Looking for the best smartphones under $500 in 2026 February? This guide is your go-to resource for the latest and top-performing smartphones offering flagship-like features without the flagship price tag. Whether you’re interested in unlocked phones or carrier-specific options, we’ve rounded up the best smartphones available for under 500 USD.
If you want to buy a new phone that offers more than the typical midrange handset, you’ll be happy to know there are some great options under $500. As technology continues to advance, smartphones in this price range are becoming more powerful, offering impressive capabilities that rival higher-end models.
The smartphone market is constantly evolving, with each new release pushing the boundaries of technology, design, and user experience. This list showcases the latest models from leading brands, focusing on their standout features and technical specifications, giving you a comprehensive view of what these phones offer in a competitive market. Whether you’re looking for a phone with a stunning display, a powerful processor, or a great camera, this guide will help you find the best smartphone under $500 that suits your needs.
Top 8 Best Smartphones under $500 to Buy 2026 February | USD
Samsung Galaxy A56
Price: $449 (Approx)
The Samsung Galaxy A56 offers a solid mid-range experience, blending performance, design, and durability in an accessible package. With an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes), the A56 is well-suited for everyday adventures, providing peace of mind in various environments.
The device boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, delivering a sharp 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution and a stunning 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and gaming. With HDR10+ support and peak brightness of 1900 nits, the screen ensures vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility, all protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ for added durability.
Powered by the Exynos 1580 chipset (4nm), the Galaxy A56 is equipped with an octa-core CPU (up to 2.9 GHz) and the Xclipse 540 GPU, offering a smooth and responsive experience for multitasking, gaming, and media consumption. Available in multiple configurations, with up to 256GB of storage and up to 12GB RAM, it meets storage and performance needs, though it lacks a microSD card slot for expansion.
The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP wide lens with OIS and PDAF, a 12MP ultrawide lens for expansive shots, and a 5MP macro lens for close-ups. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps, with additional 1080p options at up to 60fps. The 12MP front camera captures clear selfies and videos in 4K with 10-bit HDR for vibrant detail.
With a 5000mAh battery, the A56 ensures long-lasting use, while 45W wired charging powers up 65% in just 30 minutes and 100% in 68 minutes. Featuring stereo speakers, a fingerprint sensor under-display, and a variety of connectivity options, the Galaxy A56 combines practicality with modern features, making it a reliable choice for users looking for a great value in the A-series lineup.
Google Pixel 9a
Price: $499 (Approx)
The Google Pixel 9a delivers flagship-like features in a compact and durable package, perfect for those seeking high performance with a focus on camera and display quality. With an IP68 rating, the Pixel 9a is fully dust-tight and water-resistant, able to withstand immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, ensuring peace of mind during everyday adventures.
Its 6.3-inch P-OLED display offers a sharp 1080 x 2424 pixel resolution and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate for fluid scrolling and gaming. With HDR support and a peak brightness of 2700 nits, the display provides vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility, all protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for added durability.
Powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset (4nm) and paired with an octa-core CPU (up to 3.1 GHz), the Pixel 9a delivers a seamless user experience, from multitasking to gaming. Available in 128GB/8GB RAM and 256GB/8GB RAM configurations, it offers fast storage (UFS 3.1) but lacks a microSD card slot for expansion.
The dual-camera system features a 48MP wide lens with dual-pixel PDAF and OIS, along with a 13MP ultrawide lens to capture expansive scenes. Video recording supports 4K at 30/60fps, and the device also excels in 1080p recording at up to 240fps. The 13MP front camera supports 4K video and HDR for high-quality selfies and video calls.
The Pixel 9a’s 5100mAh battery supports 23W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging, ensuring long-lasting performance throughout the day. With stereo speakers, a fingerprint sensor under-display, and a host of connectivity options including NFC and USB Type-C 3.2, the Pixel 9a combines modern features with Google’s signature clean software experience, making it a top choice for users seeking a premium experience at a competitive price.
Nothing Phone (3a) Pro
Price: $499 (Approx)
The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro blends innovative design with impressive performance, making it an appealing choice for tech enthusiasts. With an IP64 rating, it’s dust-tight and resistant to water splashes, ensuring it can handle everyday use with ease.
One of the standout features is the signature LED light strips on the back, which serve as notification indicators, camera fill lights, and customizable zones, adding a unique flair to its design. The 6.77-inch AMOLED display offers a vibrant 1080 x 2392 resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering a smooth and immersive experience. Supporting HDR10+ and boasting a peak brightness of 3000 nits, the screen ensures stunning visuals, whether you’re gaming, watching videos, or browsing. Protection comes from Panda Glass, which adds durability to the display.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset (4nm), the Phone (3a) Pro offers excellent performance with its octa-core CPU (up to 2.5 GHz) and Adreno 710 GPU. With configurations up to 256GB of storage and 12GB RAM, it’s built for multitasking, though it lacks a microSD card slot for expansion.
