Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Best overall: OnePlus 13R, for its fast performance, large battery, quick wired charging and 256GB of storage. Best camera and easiest recommendation: Google Pixel 9a, which became available in the U.S. on April 10, 2025, for $499 unlocked. Apple users should consider the $599 iPhone 16e; Samsung shoppers can get a capable lower-cost option in the Galaxy A36 5G.
This guide covers new, unlocked U.S. phones priced below $600 before tax in April 2025. Regular prices and sale prices are identified separately; carrier bill credits, trade-ins, refurbished phones and imports do not count as an outright under-$600 price.
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Best unlocked phones under $600 at a glance
| Phone | April 2025 price position | Best for | Main compromise |
|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus 13R | $599 MSRP; contemporary coverage described promotions around $499–$550, but the exact offer depended on seller and date (Android Authority) | Gaming, speed, battery and storage | No wireless charging; camera processing and support are less compelling than the Pixel’s |
| Google Pixel 9a | $499 unlocked (Google Store) | Point-and-shoot photos, software support and a smaller phone | Slower charging and less suited to sustained demanding workloads than the OnePlus 13R |
| Apple iPhone 16e | Starts at $599 in the U.S. | iOS, Apple ecosystem and video | One rear camera, 60Hz display and no MagSafe |
| Nothing Phone (3a) Pro | About $459 in contemporary coverage (Android Central) | Telephoto zoom and distinctive design | Less powerful chipset and less established U.S. support position |
| Samsung Galaxy A36 5G | $399.99 U.S. MSRP for the unlocked 128GB model in Samsung’s March 2025 price file (Samsung price file) | Samsung ecosystem and a lower-cost large-screen phone | Less capable for demanding games and less camera-focused than the Pixel 9a |
| Nothing Phone (3a) | Positioned below the Pixel 9a; an exact U.S. unlocked April price is not stated in the cited comparison (Android Central) | Nothing design at a lower tier than the Pro | Less capable camera hardware than the Pro |
The ranking is an editorial judgment balancing price and value, performance, cameras, battery and charging, display and build, software support, and U.S. availability. Priorities change the order: the Pixel leads for still-photo reliability, while the iPhone is the natural pick for someone committed to iOS.
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What counts as under $600?
Outright unlocked prices qualify
The main list uses the normal unlocked U.S. price or a clearly identified, broadly available sale price for a new phone, before sales tax. A $599 starting price qualifies; that makes the iPhone 16e eligible under a strict $600 ceiling. Confirm the seller’s exact storage configuration and checkout price because a higher-capacity version can cross the limit.
#1 Best Overall
- NEW built-in stylus. Jot notes, edit photos, sketch artwork, and navigate effortlessly with an improved stylus and updated software.
- 6.7" pOLED display and Dolby Atmos. Experience cinema-quality entertainment with over a billion shades of color and multidimensional sound*.
- 50MP Ultra Pixel camera + OIS. Capture sharper low-light photos and smoother videos with an unshakable camera system featuring Optical Image Stabilization.
- 30W TurboPower charging + over a day battery. Get hours of power in just minutes of charging, then work and play with unbelievable battery life**.
- Standout design. Make a statement with its stunning look, modern color, and soft, vegan leather finish.
Promotions and carrier offers are different
A temporary retailer or manufacturer discount can make a phone that normally costs more fit the budget, but label it as a sale rather than MSRP. Carrier advertisements that depend on a new line, trade-in, qualifying plan or 24- or 36-month bill credits are not the phone’s outright price. The Galaxy S24 FE, for example, had a $649.99 official MSRP in Samsung’s March 2025 U.S. price data, so it belongs only in a discounted-deal category, not among regular-price picks under $600 (Samsung price file).
Keep imports and used phones separate
Imported models can differ in cellular bands, VoLTE or emergency-calling compatibility, warranty, software region and repair support. The Galaxy A56 5G was not a straightforward official U.S. recommendation in April 2025: coverage described its U.S. availability as uncertain or delayed (Android Authority; Tom’s Guide). Do not treat an international listing as equivalent to an unlocked U.S. model. Refurbished and open-box devices are also outside this comparison.
OnePlus 13R: best overall and best for gaming
Why it leads
The OnePlus 13R combines Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with a 6,000mAh battery, 80W wired charging, a 120Hz AMOLED display and 256GB of base storage. OnePlus lists the battery, chipset and IP65 rating on its U.S. product page (OnePlus); independent coverage lists a 6.78-inch display, 12GB RAM and a rear camera array with a 50MP main camera, 50MP telephoto and 8MP ultrawide (TechRadar). That mix makes it the strongest fit here for demanding games, emulation, heavy multitasking and buyers who want to keep large games or offline video without immediately managing storage.
