---
title: "Best Phones Under $500 in 2022: Upgrading on a Budget"
id: "67"
type: "post"
slug: "best-phones-under-500-in-2022-upgrading-on-a-budget"
published_at: "2022-11-20T22:46:38+00:00"
modified_at: "2023-11-25T03:44:37+00:00"
url: "https://ocelly.com/rankings/best-phones-under-500-in-2022-upgrading-on-a-budget/"
markdown_url: "https://ocelly.com/rankings/best-phones-under-500-in-2022-upgrading-on-a-budget.md"
excerpt: "Want to buy a new phone without spending a grand? Here in 2022, many new phones seem to all be around $1000. However, you can still get a great experience with a sub-$500 phone and have all the essential features..."
taxonomy_category:
  - "Rankings"
---

Want to buy a new phone without spending a grand? Here in 2022, many new phones seem to all be around $1000. However, you can still get a great experience with a sub-$500 phone and have all the essential features for everyday use, without compromise.

### Google Pixel 6a – [$449](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B3PSRHHN)

The Google Pixel 6a is the best all-around Android phone under $500. You still get all of Google’s smart features because it uses the same Tensor chip as the more expensive Pixel 6 and 6 Pro.

**Pros:**  
Great camera system with Google’s processing  
Premium feeling with the aluminum frame  
Outstanding performance for the price due to the Google Tensor chip – and added smart features such as face unblur and magic eraser

**Cons:**  
60hz screen may seem slower than 120hz options  
No wireless charging  
Average battery life

### Samsung Galaxy A53 – [$449](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09R6FJWWS)

Although on the larger side, the Samsung Galaxy A53 is a great option for those wanting a feature-packed phone.

**Pros:**  
Stunning 120hz OLED screen with bright colors  
5000 mAh battery for above-average battery life  
64 MP camera produces great shots in good light

**Cons:**  
Slower processor, could lead to occasional lag in multitasking  
No wireless charging  
Big body, tough to use one-handed

### OnePlus Nord N20 – [$299](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B14LBNL6)

For those wanting an even cheaper option, you can’t go wrong with the OnePlus Nord N20 for just $299.

**Pros:**  
Capable chipset that keeps up with most daily tasks  
4500 mAh battery with good battery life  
Decent OLED screen for everyday use

**Cons:**  
Limited software update support  
Camera is substandard, and no ultrawide  
60hz display

### Leave a Comment [Cancel Reply](/rankings/best-phones-under-500-in-2022-upgrading-on-a-budget/#respond)