Phones that fall under the $500 budget mark usually provide everything you require in a top-notch phone, with certain compromises that may go unnoticed. These phones boast features like high refresh rate displays, contemporary processors, impressive cameras, and 5G compatibility. In addition, they also receive several years of software and security updates.
These phones have compromised features that explain their lower price point compared to phones costing more than $500. However, the sacrifices are often in areas that might not be of major concern to those prioritizing reliability. For example, the iPhone SE from Apple, Google’s Pixel 6A and 7A phones all have smaller screens but boast newer software and processors. The Galaxy A series from Samsung shares similarities with the Galaxy S line in appearance but features a less powerful processor. The Moto G Stylus 5G takes impressive photos, offers a generous 256GB of storage, and even comes with a stylus, but Motorola’s software support is comparatively shorter than its competitors.
In the realm of smartphone technology, devices in the lower price range tend to sacrifice quality in photography and videography, particularly in comparison to their more expensive counterparts. Nevertheless, the shortfall in quality can be partially mitigated with photo-processing software. Take for example the iPhone SE, which has a solitary 12-megapixel camera incapable of night photography. However, its A15 Bionic chip allows for the use of Apple’s Deep Fusion processing. Similarly, the Pixel 6A uses a 12-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, but can improve photo quality via processing facilitated by the phone’s Tensor chip. On the other hand, the latest Pixel 7A boasts a 64-megapixel primary camera, which some may regard as an upgrade over the Pixel 7’s 50-megapixel primary camera.
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The advantages and disadvantages of each of these phones can be observed below, with additional information provided in our comprehensive reviews.
Check out this video: Pixel 7A Review: A Step Forward for Google’s Budget Phone 07:15.
Looking for the best phone under $500?
The Pixel 7A from Google, priced at $499, is so similar to the $599 Pixel 7 that it’s hard to justify recommending the more expensive option. The Pixel 7A boasts the same Tensor G2 processor that powers Google’s exclusive Pixel features, along with wireless charging, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 64-megapixel main camera with a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera. While the Pixel 7A does lack some features found in the Pixel 7 such as battery share and Action Pan mode, and has slightly slower charging, these omissions don’t feel significant. According to my colleague Lisa Eadicicco, the Pixel 7A is a noteworthy step forward for Google’s budget phone.
If you are looking to save additional money, you can opt for the previous year’s Pixel 6A, which now has a permanent price reduction to $349 and still provides many advantages. It operates on the Tensor chip and offers several Pixel features, such as Real Tone for photography and Hold for Me for phone calls, while capturing sharp and vibrant photos for a phone within its price range. This is particularly true when it goes on sale for $299, which is often the case, making it the top choice for a phone under $300.
Google Pixel 7A: The Ultimate Android Smartphone for $500
Google’s affordable smartphone, the Pixel 7A, has taken a massive leap forward in 2023. It offers the same benefits as its costly sibling, the Pixel 7, but at a more reasonable price point. Built on Google’s Tensor G2 processor, the Pixel 7A boasts several photo editing and language translation features identical to the Pixel 7. Moreover, the phone’s impressive 64-megapixel camera takes exceptional pictures that are on par with the quality of the Pixel 7.
Although we still have a fondness for the Pixel 7, for most individuals, the Pixel 7A’s lower cost makes it a superior option. The Pixel 7 should only be chosen if you desire a marginally bigger screen and are willing to pay the extra $100. The Pixel 7 and 7A mainly differ in the prior’s more robust construction, marginally faster charging, and its ability to charge compatible accessories wirelessly. Additionally, according to Google, the Pixel 7 has a bigger camera sensor that is more sensitive to light; however, CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco found little variation.
Check out our review of the Google Pixel 7A.
It is available for $499 at both Best Buy and Target.
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Google Pixel 6A
The most cost-effective choice
Despite the Pixel 7A being released with a $499 price tag, the Pixel 6A is still on the market and offers a great value at its reduced price of $349. Lisa Eadicicco from CNET has reviewed the Pixel 6A and highlighted that it comes packed with many of the premium features of the Pixel 6.
The Pixel 5 sports a smaller body compared to the Pixel 6 with a 6.1-inch OLED display showcasing a 60Hz refresh rate. Despite having a 12.2-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, the photographs captured look impressive with the help of Google’s image processing software. The photos get an added advantage from its features like Real Tone for skin tone, Face Unblur, Night Sight mode for low light photography, and the Magic Eraser for eliminating unwanted objects from a picture.
