Finding the best Samsung phone under $500 has become easier than ever in 2025, with Samsung offering an impressive lineup of budget-friendly devices that don’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re asking yourself which Samsung phone is best for your needs or wondering what is the best Samsung phone in 2025 within your budget, we’ve got you covered.
At Roly’s Mobiles, we understand that choosing the right smartphone can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you discover which is the best Samsung phone to buy without breaking the bank. From powerful processors to stunning displays, these best Samsung phones under $500 options deliver exceptional value.
Why Choose Samsung in 2025?
Samsung continues to dominate the smartphone market with devices that offer premium features at various price points. The best Samsung phone options under $500 showcase why Samsung remains a top choice for Australian consumers. With robust build quality, excellent cameras, and long-term software support, these devices answer the question of which Samsung phone is best for me if you’re a budget-conscious buyer. Plus, for ultimate peace of mind, consider investing in the best screen protectors to keep your new device pristine.
Top 3 Samsung Phones Under $500 in 2025
1. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G – $399
Our Top Pick for Best Value
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is our top pick for the best Samsung phone under $500 for most people. This impressive device offers flagship-level features at a fraction of the cost, making it an excellent choice for those wondering which Samsung phone is best for everyday use.
Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.6-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with a super smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 1380 chipset
- Memory: 6GB RAM with 128GB storage (expandable up to 1TB)
- Camera System: a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, a 5MP macro lens, and a 13MP front-facing camera
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Software: Android 14 and One UI 6.1 on board, backed by four years of updates
Why It’s Great: The Galaxy A35 5G delivers everything you need in a modern smartphone. The 120Hz AMOLED display provides smooth scrolling and vibrant colours, while the 50MP camera system captures stunning photos in various lighting conditions. The 5,000mAh battery easily lasts a full day, and Samsung’s commitment to five years of software updates ensures long-term value.
Who Should Buy It: Perfect for users seeking the best Samsung phone experience under $500. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts, social media users, and anyone who wants a premium feel without the premium price tag.
2. Samsung Galaxy A16 5G – $249
Best Budget Option
If you’re looking for the most affordable Samsung phone option, the Galaxy A16 5G delivers impressive value at just $249. This device shows you don’t need to spend a lot to get a good Samsung smartphone.
Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
- Memory: 4GB RAM with 128GB storage (expandable)
- Camera System: a 50MP main camera, an 5MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 13MP front-facing camera
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Software: Android 14 and One UI 6.1 on board, backed by four years of updates
Why It’s Great: Despite its budget price, the A16 5G doesn’t skimp on essential features. The large 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate provides a smooth viewing experience, while the 50MP main camera captures decent photos for social media sharing. The 5,000mAh battery ensures all-day usage.
Who Should Buy It: Ideal for first-time smartphone users, students, seniors, or anyone needing a reliable backup phone. It’s the best Samsung phone for those prioritising basic functionality and 5G connectivity at an unbeatable price.
3. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G – $349
Best Mid-Range Performance
The Galaxy A25 5G strikes an excellent balance between features and affordability, making it a strong contender for the best Samsung phone under $500 category.
Key Specifications:
- Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with a super smooth 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 1280
- Memory: 6GB RAM with 128GB storage (expandable)
- Camera System: a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 13MP front-facing camera
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Software: Android 14 and One UI 6.1 on board, backed by four years of updates
Why It’s Great: The A25 5G offers reliable performance for daily tasks, with its Exynos 1280 processor handling apps and multitasking smoothly. The 120Hz AMOLED display provides excellent visual quality, while the camera system delivers solid results for the price point.
Who Should Buy It: Perfect for users who want more performance than the A16 but don’t need all the features of the A35. It’s an excellent choice for moderate users seeking the best Samsung phone with a balance of features and price.
Which Samsung Phone is Best for Different Users?
For Students and First-Time Users
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G at $249 is the best Samsung phone for those new to smartphones. It offers essential features without overwhelming complexity, making it perfect for learning smartphone basics.
For Photography Enthusiasts
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G provides the best camera experience under $500. Its 50MP main sensor, coupled with versatile ultrawide and macro lenses, makes it the best Samsung phone for capturing memories.
For Power Users on a Budget
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G again takes the crown, offering flagship-level performance with its Exynos 1380 processor and 120Hz display. It’s the best Samsung phone for those who want premium features without premium pricing.
For Long-Term Investment
All three phones offer excellent long-term value, but the Galaxy A35 5G with its five-year update commitment provides the best future-proofing, making it the best Samsung phone for long-term users.
Key Features to Consider
Display Quality
All our recommended best Samsung phones under $500 options feature AMOLED displays with high refresh rates, ensuring smooth scrolling and vibrant colours that rival much more expensive devices.
Camera Performance
Samsung’s camera technology trickles down to its budget devices, with all phones featuring capable 50MP main cameras that deliver impressive results for social media and everyday photography.
Battery Life
Each device features a 5,000mAh battery (except the premium models), ensuring all-day usage without compromise. This makes any of these the best Samsung phones for heavy users.
Software Support
Samsung’s commitment to long-term software updates means these devices will receive security patches and new features for years to come, answering what is the best Samsung phone in 2025 for future-conscious buyers.
Comparison Table
| Model | Price | Display | Processor | RAM/Storage | Main Camera | Battery |
| Galaxy A35 5G | $399 | 6.6″ 120Hz AMOLED | Exynos 1380 | 6GB/128GB | 50MP | 5,000mAh |
| Galaxy A25 5G | $349 | 6.5″ 120Hz AMOLED | Exynos 1280 | 6GB/128GB | 50MP | 5,000mAh |
| Galaxy A16 5G | $249 | 6.7″ 90Hz AMOLED | Dimensity 6300 | 4GB/128GB | 50MP | 5,000mAh |
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G emerges as the overall best Samsung phone under $500 for 2025. It offers the perfect blend of performance, features, and value that makes it suitable for most users. However, if budget is your primary concern, the Galaxy A16 5G provides excellent value at $249, proving that cheap Samsung phones can still deliver.
For those wondering which is the best Samsung phone to buy in 2025 without spending a fortune, any of these three options will serve you well. The key is matching your specific needs with the right device.
Where to Buy?
At Roly’s Mobiles, we stock all the best Samsung phones. Our expert team can help you determine which Samsung phone is best for you based on your specific needs and budget. We offer competitive pricing, genuine Samsung warranties, and excellent mobile phone services, including professional mobile phone repair. If you’re looking for the best Samsung phone 2024 had to offer and want to carry that value into 2025, come talk to us!
Contact Roly’s Mobiles today and let our experts help you find the perfect device for your lifestyle and budget.
