A guide to the best phones under $500 available in New Zealand.
Learn more about 16 Best Phone Under $500 AUD: Australian Market
Looking for a new phone without breaking the bank? You’re not alone! In today’s tech-driven world, it’s tough to imagine life without a reliable smartphone. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best value for your money.
That’s where we come in. This guide will help you navigate the vast world of phones under $500 in New Zealand and find the perfect device to meet your needs and budget. We’ve carefully curated a list of the top 5 contenders, taking into account key factors like performance, camera quality, battery life, and design.
Whether you’re a social media enthusiast, a mobile gamer, or simply need a reliable device for everyday tasks, we’ve got you covered. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the latest and greatest options, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.
So, ditch the endless scrolling and get ready to discover the perfect phone that will elevate your mobile experience without stretching your budget. Let’s dive into the world of affordable excellence!
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| Google Pixel 6a |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung Galaxy A53 5G |  |
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| OnePlus Nord N30 5G |  |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung Galaxy A34 5G |  |
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Google Pixel 6a
The Google Pixel 6a is a solid mid-range phone that delivers a fantastic camera experience and clean software at an affordable price.
Specifications :
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 60Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Cameras: 12.2MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 8MP front-facing
- Battery: 4410mAh
- OS: Android 12
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent camera performance: The Pixel 6a boasts a fantastic camera system, delivering high-quality photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Clean and fast software: The Pixel 6a runs stock Android with minimal bloatware, providing a smooth and efficient user experience.
- Affordable price: It offers excellent value for money compared to other phones in its price range.
Reasons to avoid :
- No expandable storage: The Pixel 6a lacks a microSD card slot, limiting storage options.
- Limited refresh rate: The display refresh rate is only 60Hz, which can feel sluggish compared to higher refresh rate displays.
- No wireless charging: You'll have to stick to wired charging with the Pixel 6a.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize a great camera experience.
- You value a clean and fast software experience.
- You're looking for a budget-friendly phone with good performance.
Don't buy it if:
- You need expandable storage.
- You prefer a higher refresh rate display.
- You require wireless charging capabilities.
Bottom Line:
The Google Pixel 6a is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize camera quality and software experience. While it lacks some features found on higher-end phones, like expandable storage and wireless charging, its strong camera performance, clean software, and affordable price make it a compelling option. If you're looking for a well-rounded mid-range phone that delivers a fantastic camera experience and a smooth, bloatware-free Android experience, the Pixel 6a is worth considering.
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G is a well-rounded mid-range phone with a beautiful display, long-lasting battery, and impressive camera system.
Specifications :
- Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1280
- RAM: 6GB or 8GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Cameras: 64MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, 5MP depth sensor, 32MP front-facing
- Battery: 5000mAh
- OS: Android 12 with One UI 4.1
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent display: The Galaxy A53 5G features a vibrant and responsive Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Long-lasting battery: The large 5000mAh battery provides ample power for all-day use.
- Versatile camera system: With a variety of lenses, the A53 5G allows you to capture stunning photos and videos in different scenarios.
- IP67 water and dust resistance: The phone is protected from water and dust, offering peace of mind.
Reasons to avoid :
- Average performance: The processor isn't the most powerful, and the phone can struggle with demanding games or tasks.
- No expandable storage: You'll have to rely on the built-in storage options.
- One UI can feel cluttered: Some users may find Samsung's One UI interface to be overly cluttered.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You value a vibrant and smooth display.
- You need long battery life.
- You want a phone with a versatile camera system.
- You need water and dust resistance.
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize top-tier performance.
- You need expandable storage.
- You prefer a clean and minimalist software experience.
Bottom Line:
The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G is a strong contender in the mid-range market, offering a combination of impressive features like a beautiful display, long-lasting battery, and a versatile camera system. While it might not be the most powerful phone in its price range, its overall package makes it a great choice for users who value a well-rounded experience. The A53 5G is a solid option for everyday use, offering a combination of features that cater to a wide range of needs.
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is a value-focused phone that packs a large display, fast charging, and a powerful processor for a competitive price.
Specifications :
- Display: 6.49-inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Cameras: 108MP main, 2MP macro, 2MP depth sensor, 16MP front-facing
- Battery: 5000mAh
- OS: Android 13 with OxygenOS 13.1
Reasons to buy :
- Large and responsive display: The Nord N30 5G boasts a large AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and immersive viewing experience.
- Fast charging: With 50W fast charging, you can quickly top up the battery.
- Powerful processor: The Snapdragon 695 5G delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- Affordable price: The Nord N30 5G offers a compelling combination of features at a competitive price.
Reasons to avoid :
- No expandable storage: The phone doesn't have a microSD card slot.
- Average camera performance: The camera system is decent but not exceptional.
