Struggling to find a powerful smartphone that doesn't cost a fortune? You are not alone. The $500 price bracket in the USA is the new sweet spot for value. Today's budget phones offer flagship-level features without the flagship price tag.

Gone are the days when a cheap phone meant a slow, laggy experience with a bad camera. In 2025, you can get a stunning OLED display, a versatile camera system, and performance that handles everything you throw at it.

But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? We have tested all the top contenders. This guide will help you find the absolute best phone under $500 for your needs. Whether you care most about camera, battery, or pure performance, we have a pick for you.

Let's dive in.

What to Look for in a $500 Phone in 2025?

Before we get to our list, know what makes a great budget phone in 2025.

Software Updates: This is crucial. Look for brands that promise at least 4-5 years of security updates. This keeps your phone safe and feeling new for longer.
Display Quality: A good OLED screen with a high refresh rate (90Hz or 120Hz) is now common. It makes everything look smooth and responsive.
Performance: A capable processor like a Snapdragon 7 series or a Dimensity 8000 series ensures no lag in daily use or gaming.
Camera System: Don't just count megapixels. Look for a phone with a good main sensor and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This is more important than having multiple useless cameras.
Battery Life: Aim for a phone with all-day battery life and support for fast charging.

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Our Top Picks: Best Phones Under $500 in the USA

Here is a quick summary of our top recommendations to help you decide.

Rank	Phone Model	Key Strength	Best For	Price
1	Google Pixel 8a	Overall Value & Camera	Everyone, especially photography lovers.	~$499
2	Samsung Galaxy A35 5G	Balanced All-Rounder	Samsung fans who want a reliable experience.	~$399
3	OnePlus Nord 4	Blazing Fast Performance	Gamers and power users who need speed.	~$499
4	Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2025)	Unbeatable Battery Life	Users who hate charging their phone daily.	~$299
5	Nothing Phone (2a)	Unique Design & Smooth Software	Those who want a stand-out, stylish phone.	~$349

1. Google Pixel 8a: The All-Round Champion

The Google Pixel 8a is the undisputed king of the sub-$500 category. It packs the core experience of its more expensive siblings into a more affordable package. For most people in the USA, this is the easiest and best recommendation.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 120Hz Refresh Rate
Processor: Google Tensor G3
Cameras: 64MP (OIS) main, 13MP ultrawide
Battery: 4,492 mAh with 18W charging
Software: Android 14 with promise of 7 years of updates!

Why it's the best?
The Pixel 8a wins with its unbeatable software support. Seven years of updates mean your phone will be secure and modern until 2031. That's incredible for a $500 phone.

Its camera is legendary. The 64MP main sensor takes stunning photos in almost any light, easily beating other phones in this price range. Google's computational photography magic makes every picture look like it was taken by a pro.

The phone feels premium with its matte plastic back and has a bright, smooth 120Hz OLED display. It also gets exclusive access to Google's latest AI features like Circle to Search and Audio Magic Eraser.

Who should buy it?
Anyone who wants a no-compromise Android experience, the best camera under $500, and a phone that will last for many, many years.

2. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G: The Reliable Workhorse

Samsung's A-series is a powerhouse in the budget segment. The Galaxy A35 5G offers the trusted Samsung experience at a very attractive price, often found on sale below $400.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz
Processor: Exynos 1380
Cameras: 50MP (OIS) main, 8MP ultrawide, 5MP macro
Battery: 5,000 mAh with 25W charging
Software: One UI 6 on Android 14 with 4 OS updates

Why it's a great choice?
You get the polished One UI software that millions love, with features like Samsung Knox security and seamless integration with other Galaxy devices. The build quality is excellent with a glass back and an IP67 rating for water resistance, a rare feature at this price.

The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED screen is vibrant and perfect for watching videos. Battery life is also a strong suit, easily lasting a day and a half on a single charge.

Who should buy it?
If you are already in the Samsung ecosystem or prefer a more feature-rich software experience over stock Android, the Galaxy A35 is a perfect fit.

