This segment, often referred to as “best Phones Under $480,” is becoming increasingly competitive, with brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, Realme, and Vivo leading the charge. These manufacturers consistently deliver devices that blend top-tier specifications and sleek designs, making this price range more attractive to a broader range of consumers. Even with a budget under $480, buyers can expect to find features like near-flagship performance, premium materials, fast-charging capabilities, and impressive camera setups. This guide highlights some of the best smartphones under $480 in 2024, ensuring you get maximum value for your money without sacrificing key features that define a modern smartphone experience.
1. Realme GT 6
Kicking off our list of the best phones under $480 is the Realme GT 6. Known for offering flagship-level features at a fraction of the cost, the GT 6 provides excellent value for budget-conscious buyers. With a stunning 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display that boasts a resolution of 1264 x 2780 pixels, this device ensures vibrant colors and deep contrasts, perfect for gaming and media consumption. It runs on the powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, capable of handling everything from multitasking to resource-heavy apps.
Available in configurations with 8 GB, 12 GB, or even 16 GB of RAM, coupled with storage options ranging from 256 GB to 512 GB, this phone is well-suited for users who demand speed and efficiency. The camera system includes two 50 MP rear lenses and an 8 MP sensor, which work in tandem to capture sharp, detailed images. The front-facing camera is no slouch either, with a 32 MP sensor perfect for high-quality selfies.
This phone also packs a 5500 mAh battery that supports ultra-fast 120W charging, ensuring you’re always ready to go. Starting at $492, the Realme GT 6 is slightly above the threshold, but the additional features and performance make it a top contender among phones under $480.
2. Vivo T3 Ultra
Another great option in the “Phones Under $480” category is the Vivo T3 Ultra. Priced at around $384, this phone packs impressive features, such as a 6.78-inch curved display and the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, making it a solid choice for users who prioritize performance and style. The curved edges not only enhance the display’s immersive quality but also lend the device a premium look and feel. The Vivo T3 Ultra boasts a dual-camera setup on the rear, headlined by a 50 MP primary lens and an 8 MP secondary sensor.
On the front, you’ll find a 50 MP camera, perfect for crystal-clear selfies and video calls. This device also features an IP68 rating, making it resistant to dust and water, a feature often reserved for more expensive models. It comes equipped with a 5500 mAh battery and supports 80W fast charging, ensuring quick refueling times. The T3 Ultra’s elegant glass design coupled with its robust internal hardware makes it one of the most attractive phones under $480. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a heavy user who needs a phone that can keep up, the Vivo T3 Ultra delivers on both fronts.
3. Realme GT 6T
If you’re looking for an affordable option in the “Phones Under $480” bracket, the Realme GT 6T is a perfect choice. Priced at around $360, this phone offers a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display and is powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor. The display’s 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth navigation and gameplay, while the curved edges add to the phone’s premium feel. In terms of photography, the Realme GT 6T features a 50 MP main camera accompanied by an 8 MP secondary lens, providing versatility for wide-angle and close-up shots.
On the front, a 32 MP camera ensures high-quality selfies. Like other phones in this price range, the Realme GT 6T also features a robust 5500 mAh battery with ultra-fast 120W charging capabilities. This means you can get a full day’s charge in just a few minutes, making it perfect for users who are always on the go. Starting at $360, the Realme GT 6T combines affordability and premium features, making it an outstanding choice among phones under $480 in 2024.
4. iQOO Neo9 Pro
For those who need a phone that can handle demanding tasks, the iQOO Neo9 Pro is one of the top contenders in the “Phones Under $480” category. Priced at approximately $444, the Neo9 Pro offers a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, this phone ensures top-tier performance without the premium price tag. It comes with up to 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, ensuring plenty of space for apps, games, and multimedia.
The camera setup includes a 50 MP primary sensor and an 8 MP secondary lens, while the front-facing 16 MP camera is perfect for selfies and video calls. A key highlight of the Neo9 Pro is its 5000 mAh battery, which supports rapid 120W fast charging. This means less downtime and more usage, making it an excellent option for power users. The combination of cutting-edge performance and sleek design makes the iQOO Neo9 Pro a solid choice for anyone looking for high-performing phones under $480 in 2024.
