The sub-$500 price category is highly competitive for Samsung, offering a blend of premium features and accessibility through the highly popular Galaxy A-Series and the valuable Fan Edition (FE) lineup. Choosing the best phone in this range means prioritizing a few key specifications that were once exclusive to flagships: OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), High Refresh Rate AMOLED Displays, and 5G connectivity. By focusing on these features, users can secure a device that offers excellent value and longevity for several years.
Samsung ensures the mid-range experience is robust by including flagship components in their A-Series. Devices in this category typically feature vibrant Super AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, allowing the phone to feature a high-resolution display that is smooth and easy to view outdoors. Furthermore, strong camera stabilization via OIS enables users to capture photos/videos that are steady and professional-looking, even in low light.
This list details the 5 best Samsung Galaxy phones currently available for under $500 in late 2025. We focus on models designed to handle demanding tasks, such as gaming and high-resolution video streaming, while also offering excellent battery life and Samsung’s guaranteed commitment to long-term software and security updates
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE (Fan Edition) offers the most power for under $500, making it the top choice for performance enthusiasts. This phone features the high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or the capable Exynos 2400 chipset, which enables the device to run demanding games and process data quickly.
The S25 FE includes a primary camera with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) and supports fast power delivery with 45W Super Fast Wired Charging 2.0. It features a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, premium AI features and a large 4,900mAh battery. The device provides a near-flagship experience in terms of speed, camera stabilization, and charging technology.
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE full specifications
2. Samsung Galaxy A56 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G is the best overall mid-range phone, providing an excellent balance of features and long-term support. This phone features a crucial 50MP main camera with OIS, enabling users to capture photos/videos with exceptional stability and clarity, a key advantage over its non-OIS competitors.
The device is powered by a high-performance Exynos mid-range 5G processor and features a vibrant 120Hz Super AMOLED display. The A56 5G includes a robust 5,000mAh battery and supports 25W Fast Charging, helping users to optimize battery life efficiently throughout the day.
Samsung Galaxy A56 5G full specifications
3. Samsung Galaxy A36 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is the best mid-range option for pure display quality and battery life. It features Samsung’s signature 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing the phone to feature a high-resolution display that is vibrant and fluid for media consumption.
This model features a durable 5,000mAh battery and includes 25W Fast Charging support. The phone is built to optimize battery life for long usage times while handling essential tasks smoothly with its mid-range Dimensity 5G chipset. The A36 5G provides excellent value by offering a high-quality screen and reliable performance.
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G full specifications
4. Samsung Galaxy S24 (Refurbished/Sale)
The Samsung Galaxy S24, available as a certified refurbished unit or during major promotions, represents the highest-quality design and performance likely to fall under $500. This former flagship features the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy or Exynos 2400 chipset in a compact form factor.
This phone supports 25W Super Fast Wired Charging and 15W Wireless Charging. It features a 4,000mAh battery and a compact, bright Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. Choosing this option allows users to access true flagship features, such as premium build quality and high performance, within the best budget.
Samsung Galaxy S24 full specifications
5. Samsung Galaxy A26 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A26 5G is the most affordable current-generation device that includes the full suite of modern essentials under $500. This model features a high refresh rate 90Hz Super AMOLED panel, offering a significant visual improvement over older LCD models in this price segment.
The phone is expected to feature a 50MP main camera and reliably supports 25W Fast Charging. While it uses a mid-range processor, the A26 5G is capable enough to run demanding apps and games smoothly. The inclusion of 5G connectivity ensures fast network speeds and a reliable user experience.