The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP wide lens with OIS, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide camera for sweeping shots. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps and 1080p at various frame rates, ensuring high-quality content creation. The 50MP front camera excels in selfies and video calls, also supporting 4K video.
Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro supports 50W wired charging, providing 50% charge in just 19 minutes and 100% in 56 minutes. With stereo speakers, a fingerprint sensor under-display, and all the essential connectivity options, including NFC and USB Type-C 2.0, this phone offers a feature-rich experience at an attractive price point.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2025)
Price: $399 (Approx)
The Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025) brings a mix of durability, performance, and style, with a focus on a vibrant display and excellent battery life. Featuring an IP68 rating, the device is dust-tight and water-resistant, able to withstand immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, making it an ideal companion for outdoor use. It is also MIL-STD-810H compliant, ensuring the phone can handle tough conditions.
The 6.7-inch AMOLED display offers a crisp 1220 x 2712 resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals for gaming, media, and browsing. With HDR support and a peak brightness of 3000 nits, the display provides vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility, all protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for added durability.
Under the hood, the Moto G Stylus runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset (4nm), paired with an octa-core CPU (up to 2.4 GHz) and Adreno 710 GPU. With up to 256GB storage and 8GB RAM, it offers fast UFS 2.2 storage, providing ample room for apps and media, though it also includes a dedicated microSD slot for expandable storage.
The dual-camera system features a 50MP main sensor with multi-directional PDAF and OIS for sharp and stable shots, paired with a 13MP ultrawide lens for expansive scenes. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps, along with 1080p options at up to 120fps. The 32MP front camera is perfect for high-quality selfies and video calls, with 4K video support.
Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Moto G Stylus offers long-lasting performance and supports 68W wired charging for a fast 50% charge in just 15 minutes, plus 15W wireless charging. With stereo speakers enhanced by Dolby Atmos, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a host of connectivity options like NFC and USB Type-C, the Moto G Stylus is a feature-packed option for those seeking great value in a premium mid-range device.
Ulefone Armor 30 Pro
Price: $499 (Approx)
The Ulefone Armor 30 Pro is a rugged powerhouse built for extreme environments without sacrificing flagship-level performance. Engineered for durability, it’s IP68/IP69K rated and MIL-STD-810H certified—dust-tight, water-resistant (up to 2 meters for 30 minutes), and shock-resistant. This phone also packs unique utility with support for Ulefone accessories like endoscopes and microscopes, plus an RGB LED on the back for notifications, calls, and music sync.
The front sports a massive 6.95-inch IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate and 700 nits peak brightness, shielded by Gorilla Glass 5. On the rear, a 3.4-inch secondary display adds convenience with quick-glance info and rugged style. Both displays are tough and functional, perfect for the field or job site.
Performance-wise, the Armor 30 Pro runs on the Mediatek Dimensity 7300X (4nm) with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G615 MC2 GPU, delivering seamless multitasking and gaming. With 16GB RAM, 512GB UFS 3.1 storage, and a dedicated microSDXC slot, it handles heavy apps and storage needs with ease. Running Android 14 (upgradable to Android 15), it’s built to last beyond the hardware.
The camera system is feature-packed: a 50MP main shooter, 64MP night vision lens with IR lights, and a 50MP ultrawide for versatile photography. It supports 4K video, gyro-EIS, and a crisp 32MP front camera for high-quality selfies and calls.
With a massive 12,800mAh battery, 66W fast charging, and 10W reverse charging, the Armor 30 Pro is ready for multi-day usage. It also includes stereo speakers (118dB), a 3.5mm jack, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and a side fingerprint sensor—making it a rugged all-rounder built for adventure, work, and everything in between.
Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro
Price: $355 (Approx)
The Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro delivers a robust combination of style, power, and performance in the mid-range smartphone segment. Packed with high-end features, this device is designed for users who want flagship-level performance at an accessible price.
With dimensions of 160.8 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm and a weight of 195g, the Poco X7 Pro features a glass front with Gorilla Glass 7i protection, a plastic back, and an optional eco-leather silicone polymer back. It’s IP68/IP69 rated for dust and water resistance, allowing immersion up to 1.5m for 30 minutes, making it durable and reliable in challenging environments.
