Best Android Phones: An affordable phone with lots of capabilities doesn’t have to cost a fortune; in fact, budget phones are becoming better every year. A large display, a strong camera system, and decent performance are features of the best phones under $500. Some of these phones’ features are also present in flagship models that cost more than $1,000. To make the phone last longer, they even get software and security updates for several years.
1. Google Pixel 8A
The Pixel 8A is so good that it nearly renders the standard Pixel 8 irrelevant. It’s difficult to see why someone would choose to purchase the Pixel 8 over its more expensive sibling given how much the two phones have in common, including their powerful Tensor G3 processor, stylish design, and an assortment of AI-powered features like Circle and Search.
Key Features
- Capture incredible images with the Pixel Camera.
- With Google AI, you can do more, even more quickly.
- For example, you can learn new things, resolve hazy photos, and screen calls.
- Top-notch security features aid in data protection. It’s also made to last.
- All at an extremely low cost.
Specifications:
- Performance: Nona Core (3 GHz, Single Core + 2.45 GHz, Quad core + 2.15 GHz, Quad core) Google Tensor G38 GB RAM
- Display: 6.1 inches (15.49 cm) FHD+, OLED 120Hz Refresh Rate
- Camera: 64 MP + 13 MP Dual Primary CamerasDual LED Flash13 MP Front Camera
- Battery: 4492 mAh
- Fast Charging
- USB Type-C Port
Pricing:
- $499 at Google Store
- $449 at Best Buy
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Great camera, Good battery life | 256GB storage not available on all models |
| 7 years of software updates | Zoomed and low light shots aren’t as clear as the Pixel 8’s |
Our Take/ Review
The Pixel 8 does include a slightly larger screen, a somewhat better camera system, and wireless charging for other phones and devices on the rear of the gadget. However, most individuals don’t think those features are important enough to influence their purchase choice. The Pixel 8A increases the standard for what a $500 phone should be.
Who Should Buy Google Pixel 8A?
In the sub-$500 range, Google’s best smartphone is the Pixel 8a. With frequent software upgrades, the phone’s dependable camera system and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for long-term use.
2. OnePlus 12R
The $500 OnePlus 12R does provide good overall performance given its affordable pricing. Even with its earlier generation processor, it still has a powerful gaming system, a good enough camera setup for casual photographers, and a design that is reminiscent of its more expensive sibling.
Key Features:
- The OnePlus 12R has a design similar to that of its predecessors.
- Still, there are some small but noticeable design alterations.
- Compared to the 11R, the new OnePlus 12R has a larger camera dial.
- The camera island is topped with a glass cover, and the back has a sleek finish.
- There are two colors available for the new OnePlus 12R: Iron Gray and Cool Blue.
Specifications:
- Performance: Octa-core (3.2 GHz, Single Core + 2.8 GHz, Quad core + 2 GHz, Tri core) Snapdragon 8 Gen 28 GB RAM
- Display: 6.78 inches (17.22 cm) FHD+, AMOLED120 Hz Refresh Rate
- Camera: 50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP Triple Primary CamerasLED Flash 16 MP Front Camera
- Battery: 5500 mAh
- Super VOOC Charging
- USB Type-C Port
Pricing:
- $400 at Best Buy
- $500 at Amazon
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price, Good battery life | Lacks wireless charging |
| Solid overall performance | Short software support period |
Our Take/ Review
Although the lack of extended software support is unfortunate, this phone is still a good all-arounder for those on a tight budget. You get 80W rapid charging, which charges it completely in a little over 30 minutes, and wet-touch technology on the screen, which allows you to use it suitably in the rain.
Who Should Buy The OnePlus 12R?
Of all the OnePlus phones, the 12R has the longest-lasting battery. With the all-new 5500 mAh battery, you can get up to two days’ worth of power in just 26 minutes. With a flagship Snapdragon under the hood, the R series goes all out in a first for OnePlus.
3. Google Pixel 7A
Because it is powered by Google’s Tensor G2 engine, the Pixel 7A shares many of its more expensive sibling’s photo editing and language translation capabilities. The 64-megapixel camera on the Pixel 7A likewise produces superb images that are on par with those taken with the Pixel 7.
Key Features:
- The Google Pixel 7A offers all the benefits of Google at a lower cost.
- It is built using the flagship processor, the Google Tensor G2.
- Features like Face Unlock, and 8GB of RAM.
- Up to 90Hz Smooth Display, and wireless charging.
- Starting at $499, the Pixel 7a offers the core Pixel experience.
