Finding the best phones under $700 is easier than ever in 2026. You no longer need to spend $1,000 or more to get a great display, capable cameras, fast performance, long battery life, and useful AI features.
The latest mid-range and affordable premium smartphones have narrowed the gap with flagship phones. From Apple’s iPhone 17e to Google’s Pixel 10a and Samsung’s Galaxy A57 5G, there are excellent choices for different types of buyers.
In this guide, we have selected the best smartphones under $700 in the USA in 2026 based on price, performance, camera quality, display, battery life, software support, features, and overall value.
Quick answer: The Google Pixel 10a is one of the best overall value phones under $700, while the iPhone 17e is the best choice for Apple users. The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is an excellent alternative Android option, and the Samsung Galaxy A57 5G is a strong choice for users who prefer Samsung’s ecosystem.
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Best Phones Under $700 in the USA
| Rank | Phone | Starting Price* | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Google Pixel 10a | $499 | Best overall value |
| 2 | iPhone 17e | $599 | Best iPhone |
| 3 | Nothing Phone (4a) Pro | $499 | Best alternative Android |
| 4 | Samsung Galaxy A57 5G | $549.99 | Best Samsung phone |
| 5 | Fairphone 6+ | $649 | Repairability & longevity |
*Prices can change because of sales, storage variants, and retailer promotions.
1. Google Pixel 10a — Best Overall Phone Under $700
The Google Pixel 10a is arguably one of the easiest phones to recommend in this price range.
Google starts the Pixel 10a at $499 in the US. It features a 6.3-inch pOLED display with a 60–120Hz refresh rate, Google’s Tensor G4 processor, 8GB RAM, a 5,100mAh battery, wireless charging, and a dual-camera system.
Its biggest strengths are Google’s camera processing, AI features, clean Android experience, and long-term software support.
Key features
- 6.3-inch pOLED display
- 60–120Hz refresh rate
- Google Tensor G4 processor
- 8GB RAM
- 128GB or 256GB storage
- 5,100mAh battery
- 48MP main camera
- 13MP ultrawide camera
- Wireless charging
- IP68 protection
- Android 16
- Seven years of software support
Google claims more than 30 hours of battery life, while its Extreme Battery Saver mode can extend battery life substantially.
Why buy the Pixel 10a?
The Pixel 10a makes the most sense if you want great cameras, useful AI features, clean Android, and long software support without spending $700.
Tom’s Guide currently highlights the Pixel 10a as its best phone under $500, while TechRadar also recommends it as one of the strongest affordable Android phones of 2026.
Pros
- Excellent value
- Strong camera processing
- Useful Google AI features
- 120Hz display
- Wireless charging
- Long software support
- IP68 protection
Cons
- Tensor G4 isn’t the fastest chip for heavy gaming
- No expandable storage
- Design is relatively conventional
Best for: Camera users, students, everyday users and Android buyers.
2. iPhone 17e — Best iPhone Under $700
If you prefer iOS, the iPhone 17e is one of the most compelling choices below $700.
Apple’s official US store lists the iPhone 17e from $599, with 256GB of storage at the base price. The 512GB version starts at $799, putting it outside this article’s budget.
The phone uses Apple’s A19 chip and includes Apple Intelligence, a 48MP Fusion camera system, a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, MagSafe, USB-C and satellite-based safety features.
Key features
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display
- Apple A19 chip
- 256GB base storage
- 48MP Fusion camera
- 12MP TrueDepth front camera
- Apple Intelligence
- MagSafe
- USB-C
- Emergency SOS via satellite
- Up to 26 hours of video playback
Why buy the iPhone 17e?
The biggest reason is Apple’s ecosystem.
If you already use a Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods or other Apple products, the iPhone 17e can integrate seamlessly into your setup.
The A19 chip also gives the phone plenty of performance headroom for everyday tasks, gaming, photography and future iOS updates.
Pros
- Powerful A19 processor
- 256GB starting storage
- Strong video capabilities
- Apple Intelligence
- MagSafe
- Excellent ecosystem integration
- Long expected software life
Cons
- 60Hz display
- Single rear camera system
- 512GB version exceeds the $700 budget
- Less camera flexibility than some Android competitors
Best for: iOS users, Apple ecosystem users and people who want a fast phone that should remain useful for years.
3. Nothing Phone (4a) Pro — Best Alternative Android Phone
Want something different from Samsung and Google?
The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is one of the most interesting choices under $700.
Nothing’s US store currently lists the phone from $499, with some configurations discounted from their regular prices.
The phone combines a distinctive design with a large 6.83-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, up to 12GB RAM, a 5,080mAh battery and a three-camera setup.
