Best Mid-Range Phones Under $500 in 2025: Top Picks

In 2025, the mid-range smartphone market is hotter than ever, with a wide range of options that offer premium features without the sky-high price tag. Whether you're after solid performance, sleek design, or a great camera setup, these phones strike the perfect balance between value and functionality. We've handpicked the top 5+1 phones under $500, so you can make the most of your budget while still enjoying the latest tech.

What’s New in Mid-Range Smartphones for 2025?

In 2025, mid-range smartphones are packing more power, better cameras, and smoother displays than ever before. With advanced processors, improved battery life, and enhanced AI features, these phones offer near-flagship performance without breaking the bank. Expect upgraded 5G connectivity, OLED or high-refresh-rate displays, and faster charging capabilities, all while maintaining affordability.

Let’s dive into the best options!

How to Choose the Best Mid-Range Phone Under $500?

When choosing a phone in this price range, it’s crucial to consider a few factors:

• Performance: Look for devices with at least a Snapdragon 7-series or Dimensity 9000 series chipset to ensure smooth operation, especially for multitasking or gaming.
• Camera Quality: If photography is important to you, consider phones with high-megapixel sensors (like the 200MP or 108MP cameras) for crisp shots.
• Display: An AMOLED display with a 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate is ideal for vibrant, fluid visuals.
• Battery Life & Charging Speed: With 5000mAh+ batteries and fast-charging technology, you can easily power through your day without long waits at the charger.
• Software Experience: Stock Android or light UI skins (like OxygenOS) can offer a cleaner, more responsive experience compared to heavier skins.

1. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Key Features:

• Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Exynos 1380
• Camera: 50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro
• Battery: 5000mAh, 25W fast charging
• OS: One UI 6 (Android 14)

Ideal for: Users who want reliable performance and an excellent display without the flagship price.

Price: Around $450

Why It Stands Out:
The Galaxy A54 5G impresses with its high-quality Super AMOLED display, offering vivid colors and smooth visuals. The Exynos 1380 processor ensures smooth multitasking, while the triple-camera setup delivers solid photos for most scenarios. Plus, the 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and gaming experiences buttery smooth.

2. Google Pixel 7a

Key Features:

• Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 90Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Google Tensor G2
• Camera: 64MP primary, 13MP ultrawide
• Battery: 4385mAh, 18W fast charging
• OS: Stock Android 14

Ideal for: Android purists and photography enthusiasts.

Price: Around $499

Why It Stands Out:
The Pixel 7a takes the cake for camera performance in the mid-range category, with Google’s computational photography making a big difference. Expect excellent low-light photos, vibrant colors, and sharp details. The compact OLED display offers great contrast, and the Tensor G2 chip ensures seamless performance.

3. OnePlus Nord 3

Key Features:

• Display: 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
• Camera: 50MP primary, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP depth
• Battery: 4500mAh, 80W SuperVOOC fast charging
• OS: OxygenOS (based on Android 14)

Ideal for: Power users who want top-tier performance with ultra-fast charging.

Price: Around $479

Why It Stands Out:
With its 120Hz AMOLED display and Dimensity 9000 chipset, the OnePlus Nord 3 delivers impressive gaming and multitasking performance. Plus, the 80W fast charging is an absolute game-changer, taking you from 0 to 100% in just under 30 minutes. If you need a powerhouse with fast charging, this is it.

4. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro

Key Features:

• Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 2
• Camera: 200MP primary, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
• Battery: 5000mAh, 67W fast charging
• OS: MIUI 15 (based on Android 14)

Ideal for: Photography lovers and users who value fast charging.

Price: Around $499

Why It Stands Out:
Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro pushes the envelope with its groundbreaking 200MP camera. Whether you're snapping high-resolution shots or using the ultra-wide lens for landscapes, the camera setup impresses. The AMOLED display and Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 processor provide smooth performance for everyday tasks and media consumption.

5. Motorola Edge 40 Neo

Key Features:

• Display: 6.55-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8030
• Camera: 50MP primary, 13MP ultrawide
• Battery: 5000mAh, 68W TurboPower charging
• OS: My UX (based on Android 14)

Ideal for: Those looking for a premium design and fast charging in the mid-range segment.

Price: Around $469

Why It Stands Out:
The Motorola Edge 40 Neo features a sleek design with an AMOLED display that offers vibrant colors. Its 50MP camera and 120Hz refresh rate are excellent for media consumption and social media enthusiasts. The TurboPower fast charging gets you up and running quickly, perfect for on-the-go users.

5+1. Realme 12 Pro

Key Features:

• Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G
• Camera: 108MP primary, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
• Battery: 4500mAh, 65W fast charging
• OS: Realme UI 5.0 (based on Android 14)

Ideal For: Users who want a big, beautiful screen and a high-resolution camera at an affordable price.

Price: Around $479

Why It Stands Out:
The Realme 12 Pro shines with its stunning 108MP camera, perfect for high-resolution photography. The AMOLED display and 120Hz refresh rate ensure smooth visuals, and the Snapdragon 778G processor handles daily tasks and light gaming effortlessly. Plus, the 65W fast charging means less time waiting for a full charge.

Comparison Table

FAQ

Q1: What is the best phone under $500 in 2025?
A1: The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G offers the best overall value with its solid performance, stunning display, and great camera system, making it a top choice for users on a budget.

Q2: Which mid-range phone has the best camera under $500?
A2: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro is the best for photography with its impressive 200MP primary camera, delivering sharp and detailed shots, perfect for those who prioritize camera quality.

Q3: Are mid-range phones under $500 worth buying?
A3: Yes, mid-range phones under $500 offer great value, with powerful processors, solid cameras, and long battery life, making them an excellent choice for users who want premium features without the high price tag.

Which Mid-Range Phone Is Best for You?

• Best for Display & Camera: The Google Pixel 7a is a clear winner for those who prioritize camera quality and a clean, smooth software experience.
• Best for Performance & Speed: The OnePlus Nord 3 offers the most power with its Dimensity 9000 chip and blazing fast 80W charging.
• Best Overall Value: The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G strikes the perfect balance with a beautiful display, solid cameras, and dependable performance.