Update: We last checked this article for new phones on August 18, 2025.
As phones become increasingly expensive, it’s becoming harder to invest this amount in a flagship phone every year. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend much money to get a good phone. As YouTuber MKBHD once said, “Cheap phones are getting good, and good phones are getting cheap.” At the end of the day, these phones are just tools, and you don’t need a Snapdragon 8 Elite or A18 Pro to chug through everyday tasks. So, here’s a look at the best phones under $500 (and $600 if you can stretch your budget a little) that have compelling specifications and an overall great experience.
Table of Contents
What to Expect From a Phone Under $500-600
- Great Display: You can get phones with a premium AMOLED display and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. There are even curved screens and flip phones available in this segment. You will rarely find any cheap LCD panels in this price range.
- Reliable Software Experience: Most phones in this segment offer at least two to three years of OS updates, which is great. If you manage to buy a flagship phone at a discount, you can expect at least four to five years of updates.
- Decent Cameras: Unlike cheap entry-level phones, you get phones with at least decent primary cameras. Also, you can expect at least an ultrawide-angle sensor, which usually brands skip out on in entry-level phones.
- Sizeable Battery: Most phones in this segment offer at least a 4,000mAh to 5,000mAh battery, which can easily last a day. While you certainly won’t find phones with huge Silicon Carbon batteries, they can still get you through your day with casual workloads.
What You Probably Won’t Get:
- Wireless Charging: You will miss out on premium features like wireless charging in this segment. Most manufacturers skip out on the feature to reduce costs and keep the price in check.
- Telephoto Lens: Another feature that you are unlikely to find is are telephoto lens. While useful for taking portraits or zoomed-in shots, this novelty feature is reserved for flagship phones.
- IP Ratings: While most phones under $500 do have an IP rating, you won’t get IP68 or IP69 ratings in this price segment.
- Lots of Storage: Another pain point, or lack of it, to be precise. Most phones under $500 start at 128GB of storage. If you want a phone with higher capacity, then you will need to shell out more money.
- Fast Charging: Budget phones, especially the ones found in the US, will have slower charging speeds compared to their flagship counterparts.
Also Read:
- Best Phones Under $300
- iPhone 16e: 5 Reasons to Buy, 5 Reasons to Skip, and 4 Alternatives to Consider
Best Mid-Range Phones Under $500 (August 2025)
1. Google Pixel 9a: Best Mid-Range Android Phone
- Price: $499
- Availability: Google Store (US)/Amazon (US)
- Display: 6.3-inch pOLED with 120Hz, 2700 nits peak brightness
- Processor: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 8GB
- OS: Android 15 (7 years of updates)
- Cameras: 48MP+13MP
- Battery: 5,100mAh
- Charging: 23W wired, 7.5W wireless
- Weight: 186 grams
Why We Recommend It
The Google Pixel 9a is the perfect phone to buy under $500 if you want a new smartphone. Not only is it cheaper than the iPhone 16e, it also has a much smoother 120Hz refresh rate and thinner bezels with a punch hole cutout. Not only does it have the best software experience in this price range, but you also get 7 years of OS updates. Powered by the same Tensor G4 chipset as the rest of the Pixel 9 series, it has all the AI features you want. Unlike Apple Intelligence, they work out of the box. Things like Magic Eraser, Add Me, Audio Magic Eraser, and Magic Eraser are some of the most useful ones. With a 5,100mAh battery, it has the biggest battery on a Pixel phone.