Key features
- 6.83-inch AMOLED display
- Up to 144Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 7 Gen 4
- Up to 12GB RAM
- 128GB/256GB storage options
- 5,080mAh battery
- 50MP main camera
- 50MP telephoto camera
- 8MP ultrawide camera
- 32MP selfie camera
- 50W wired charging
- Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16
The phone’s large display and high refresh rate make it particularly appealing for watching videos, browsing social media and gaming.
TechRadar and Tom’s Guide both highlight the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro as a strong value-focused alternative.
Pros
- Unique design
- Huge 144Hz display
- Good performance
- Telephoto camera
- Large battery
- Fast charging
- Clean software experience
Cons
- Camera processing isn’t as consistent as Pixel
- No wireless charging
- Large size may not suit everyone
Best for: Design-conscious buyers, media consumption and people who want an alternative to mainstream Android phones.
4. Samsung Galaxy A57 5G — Best Samsung Phone Under $700
Samsung remains one of the safest choices for buyers who want a familiar Android experience.
The Galaxy A57 5G starts at $549.99 for 128GB in the US, while the 256GB model is listed at $609.99. Samsung also periodically offers discounts, so the actual purchase price can be lower.
Samsung launched the Galaxy A57 5G in the US in April 2026.
Why consider the Galaxy A57 5G?
Samsung’s biggest advantage is its ecosystem.
You get access to Samsung’s software features, Galaxy AI-related capabilities, Samsung’s accessory ecosystem and a familiar One UI experience.
It is a particularly good option for people who want a phone that feels more premium than typical budget Android devices without paying flagship prices.
Pros
- Excellent AMOLED display
- Strong Samsung software experience
- Good cameras
- 5G connectivity
- Premium-looking design
- Good long-term value
- Available with 256GB storage under $700
Cons
- Gaming performance isn’t flagship-level
- 256GB version gets close to the $700 limit
- Pixel can be better for computational photography
Best for: Samsung fans, everyday users and buyers who want a balanced Android smartphone.
5. Fairphone 6+ — Best Phone for Repairability
The Fairphone 6+ takes a completely different approach.
Instead of focusing only on performance and cameras, Fairphone emphasizes repairability, sustainability and long-term ownership.
The updated Fairphone 6+ is available in the US starting at approximately $650, while an e/OS version is around $700. It uses a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, 12GB RAM and maintains a modular design that allows components such as the battery, screen and cameras to be replaced.
Fairphone says the device is designed for long-term use, and the updated model has software support extending to 2033.
Pros
- Highly repairable
- Replaceable components
- 12GB RAM
- Long software support
- Sustainable materials
- MicroSD support
- Five-year warranty
Cons
- Not the fastest phone in this price range
- Camera quality isn’t class-leading
- Battery life trails some competitors
- Not designed primarily for gaming
Best for: Environmentally conscious buyers and people who want to keep a phone for many years.
Best Phones Under $700: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pixel 10a | iPhone 17e | Nothing 4a Pro | Galaxy A57 5G | Fairphone 6+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $499 | $599 | $499 | $549.99 | ~$650 |
| OS | Android | iOS | Android | Android | Android |
| Display | 6.3″ pOLED | 6.1″ OLED | 6.83″ AMOLED | AMOLED | OLED |
| High refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Up to 144Hz | Yes | 120Hz |
| Main camera | 48MP | 48MP | 50MP | Multi-camera | Multi-camera |
| Wireless charging | Yes | MagSafe | No | Depends on model | No |
| Best feature | Camera & AI | Performance & iOS | Design & display | Samsung ecosystem | Repairability |
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Which Phone Should You Buy?
Best Overall: Google Pixel 10a
For most people, the Pixel 10a is the easiest recommendation.
It offers a strong combination of camera quality, AI features, battery life, display quality and software support at $499.
Best iPhone: iPhone 17e
Choose the iPhone 17e if you prefer iOS or already own other Apple products.
Its A19 processor and 256GB starting storage make the $599 price particularly attractive.
Best for Design: Nothing Phone (4a) Pro
If you want a phone that doesn’t look like every other smartphone, choose the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro.
Its large 144Hz display and distinctive design are its biggest advantages.
Best Samsung: Galaxy A57 5G
The Galaxy A57 5G is a strong choice if you prefer Samsung’s One UI, ecosystem and overall software experience.
Best for Sustainability: Fairphone 6+
If repairability matters more than having the fastest processor or best camera, Fairphone is the obvious choice.
What to Look for When Buying a Phone Under $700
Before buying one of the best smartphones under $700, don’t focus only on the processor or megapixel count.