Check out our review of the Google Pixel 6A.
$338 on Amazon$349 on Best Buy$349 on Target
The Samsung Galaxy A53 is ideal for software support and offers several top-notch features found in the Galaxy S22 series. In order to achieve a lower price, there are some necessary compromises, but the phone still boasts a number of impressive specs such as a 6.5-inch AMOLED display with a 2,400×1,080-pixel resolution, 5G capability, and a massive 5,000-mAh battery. In addition, the phone is equipped with a 64-megapixel primary camera, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 5-megapixel depth camera.
However, one of the notable features of this phone is Samsung’s commitment to offering four years of software support. Moreover, it comes preloaded with Android 12 with Samsung’s One UI 4.1. Nevertheless, Samsung recently unveiled a new variant of this phone called the Galaxy A54 5G, which we eagerly await to assess.
Check out our review of the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G, available for $450 on Samsung’s website.
Kevin Heinz/CNET
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
Ideal for a compact phone
Priced at $429, the iPhone SE blends an earlier design with modern smartphone capabilities, such as the A15 Bionic chip from Apple and 5G connectivity. Furthermore, it is one of the limited number of phones featuring a more compact 4.7-inch screen.
The design of this phone showcases a throwback style that has been consistent with Apple since 2014. It’s possible that this design may be the aspect of the phone that you either appreciate or dislike the most. If you are seeking a bigger iPhone within this price range, the iPhone 11 may be worth considering as it offers a larger screen and Face ID. However, it does not come equipped with 5G connectivity.
The iPhone SE comes with a single 12-megapixel main camera, which lacks night mode and falls short compared to other phones in this category that offer multiple cameras and night mode. Nevertheless, it compensates for this with the inclusion of Deep Fusion photo processing and Smart HDR4 processing, which significantly improve medium-to-low light photos and enhance color and contrast respectively. Although the phone records excellent 4K videos at 60 frames per second, CNET Managing Editor Patrick Holland notes that it does not offer the Cinematic Mode feature found on the iPhone 13.
Check out our review of the Apple iPhone SE.
$429 at Amazon$429 at Apple
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The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G is a top-notch stylus-equipped phone, particularly for its price point. Priced at $500, it provides users with Android 12, 5G connectivity, a vast 6.8-inch display, and abundant storage of 256GB. Regrettably, the phone is only committed to receiving a single software update and three years of security updates, in contrast to Samsung’s promise of four years for the Galaxy A53.
However, if you are in search of a phone with a stylus, the next upgraded choice would be the much pricier Galaxy S22 Ultra, costing $1,200.
Check out our review of the Moto G Stylus 5G, available at $390 on Amazon.
Angela Lang/CNET
Apple iPhone 11
Great all-arounder, albeit a bit dated
Following the release of the iPhone 14 series, Apple has discontinued its $500 iPhone 11. However, the device is still widely available and remains more than capable despite its age. With two impressive rear cameras, the phone can handle gaming well. It’s worth noting that 5G support is absent, but LTE and Wi-Fi work fine. MagSafe accessories, which were introduced with the iPhone 12, are also not compatible with the iPhone 11.
Please be aware that certain retailers may offer refurbished iPhone 11 models as new ones are no longer sold by Apple. It’s worth noting that Best Buy doesn’t offer any unlocked models and requires customers to sign up for a service plan with AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or Sprint.
Check out our review of the Apple iPhone 11.
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Nothing Phone 1
Cost-effective and eye-catching
Although the international version with restricted compatibility with US carriers is currently priced at $299 and only available in the US through a beta program, it is still worth considering in countries where it is accessible. The company is expected to release an officially launched phone for the North American market in the future. At its higher UK price of ￡399 (approximately AU$700), it provides impressive specifications and a dazzling appearance.
The Nothing Phone 1 features LED strips on its back, which are referred to as “glyphs,” that illuminate for notifications and alerts. Additionally, this design is accompanied by two 50-megapixel lenses, including a wide-angle and an ultrawide. The front of the phone is graced by a 6.55-inch, 120Hz display with 2,400-by-1,080-pixel resolution as well as a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 778G Plus chip and is available in models with a minimum of 8GB RAM and 128GB storage.
