As flagship smartphones become increasingly expensive, many consumers are looking for more affordable options that still offer great features and performance. Thankfully, the mid-range smartphone market has improved dramatically in recent years. You no longer need to spend $1000+ to get a capable device that can handle everyday tasks with ease. This guide will explore some of the best phones available for under $500-$600 in 2025, highlighting top options from brands like Google, Samsung, Apple, and more.
What to Expect from Phones Under $500-$600
Before diving into specific recommendations, here’s an overview of what you can typically expect from smartphones in this price range:
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Great Displays: Many phones offer premium AMOLED displays with smooth 120Hz refresh rates. You may even find curved screens or foldable options.
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Reliable Software: Most devices provide at least 2-3 years of major OS updates. Some brands like Google and Samsung offer even longer support.
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Decent Cameras: While you won’t get the absolute cutting-edge camera tech, you can expect at least capable main cameras and often ultrawide lenses too.
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Good Battery Life: 4000-5000mAh batteries are common, easily lasting a full day for most users.
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Solid Performance: Mid-range processors can handle everyday tasks and even some light gaming without issue.
What you might miss out on compared to flagships:
- Wireless charging (though some options do include it)
- Telephoto zoom lenses
- The highest IP water resistance ratings
- Ultra-fast charging speeds
- The absolute latest and most powerful processors
Top Picks: Best Phones Under $500
1. Google Pixel 8a: Best Overall Android Phone Under $500
Price: $499
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400, 120Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Cameras: 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 13MP selfie
- Battery: 4,500mAh
- Charging: 27W wired, 18W wireless
The Google Pixel 8a continues the tradition of bringing flagship-level features to a more affordable price point. It utilizes the same Tensor G3 chip found in the more expensive Pixel 8, ensuring smooth performance and enabling advanced AI features. Google’s computational photography prowess shines here, delivering excellent image quality from the main and ultrawide cameras. The compact form factor will appeal to those who prefer smaller phones. With 5 years of guaranteed software updates, the Pixel 8a offers incredible long-term value.
Pros:
- Excellent camera performance
- Clean Android experience with long-term updates
- Powerful AI features
- Wireless charging support
Cons:
- No telephoto lens
- Tensor chip not ideal for intense gaming
2. Samsung Galaxy A55 5G: Best Samsung Mid-Range Option
Price: $449
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, 1080 x 2340, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1480
- Cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, 32MP selfie
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 25W wired
Samsung brings many of its premium features down to a more accessible price point with the Galaxy A55 5G. The large, vibrant Super AMOLED display is a standout feature, offering smooth scrolling and vivid colors. While not as powerful as flagship chips, the Exynos 1480 provides solid everyday performance. Samsung’s commitment to software support means you’ll receive 4 years of major Android updates. The versatile camera system, while not quite matching the S-series, still produces good results in most conditions.
Pros:
- Beautiful Super AMOLED display
- Long software support
- Versatile camera system
- Large battery
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- Charging speeds could be faster
3. Nothing Phone (2a): Most Unique Design
Price: $349
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 1084 x 2412, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro
- Cameras: 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 32MP selfie
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 45W wired
Nothing continues to stand out with its distinctive transparent design and Glyph interface on the Phone (2a). This mid-range offering brings a large, smooth display and capable performance thanks to the MediaTek chip. The dual 50MP cameras deliver solid results, especially considering the price point. Nothing OS offers a clean, near-stock Android experience with some unique customizations. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of pricier options, the Phone (2a) delivers style and substance at an attractive price.
Pros:
- Eye-catching transparent design with Glyph interface
- Large, smooth display
- Clean software experience
- Good value for money
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- Camera performance can be inconsistent
Best Phones to Consider Under $600
If you can stretch your budget slightly, here are some excellent options in the $500-$600 range:
1. Apple iPhone SE (2024): Best Budget iPhone
Price: $529
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170 x 2532
- Processor: A16 Bionic
- Cameras: 12MP main, 12MP selfie
- Battery: ~2,800mAh (estimated)
- Charging: 20W wired, 7.5W wireless
Apple’s latest SE model brings modern internals to a more affordable package. The A16 Bionic chip ensures top-tier performance and enables advanced computational photography features. While it may lack multiple rear cameras, the single lens still produces excellent photos thanks to Apple’s processing. The compact size will appeal to those who prefer smaller phones. iOS and long-term software support remain key selling points for the Apple ecosystem.
Pros:
- Powerful A16 Bionic chip
- Excellent single-camera performance
- Compact size
- Long-term iOS updates
Cons:
- No Face ID (uses Touch ID)
- Single rear camera limits versatility
- Smaller battery than some competitors
2. Google Pixel 8: Flagship Features at a Lower Price
Price: $599
Key Specs:
- Display: 6.2-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400, 120Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- Cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10.5MP selfie
- Battery: 4,575mAh
- Charging: 27W wired, 18W wireless
The standard Pixel 8 offers most of the features of its Pro sibling at a more accessible price point. You get the same Tensor G3 chip, enabling advanced AI capabilities and ensuring smooth performance. Google’s computational photography continues to impress, delivering excellent results from the dual rear cameras. The promise of 7 years of software updates makes this a phone that will stay current for a long time.
Pros:
- Excellent camera performance
- Clean Android with long-term updates
- Powerful AI features
- Wireless charging
Cons:
- No telephoto lens
- Tensor chip not ideal for intense gaming
The mid-range smartphone market in 2025 offers impressive options for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you prioritize camera quality, long-term software support, unique design, or ecosystem integration, there’s likely a great phone for you in the $500-$600 range. Consider your priorities carefully and remember that while these phones may lack some cutting-edge features, they offer tremendous value and are more than capable of handling most users’ everyday needs.