Specifications:
- Performance: Octa-core (2.85 GHz, Dual Core + 2.35 GHz, Dual core + 1.8 GHz, Quad core) Google Tensor G28 GB RAM
- Display: 6.1 inches (15.49 cm) FHD+, OLED90 Hz Refresh Rate
- Camera: 64 MP + 13 MP Dual Primary CamerasDual LED Flash13 MP Front Camera
- Battery: 4385 mAh
- Fast Charging
- USB Type-C Port
Pricing:
- $388 at Amazon
- $229 at Best Buy
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent camera, Attractive design | Screen still looks dim outdoors |
| Gains wireless charging | Higher price compared with Pixel 6A |
Our Take/ Review
The Pixel 7A is a better value for most consumers due to its reduced pricing. Other than that, the primary distinctions between the Pixel 7 and 7A are the former’s stronger construction, marginally quicker charging, and capability to wirelessly charge compatible devices.
Who Should Buy Google Pixel 7A?
While Pixel 7A offers a more budget-friendly pricing point and a simplified design, Pixel 7 has a premium build and a more opulent feel. Nonetheless, the Pixel 7A is a great choice for those on a tight budget who value performance and camera quality because both phones have comparable performance and camera capabilities.
4. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
In Samsung’s A series portfolio for 2024, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is distinguished as an inexpensive smartphone, but it also has a few noteworthy features that make it an appealing choice for people on a tight budget.
Key Features:
- A sleek design, vibrant display, and acceptable camera capabilities.
- Features an Exynos 1280 chipset.
- Dolby ATMOS technology for sound.
- IP67 water and dust resistance for durability.
- The best part 35 is Samsung’s software update policy.
Specifications:
- Performance: Octa-core (2.4 GHz, Quad Core + 2 GHz, Quad core) Samsung Exynos 13808 GB RAM
- Display: 6.6 inches (16.76 cm) FHD+, Super AMOLED120 Hz Refresh Rate
- Camera: 50 MP + 8 MP + 5 MP Triple Primary CamerasLED Flash13 MP Front Camera
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- Fast Charging
- USB Type-C Port
Pricing:
- $399 at Amazon
- $399 at Best Buy
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection | Modest charging speeds |
| Capable of taking sharp images in daylight | Low-light photography needs improvement |
Our Take/ Review
First of all, it shares a lot of design similarities with the more expensive Galaxy A55 and even the Galaxy S24). Even while the phone lacks AI features from the most recent Galaxy S-series, you can still anticipate a respectable level of camera performance from the enhanced 50MP sensor.
Who Should Buy Samsung Galaxy A35 5G?
In general, the camera system is acceptable and superior to those from Motorola and Nothing, but it lacks the Pixel A-series’ level of dependability. The Galaxy A35’s best aspect is Samsung’s approach to software updates.
5. Google Pixel 6A
With a plethora of cutting-edge technologies included, the 5G-ready Google Pixel 6A offers smooth transitions and an intuitive user experience. Powered by the Google Tensor processor designed specifically for Pixel, it allows for smooth multitasking and juggling.
Key Features:
- Google’s Pixel 6A is an indication that a fantastic phone need not cost over $1,000.
- Pixel 6A sports the same Tensor processor as the Pixel 6.
- It features a black camera bar that runs horizontally across the back of the phone
- The Pixel 6A and Pixel 6 have a similar appearance and feel.
- The Pixel 6A’s camera strip is narrower than the Pixel 6’s.
Specifications:
- Performance: Octa-core (2.8 GHz, Dual Core + 2.25 GHz, Dual core + 1.8 GHz, Quad core) Google Tensor6 GB RAM
- Display: 6.1 inches (15.49 cm) FHD+, OLED60 Hz Refresh Rate
- Camera: 12.2 MP + 12 MP Dual Primary CamerasDual LED Flash8 MP Front Camera
- Battery: 4410 mAh
- Fast Charging
- USB Type-C Port
Pricing:
- $310 at Amazon
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Stylish, ergonomic design | Slow 18W charging speed |
| Capable chipset | speed Display is capped at 60Hz |
Our Take/ Review
In general, the Pixel 6A accomplishes its goal of offering a lot for a lower price. Although it is not as good as the Pixel 6, the camera nevertheless produces clear, vibrant images. Along with Pixel-specific software capabilities like Magic Eraser and Live Translate, you also get the same eye-catching style.
Who Should Buy Google Pixel 6A?
It’s a well-rounded, user-friendly phone with excellent cameras, simple software, and a unique appearance. It is also sure that it will get Android OS updates for a minimum of two years because it is a Google phone.
Bottom Line
For many, a phone around $500 will probably be sufficient for communicating, taking pictures, and enjoying entertainment. In many instances, the phones even come equipped with some of the latest features found on more expensive phones, such as multiple cameras and smooth 120Hz refresh rates.