5. OnePlus 12R
The OnePlus 12R, priced at $480, is another standout option in the growing market for phones under $480. With a 6.78-inch AMOLED display and a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, the OnePlus 12R offers a fantastic viewing experience for those who enjoy gaming or watching videos. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and comes with up to 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, making it ideal for users who require a phone capable of heavy multitasking.
In terms of photography, the OnePlus 12R is equipped with a 50 MP main camera and an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, ensuring versatility in your shots. For selfie lovers, the 16 MP front-facing camera is more than sufficient for high-quality photos. With a 5500 mAh battery and support for 100W SUPERVOOC fast charging, this device is both powerful and efficient. The OnePlus 12R is also IP64-rated, offering some protection against water and dust. Overall, this phone delivers a near-flagship experience, making it one of the best phones under $480.
6. HONOR 200
In the “Phones Under $480” category, the HONOR 200 stands out for its quad-curved AMOLED display and impressive camera setup. Priced around $420, this phone features a 6.78-inch display that provides an immersive viewing experience, making it perfect for gaming and media consumption. Under the hood, it is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, which is more than capable of handling daily tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
The HONOR 200 offers up to 12 GB of RAM and a generous 512 GB of internal storage, giving users plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos. The camera setup is equally impressive, featuring a triple-lens configuration with a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP secondary sensor, and a 12 MP lens that offers 2.5x telephoto zoom.
On the front, a 50 MP selfie camera ensures stunning self-portraits and video calls. The 5200 mAh battery supports 100W fast charging, although it is worth noting that the charger is sold separately. If you’re looking for a phone with a premium display and advanced camera capabilities, the HONOR 200 offers tremendous value for those seeking phones under $480 in 2024.
7. Motorola Edge 50 Pro
Priced at around $384, the Motorola Edge 50 Pro is an excellent choice in the “Phones Under $480” market. Known for its stylish design and smooth performance, this phone features a 6.7-inch pOLED display with an impressive 144 Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming and watching high-definition content.
The Edge 50 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, providing a balance of efficiency and power. The triple-camera setup includes a 50 MP primary sensor, a 13 MP secondary sensor, and a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, offering a versatile photography experience.
For selfie enthusiasts, the 16 MP front-facing camera captures high-quality images with ease. The phone’s 4500 mAh battery supports up to 125W fast charging and 50W wireless charging, ensuring you never run out of juice when you need it most. Its combination of features and price makes the Motorola Edge 50 Pro one of the best phones under $480 for those who value design, performance, and fast charging capabilities.
8. Samsung Galaxy A55 5G
Rounding off our list of the best phones under $480 is the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G. Priced at approximately $480, this device offers excellent value for anyone seeking premium features at an affordable price. The Galaxy A55 5G features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, ensuring vibrant colors and deep contrasts that make everything from gaming to streaming video a pleasure.
It is powered by Samsung’s own Exynos 1480 processor, which provides solid performance for daily tasks, apps, and light gaming. The phone’s camera setup includes a 50 MP primary sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5 MP depth sensor, offering a well-rounded photography experience. On the front, a 32 MP camera is perfect for selfies and video calls. The 5000 mAh battery supports 25W fast charging, though it’s important to note that the charger is sold separately. The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is a reliable choice for anyone looking for a phone with strong brand reputation and dependable performance in the under-$480 range.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best phones under $480 in 2024, consumers are spoiled for choice. This price range offers a wide variety of options that cater to different needs, whether it’s high-performance processors, rapid charging capabilities, stunning cameras, or sleek, premium designs. Each phone on this list brings something unique to the table, ensuring that there’s a device for everyone, from power users to photography enthusiasts.
As technology continues to advance, the mid-tier segment delivers flagship-like experiences at more affordable prices, proving that you don’t have to break the bank to get a top-tier smartphone. With brands like Realme, Vivo, Motorola, and Samsung leading the way, the “Phones Under $480” category is more competitive than ever, giving users the opportunity to enjoy near-flagship performance without exceeding their budget.
