Introduction
In a country like India where the smartphone market is growing at a rapid pace, budget smartphones have appeared as a backbone for millions to stay connected in the digital world. These pocket-friendly devices exhibit key features and performance but come without heavy price tags. Therefore, they are able to cater to a big chunk of the population with diverse needs. Be it a student, a professional, or even a senior citizen, there is some budget smartphone or the other to suit everyone’s pocket. Through this guide, we shall take you through some of the main features to consider, the best budget smartphones in 2024, and advice on how to make the most appropriate decision while purchasing any smartphone.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Budget Smartphones
What one should focus on before purchasing a budget smartphone are the main features that will have a significant impact on their overall experience. Here are some of those features:
Processor and Performance
The processor is the brain of any smartphone. It decides the capability with which your device can handle tasks, whether borderline basic or comparatively more intensive applications. Some popular budget processors are MediaTek’s Helio Series, Qualcomm Snapdragon 4xx, and 6xx Series. A minimum of 3GB RAM is a must in smartphones to lavishly multitask.
Battery Life
A good battery life is therefore paramount, especially when on the move. Budget smartphones come with batteries that usually range anywhere from 3000mAh to 5000mAh. You want at least a device with a 4000mAh battery for full-day use minus the hassle of recharging.
Camera Quality
Budget smartphones cannot offer much in terms of camera quality compared to the flagships, yet most budget devices these days can still capture and record decent photos and videos. If not more, then at least try to get a device with a dual rear camera setup, meaning you get a primary sensor of 12 MP or higher, with another sensor used for either depth sensing or wide-angle shots. The selfie cameras should have at least 8 MP for good selfie images and video calls.
Screen Quality
Vivid display enhances the watching experience. The budget phones will, in most cases, sport an LCD or an IPS screen with resolutions tending to be HD 720p or Full HD 1080p. At least a 5.5-inch screen size with a Full HD resolution is appreciable for better clarity and reproduction of colors.
Build Quality and Design
Even when budget pricing, many smartphones can boast a premium look and build. A considerable number of devices in that budget category now have sleek designs, metal or polycarbonate bodies, and even glass finishes. Look for the build quality and durability if you can be a bit harsh on gadgets.
Software and User Interface
Software experience can be the make or break of your interaction with a smartphone. Budget smartphones usually run Android with custom skins in the form of MIUI by Xiaomi, One UI by Samsung, or ColorOS by Oppo. Make sure the smartphone you pick receives regular software updates, and that you enjoy using the UI.
Connectivity Options
When everyone is connected, a world powered by the right connectivity will be simply beautiful. Look for budget smartphones that feature 4G VoLTE, dual SIM slots, and expandable storage via microSD cards. Features such as a headphone jack, USB Type-C port, and a fingerprint sensor can further augment the overall experience.
Best Budget Smartphones in India (2024)
Now that we are aware of what to look for, let’s talk about the top-level budget smartphone options that can be bought out of India in 2024. In terms of performance, features, and price, these devices offer good value.
1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
Price: ₹12,000 – ₹14,000
Key Specifications:
Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD
RAM: 4GB/6GB
Storage: 64GB/128GB (expandable up to 512GB)
Rear Camera: 50MP + 2MP (depth)
Front Camera: 13 MP
Battery: 5000 Mah with 18W Fast charging
Pros:
- Basic, common daily chores run smoothly.
- Good camera quality for the price.
- Decent battery life.
Cons:
- Too many pre-installed bloatware applications.
- Average build quality.
2. Realme Narzo 50
Price Range: ₹10,000 – ₹12,000
Key Features:
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
Display: 6.5-inch HD+ IPS LCD
RAM: 4GB/6GB
Storage: 64GB/128GB (Expandable up to
Rear Camera: 48MP + 2MP(macro) + 2MP(depth)
Front Camera: 8 MP
Battery: 6000 mAh with 18W Fast Charging.
Pros:
- Super AMOLED display ensures good colors
- The camera setup should be good enough
- Thin and light
Cons:
- The processor is not very fast in comparison to the competition
- The battery takes an average amount of time to charge
3. Samsung Galaxy M13
- Price Range: ₹13,000 – ₹15,000
- Key Features:
- Processor: Exynos 850
- Display: 6.4-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED
- RAM: 4GB/6GB
- Storage: 64GB/128GB (expandable up to 512GB)
- Rear Camera: 48MP + 5MP (ultra-wide) + 2MP (depth)
- Front Camera: 13MP
- Battery: 5000mAh with 15W fast charging
Pros:
- Super AMOLED display with vibrant colors
- Reliable camera performance
- Sleek and lightweight design
Cons:
- Slower processor compared to competitors
- Average battery charging speed
4. Poco M4 Pro
Price Range:₹11,000-₹13,000
Key Features:
Storage: 64GB/128GB (expandable up to 1TB)
Rear Camera: 50MP + 8MP (ultra-wide)
Front Camera: 16MP
Battery: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 810
Display: 6.6-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD with 90Hz refresh rate
RAM: 4GB/6GB/8GB
Pros:
- High refresh rate display
- Great gaming performance
- Fast-charging support
Cons:
- Cluttered MIUI
- No optical image stabilization
5. Vivo Y21T
Price Range: ₹14,000 to ₹16,000
Key Features:
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 680
Display: 6.51-inch HD+ IPS LCD
RAM: 4GB/6GB
Storage: 128GB (expandable up to 1TB)
Rear Camera: 50MP + 2MP (macro) + 2MP (depth)
Front Camera: 8 MP
Battery: 5000mAh with 18W fast charging
Pros:
- Good Build Quality
- Adequate Performance for daily tasks
- Large Storage
Cons:
- HD+ resolution is less sharp
- Average Camera Performance in Low Light
The Upcoming Budget Smartphone in India will be launched in 2024
OPPO K12x
The most anticipated budget smartphone to be launched in India is the OPPO k12x. Follow this detailed piece of information regarding anticipated features, expected price, and highlights of the upcoming gadget:
Expected Features of OPPO K12x
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695
Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate
RAM: 6GB/8GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD card)
Rear Camera:
- Main: 64MP
- Ultra-wide: 8MP
- Macro: 2MP
Front Camera: 16MP
Battery: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging
Estimated Price: ₹12,999.