What it gives up
Its camera results are less consistently dependable than the Pixel 9a’s, especially for casual point-and-shoot photos. It lacks wireless charging, and its software-support proposition is not as reassuring as Google’s stated seven-year Pixel commitment. IP65 means dust protection and resistance to water jets; it is not an immersion rating, so do not treat the phone as waterproof.
Rank #2
- 【High-definition large screen, visually stunning】Featuring a 6.6-inch In-Cell HD display with a resolution of 576×1280 pixels, the screen delivers vivid and bright colors for an exceptional visual experience. Whether watching videos, browsing the web, or playing games, everything appears clearer and smoother.
- 【Powerful Performance, Smooth Operation】Equipped with a MediaTek MTK6739 quad-core processor, combined with 4GB RAM and 32GB storage, the system runs stable and efficient. Supports microSD card expansion up to 256GB, easily storing more photos, videos, and apps.
- 【Capture clarity, record brilliance】Equipped with an 13-megapixel front camera and a 16-megapixel rear dual-camera system, it meets all your selfie and everyday photography needs. Capture every beautiful moment in life with clear and natural images.
- 【Long-lasting battery life, fast charging】Features a built-in 5000mAh high-capacity battery with a Type-C charging port for faster, safer charging. Delivers powerful endurance for daily use, eliminating the need for frequent recharging on the go.
- 【Smart System, Seamless Experience】Powered by Android 12.0, featuring a clean and intuitive interface. Supports facial recognition unlocking and a triple-card slot design (dual SIM + memory card), offering flexible and convenient communication and expansion options.
Price and fit
It launched in North America in January 2025 (OnePlus launch announcement). The $599 MSRP puts it at the budget ceiling, while contemporary coverage discussed promotions around $499–$550; those sale figures are not a guaranteed recurring price (Android Authority). Choose it if performance, battery and charging matter most. Skip it if wireless charging, the most reliable automatic camera or the clearest long-term update commitment matters more.
Google Pixel 9a: best camera and software pick
Availability and core strengths
Google made the Pixel 9a available in the U.S. on April 10, 2025, starting at $499 unlocked (Google announcement; Google Store). Its 6.3-inch Actua display makes it the more manageable choice for people who do not want a large handset (Google specifications). Google lists a 48MP main and 13MP ultrawide rear camera (Google announcement).
Camera, support and trade-offs
For many people, the Pixel is the best camera because its processing tends to deliver dependable exposure, HDR, skin tones, night scenes and moving-subject photos with little adjustment. It does not have a dedicated telephoto lens, so zoom relies on computational cropping rather than optical reach. Google’s stated support policy is seven years of software support; independent coverage described that as matching its flagship policy (Tom’s Guide).
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe Tensor G4 is smooth for ordinary use and Google features, but the Pixel is not the gaming-first choice in this group. Charging is also slower than the OnePlus 13R’s wired charging. Google described the 9a as having the best battery life of any Pixel available at launch, a manufacturer comparison rather than a guarantee of a particular number of hours for every user (Google announcement).
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup, but is necessary record the IMEI). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also NOT compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc). Please contact the seller for more information about carrier compatibility.
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1(2100), B2(1900), B3(1800), B4(AWS), B5(850), B7(2600), B8(900), B12(700), B13(700), B17(700), B26(850), B28(700), B66(AWS-3)
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Apple iPhone 16e: best iPhone under $600
At a U.S. starting price of $599, the iPhone 16e is the only new iPhone in this guide’s strict price range at launch. Its A18 chip gives it strong processing headroom, and iOS makes it the clear fit for buyers invested in an Apple Watch, Mac, iMessage or Apple services. Apple does not set out a fixed update duration in the same way Google does for the Pixel 9a, so treat long support as a strength of Apple’s platform and track record, not a year-count guarantee for this model.
The 16e is not automatically the best value for an Android shopper: it has one rear camera, a 60Hz display and no MagSafe. Its single camera also means less framing flexibility than the Pixel 9a’s main-plus-ultrawide setup. It remains a strong choice for iOS users who prioritize the Apple ecosystem, app experience, video and performance over refresh rate or multiple rear lenses.
Nothing Phone (3a) Pro: best telephoto and distinctive design
The Phone (3a) Pro stands out for a dedicated telephoto camera and Nothing’s distinctive design and software. Contemporary comparison coverage put it at about $459, below the Pixel 9a’s launch price, though exact U.S. fulfillment and configuration should be checked with the seller (Android Central). Its telephoto lens offers a real hardware alternative to the Pixel’s computational crop; it is the most flexible camera hardware among these Android alternatives on paper.
