WIRED expert names the best smartphones under $600: the selection.

According to ТСН: The expert presented an updated list of affordable smartphones that do not require overpayment for 'flagship' features. It includes models priced up to $600 that run on Android and iOS.

Best smartphones at affordable prices

According to information, the WIRED magazine recognized Google Pixel 9a as the best budget smartphone. Its price is $499, which is almost twice cheaper than iPhone 16 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus. The device is equipped with the flagship Google Tensor G4 chip and receives software updates for seven years. The smartphone features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, a 5100 mAh battery, and water resistance (IP68). The cameras are also of high quality: a 48-megapixel main module, an ultra-wide camera, and a selfie camera with artificial intelligence features, including spam-call filtering and sound enhancement in videos.

New iPhone

The most affordable new iPhone is the iPhone 16e priced at $599. It runs on the A18 processor, supports Apple Intelligence, and has impressive battery life. However, this smartphone lacks some 'premium' features: it has only one main camera, partial MagSafe support, and no ultra-wideband chip for precise accessory tracking. The reviewer acknowledges it as a quality device but believes that in terms of price and capabilities, it is not the best option.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE

For Samsung fans, the Galaxy S25 FE is recommended. This simplified version of the flagship features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a 4900 mAh battery, and a triple camera with 3x optical zoom. The device runs on the Exynos 2400 chip and receives long-term software support. It is recommended to consider it during sales when the price falls to around $475.

Best balance of price and capabilities

Among the phones with optimal price-to-performance ratios are the Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro with original design, 120 Hz AMOLED displays, and powerful cameras. Among models under $400, the standout is the Moto G Stylus 2025 with Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, a stylus, wireless charging, IP68 protection, and a headphone jack. The best in the category under $300 was recognized as the CMF Phone 2 Pro featuring a 120 Hz AMOLED display and three cameras that receives three Android updates.

Long-lasting battery life

For users looking for long battery life, WIRED recommends the OnePlus 13R with a 6000 mAh battery and flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The review showed that the device can run for up to two days without a recharge, and charging from zero takes less than an hour, although the model does not support wireless charging.

Foldable phones

Among the most affordable foldable models is the Motorola Razr 2025, which sometimes sells for around $600 and features an outer screen for widgets and selfies.

The reviewer advises paying attention to the brand's reputation and the duration of software support when choosing. He emphasizes that one should avoid old budget models and little-known manufacturers with no clear update policies as this may lead to a lack of protection and current features in the future.

It also reminds that experts have discovered the Sturnus Trojan for Android, which exploits accessibility features to gain control over the device and can read encrypted chats in WhatsApp and Telegram.

Thus, the new list of smartphones demonstrates a variety of available models that meet user needs based on different criteria. Whether you are looking for a budget option, an optimal balance of price and quality, or a device with long battery life, this review has solutions for every taste.