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Best phones for under £500
A great smartphone doesn't have to cost a fortune. We've rounded up the best options for under £500 that give you plenty of bang for your buck.
There's plenty to like in the under-£500-market, with phones offering everything from impressive cameras and long-lasting batteries to smooth everyday performance and 5G connectivity.
The best all rounder
When you want a phone that gets plenty right without stretching your budget, the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a safe bet. It brings together strong performance, impressive cameras and dependable battery life in one well-rounded package. From box-set binges and mobile gaming to snapping photos and keeping on top of your day, it handles it all with ease. If you're after one recommendation that suits most people, this is it.
Expert pick: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
Best phone camera for under £500
The Samsung Galaxy S24 really shines when it comes to picture-perfect photos. Its advanced camera system captures sharp details, vibrant colours and natural-looking shots, helping you get great results without fiddling with settings. Smart image processing works behind the scenes to enhance every image, whether you're sharing holiday memories or snapping selfies for your socials.
Expert pick: Samsung Galaxy S24
Best battery life phone for under £500
Always running low on battery before the day's done? Not with this. The HONOR 600 is built to go the distance, thanks to its huge 7700mAh battery that'll keep you powered through scrolling, streaming and everything in between. When it's finally time to recharge, fast charging gets you back up and running in no time. Add a vibrant display and plenty of premium features for the price, and you've got a phone that refuses to quit before you do.
Expert pick: HONOR 600
Best phone for entertainment under £500
Movie marathon? Gaming session? Just one more episode? The Samsung Galaxy A57 is built for all of it. Its large display serves up vibrant colours and crisp detail, helping everything from blockbuster films to social feeds look their best. Smooth performance keeps the action flowing without interruption, while the long-lasting battery is more than happy to stick around for an encore.
Expert pick: Samsung Galaxy A57
Best iPhone under £500
All the Apple goodness, without the eye-watering price tag. The iPhone 16e packs plenty of punch thanks to the powerful A18 chip, making everything from messaging friends to mobile gaming feel smooth and responsive. Apple Intelligence adds a helping hand with everyday tasks, while the capable camera system and impressive battery life make it a great companion from morning coffee to bedtime scrolling. And with years of software updates to look forward to, it's a phone that's built to stick around.
Expert pick: Apple iPhone 16e 128GB
Best samsung under £500
The Samsung Galaxy A37 covers all the essentials and then some, with a vibrant display, reliable performance and battery life that'll comfortably see you through the day. From catching up on group chats and scrolling socials to streaming your favourite shows, it's a stylish all-rounder that delivers plenty for your money.
Expert pick: Samsung Galaxy A37
Brand spotlight
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 256GB Smartphone in White
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 1TB Smartphone in Cobalt Violet
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 1TB Smartphone in Sky Blue
Mobile phone buying guide
Need a hand picking your next phone? We've broken down the options to help you find the perfect match.
- What is the best phone under £500 in 2026?
The best phone for you will depend on what matters most. Some models focus on photography, others prioritise battery life, gaming performance or productivity features. Think about how you use your phone day to day and choose one that ticks the right boxes.
- What does SIM-free mean?
A SIM-free phone gives you more flexibility. It's not tied to a specific network, so you can choose the provider, contract or pay-as-you-go plan that suits you best.
- Do phones under £500 support eSIM?
Many do, but it's always worth checking the specs first. eSIM support is becoming increasingly common on mid-range smartphones, making it easier to switch networks without needing a physical SIM card.
- Can you get a 5G phone for under £500?
- Absolutely. These days, 5G connectivity is a standard feature on many smartphones under £500, giving you access to faster downloads, smoother streaming and more responsive browsing when connected to a 5G network.
- Can you get a good smartphone for under £500?
You certainly can. Plenty of phones in this price range offer features that were once reserved for premium models, including impressive cameras, vibrant displays, speedy performance, long battery life and 5G connectivity.
- How much storage do I need on a phone?
For most people, 128GB is a great starting point. It gives you plenty of room for apps, photos, videos and everyday files. If you're constantly downloading games, filming in high resolution or storing lots of media, it's worth considering a model with extra space.
- Should I buy an Android phone or an iPhone?
Both have their strengths. Android offers a wider choice of devices, price points and customisation options, while iPhones are known for their simple user experience and seamless integration with other Apple devices. The right choice comes down to personal preference.
- What features should I look for when buying a phone under £500?
Start with the features you'll use most. Camera quality, battery life, screen performance, storage capacity and software support are all worth considering. The best phone is the one that fits your lifestyle, not just the one with the longest specs list.
- How long should a smartphone last?
A well-looked-after smartphone should comfortably last between three and five years. Regular software and security updates can help keep it running smoothly, while a protective case and careful handling can go a long way towards extending its lifespan.
