Best Budget Samsung Phones Under $500 in 2025

Buying a new smartphone doesn’t have to drain your wallet. In fact, Samsung has mastered the art of creating feature-packed devices that deliver premium experiences without the flagship price tag. If you’re searching for Samsung phones under $500, you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of options that balance performance, design, and software support. From the Galaxy A-series to Fan Edition (FE) models, Samsung’s midrange lineup is designed for everyday users who want quality and reliability at a more affordable price. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Samsung phones under $500, breaking down what makes each one stand out and which is the right fit for your lifestyle.

Why Choose Samsung Phones Under $500?

Before diving into the list, it’s worth understanding why Samsung dominates this price category: Display Quality – Even at lower price points, Samsung’s Super AMOLED panels are unmatched in brightness, contrast, and smooth refresh rates. Software Support – Many models promise up to four years of Android OS updates and five years of security patches. That’s a huge advantage in the midrange market. Durability – With Gorilla Glass protection, water resistance (on some models), and sleek builds, these devices last. Wide Variety – Whether you prioritize gaming, photography, or day-to-day use, there’s always a Samsung device to match your budget.

The Best Samsung Phones Under $500

1. Samsung Galaxy A56 5G: Almost Flagship, Half the Price

The Galaxy A56 5G is one of the most premium-feeling Samsung phones under $500. Featuring Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides, an aluminum frame, and IP68 water/dust resistance, this phone is built like a flagship. Inside, you get a 5,000 mAh battery with 45W fast charging, ensuring all-day usage with minimal downtime. It’s ideal for heavy users who want durability, gaming-ready performance, and long-lasting battery life, without stretching into the $800+ range.

2. Samsung Galaxy A55: Balanced and Reliable

The A55 is one of the most talked-about midrange devices. With a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, 120 Hz refresh rate, and Samsung Knox security, it’s a true all-rounder. What makes it one of the best Samsung phones under $500 is its clean and responsive One UI software, which feels surprisingly close to what you get on premium Galaxy S models. If you’re looking for a phone that nails the essentials, like smooth performance, strong battery, and solid cameras, then the A55 won’t disappoint.

3. Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: The Long Term Choice

The A36 5G strikes an excellent balance between affordability and future-proofing. It runs on the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, supports 5G, and promises up to six years of software updates. Combine that with a large 6.7-inch AMOLED 120 Hz display, and you have one of the most dependable Samsung phones under $500. This is the phone for buyers who don’t want to worry about upgrading again anytime soon.

4. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G: Affordable and Feature-Rich

The Galaxy A35 5G is priced lower than the A36 but doesn’t feel like much of a downgrade. It comes with a 120 Hz Super AMOLED display, 5,000 mAh battery, and an impressive update policy (four years of Android OS, five years of security). It’s hands down one of the most value-packed Samsung phones under $500, perfect for students, professionals, or anyone on a tighter budget.

5. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G: Entertainment Focused

For those who consume a lot of media, the A54 5G is an excellent choice. It’s powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, offers excellent video playback, and features stereo speakers for an immersive experience. Its 50MP main camera with OIS also performs well for photos and videos. Among Samsung phones under $500, this one is perfect for gamers and content consumers who want entertainment on the go.

6. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: Flagship Features at a Budget Price

The Fan Edition series has always been about giving users a taste of flagship features at a lower cost. The S24 FE follows that tradition, offering near premium cameras, fast performance, and a polished build. Depending on deals, you can find it right around $500, making it a strong competitor in this category. If you can catch this phone on sale, it might just be the best buy on this entire list.

Common Question: Are Samsung Phones Under $500 Worth Buying?

Of course. While flagship devices like the Galaxy S24 Ultra have cutting-edge features, the midrange models are more than enough for most users. You still get fast performance, gorgeous displays, excellent cameras, and years of updates. The best part? You’re paying less than half the price of a flagship.

Conclusion

The midrange smartphone market has never been more competitive, but Samsung continues to stand out. If you’re considering Samsung phones under $500, models like the Galaxy A56, A55, A36, A35, A54, and the S24 FE provide incredible value. Whether you’re a gamer, a student, or someone who simply wants a reliable daily driver, there’s a Samsung device here that matches your needs. At this price point, you don’t just get affordability—you get peace of mind, software longevity, and premium design touches that Samsung is known for.