Who Should Buy It:
For those looking for the cleanest software experience with a reliable set of cameras, the Pixel 9a is a no-brainer. Not only does it offer long-term support with its 7 years of updates, but you also get them way before other phones. With its cool AI features and a massive 5,100mAh battery, it’s an easy recommendation for casual users.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you care about raw performance or perks like a telephoto lens, then the Pixel 9a isn’t for you. The chunky bezels and the smaller screen might not appeal to everyone. Furthermore, the 23W charging isn’t the fastest out there, and due to the 8GB of RAM, it runs Gemini nano instead of the full-fledged Gemini. The plastic back and the lack of the iconic Pixel camera bump mean it looks just like any other mid-ranger.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Great Software Experience | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅7 years of OS updates | ❌ Tensor G4 isn’t the fastest in the segment |
| ✅Useful AI features that work out of the box | ❌ Bezels are thicker than other phones |
| ✅ Fantastic cameras | |
| ✅ Wireless charging support | |
| ✅ Compact size | |
| ✅ The biggest battery on a Pixel |
2. OnePlus 12R: Best Flagship Killer Phone
- Price: $499
- Availability: Amazon US/OnePlus Store US
- Display: 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM: upto 16GB RAM
- Camera: 50MP+8MP+2MP, 16MP
- Battery: 5,500mAh
- Charging: 100W wired
Why We Recommend It:
For those who don’t wish to settle on a flagship, you can take a look at the OnePlus 12R. This flagship killer from last year is now within your reach. It is one of the most powerful phones in this list, powered by the still-capable Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Moreover, the 6.78-inch curved display makes it perfect for binge-watching TV shows and movies. OnePlus also offers the fastest charging speeds with its 100W SUPERVOOC charging, although it misses out on wireless support. Overall, if you want a balanced mid-range phone and the camera isn’t your top priority, the OnePlus 12R is the best phone under $500.
Who Should Buy It:
Despite being more than a year old, the OnePlus 12R is still a reliable workhorse. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, it’s smooth enough for your gaming as well as casual tasks. Furthermore, perks like curved display and superfast charging are rare, especially in this price range. If you want a great non-Samsung flagship phone, the OnePlus 12R is definitely worth checking out.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you care about the best camera experience or want a phone with a telephoto lens, the OnePlus 12R isn’t for you. Also, the curved edges might not appeal to those who prefer the practicality of a flat panel. The lack of wireless charging and the fact that there is only 1 update left after Android 16 means it isn’t the best for long-term usage.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ 2 years of updates left | ❌ Average cameras |
| ✅ Alert Slider and IP64 rating | ❌ No wireless charging |
| ✅ Massive 5,500mAh battery | |
| ✅ Beautiful 6.78-inch 1.5K display |
3. Nothing Phone (3a)/(3a) Pro: Great All-Rounder
- Price: $459
- Availability: Amazon US/Nothing Store US
- Display: 6.77 Full-HD+ AMOLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
- RAM: Upto 12GB
- Camera: 50MP+50MP+8MP, 50MP
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 50W wired (Charger not included)
Why We Recommend It:
If you want the best smartphone under $500, the Nothing Phone (3a) or the (3a) Pro can be a good choice. You get clean software with no ads and bloatware. Unlike other budget phones, Nothing offers 3 years of OS updates with AI features and 6 years of security updates. Furthermore, there’s an Essential Key that lets you access the Essential hub. It’s an AI-powered hub where you can store your notes, recordings, screenshots, and more. You just need to press and hold the button to access it. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor should make it smooth enough for day-to-day tasks. Also, they are one of the few phones in this range with a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with 2x/3x optical zoom. With a 5,000mAh battery and 50W fast charging, you won’t be running out of charge anytime soon.
Who Should Buy It:
For those who want a great camera with equally good software, the Nothing Phone (3a) series is the one to go for. The unique design with flashy Glyph lights makes it perfect for the Gen-Z buyers out there. It is also one of the few phones in this list to boast a telephoto lens, making it a solid offering
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
For the spec-savvy consumer who cares about the latest processor or the fastest storage type, the Phone (3) series isn’t for you. The lack of wireless charging and the inconsistent camera tuning might be dealbreakers for some users.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ 6.77-inch AMOLED screen | ❌ Cameras are inconsistent |
| ✅ 3 years of OS updates | ❌ No wireless charging |
| ✅ New Essential Key | ❌ Essential Hub is too basic |
| ✅ Glyph LEDS and transparent design | ❌ UFS 2.2 storage |
| ✅ Telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom | |
| ✅ Huge 5,000mAh battery | |
| ✅ 50W wired charging |
Also Read:
- Best Phone in the World 2025: Complete List
- Android Phone OS Update Life Cycle Promise: How Long Your Phone Will Get Updates
4. Motorola Razr 2024: Best Flip Phone
- Price: $499
- Availability: Amazon US/Motorola US
- Display: 3.6-inch cover screen, 6.9-inch inner display
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300X
- RAM: 8GB
- Camera: 50MP+12MP, 32MP
- Battery: 4,200mAh
- Charging: 30W wired (Charger not included), 15W wireless.
