💰 Mid-Range Guide · Updated 2026

Best Phones Under £500

Under £500 is the sweet spot for most buyers — you get excellent cameras, smooth performance and long software support without spending flagship money.

Top Picks Under £500

Best Overall Under £500

Google Pixel 8a

The Pixel 8a is the standout phone under £500. Its camera competes with phones costing £1,000+ and it comes with 7 years of software updates.

Priceabout £300–£399, depending on stock

CameraBest-in-class AI

Updates7 years

Best ForBest All-Rounder

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Best Samsung Under £500

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

The S24 FE delivers Samsung's flagship camera system and polished software at a genuinely accessible price.

Price~£449

Camera50MP System

Display6.7-inch AMOLED

Best ForSamsung Value

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Best iPhone Under £500

iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

The only iPhone under £500. Compact, fast and packed with Apple features — the most affordable way into the iOS ecosystem.

Priceabout £180–£250 refurbished

ChipsetA15 Bionic

OSiOS 18

Best ForBudget iPhone

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best phone under £500?

The Google Pixel 8a is the best phone under £500 in 2026 — outstanding camera, clean Android and 7 years of updates at a competitive price.

Can I get an iPhone for under £500?

The iPhone SE (3rd generation) is the only new iPhone under £500. For a refurbished iPhone, the iPhone 14 can often be found at this price.

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Best Mid-Range Phones

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Best Camera Under £500

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Best Cheap iPhone Alternative

iPhone quality for less.

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Pixel 9a vs iPhone SE

Two great options at this price.

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