Top affordable smartphones under $600 in 2026: reviews and recommendations

The sub-$600 smartphone market has become surprisingly crowded in early 2026. Devices in this segment no longer feel like compromises: powerful processors, vibrant OLED displays, capable cameras, and substantial batteries are now available without paying a premium for flagship status. However, the choice has also become more difficult because the differences between models lie less in raw specs and more in the day-to-day user experience.

The OnePlus 13R stands out as one of the most balanced offerings in terms of price and capabilities. It features a large AMOLED display with high resolution and an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which remains readable even in bright sunlight thanks to its very high peak brightness. The flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset provides a performance cushion for years to come, and generous memory configurations mean users won't need to worry about running out of resources. The cameras don't aim for record-breaking specs but deliver consistent results in both photos and video, particularly due to optical image stabilization. A large battery and fast charging make the 13R a reliable daily companion, and its price sits noticeably below most competitors.

The Xiaomi 17 pushes close to flagship territory by focusing on versatility. Its OLED display is compact by modern standards yet bright, appealing to those who prefer smaller phones. The new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip delivers excellent performance, and memory options now reach capacities that were recently exclusive to top-tier models. A triple-camera setup, with three 50-megapixel sensors and Leica optics, makes the Xiaomi 17 a strong contender for mobile photography and videography enthusiasts, including 8K recording. A massive battery with support for fast and wireless charging completes the package as a near-perfect all-in-one device, priced just below a key psychological threshold.

The OnePlus Turbo 6 takes a different approach, targeting users who prioritize battery life and raw power at a minimal cost. Its high-refresh-rate screen creates an exceptionally smooth feel, and the processor's performance handles any everyday task or game with ease. The cameras here are simpler but perform their role reliably without surprises. The real star is the record-capacity battery, which can last several days on a single charge. Fast charging and water resistance make the Turbo 6 particularly attractive for active users, and its price of around $300 seems almost provocative.

The Google Pixel 10 remains the choice for those who value software and imaging quality. It offers a clean Android experience with instant updates and long-term support, which for many matters more than dry specifications. Pixel cameras traditionally rely on computational photography, producing natural-looking photos and stable video in any lighting. The display doesn't boast the highest resolution but impresses with its quality and brightness, while water protection and wireless charging add convenience. With the right discounts, the Pixel 10 fits the budget and becomes one of the smartest options in the segment.

The iPhone 16e is the most affordable ticket into Apple's ecosystem. It doesn't compete on paper but wins with stability, the performance of the A18 Bionic chip, and long-term iOS support. A high-quality screen, a reliable camera with excellent video, and the convenience of Face ID make it predictably pleasant to use. This is the choice for those who value simplicity, security, and the confidence that their smartphone will remain relevant for many years.

In 2026, sub-$600 smartphones cover almost any need. Whether it's cameras, speed, battery life, or ecosystem, the best choice depends on what matters most to you. Finding the right device starts not with comparing specs, but with understanding your own habits and usage patterns.