- No water resistance: The Nord N30 5G lacks any official water resistance rating.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a large and vibrant display.
- You need fast charging capabilities.
- You're looking for a phone with good performance at a reasonable price.
Don't buy it if:
- You need expandable storage.
- You prioritize top-notch camera performance.
- You want a phone with water resistance.
Bottom Line:
The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is a solid option for value-conscious buyers who want a phone with a large, responsive display, fast charging, and powerful performance. While it might not have the most advanced camera system or water resistance, it offers a compelling package for its price point. If you're looking for a phone that delivers on the essentials without breaking the bank, the Nord N30 5G is worth considering.
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is an attractive mid-range phone that boasts a stunning display, a versatile camera system, and long-lasting battery life.
Check this blog on 20 Best Phone Under $500 in New Zealand: 2024 Edition
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Specifications :
- Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1080
- RAM: 6GB or 8GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Cameras: 48MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, 13MP front-facing
- Battery: 5000mAh
- OS: Android 13 with One UI 5.1
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent display: The A34 5G features a vibrant and responsive Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Versatile camera system: The phone's camera system allows you to capture high-quality photos and videos in different lighting conditions.
- Long-lasting battery: The large 5000mAh battery ensures all-day use.
- IP67 water and dust resistance: The A34 5G is protected from water and dust.
- Affordable price: It offers great value for money compared to other phones in its price range.
Reasons to avoid :
- No expandable storage: You'll have to rely on the built-in storage options.
- Average performance: The phone's performance is decent but not top-tier.
- One UI can feel cluttered: Some users may find Samsung's One UI interface to be overly cluttered.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a vibrant and smooth display.
- You need a versatile camera system.
- You prioritize long battery life.
- You require water and dust resistance.
- You're looking for a budget-friendly phone with good features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need expandable storage.
- You prioritize top-tier performance.
- You prefer a clean and minimalist software experience.
Bottom Line:
The Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is a fantastic mid-range phone that offers a combination of features that make it a compelling option for a wide range of users. Its beautiful display, versatile camera system, long-lasting battery, and water and dust resistance are just some of the reasons why it stands out. While it might not be the most powerful phone in its price range, it delivers a well-rounded experience that caters to everyday needs. If you're looking for a phone that offers a blend of style, performance, and functionality at a budget-friendly price, the A34 5G is worth considering.
Realme 9 Pro+ 5G
Read more about this on 15 Best Phone Under $500 in Australia: 2024 Guide
The Realme 9 Pro+ 5G is a stylish and powerful phone that packs a high-resolution display, a fantastic camera system, and fast charging capabilities.
Specifications :
- Display: 6.4-inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 920 5G
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Cameras: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, 16MP front-facing
- Battery: 4500mAh
- OS: Android 12 with Realme UI 3.0
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish design: The Realme 9 Pro+ 5G boasts a sleek and stylish design with a premium feel.
- High-resolution display: The AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- Excellent camera performance: The camera system captures high-quality photos and videos, especially in good lighting conditions.
- Fast charging: With 60W fast charging, you can quickly top up the battery.
- Powerful performance: The Dimensity 920 5G processor delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
Reasons to avoid :
- No expandable storage: The phone lacks a microSD card slot.
- Limited water resistance: The Realme 9 Pro+ 5G is only splash-resistant, not fully waterproof.
- No wireless charging: You'll have to stick to wired charging.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You value a stylish and premium design.
- You want a high-resolution display.
- You prioritize camera quality.
- You need fast charging capabilities.
- You're looking for a phone with good performance.
Don't buy it if:
- You need expandable storage.
- You want a phone with full water resistance.
- You require wireless charging.
Bottom Line:
The Realme 9 Pro+ 5G is a stylish and powerful mid-range phone that delivers a premium experience without breaking the bank. Its high-resolution display, fantastic camera system, and fast charging capabilities make it a compelling option for users who want a phone that looks good and performs well. While it might lack some features found on more expensive phones, like expandable storage and wireless charging, its overall package offers excellent value for money. If you're looking for a phone that combines style, performance, and affordability, the Realme 9 Pro+ 5G is a great choice.
Finding the perfect phone under $500 in New Zealand can be a tough task. But, with our list of the top 5 contenders, you're sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a gamer, or simply looking for a reliable daily driver, there's a phone on this list for you. Remember, the best phone for you will depend on your individual priorities and preferences.
Before making your final decision, it's always a good idea to compare prices across different retailers and consider the availability of extended warranties. Looking at user reviews and tech blogs can also offer valuable insights into the long-term performance and reliability of each device.
With so many great options available, you're bound to find a phone that meets your needs and budget. Enjoy the process of choosing your new phone and keep an eye out for new models and deals throughout the year!
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This list is a great starting point, but remember that phone technology is constantly evolving. New models are released regularly, so it's always worth checking for the latest updates and deals.