1. Processor
A good processor determines how smoothly the phone handles gaming, multitasking and AI features.
For everyday use, the Pixel 10a’s Tensor G4 is sufficient. If gaming is your priority, look closely at Snapdragon-powered alternatives.
2. Display
A 120Hz or higher refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel noticeably smoother.
If you watch a lot of Netflix, YouTube or other video content, also consider display size, brightness and HDR support.
3. Camera
Don’t choose a phone only because it has a 108MP or 200MP camera.
Image processing, sensor quality, stabilization and software can matter more than megapixel count.
The Pixel 10a is particularly attractive for computational photography.
4. Battery Life
Look for a phone that can comfortably last a full day.
Battery capacity isn’t everything, because processor efficiency and software optimization also affect endurance.
5. Software Updates
A smartphone is a long-term purchase.
Before buying, check how many years of operating system and security updates the manufacturer promises.
6. Storage
For most users, 256GB is the sweet spot if the budget allows it.
If you take lots of 4K videos, download games or store large offline libraries, consider 256GB or more.
7. 5G and Connectivity
All of the phones on this list are designed for modern connectivity, but US buyers should still verify carrier compatibility, especially when purchasing an unlocked phone.
Are Phones Under $700 Worth Buying in 2026?
Absolutely.
The smartphone market has changed significantly. You can now get features that were previously reserved for expensive flagships at much lower prices.
The Pixel 10a provides advanced camera and AI capabilities for $499, while the iPhone 17e brings Apple’s A19 chip and Apple Intelligence to a $599 starting price. Samsung’s Galaxy A57 5G offers a more premium Android experience from $549.99, and Nothing provides a distinctive alternative with the Phone (4a) Pro.
For many users, spending $500–$650 on a good mid-range phone makes more sense than spending $1,000+ on a flagship.
Final Verdict
The best phone under $700 in the USA in 2026 depends on what you value most.
Google Pixel 10a is our top pick for overall value because it combines excellent cameras, AI features, a 120Hz display, strong battery life and long software support at $499.
The iPhone 17e is the best choice for Apple users, while the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is an excellent alternative for people who want a distinctive design and large high-refresh-rate display.
Samsung fans should consider the Galaxy A57 5G, while the Fairphone 6+ is the standout choice for repairability and sustainable ownership.
If your budget is around $700, you don’t need to compromise on the basics anymore. The key is choosing the phone that matches your priorities rather than simply buying the most expensive model you can afford.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best phone under $700 in the USA?
The Google Pixel 10a is one of the best overall choices under $700 because of its camera quality, AI features, battery life and long software support.
Is the iPhone 17e worth buying for $599?
Yes. The iPhone 17e offers Apple’s A19 chip, 256GB starting storage, Apple Intelligence, MagSafe and a 48MP Fusion camera system for $599.
Which is the best Android phone under $700?
The Google Pixel 10a is an excellent all-round choice, while the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is a strong alternative for buyers who prioritize display size, design and high refresh rates.
Which phone under $700 has the best camera?
The Pixel 10a is one of the strongest camera-focused options in this price range, particularly because of Google’s computational photography and AI-powered image processing.
Should I buy a phone for $500 or spend $700?
For most users, a $500–$600 phone is enough. Spend closer to $700 if you specifically need additional storage, better performance, premium hardware or a specialized feature.
Is $700 enough for a good phone in 2026?
Yes. In 2026, $700 is enough to buy a very capable smartphone with a high-quality display, strong cameras, modern processors, 5G and long-term software support.
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1. Google Pixel 10a
You can check the latest US price, specifications, colors, and availability on the official Google Pixel 10a page. official Google Pixel 10a page
Google currently lists the Pixel 10a from $499 and provides its specifications on the official Google Store.
2. iPhone 17e
For the latest pricing and specifications, visit Apple’s official iPhone 17e page. official Apple iPhone 17e page
Apple confirms the A19 chip, 48MP Fusion camera and 256GB starting storage.
3. Nothing Phone (4a) Pro
Check the official Nothing Phone (4a) Pro page for current US pricing and configurations. official Nothing Phone (4a) Pro page
Nothing’s US store currently lists the Phone (4a) Pro from $499, with some configurations discounted.
4. Samsung Galaxy A57 5G
For current pricing and storage options, see Samsung’s official Galaxy A57 5G page. official Samsung Galaxy A57 5G page
Samsung currently lists the 128GB version at $549.99 and the 256GB version at $609.99.
5. Fairphone (Gen. 6+)
You can check the latest US availability and specifications on the official Fairphone US store. official Fairphone US store
Fairphone’s US store currently lists the Gen. 6+ at $649.99.