Mid-range phones are in a really good place right now. You can pick up something fast, reliable, and packed with useful features - without stretching your budget too far.
The gap between “affordable” and “flagship” is smaller than ever. In this guide, we’re comparing some of the best sub-£500 picks right now: the Google Pixel 10a, Samsung’s Galaxy A37 and A57, and Apple’s iPhone 17e.
We’ve also added two strong contenders you’ll find on iD Mobile: the Motorola Edge 70 and the HONOR 400 Pro.
The aim here is simple. We’ll give you a clear, easy-to-follow breakdown so you can figure out what actually suits you. Whether that’s better photos, longer battery life, or just a phone that won’t feel outdated in a year or two. Let’s dive in!
Google Pixel 10a: the smart photography champion.
If you’re the kind of person who just wants to point, shoot, and get a great photo every time, the Google Pixel 10a is a really easy recommendation - especially at £499.
It runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chip, which gives you a lot of smart features without overcomplicating things. The 48MP camera is excellent for everyday shots, and the 5,100mAh battery means you’re not constantly checking your percentage halfway through the day.
What makes it feel a bit special is how helpful it is. Tools like “Auto Best Take” can fix group photos where someone blinked, and “Add Me” lets you jump into pictures without asking a stranger for help. Plus, the built-in Gemini assistant is there if you need quick answers or help with tasks.
If you’re coming from something like a Pixel 6a, 7a, or even an older flagship like the Galaxy S22, this feels like a proper upgrade. Especially in terms of battery life and smarter features.
Samsung Galaxy A37 & A57: the reliable all-rounders.
Samsung’s A-series has always been about consistency, and the Samsung Galaxy A57 and Samsung Galaxy A37 stick to that formula.
The A57 is the standout if you like a big, bright screen for watching shows, scrolling, or just making everything easier to read. It’s paired with a 5,000mAh battery that comfortably lasts through a full day, even with fairly heavy use.
The A37 is a slightly cheaper option. It’s not quite as powerful, but it still gives you that familiar Samsung feel, which a lot of people prefer.
If you’re upgrading from a Galaxy A53 or something like the S21 FE, you’ll notice the improvements straight away, especially with screen brightness and battery performance.
Apple iPhone 17e: the premium iOS entry point.
The iPhone 17e sits right at the top of the budget. But if you’re set on iOS, it’s the easiest way to get an awesome iPhone without going all-in on a Pro model.
It’s powered by the A19 chip, so everything feels quick and smooth. The Ceramic Shield 2 display adds a bit of extra durability, and the 48MP Fusion camera takes sharp, natural-looking photos without much effort. You also get Apple Intelligence, along with all the usual ecosystem perks—FaceTime, iMessage, and that seamless connection with other Apple devices.
If you’re still using an iPhone 11, 12, or an older SE, this is a big step up. You’ll notice the difference in speed, camera quality, and even small things like switching to USB-C.
Challenger 1: Motorola Edge 70.
The Motorola Edge 70 is a bit of an under-the-radar option, but it’s definitely worth a look. While it officially sits higher at £699, it’s often discounted under £500, which makes it great value when it drops. The design feels a bit more unique than most, with a matte glass back that shows off cool colourful gradients when the light hits.
The 144Hz display is super smooth - once you get used to it, it’s hard to go back. It also runs a clean version of Android, so everything feels fast and uncluttered. One of the biggest highlights is the TurboPower charging. It’s seriously quick, which is ideal if you’re always rushing out the door.
If you’re coming from something like a Motorola Edge 40 or a slightly older flagship, this feels like a simple, no-fuss upgrade.
Challenger 2: HONOR 400 Pro.
The HONOR 400 Pro is a great shout if camera quality is high on your list. It usually sits just above the £500 mark, but deals quite often bring it down. The triple-camera setup is especially good for portraits, producing really detailed, flattering shots.
It also has a large battery, so it’s reliable for longer days or trips where you don’t want to worry about charging. MagicOS gives you a bit more control over how everything looks and works too.
If you’re moving on from an older premium camera phone, like a Galaxy S21 Ultra or a Huawei P-series, this feels like a natural next step without the flagship price.
The verdict: matching the phone to the user.
Each of these phones does something slightly different, so it really depends on what matters most to you.
- The Pixel 10a is ideal if you want great photos with minimal effort and some genuinely useful AI features.
- The Samsung Galaxy A57 is a safe, dependable choice. Especially if you want a big screen and a familiar setup.
- The iPhone 17e makes the most sense if you’re already in the Apple world and want something modern without overspending.
And if you’re keeping an eye out for deals, the Motorola Edge 70 and HONOR 400 Pro can offer a lot of value when prices drop. Especially for design, charging speed, and camera performance
The main takeaway? You don’t need to spend big to get a really good phone. Even at under £500, there are plenty of options that feel fast, capable, and built to last. If you’re thinking about upgrading, it’s well worth checking these out on the iD Mobile store. Let us know which one you’d go for in the comments below