Why We Recommend It;
Tired of typical slab bar phones? The Motorola Razr 2024, aka Motorola Razr 50, is the best phone under $500 for you. It has the same 3.6-inch cover screen as the flagship Motorola Razr 50 Plus 2024. What’s cooler is the fact that you can run any app on the cover screen, so there are no restrictions whatsoever. Moreover, you get a 6.9-inch inner screen when unfolded with LTPO and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is one of the few flip phones that you can get in this price range.
Who Should Buy It:
For those looking for a non-Samsung flip phone that stands out from the crowd, the Razr 2024 is perfect. In a sea of similar-looking slab phones, it stands out with its unique flip design and premium vegan leather finish. It’s well-suited for casual users who enjoy the novelty and portability of a flip phone on a budget
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Heavy users and gamers won’t get the best out of the Razr 2024, as the Dimensity 7300X processor is mid-range and not designed for demanding tasks. Its smaller 4,200 mAh battery also makes it less than ideal for users who need long-lasting endurance.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Massive 3.6-inch cover screen | ❌ MediaTek Dimensity 7300x is a mid-range chip |
| ✅ 6.9-inch inner display with 120Hz | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Premium vegan leather design | ❌ The battery isn’t the largest |
| ✅ 15W wireless charging | |
| ✅ 50W wired charging |
5. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: Best Samsung Phone
- Price: $499
- Availability: Amazon US/Samsung Store US
- Display: 6.7 Full-HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2x with 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 2400e
- RAM: 8GB
- Camera: 50MP+8MP+12MP, 10MP
- Battery: 4,700mAh
- Charging: 25W wired (Charger not included), 15W wireless
Why We Recommend It:
If you want a premium software experience with seven years of updates and the coveted Samsung logo, the Galaxy S24 FE is your best bet. Powered by the Exynos 2400e processor, a slightly tweaked version of the same chipset as the more expensive Samsung Galaxy S24. There’s a vibrant 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh for consuming content. Furthermore, it’s one of the few phones on this list that does not skimp out on the IP68 rating or the telephoto lens. You also get a 4,700mAh battery with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging support. Just like the flagship Samsung phones, you get Samsung Dex and Circle To Search. All of these features make it the best phone under $500.
Who Should Buy It:
This device is a great fit for buyers who want Samsung’s ecosystem and premium feel without paying flagship prices. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value durability, strong software support, and an all-rounder phone for daily use. With premium features like wireless charging and Galaxy AI features, it gives you a taste of that flagship experience on a budget.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The Exynos 2400e chip limits its gaming and performance potential, so power users might be better served elsewhere. The slower charging speeds and the lack of a charger in the box might disappoint some of the potential buyers.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vibrant 6.7-inch display with 120Hz | ❌ Exynos 2400 isn’t made for intense gaming |
| ✅ IP68 rating and 50-megapixel telephoto lens | ❌ Slow 25W wired charging |
| ✅ Samsung Dex and Circle To Search | |
| ✅ 15W wireless charging | |
| ✅ 7 years of OS updates |
6. Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025): Best Phone With Stylus
- Price: $399
- Availability: Amazon US
- Display: 6.7 Full-HD+ AMOLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
- RAM: 8GB
- Camera: 50MP+13MP, 32MP
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 68W wired, 15W wireless
Why We Recommend It:
Wish to buy a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra but don’t wish to sell your kidneys? Well, the Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025) is the one for you. It has a built-in stylus that lets you doodle things to your heart’s content, and the best part? The phone is fully compatible with all carriers in the US. It has a luxurious vegan leather design and a 6.7-inch AMOLED display. The phone is also pretty durable with an IP68 rating and MIL-STD 810H military grade protection. Another great thing is that you get a microSD card slot, a rarity these days. And if you wish to get nostalgic, you can plug your earphones into the 3.5mm headphone jack. To help you with adventures, there’s a massive 5,000mAh battery with 68W wired charging. And just like the S25 Ultra, there’s 15W wireless charging support. Overall, it is the best phone under $500 if you are looking for a device with a built-in stylus.