3. OnePlus Nord 4: The Speed Demon

OnePlus made its name by offering "flagship killer" performance. The OnePlus Nord 4 continues that tradition by packing a high-end processor that rivals phones costing twice as much.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz
Processor: Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3
Cameras: 50MP (OIS) main, 8MP ultrawide
Battery: 5,500 mAh with 100W SUPERVOOC charging
Software: OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14

Why it stands out?
Performance, performance, performance. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset is a monster. It handles intensive gaming, multitasking, and apps with incredible ease. If raw power is your top priority, look no further.

It also charges insanely fast. The included 100W charger can take the large battery from 0 to 100% in just about 25 minutes. You will never worry about battery life again.

Who should buy it?
Gamers, multitaskers, and anyone who hates waiting for their phone to load anything. If you need the fastest phone under $500, this is it.

4. Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2025): The Battery Life King

The name says it all. The Moto G Power series has always been about one thing: incredible battery life. The 2025 model takes it to the next level and is a steal at its regular price of $299.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.7-inch LCD, 120Hz
Processor: Snapdragon 6 Gen 1
Cameras: 50MP main
Battery: 6,000 mAh with 30W charging
Software: Clean Android 14

Why consider it?
The massive 6,000 mAh battery is the main attraction. This phone can easily last two to three days on a single charge with moderate use. It's the perfect phone for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who just doesn't want to be tethered to a charger.

It offers a clean, bloatware-free Android experience and a useful 3.5mm headphone jack.

Who should buy it?
Buy this phone if battery life is your number one, two, and three priority. It's the ultimate peace-of-mind device.

5. Nothing Phone (2a): The Style Icon

From the company founded by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, the Nothing Phone (2a) is designed for those who want their phone to look as unique as it performs.

Key Specifications:

Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
Processor: Dimensity 7200 Pro
Cameras: 50MP (OIS) main, 50MP ultrawide
Battery: 5,000 mAh with 45W charging
Software: Nothing OS 2.5 (Android 14) with unique glyph interface

Why it's different?
It has a transparent back design with LED glyph lights that notify you of calls, alerts, and charging status. It's a true head-turner. Beyond the looks, it offers a smooth, bloat-free software experience with fun customization options.

The performance is solid for the price, and the camera system is surprisingly capable.

Who should buy it?
If you value design and want a phone that expresses your personality, the Nothing Phone (2a) is the most unique and cool option available.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

For 99% of people, the Google Pixel 8a is the best phone under $500. Its combination of camera, software, and long-term support is unmatched.
Choose the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G if you want a trusted brand with water resistance and a great screen.
Pick the OnePlus Nord 4 if you are a gamer or need the absolute fastest performance.
Go for the Moto G Power if you need a battery that never quits and want to save even more money.
Get the Nothing Phone (2a) if you want to stand out from the crowd with a unique, stylish design.

No matter your choice, you are getting a fantastic device that proves you don't need to spend a thousand dollars for a great smartphone experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is it better to buy a budget phone or an old flagship?
Ans: In 2025, a new budget phone is often a better choice. You get a warranty, a brand-new battery, and longer software support. An older flagship might have a better build but its battery will be degraded, and it will stop receiving updates sooner.

Q2: Can I get a good gaming phone under $500?
Ans: Absolutely. The OnePlus Nord 4 with its Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor is the best choice for gaming in this price range. It handles graphic-intensive games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile very well.

Q3: Which phone has the best camera under $500?
Ans: The Google Pixel 8a has the best camera system in this segment. Its photo quality, especially in low light, is superior to everything else thanks to Google's advanced software processing.

Q4: Do any of these phones have wireless charging?
Ans: The Google Pixel 8a supports wireless charging, including reverse wireless charging. Most other phones in this price range, like the OnePlus Nord 4 and Samsung A35, do not offer this feature.

Q5: Where is the best place to buy these phones in the USA?
Ans: The best places are official websites (Google Store, Samsung.com), major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, and carrier stores (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T). Always check for seasonal sales on Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, or back-to-school periods for significant discounts.