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The Best Budget Smartphones Under $500

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In today’s tech landscape, finding a reliable smartphone that doesn’t strain your budget is entirely possible. For those who view gadgets as tools rather than status symbols, investing in a budget phone can be a practical choice. With many options available for $500 or less, these devices offer impressive capabilities without the hefty price tag.

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Budget smartphones have evolved significantly, providing essential features that cater to everyday needs. While they may lack some premium features found in flagship models, they allow users to save money for other priorities. This guide will help you navigate the best budget smartphones currently available.

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How We Test Budget Smartphones

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Testing a smartphone thoroughly is crucial to understanding its performance and usability. Each phone is evaluated using a personal SIM card, allowing for a real-world experience over a minimum of one week. During this period, the phone is set up from scratch, loaded with essential apps, and subjected to various stress tests, including battery life, GPS navigation, and camera performance. This hands-on approach ensures a comprehensive assessment of each device.

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Key Features to Consider

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When selecting a budget smartphone, certain features should be prioritized to ensure a satisfactory user experience:

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Strong Software Support

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Look for devices that offer at least two years of operating system upgrades and ideally three years of security updates. A phone that stops receiving updates after a short period can become a security risk.

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A Good Screen

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The display is one of the most critical aspects of a smartphone, as users interact with it frequently. Opt for an OLED screen for better contrast and color accuracy, and ensure the resolution is at least 1080p. Higher refresh rates, such as 90Hz or 120Hz, can enhance the viewing experience, but an OLED display with a standard refresh rate often provides superior quality.

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Serviceable Storage Space

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To accommodate system files, photos, and videos, a budget phone should ideally have at least 128GB of built-in storage. This ensures that users can keep their devices for an extended period without running out of space.

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One Good Rear Camera

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While budget phones may not feature multiple advanced cameras, a single high-quality rear camera can still deliver satisfactory performance. Look for models that offer a decent low-light mode and avoid those with multiple low-resolution sensors that do not enhance the photography experience.

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What Compromises to Expect

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Budget smartphones typically come with trade-offs, including slower processors, less storage, and lower-quality cameras compared to flagship models. Users may also encounter lower-resolution screens and reduced water resistance. Understanding these compromises is essential when making a purchasing decision.

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The Best Cheap iPhone

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Screen: 6.1-inch, 1170p OLED Processor: A18 Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 with OIS, 12-megapixel selfie Charging: 20W wired, 7.5W wireless Weather-resistance rating: IP68

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The iPhone 16E is Apple’s most affordable model, offering essential iPhone features at a lower price point. However, it comes with notable trade-offs, such as the absence of an ultrawide camera and the older notch design. While it supports wireless charging, it lacks MagSafe compatibility, requiring users to purchase a separate magnetic case for that functionality.

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Despite these limitations, the 16E supports Apple Intelligence, which may enhance its value in the future. However, potential buyers should temper their expectations regarding immediate benefits.

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Learn more about the iPhone 16E at Read my full iPhone 16E review.

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The Best Android Phone Under $500

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Screen: 6.3-inch, 1080p OLED, 120Hz Processor: Tensor G4 Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.7 with OIS, 13-megapixel ultrawide, 13-megapixel selfie Battery: 5,100mAh Charging: 23W wired, 7.5W wireless Weather-resistance rating: IP68

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The Google Pixel 9A is a standout choice for an affordable Android phone, featuring a reliable Tensor G4 chipset and an improved OLED display. With a larger screen and enhanced durability, it offers solid performance for everyday tasks. While its camera may not match the higher-end Pixel models in low-light conditions, it remains effective for casual photography.

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Discover more about the Pixel 9A at Read my full Google Pixel 9A review.

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The Budget Phone with a Big, Beautiful Screen

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Screen: 6.78-inch, 1264 x 2780 120Hz OLED Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 with OIS, 50-megapixel 2x telephoto, 8-megapixel ultrawide, 16-megapixel selfie Battery: 6,000mAh Charging: 80W wired Weather-resistance rating: IP65

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The OnePlus 13R offers an impressive display and strong battery performance, making it an appealing option for users who prioritize screen size. While it lacks full water resistance and wireless charging, its fast charging capabilities and overall performance make it a worthy contender in the budget category.

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Find out more about the OnePlus 13R at Read my full OnePlus 13R review..

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The Best Phone Under $400

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Screen: 6.6-inch, 1080p resolution, 120Hz OLED Processor: Exynos 1380 Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 with OIS, 8-megapixel ultrawide, 5-megapixel macro, 13-megapixel selfie Battery: 5,000mAh Charging: 25W wired Weather-resistance rating: IP67

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The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G stands out with its robust specifications for a price of $399. Its IP67 rating for water and dust resistance is a significant advantage, allowing users to feel secure in various environments. Additionally, the device promises four years of OS updates and five years of security updates, enhancing its longevity.

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While the camera performance may not be the best in low-light conditions, the overall package, including a vibrant OLED display and solid battery life, makes the A35 5G a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers.

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Other Budget Phones We Tested

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  • The 2024 Motorola Moto G Power features a stylish design and wireless charging but is hindered by excessive bloatware, disqualifying it from our recommendations. Read our impressions.

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  • The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is another capable phone that falls slightly outside this guide’s price range at $649. It offers a telephoto lens and a large screen, but for most users, the Pixel 9A or a trade-in promo for the newer Galaxy S25 would be more economical choices. Read our review.

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Update, June 13th: Prices and availability have been updated. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is currently out of stock at Amazon and Samsung, while Best Buy has it marked down on clearance.Sources:

Source: Original Article

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