Who Should Buy It:
This is the best pick for students, creatives, or professionals who want a stylus without splurging on the Galaxy S25 Ultra device. It also appeals to practical buyers who want a clean Android experience, superfast charging, and wireless charging support.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 isn’t the fastest out there, so it isn’t made for gamers and power users. Furthermore, the lack of a telephoto lens and limited software support could be disappointing for those looking to use their phone for a long time.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 3000 nits of peak brightness | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ IP68 rating and vegan leather back | ❌ Only 2 years of OS updates |
| ✅ Built-In Stylus support | |
| ✅ 68W wired and 15W wireless charging | |
| ✅ Built-in stylus support |
Honorable Mentions Under $500
1. Poco F6: Most Powerful Phone in the Segment
- Price: $352
- Availability: Amazon US
- Display: 6.67 1.5K AMOLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3
- RAM: Up to 12GB
- Camera: 50MP+8MP, 20MP
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 90W wired
Why We Recommend It:
While Poco phones are not officially available in the US, you can still purchase them on Amazon. However, this means that you won’t get any official warranty, and you will need to check compatibility with your carrier. Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, Poco F6 is one of the most powerful phones in its price range. With a unique design and a 5,000mAh battery with 90W wired charging, your phone will charge faster even before your gaming sessions are complete.
Who Should Buy It:
This is the right choice for gamers and power users who want flagship-level performance and lightning-fast charging without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for those who want to try something new and aren’t averse to the idea of importing phones.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The lack of official support and limited carrier compatibility can be deal breakers for users in the US. Furthermore, HyperOS’s outdated UI and lack of polish might not appeal to those who prefer a cleaner software experience.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with 120Hz | ❌ Average cameras |
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 | ❌ No official warranty |
| ✅ 5,000mAh battery | ❌ Limited carrier compatibility |
| ✅ 90W wired charging |
2. HMD Skyline: Most Repairable Phone
- Price: $499
- Availability:
- Display: 6.55-inch P-OLED with 144Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 2
- RAM: Upto 12GB
- Camera: 108MP+50MP+13MP
- Battery: 4,600mAh
- Charging: 33W wired,15W wireless
Why We Recommend It:
Want a highly repairable phone that also supports magnetic charging? Meet the HMD Skyline, which is the best phone under $500. The phone has a 6.55-inch pOLED panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, which is smooth enough for everyday use. HMD promises two years of OS updates, and the phone has a 108-megapixel triple camera setup on the back. But you will need to deal with a 4,600mAh battery with 33W wired and 15W wireless magnetic charging, just like the latest iPhones.
Who Should Buy It:
For those who like the idea of tinkering around with their device to fix stuff, the HMD Skyline is a great pick. It is great for those who wish to fix their phone at home and aren’t comfortable with the idea of third-party repairs. Also, the inclusion of features such as a telephoto lens and wireless charging makes it an easy recommendation for those transitioning from an older flagship
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Despite its unique pitch, the HMD Skyline has its own set of drawbacks that buyers will need to consider. The average mid-range chip and the fact that Android 16 will be the last update are something you should keep in mind. The “edgy” design with pointed corners makes the phone hard to use without a case. Also, the IP54 rating means you cannot take your phone for those occasional swims.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy to repair with widely available parts | ❌ Not the fastest phone in the segment |
| ✅ Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor | ❌ Only 2 years of OS updates |
| ✅ Magnetic Qi-2 wireless charging | ❌ IP54 rating |
| ✅ 108MP triple camera setup | |
| ✅ Customizable custom button |
Also Read:
- Galaxy S25 AI Subscription Club: A New Way to Own a Phone?
