery Life: Most good budget phones now include 5,000mAh+ batteries that easily last a full day. Fast charging speeds of 65W or higher are becoming common, meaning you can top up quickly when needed.
• Software Support: This is where 2025 gets exciting. Google's managed to squeeze in great cameras, a bigger and brighter display, stronger battery life and most of the same AI functionality as the Pixel 9 into budget devices, while manufacturers are offering 5-7 years of software updates on phones under $500.
• Build Quality: IP68 water resistance and Gorilla Glass protection are increasingly common in this price segment, offering durability that rivals premium phones.

What You Might Still Sacrifice?

While budget phones have come incredibly far, there are still some compromises to expect:

• Wireless charging is often the first feature to go when cutting costs
• Premium materials like metal frames or glass backs may be replaced with high-quality plastic
• Telephoto cameras are rare in this price range, with most phones sticking to main and ultrawide lenses
• Ultra-fast charging speeds above 100W are typically reserved for more expensive models
• In-display fingerprint scanners on the cheapest models may be slower than premium alternatives

One thing your new phone probably won't come with is a power adapter; many companies have stopped including chargers with all of their smartphones.