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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThat does not make it the safer all-purpose camera recommendation. Processing, changing light and moving subjects affect real results, and Pixel photography is generally the easier point-and-shoot choice. The Nothing’s processor is less compelling for demanding gaming than the OnePlus 13R, and U.S. buyers should confirm the precise model, warranty region, carrier compatibility and support terms. The official U.S. product listing is at Nothing.
Rank #4
- Designed with business or budget-conscious users in mind, the Galaxy A13 delivers reliable 4G (or 5G on select variants) connectivity and a large 6.6‑inch FHD+ PLS LCD screen, giving you plenty of real estate for multitasking without stepping into premium-tier pricing.
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G: best Samsung value at regular price
Samsung’s March 2025 U.S. MSRP file lists the unlocked 128GB Galaxy A36 5G at $399.99 (Samsung price file). It is the lower-cost pick for someone who wants Samsung’s software and accessories, a large AMOLED display and a familiar Galaxy ecosystem rather than the fastest processor or best camera in the budget.
Samsung’s 2025 A-series generation was commonly reported as receiving a six-year support commitment, but support descriptions can distinguish Android-version upgrades from security updates. Verify the exact terms for the U.S. A36 model before buying rather than assuming that every type of update is guaranteed for the same period (Yahoo Tech). The A36 is sufficient for everyday apps, but it is not the performance choice for demanding games, nor the camera choice for dependable HDR, night or moving-subject shots. Samsung’s U.S. product page is Galaxy A36 5G.
Other phones worth considering only in the right deal
Nothing Phone (3a)
The standard Phone (3a) is a lower-cost way into Nothing’s design and software, commonly positioned below the Pixel 9a. It gives up some camera capability versus the Pro, so compare the actual U.S. model and price rather than assuming international prices or availability apply.
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Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Samsung’s March 2025 U.S. MSRP data lists the S24 FE above the ceiling at $649.99. It can be considered when a straightforward discount brings the outright price below $600, but do not count trade-in credits or carrier financing as an unlocked cash price.
Best Value
- 6.5 720 x 1600 (HD+) PLS TFT LCD Infinity-V Display, 5000mAh Battery, Fingerprint (side-mounted)
- Rear Camera: 13MP, f/2.2, (macro) + 2MP, F2.4, (depth) + 2MP, F2.4, Front Camera: 5 MP, f/2.2, Bluetooth 5.0
- 2G: 850/900/1800/1900MHz, 3G: 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, 4G LTE: B2(1900)/B4(AWS)/B5(850)/B12(700)/B14(700)
- Width: 2.99 inches; Length: 6.46 inches; Height: 0.36 inches; Cpu Model Family: Snapdragon
Pixel 8a and OnePlus 12R
These older models may be sensible clearance purchases if substantially discounted. Compare their new-device price and warranty against the newer 2025 models; do not assume an old listing represents current normal pricing.
How to choose between the leading phones
OnePlus 13R or Pixel 9a?
Pick the OnePlus 13R for gaming, demanding apps, a larger screen, 256GB base storage, fast wired charging and the strongest battery proposition. Pick the Pixel 9a for more dependable point-and-shoot photography, a more compact size, Google software features and the clearer seven-year support policy. The best phone depends on which set of advantages you will use every day.
Pixel 9a or iPhone 16e?
Choose the Pixel for Android, Google services, an ultrawide rear camera and the lower launch price. Choose the iPhone for iOS and Apple ecosystem integration, especially if you own an Apple Watch or Mac. Do not compare megapixels alone: lens choice, processing, autofocus, stabilization and video behavior all shape camera usefulness.
Pixel 9a or Nothing Phone (3a) Pro?
Choose Nothing if you specifically want a dedicated telephoto lens, a more unusual design and its less conventional Android experience. Choose Pixel for more reliable automatic photography, a more compact form and the stronger U.S. support-confidence case.
Galaxy A36 or Pixel 9a?
Choose the A36 to spend less while staying with Samsung’s ecosystem and large-screen approach. Spend more on the Pixel if camera quality, more responsive everyday feel and Google’s stated support duration are higher priorities.
Quick Recap
Check these details before checkout
- Unlocked status: Confirm the listing is not tied to a carrier activation or financing offer.
- Exact model and storage: Check the U.S. model number, storage capacity and whether the price is for the 128GB or 256GB version.
- Network compatibility: For imports, confirm U.S. LTE and 5G bands, VoLTE and emergency-calling support with your carrier.
- Warranty and return window: Make sure the seller provides a U.S. warranty and a return period you can use.
- Price conditions: Identify whether the discount requires a trade-in, new line, plan, bill credits or subscription.
- Box contents: Check whether a charger is included; the OnePlus 13R’s fast charging depends on compatible charging hardware.
- Water resistance: Read the actual IP rating. Water resistance is not a promise that a phone can be submerged.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