The phone is highly competitive in its price range, particularly due to its impressive camera quality and appearance, which are available for $299 exclusively at Nothing.
CNET’s reviews team conducts rigorous testing of every phone on the list, utilizing the phones themselves to evaluate features, play games, and take photos. We also evaluate any advertised claims made by phone manufacturers, and if there are any shortcomings, such as battery life or construction, we provide a comprehensive overview for our audience.
We thoroughly assess every aspect of a phone when testing, including:
– Display
– Design and tactile experience
– Processor proficiency
– Battery endurance
– Camera capabilities
– Features
To gauge a phone’s camera performance, we conduct tests in various lighting conditions, such as bright outdoors, dim indoor settings, and nighttime scenes (if night mode is available). We also make comparisons with similarly priced models. Additionally, we conduct a range of real-world battery tests to determine how long a phone can last under typical usage.
We consider supplementary phone functionalities such as 5G, fingerprint and facial recognition, styluses, quick charging, foldable screens, and other practical add-ons. Furthermore, we carefully evaluate all our experiences and assessments with regard to the cost, providing you with insights into whether a phone offers excellent value or not.
More articles to read: Our phone testing methodology
Comparison of phones costing under $500
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G versus Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G versus Google Pixel 6A versus Apple iPhone SE (2022) versus Nothing Phone 1 versus Apple iPhone 11
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022)
Google Pixel 6A
Apple iPhone SE (2022)
Nothing Phone 1
iPhone 11
Display Size and Resolution:
– Samsung Galaxy A53 5G: 6.5-inch AMOLED (2,400×1,080 pixels); 120 Hz
– Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022): 6.8-inch LTPS LCD FHD+; 2,460 x1,080 pixels; 120 Hz
– Google Pixel 6A: 6.1-inch OLED; (1080 x 2400); 60Hz
– Apple iPhone SE (2022): 4.7-inch LCD; (1,334×750 pixels); 60 Hz
– Nothing Phone 1: 6.55-inch OLED display, 2,400 x1080 pixels
– iPhone 11: 6.1-inch LCD Liquid Retina; 1,792×828 pixels
Pixel Density:
– Samsung Galaxy A53 5G: 405ppi
– Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022): TBD
– Google Pixel 6A: 429 ppi
– Apple iPhone SE (2022): 326ppi
– Nothing Phone 1: 402ppi
– iPhone 11: 326ppi
Dimensions (inches):
– Samsung Galaxy A53 5G: 6.28 x 2.94 x 0.32 in.
– Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022): 6.65 x 2.98 x 0.37 in.
– Google Pixel 6A: 6.0 x 2.8 x 0.35 in.
– Apple iPhone SE (2022): 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in.
Dimensions (inches): 5.94 x 2.98 x 0.33
Dimensions (millimeters): 159.6 x 74.8 x 8.1 mm, 168.9 x 75.8 x 9.3 mm, 152.2 x 7.18 x 8.9 mm, 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm, 159.2 x 75.8 x 8.3 mm, 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm
Weight (ounces, grams): 6.67 oz.; 189g, 7.58 oz.; 215g, 6.3 oz.; 178g, 5.09 oz.; 144g, 193.5g, 6.84 oz.; 194g
Mobile software: Android 12, iOS 15, Android 12, Android 12, Android 13, iOS 13
Camera: 64-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultra-wide), 5-megapixel (macro), 5-megapixel (depth), 50-megapixel (wide), 8-megapixel (ultrawide/macro), 2-megapixel (depth), 12.2-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultra wide), 12-megapixel (wide), 50-megapixel (main), 50-megapixel (ultra-wide), 12-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultra-wide)
Front-facing camera: 32-megapixel, 16-megapixel, 8-megapixel, 7-megapixel, 16-megapixel, 12-megapixel with Face ID
Video capture: 4K, 1080p, 4K, 4K, 4K at 60fps, 4K
Processor: Exynos 1280, Snapdragon 695 5G, Google Tensor, Apple A15 Bionic, Snapdragon 778G+Apple A13 Bionic
RAM/Storage: 6GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, 6GB RAM/128GB storage, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256 GB, 12GB RAM + 256GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Expandable storage: Up to 1TB, Up to 1TB, None, NA, None, None
Battery/Charger: 5,000 mAh (charger not included, does not support wireless charging), 5,000 mAh (10W wired charger included), 4,410 mAh capacity; 18-watt fast charging (adapter sold separately), Battery NA (20W wired charging — charger not included), 7.5W wireless charging), 4,500 mAh (33W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse charging), Not disclosed, but Apple claims it will last 1 hour longer than iPhone XR
