Best Budget Smartphones in the US under $500 (2025) You don’t need to spend over $1000 to get a great smartphone in 2025. Thanks to intense competition and innovation, many budget smartphones now offer high-end features like AMOLED displays, 5G, fast charging, and excellent cameras — all under $500.

In this article, we’ll explore the top budget smartphones in the US under $500 that deliver the best value for your money. Whether you’re a student, content creator, gamer, or professional, there’s something here for you.

Best Smartphones Under $500 in 2025 (US Market)

1. Google Pixel 8a

Price: ~$499
Why it’s great: Google’s Pixel A-series continues to dominate the budget segment with its stock Android, regular updates, and unbeatable camera quality.

Key Features:

• Google Tensor G2 chip

• 6.1” OLED display (120Hz)

• 64MP main camera

• 8GB RAM / 128GB storage

• 5G support

Official Site

2. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

Price: ~$399
Why it’s great: Samsung’s A-series is a hit for those who want AMOLED displays and a sleek UI at a budget price.

Key Features:

• 6.6” Super AMOLED FHD+

• Exynos 1380 processor

• 50MP main camera

• 6GB RAM / 128GB storage

• IP67 Water/Dust resistance

Learn More

3. OnePlus Nord N30 5G

Price: ~$299
Why it’s great: OnePlus combines fast performance with clean OxygenOS UI — perfect for multitaskers on a budget.

Key Features:

• Snapdragon 695

• 6.72” 120Hz LCD display

• 108MP camera

• 5000mAh battery + 50W fast charging

• 8GB RAM / 128GB storage

Buy Here

4. Motorola Edge (2024)

Price: ~$449
Why it’s great: Motorola continues to offer great value with smooth displays, clean Android, and solid battery life.

Key Features:

• 6.6” pOLED 144Hz display

• Snapdragon 778G

• 50MP main + OIS

• 5000mAh + 68W Turbo Charging

• Water-repellent design

Check Specs

5. Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

Price: ~$429
Why it’s great: For iOS lovers on a budget, the SE offers fast performance and long-term software support.

Key Features:

• A15 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 13)

• 4.7” Retina HD display

• 12MP rear camera

• Touch ID + wireless charging

• iOS updates till 2030+

Visit Apple

6. Nothing Phone (2a)

Price: ~$399
Why it’s great: A stylish, transparent design with Glyph LED interface and a clean, bloat-free OS.

Key Features:

• Dimensity 7200 Pro

• 6.7” AMOLED 120Hz

• Dual 50MP rear cameras

• Nothing OS 2.5 (Android 14)

• Glyph notification lights

Explore More

7. TCL 50 XL 5G

Price: ~$229
Why it’s great: A budget pick with a big screen, 5G, and a surprisingly smooth experience for its price.

Key Features:

• 6.8” FHD+ display

• Dimensity 6100+

• 50MP camera

• 5000mAh battery

• Android 14 out of the box

Official Page

8. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G

Price: ~$199
Why it’s great: Perfect for users who need basic 5G functionality with Samsung’s trusted build quality.

Key Features:

• 6.5” Super AMOLED

• MediaTek Dimensity 6100+

• 50MP + 2MP + 2MP

• 5000mAh + 25W charging

• One UI Core 6

Buy Now

9. Moto G Power 5G (2024)

Price: ~$299
Why it’s great: Known for huge batteries and long life, ideal for media consumers and travelers.

Key Features:

• 6.7” FHD+ LCD

• MediaTek Dimensity 7020

• 50MP camera

• 5000mAh + 30W TurboPower

• 3.5mm headphone jack

10. BLU G93 5G

Price: ~$189
Why it’s great: BLU offers ultra-budget phones with decent features for everyday users.

Key Features:

• MediaTek Dimensity 6100+

• 6.8” HD+ display

• 16MP Dual camera

• 5000mAh battery

• Dual SIM support

Check Product

Buying Tips for Budget Phones in 2025

• Look for AMOLED or 120Hz displays for better visuals

• Check software update policies — some phones only get 1–2 years

• Battery + charging speed is key for daily use

• Camera quality isn’t always about megapixels — OIS and image processing matter

• 5G support is now common under $500 — but ensure it works with your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.)

Conclusion

You no longer need to spend a fortune to get a capable and stylish smartphone in 2025. The US market is flooded with incredible budget options under $500 — offering everything from 5G to great cameras and sleek designs.

Whether you prefer Android or iOS, gaming or productivity, there’s a perfect budget smartphone waiting for you.

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FAQs

1. Which is the best all-rounder phone under $500 in the US (2025)?

The Google Pixel 8a offers flagship-like camera quality, clean Android, and excellent performance for around $499.

2. Can I get a good camera phone under $500?

Yes, the Pixel 8a, OnePlus Nord N30, and Samsung A35 offer strong camera performance in this price range.

3. Do budget phones get software updates?

It depends. Google and Samsung offer 3+ years, while some budget brands may only offer 1–2 years. Always check before buying.

4. Which is the best gaming phone under $500?

The Motorola Edge (2024) and OnePlus Nord N30 with 120Hz displays and large batteries are ideal for casual gaming.

5. Is the iPhone SE still worth buying in 2025?

Yes, if you want iOS and long-term updates in a compact, affordable package. But note that the design is outdated.

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