The best midrange smartphone for 2026

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Engadget The best midrange smartphone for 2026 We've tested and reviewed no shortage of good, affordable smartphones from the likes of Google, Apple and others. Gone are the days in which you needed to spend a fortune to get a good smartphone. In 2026, features once exclusive to high-end smartphones - big batteries, multi-camera arrays, high refresh rate OLED displays and more - have made their way down to more affordable models. Yes, you’ll still need to buy a flagship smartphone to get the best camera or fastest processor, but you don't have to make nearly as many compromises as you once did if you have a strict budget to adhere to when you go shopping for your next smartphone. If you have less than $600 to spend, let us help you figure out what features to prioritize when trying to find the best midrange smartphone. Table of contents Best midrange phones for 2026 Screen size : 6.3 inches | Storage capacity : Up to 256GB | SIM card type: Nano-SIM, eSIM | Front camera resolution: 13MP | Rear camera resolution: 48MP main, 13MP ultrawide | Weight : 6.6 ounces Read our full Google Pixel 9a review The Pixel 9a isn't especially flashy and it doesn't have any special features that aren't already available on its more expensive siblings. In fact, it actually has slower charging speeds and it's missing support for some of Google's homegrown software like the Screenshots app. But for everyone who just wants a simple phone with a solid design, a nice AMOLED display, excellent camera quality and strong battery life, the Pixel 9a is really hard to beat. It handles low light shots impressively well for a phone at this midrange price, and Google’s smart AI features enhance both the main camera and editing experience. So while it's not super fancy, the phone has all of its most important bases covered (and then some). But most importantly, starting at just $499, this phone feels like an incredible deal that punches well above its price point. - Sam Rutherford, Senior Reporter Sleek design Awesome battery life Nice display Great cameras IP68 rating for dust and water resistance Charging could be faster No Pixel Screenshot app Macro Focus mode can be a bit finicky $399 at Amazon Read our full iPhone 16e review Screen size : 6.1 inches | Storage capacity : Up to 512GB | SIM card type: Dual eSIM | Front camera resolution: 12MP | Rear camera resolution: 48MP Fusion main | Weight : 5.88 ounces The iPhone 16e is closer in specs to the iPhone 16 than the iPhone SE was to the iPhone 13. And that makes choosing which iPhone to buy harder than ever. Should you save $200 and give up a dual camera system, Dynamic...

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