- Nothing Phone (3a) Series Launch Confirmed for March 4
3. Samsung Galaxy A56: Best Samsung Mid-Ranger
- Price: $439
- Availability: Amazon US
- Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1580
- RAM: Upto 12GB
- Camera:50MP+12MP+5MP, 12MP
- Battery:5,000mAh
- Charging: 45W wired charging
Why We Recommend It:
In case the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is too expensive for you, the Samsung Galaxy A56 can be a viable alternative. With 6 years of OS updates and the latest One UI 7, it has a great software experience. For content consumption, you get a massive 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with thin bezels. There’s also 1900 nits of peak brightness and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+. And if you are wondering about AI features, Samsung introduced its Awesome Intelligence exclusive to the Galaxy A56 and some other phones. These include all the perks, including Circle To Search, AI Select, Read Aloud, Object Eraser, and Best Face. Auto Trim and more. For photography, there’s a 50-megapixel triple camera setup in a pill-shaped camera module. With a 5,000mAh battery and 45W fast charging, it has the same perks as perks has the S25 series.
Who Should Buy It:
The Samsung Galaxy A56 is great for those who wish to get into the Samsung ecosystem on a budget. Not only does it bring the cool Galaxy AI features from the more expensive S25 series, but it also has a rather refreshing design. It’s especially appealing for buyers who value long-term updates, want a beautifully bright display without paying a flagship premium.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The Samsung Galaxy A56 isn’t made for power users or a photography-centric audience. The Exynos 1580 struggles with demanding tasks, and the lack of a telephoto lens puts it behind the competition. Also, the pricing is often close to last year’s S24 FE, which makes it a bit hard to recommend.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ 6 Years of OS updates | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen | ❌ No wireless charging |
| ✅ Great triple camera setup | ❌ Exynos 1580 isn’t the fastest |
| ✅ IP67 rating | |
| ✅ 5,000mAh battery | |
| ✅ Plenty of useful AI features | |
| ✅ Unique design with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ |
Best Phones to Consider Under $600
If you are willing to stretch your budget by another $100, then you can open your window to plenty of new options. From the latest iPhone 16e to the OnePlus 13R, there are many phones to consider in this price segment. Let’s take a look at all of them:
1. Apple iPhone 16e: Cheapest iPhone With Apple Intelligence
- Price: $599
- Availability Apple US
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
- Processor: Apple A18
- RAM: 8GB
- Camera:48MP, 12MP
- Battery: 26 hours of battery life
- Charging: 20W wired, 7.5W wireless
Why We Recommend It:
Want an affordable iPhone that doesn’t cost an arm or a leg? Take a look at the iPhone 16e. This e for economical iPhone that offers the same Apple Intelligence features and has the A18 processor as the expensive iPhone 16. Apple’s “budget” iPhone even has the Action Button and the longest battery life that you can expect from an iPhone. Overall, it’s a great buy for first-time iPhone buyers who don’t want to miss out on those AI features.
Who Should Buy It:
Positioned between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e is an excellent choice for those who want smooth performance, AI features without that premium price. If you value compactness, standout battery life, and a clean iOS experience, the iPhone 16e delivers. It’s especially appealing to those upgrading from older models like the iPhone SE or iPhone 11 who want modern capabilities like USB-C and Face ID in a familiar, accessible form factor.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
For those who want an iPhone with a modern design or at least two sets of cameras, the iPhone 16e isn’t for you. There are plenty of sacrifices that you need to make with the 16e just to get Apple Intelligence. Whether it’s the lack of MagSafe charging, Ultra-Wideband, or Wi-Fi 7, or the ugly notch, the cons outweigh the pros, especially at the current price.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Apple Intelligence | ❌ Outdated notch |
| ✅ Action Button | ❌ No ultrawide-angle camera |
| ✅ Latest A18 chipset | ❌ No Magsafe support |
| ✅ Longer Battery Than iPhone 16 | ❌ No Camera Control |
| ✅ Latest iOS 18 out of the box | ❌ No UWB and Sensor Shift OIS |
2. OnePlus 13R: Most Powerful Phone Under $600
- Price: $599
- Availability: OnePlus USA
- Display: 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: Upto 16GB
- Camera:50MP+50MP+8MP
- Battery: 6,000mAh
- Charging: 80W wired
Why We Recommend It:
The OnePlus 13R is worth the additional $100 you spend over the OnePlus 12R. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 from last year, an upgrade over the 8 Gen 2, and actually comes with UFS 4.0, this time (iykyk). OnePlus opted for a flat display, which should make it easier to apply tempered glass. Another upgrade is the 2x telephoto lens, which should help in taking better photos. Despite the slower 80W charging speed compared to 100W on the OnePlus 12, users can expect longer battery backup thanks to the new 6,000mAh battery. You also get longer OS updates of upto 4 years, and the OnePlus 13R ships with the latest OxygenOS 15.