Fingerprint sensor: In-display, Side, Under display, Home button, In-display, None (Face ID)
Connector: USB-C, USB-C, USB C, Lightning, USB-C, Lightning
Headphone jack: None, Yes, None, None, None, No
Special features: 5G-enabled; IP67 rating; supports 25W wired fast charging, Samsung Pay, 5G-enabled; OIS for main camera; NFC for Google Pay; 5G-enabled, 18W fast charging, Wi-Fi 6E, security updates for 5 years, Android OS updates for 3 years, dual SIM, IP67 water resistance, 5G-enabled; supports 25W wired fast charging; Water resistant (IP67); dual-SIM capabilities (nano-SIM and e-SIM); wireless charging, 5G, IP53, Three years of Android updates, Dual Sim, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, Water resistant (IP68); dual-SIM capabilities (nano-SIM and e-SIM); wireless charging
Price off-contract (USD): $450, $500, $449, $399 (64GB), $449 (128GB), $549 (256GB), N/A, $499
Price (GBP): ￡399, NA but converts to ￡405, ￡399, ￡419 (64GB), ￡469 (128GB), ￡569 (256GB), ￡399, ￡489
Price (AUD): AU$699, NA but converts to AU$715, A$749, AU$749 (64GB), AU$829 (128GB), AU$999 (256GB), N/A, AU$849
FAQs for Phones Priced Under $500
Are budget phones a good choice?
For most individuals, a phone priced below $500 will offer the essential features for communication, photography, and entertainment. Some of these phones even boast high-end features found on more expensive models, such as a seamless 120Hz refresh rate and multiple cameras.
Nevertheless, it is important to consider and accept the shortcomings that a phone may have in comparison to its more pricey alternatives. For instance, if you desire an iPhone with a larger display than that of the iPhone SE and iPhone 11, you would need to opt for the iPhone 14 Plus, which costs $899 and is beyond the $500 budget. However, this also comes with added advantages such as an enhanced camera.
Alternatively, there are numerous options available under $500 for a phone with a larger display and Android compatibility, if that is your preference.
Is it possible to obtain a high-quality camera on a more affordable phone?
Absolutely. A variety of budget-friendly phones possess exceptional photo-taking abilities, whether due to the in-built camera, photo-editing software within the phone, or a synergistic combination of the two.
The iPhone SE from Apple features the A15 Bionic chip that provides support for both Smart HDR4 processing and Apple’s Deep Fusion processing. Smart HDR4 assists in enhancing color and contrast, whereas Deep Fusion processing comes in handy in medium to low-light conditions. Patrick Holland, the Managing Editor of CNET, has compiled a compilation of photos and videos taken using the phone. These can be viewed on the CNET Highlights YouTube channel. It is noteworthy that the phone only features a single 12-megapixel camera and does not support night photography.
On the Android front, the Google Pixel 6A features the Tensor chip, enabling photography functionalities such as Real Tone to deliver precise skin tones, Face Unblur for enhancing a person’s face, and Magic Eraser to eradicate undesired objects. However, the device bears a 12-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, producing decent-quality photos yet evidently inferior to the 50-megapixel main camera on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7.
The Galaxy A53 from Samsung is a compelling device as it boasts a primary 64-megapixel camera in addition to a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 5-megapixel depth camera. Despite having more megapixels than the 50-megapixel primary camera of the Galaxy S22, the image quality is inferior as the S22 captures photos with superior contrast and clarity.
What causes these phones to be less expensive?
Every company has a distinct strategy for producing less expensive phones.
For instance, the iPhone SE features a modern Apple processor housed in an outdated phone design. Similarly, the Google Pixel 6A employs the latest Tensor processor but incorporates a 12.2-megapixel primary camera instead of the 50-megapixel primary camera present on the $599 Pixel 6.
The Galaxy A53 by Samsung adopts a different approach, featuring a slower processor than the Galaxy S22 while incorporating contemporary elements such as a high refresh rate screen. For further guidance regarding smartphones, refer to additional recommendations.
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