The 6.67-inch AMOLED display is a standout feature, offering 68 billion colors, a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ support. With a peak brightness of 3200 nits, it delivers vivid, sharp visuals, perfect for media consumption and gaming. The 1220 x 2712 resolution ensures crisp details, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for added durability.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultra chipset (4nm), the Poco X7 Pro boasts an octa-core CPU (1x 3.25 GHz Cortex-A725 & 3x 3.0 GHz Cortex-A725 & 4x 2.1 GHz Cortex-A725) and a Mali-G720 MC7 GPU, offering smooth multitasking and gaming performance. With up to 512GB of internal storage and 12GB RAM, powered by UFS 4.0, the device ensures fast performance and ample storage. Running Android 15 with HyperOS 2, the Poco X7 Pro is future-proof with long-term software updates.
The dual-camera system includes a 50MP main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide lens. The camera supports 4K video at 30/60fps, and slow-motion video at up to 960fps. The 20MP front camera captures sharp selfies and 1080p video.
With a 6000mAh battery, the Poco X7 Pro supports 90W wired charging (100% in 42 minutes) and reverse charging, ensuring long-lasting power and fast recharges.
The Poco X7 Pro delivers excellent performance, a stunning display, and fast charging, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a premium experience at a more affordable price.
Doogee S118 Pro
Price: $340 (Approx)
The Doogee S118 Pro is a rugged smartphone built for those who demand power and toughness in one device. Designed to survive extreme conditions, it comes with IP68/IP69K certification and MIL-STD-810H compliance—meaning it’s dust-tight, water-resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 minutes), and drop-tested for durability in demanding environments.
Its 6.58-inch IPS LCD display delivers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and sharp visuals at 1080 x 2408 resolution (~401 ppi), protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for added toughness. The 20:9 aspect ratio provides a balanced viewing experience for everything from media to outdoor use.
Under the hood, the S118 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 (6nm) chipset with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G68 MC4 GPU, ensuring solid performance for daily use, multitasking, and gaming. With 8GB RAM and 512GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD), it has the power and space for demanding users. It runs Android 14, offering a clean, modern OS with support for future updates.
Photography is another strong suit. The 108MP main camera captures detailed shots, while the 20MP night vision lens with infrared lighting is perfect for low-light or tactical use. The 8MP ultrawide sensor handles group shots or expansive scenes, and the 32MP front camera ensures crisp selfies and video calls.
The phone features dual speakers for stereo sound, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. It lacks a 3.5mm jack but includes FM radio and USB-C with OTG.
Powering it all is a massive 10,800mAh battery, supporting 33W wired and reverse charging, making it a long-lasting companion for work, travel, or adventure. The Doogee S118 Pro is a true all-rounder—durable, powerful, and ready for anything.
Sony Xperia 10 VI
Price: $393 (Approx)
The Sony Xperia 10 VI combines durability and performance in a sleek design. With an IP65/IP68 rating, it’s dust and water-resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, making it a reliable companion for daily life.
The 6.1-inch OLED display delivers vivid visuals with 1 billion colors, HDR support, and Sony’s Triluminos technology. Its 21:9 aspect ratio and high resolution of 1080 x 2520 pixels (~449 ppi) offer sharp and immersive viewing. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, the screen withstands scratches and minor drops.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset and running Android 14, the Xperia 10 VI promises smooth performance with up to three major Android upgrades. It features 128GB of UFS storage and 8GB of RAM, expandable via microSDXC (using the shared SIM slot) for additional space.
The dual rear camera system includes a 48MP main sensor with OIS for crisp, stable photos, and an 8MP ultrawide lens for expansive shots. It supports video recording up to 4K at 30fps with gyro-EIS and OIS. The 8MP front camera captures clear selfies and supports HDR and 1080p video recording.
A 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting use and supports wired charging with PD and QC standards. The Xperia 10 VI includes stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack, offering Hi-Res audio both wired and wirelessly. Connectivity options feature Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX HD and Adaptive, NFC, and USB Type-C with OTG support. A side-mounted fingerprint sensor provides secure and convenient unlocking.
Combining a durable build, high-quality display, and capable cameras, the Sony Xperia 10 VI offers a compelling choice for those seeking reliability and performance in a compact form.
Best Smartphone under 500 USD to Buy in USA
| Smartphone | Price |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A56 |
$449  |
| Google Pixel 9a |
$499 |
| Nothing Phone (3a) Pro |
$499 |
| Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2025) |
$399 |
| Ulefone Armor 30 Pro |
$499 |
| Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro |
$355 |
| Doogee S118 Pro |
$340 |
| Sony Xperia 10 VI |
$393 |
Note:
- The price of the Mobiles may change day by day, so do check the price on the seller’s website using the buy button associated with the product.
- We put immense effort to give accurate specs, but do check for the spec at the seller’s website (Amazon, Bestbuy, etc,.) before purchasing the product.+-
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