Who Should Buy It:
For those who want flagship-grade performance without the premium price, the OnePlus 13R delivers it. It is ideal for users who want a top-tier display and a massive battery at an accessible price point. The 50MP telephoto lens is another bonus, so you won’t be sacrificing on the camera’s too. With 4 years of OS updates and smooth software, it’s an easy recommendation.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The OnePlus 13R does have its own set of shortcomings. You miss out on things like wireless charging, a set of consistent cameras, and a more premium IP68/IP69 rating.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Massive 6,000mAh battery | ❌ Downgraded 80W charging compared to 100W on 12R |
| ✅ Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor | |
| ✅ 50-megapixel telephoto lens | |
| ✅ 4 years of OS updates | |
| ✅ Flat display |
3. Motorola Edge (2025)
- Price: $549
- Availability: Motorola USA/Amazon USA
- Display: 6.7-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7400
- RAM: 8GB
- Camera:50MP+50MP+10MP
- Battery: 5,200mAh
- Charging: 68W wired and 15W wireless
Why We Recommend It:
For those who want a phone with a stock Android experience and a premium build, the Motorola Edge (2025) is the one for you. At first glance, it doesn’t look like a mid-ranger thanks to the premium vegan leather finish. Not only does it look good, but has military grade certification and an IP68+IP69 rating. You get an equally stunning 6.7-inch 1.5K panel on the front with Pantone-calibrated colors. Since no phone is complete without AI features, you get a dedicated AI key. Other features include a triple camera setup with a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, a microSD card slot, and stereo speakers. All of this is backed by a 5,200mAh battery with 68W fast wired and 15W wireless charging.
Who Should Buy It:
This device is worth considering for those who value aesthetics paired with practical durability. The Edge (2025) caters to those who want a bold, premium feel in a mid-range budget. It offers an ultra-bright, curved display, good battery life, and superfast charging. Some of the features, such as a telephoto lens, microSD card slot, and wireless charging, are rare in this price segment.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The performance is what holds back the Edge 2025 from becoming the best mid-range phone. The Dimensity 7400 paired with the slower UFS 2.2 storage results in occasional lags and stutters. With just 2 years of OS updates, it falls significantly behind the competition in terms of long-term support.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 6.7-inch 1.5K screen | ❌ Dimensity 7400 offers average performance |
| ✅ MIL-STD-810H and IP68+IP69 rating | ❌ Slow UFS 2.2 storage |
| ✅ 10-megapixel telephoto lens | ❌ Only 2 years of OS updates |
| ✅ Dedicated AI key | |
| ✅ 5,200mAh battery |
FAQs
1. Is it worth buying a refurbished flagship, or should I go for a new phone?
If you can find a good refurbished flagship phone in mint condition, then it might make sense to go for a flagship instead of a mid-range device. Make sure to check the battery health, remaining warranty, and condition of the phone before buying it.
2. Should I import phones under $500 from China or other countries?
Importing phones from other countries can be a hassle since you don’t get any warranty support, returns, or replacements. Moreover, you also need to deal with customs, import duties, and other taxes, which could be more than the cost of the phone itself. However, if you find a great deal or have a relative living abroad, then importing a phone will make more sense.
