Top 5 Quality Phones Under $500 in 2024

Looking for a top-notch phone without spending too much? Here are the best 5 phones under $500 in 2024 that deliver great performance and features.

In today’s tech-savvy world, the notion that you need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality smartphone is quickly becoming obsolete. If you know where to look, you’ll find that the market is brimming with budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on the features.

Whether you’re a die-hard Apple fan, a loyal Android user, or someone seeking the best value for money, there’s a device out there for you. And this article will uncover those quality phones under $500 in 2024 for you.

What to expect from phones under $500?

Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to set realistic expectations for what the quality phones under $500 can offer. While these devices won’t have all the bells and whistles of a $1,000 flagship, they come remarkably close in several key areas:

1. Strong Software Support

When it comes to longevity, software support is crucial. Look for phones that offer at least two years of operating system upgrades and three years of security updates. Your device should be functional and secure for a considerable number of years after you make the purchase.

2. Quality Display

A smartphone’s display is one of its most critical components, as it’s the primary way you interact with the device. While budget phones might not feature the cutting-edge displays found on flagship models, you can still expect high-quality screens. Opt for OLED displays over LCD for richer contrast and more vibrant colors. Aim for at least a 1080p resolution, and if possible, a higher refresh rate like 90Hz or 120Hz for smoother scrolling and better overall visual experience.

3. Sufficient Storage

Storage space is vital if you intend to use your camera a lot. 128 GB of internal storage is usually adequate for general uses. Any apps, photos, videos and system files you might have would fit right in. If you opt for a model with 64GB, ensure it has expandable storage via a MicroSD card to avoid running out of space.

4. Capable Camera

While budget phones often cut corners in the camera department, it’s possible to find models with decent photographic capabilities. Focus on phones with one good rear camera rather than multiple subpar ones. Features like night mode will give you greater versatility in using the camera. And don’t be swayed by devices boasting low-resolution sensors, because they add little value.

Top Picks for the Best Phones Under $500

1. 2022 iPhone SE (64GB)

Pros:

• A15 Bionic chip for excellent performance
• IP67 water and dust resistance
• Wireless charging support

Cons:

• Small, dated 4.7-inch display
• No night mode for the camera

For those entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, the 2022 iPhone SE is the most affordable entry point. While its 4.7-inch screen is undeniably small by modern standards, the SE packs a punch with its A15 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 13 Pro Max. This device can handle everything from gaming to multitasking easily.

The SE also boasts IP67 water resistance and wireless charging—features typically absent at this price point. Its 12-megapixel rear camera, though devoid of a night mode, takes sharp, vibrant photos in good lighting conditions. However, the small display and significant bezels may feel cramped, especially when compared to the edge-to-edge screens of other contemporary devices.

2. Google Pixel 8A

Pros:

• Seven years of OS and security updates
• 120Hz display for smooth animations
• IP67 water resistance

Cons:

• Camera performance could be better in low light
• No telephoto lens

Google’s Pixel series has always been synonymous with excellent software and camera performance, and the Pixel 8A continues this tradition. The Pixel 8A is one of the quality phones under $500 in 2024. You don’t have to worry about losing tech support because Google promises seven years of OS and security updates.

Due to the 120Hz display, you get smooth scrolling and responsive animations. The Pixel 8A has wireless charging and an IP67 rating for water resistance. So don’t worry about accidentally dropping your phone in the bathroom. As for the camera, it is reliable, but it does show some limitations in low-light conditions. Also, the advanced zoom capabilities of its higher-end counterparts are absent here.

3. OnePlus 12R (128GB)

Pros:

• 120Hz dynamic display
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset for excellent performance
• Up to 80W fast charging

Cons:

• IP64 rating only for splash resistance
• No wireless charging

The OnePlus 12R is a standout in the budget category, offering features that can easily be mistaken for those of a much more expensive device. This phone has a 120Hz dynamic display. That means the refresh rate with automatically vary based on the usage. The added benefit is that the conservation of battery life. As for the processor, the OnePlus 12R is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. Unless you are making a full-fledged movie on this phone, most of the tasks will be handled easily.

One of OnePlus’s trademarks is fast charging, and the 12R doesn’t disappoint, with up to 80W fast wired charging in the US. However, it falls short with its IP64 rating, meaning it’s only splash-resistant and not fully water-resistant. Additionally, the lack of wireless charging might be a deal-breaker for some.

4. Google Pixel 6A

Pros:

• Tensor chipset for good performance
• IP67 water resistance
• Good camera performance for the price

Cons:

• 60Hz refresh rate display
• Slow fingerprint sensor

The Pixel 6A, though now two generations old, remains a formidable contender in the sub-$400 range. Its custom Tensor chipset, initially used in Google’s flagship models, ensures that the 6A delivers smooth performance and longevity. The 6.1-inch 1080p OLED display, though limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, offers good color accuracy and clarity.

The Pixel 6A’s camera system is a 12-megapixel sensor. The Pixel series has been grabbing the top spot when it comes to photographic capabilities for a long time. Well, this phone is no different. The phone is rated IP67 for water resistance, which is a high rating. However, if we were to point out a drawback, we’d say the fingerprint sensor’s sluggishness can be a minor annoyance.

5. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

Pros:

• IP67 water resistance
• Four years of OS updates and five years of security updates
• Large OLED display

Cons:

• Mediocre camera performance
• Occasional performance stutters with Exynos processor

Samsung’s Galaxy A35 5G offers a lot of bang for your buck at $399. This device’s water rating is IP67. Put in layman’s terms, even if you drop this phone into a bucket of water, it’ll work fine and dandy. With the Galaxy A35 5G, you get four years of OS updates and five years of security updates.

The A35 5G’s large OLED display provides vibrant colors and good brightness. Binging movies or YouTube videos is a piece of cake. However, its camera performance is average, particularly in low-light conditions, and the Exynos processor occasionally struggles with intensive multitasking.

Now that you are aware of all of the above, you will not conclude that $500 will not fetch you a great phone. Whether you’re looking for a compact device like the iPhone SE, a future-proof option like the Pixel 8A, or a performance powerhouse like the OnePlus 12R, there’s a phone out there to meet your needs without emptying your wallet.

Carefully consider your priorities and the features that matter most to you and you’ll find a smartphone with both value and entertainment. With the above phones under $500 in 2024, you can now debunk the myth that you need to spend a fortune to grab a great phone.