A curated list of standout phones between €500 and €1000 for 2026.
If you are shopping in the €500-€1000 range in 2026, these picks balance performance, cameras, and daily reliability.
Each phone below includes a short overview and a snapshot of real-world user impressions.
1. Apple iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 is widely considered the best iPhone for most people in 2026, striking a balance between performance, camera quality, and daily reliability. It features a bright 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display, Apple's powerful A19 chip, and a dual 48 MP camera system that captures consistent photos and smooth video. Reviewers highlight Apple's deep ecosystem and strong video tools as big pluses, even if some Android rivals edge out in raw specs.
User impressions: iPhone fans appreciate the polished iOS experience and long update support. Some Android reviewers note that iPhones feel snappier day-to-day, even if benchmarks are close.
2. Google Pixel 10
A favorite among Android purists, the Pixel 10 refines Google's smartphone with Google smarts approach. It delivers a strong AI-enhanced camera system, improved telephoto lens, and clean Android with long software support. The 120Hz OLED display and responsive Tensor G5 chip make everyday use smooth.
User impressions: Pixel owners often praise its portrait shots and software features like Magic Cue, which suggests helpful info based on context. Low-light photos and zoom can still lag flagship rivals in some user tests.
3. Google Pixel 10 Pro
Think of the Pixel 10 Pro as a more powerful Pixel 10 with extras like advanced zoom and upgraded camera hardware. It offers slightly better overall photo versatility, making it one of the best camera phones under €1,000 for most people.
User impressions: Reviewers rave about Pixel's image processing. Colors, exposure, and AI tools often outperform competitors at similar price points, though ultra zoom still trails the very best.
4. Samsung Galaxy S25
The Galaxy S25 is Samsung's best all-rounder phone in this mid-to-upper price bracket. It packs a crisp AMOLED display, solid camera setup, and the reliable Galaxy ecosystem (DEX, Samsung apps, etc.). It is not the flashiest handset, but it does everything well.
User impressions: Many users love the bright display and One UI features, though some find Samsung's software a bit cluttered compared to Pixel or stock Android.
5. Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus
For those who want more screen and battery without going Ultra or foldable, the S25 Plus is a sweet middle ground. Similar to the base S25 but with a larger display and better endurance, it is great for media, multitasking, and gaming.
User impressions: Positives often mention excellent battery life and a large screen. Some feedback notes that cameras are not a major upgrade over the base S25.
6. OnePlus 13
The OnePlus 13 brings flagship-grade performance, often faster in real-world use than raw numbers imply, and a big, fluid 120Hz AMOLED display. It is known for smooth performance, quick charging, and a distinctive premium feel.
User impressions: Reviewers praise its near-flagship speed and robust battery life. Some note that its AI and software features are not as polished as Pixel or Samsung's.
7. Xiaomi 15T
The Xiaomi 15T is all about value. It mixes strong performance and good cameras with aggressive pricing, often several hundred euros below flagship rivals. Users highlight its good brightness and everyday performance for the money.
User impressions: Owners comment that the display often feels brighter than competitors, and battery life usually outlasts typical days. Some note Xiaomi's UI ads and bloatware as minor downsides.
8. Xiaomi 15T Pro
The 15T Pro sits just below €1,000 but delivers near-flagship specs: a bright display, powerful chipset, and enhanced cameras. Expert reviews suggest it is a solid alternative to pricier flagships, especially if you want high brightness and strong hardware for gaming or media.
User impressions: Users often praise battery and display quality, while mentioning that camera processing can sometimes be a bit inconsistent.
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9. Nothing Phone (3)
The Nothing Phone (3) stands out primarily for its design and software experience. The unique aesthetic (transparent back, Glyph lighting) and customizable UI make it a favorite among users who want something different from typical Android devices.
User impressions: Many reviewers say the design is polarizing - people either love it or find it gimmicky. Software is generally smooth but not as polished as Google or Samsung.
10. Motorola Razr 60
If you want a foldable form factor without Ultra prices, the Motorola Razr 60 is a standout pick. It brings dependable specs and a pocketable design reminiscent of classic razr flip phones, with modern performance and 5G support.
User impressions: Users who value unique form factors enjoy the flip design and nostalgia factor, though some note that foldable durability and outer-screen usefulness vary by use case.
Comparison Table
| Phone | Price (€) | Display | Camera Quality | Battery & Charging | Software | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | 900-1,000 | 6.3-inch OLED 120 Hz | Excellent (video) | Good | iOS | Stability & video |
| Pixel 10 | 800-950 | 6.3-inch OLED | Excellent (AI photo) | Good | Clean Android | Photography |
| Pixel 10 Pro | 900-1,000 | 6.7-inch OLED | Excellent | Good | Clean Android | Pro photos |
| Galaxy S25 | 720-770 | 6.2-inch AMOLED | Very good | Good | One UI | All-round |
| Galaxy S25 Plus | 790-850 | 6.7-inch AMOLED | Very good | Very good | One UI | Big screen |
| OnePlus 13 | 700-900 | 6.8-inch AMOLED | Good | Excellent | OxygenOS | Speed & charging |
| Xiaomi 15T | 640-700 | Bright AMOLED | Good | Excellent | MIUI | Best value |
| Xiaomi 15T Pro | 850-999 | Bright AMOLED | Very good | Excellent | MIUI | Power users |
| Nothing Phone (3) | 800-900 | AMOLED | Good | Good | Nothing OS | Design |
| Razr 60 | 550-750 | Foldable OLED | Good | Average | Android | Foldable fans |