Highlights of OPPO K12x
Operating System: ColorOS based on Android 13
High-Performance Processor: The OPPO K12x, coming with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695, is set to provide lag-free, seamless performance for every kind of everyday task, even for moderate gaming.
Smooth Display: With a 6.5-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD and a 90Hz refresh rate, this device provides a flawless and immersive display while streaming videos, browsing, or gaming.
Impressive Camera Setup: There are three camera lenses in the setup on the backside, a 64MP primary shooter that takes amazing photos, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens for more versatile photography. Up front, users get a 16MP sensor that will take excellent selfies and make clear video calls.
Long-Lasting Battery: A 5000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging keeps OPPO K12x going long, ensuring that you remain connected all day long.
Ample Storage: With variants of up to 256 GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1 TB with a microSD card, storage for applications, photos, and videos will be more than sufficient.
Enhanced User Experience: Running on ColorOS on Android 13, the OPPO K12x is easier to use, with an amazingly intuitive interface and many elements of personalization and features that make using your smartphone a breeze.
HMDcrest
HMD Global is all geared up to launch its budget-oriented smartphone in India next year, the HMD Crest. Here is a rundown on what to expect from this all-important device:
HMD Crest Expected Features
Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
Display: 6.52-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
RAM: 4GB/6GB
Storage: 64GB/128GB, expandable up to 512GB with microSD card
Rear Camera:
- Main: 50MP
- Depth: 2MP
- Battery: 5000mAh with 18W fast charging
Operating System: Android 13 (One of the first budget phones to come with Android 13 out of the box)
Other Features:
- Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor
- Face unlock
- Dual SIM support
- USB Type-C port
- 3.5mm headphone jack
Estimated Price
- 4GB/64GB Variant: ₹10,000 – ₹12,000
- 6GB/128GB Variant: ₹12,000 – ₹14,000
Highlights of HMD Crest
Efficient Processor: With the MediaTek Helio G85 at its heart, the HMD Crest is here to provide good performance.
Smooth Display: Featuring a 90Hz refresh rate, the 6.52-inch HD+ IPS LCD display strains to ensure a decent viewing experience when it comes to smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions.
A Versatile Camera Setup: Using a triple rear camera setup topped with a 50MP primary lens, users will be able to experience good camera performance in almost any kind of shooting scenario. For selfies and video calling, there is an 8MP lens on the front.
Long-Lasting Battery: 5000mAh long-life battery with 18W fast charging makes it easier to stay on the go, longer in use, and quicker to refill.
Storage: With a room of up to 128GB expandable via a Micro SD card, HMD Crest gives users quite some space for apps, photos, and videos.
Latest Android Experience: Ship with Android 13, the HMD Crest has the latest features and improvements in security and performance that budget phones can feature for one of the first out-of-the-box experiences.
Durable Build: Designed for robust build quality, the HMD Crest will enjoy all the toughness and reliability most users associate with Nokia-branded devices.
Realme Narzo N61 128GB
Realme never stops experimenting with its Narzo series, which is popularly known for providing high performance at economical rates. Well, the Realme Narzo N61 128GB appears as the next budget beast about to take the Indian market by storm in 2024. Let’s have a close look at what can be expected from this device:
Expected Features of Realme Narzo N61 128GB
Processor: Dimensity 700 by MediaTek; Display: 6.6 inches, Full HD+ IPS LCD, with ninety Hz refresh rate.
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB (expandable to 1TB using a microSD card slot).
Rear Camera: 48MP (Main Camera) + 8MP (Ultra-wide) + 2MP (Macro).
Front Camera: 16MP.
Battery: 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charge.
OS: Realme UI 4.0 based on Android 13.
Other Specs:
- The fingerprint sensor on the side,
- Face Unlock,
- Dual SIM support,
- USB Type-C,
- 3.5mm headphone jack.
Estimated Price:
6GB/128 ₹14,000-₹16,000
Highlights of Realme Narzo N61 128GB
Fluid Display: 6.6-inch Full HD+, IPS, LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth, immersive viewing, perfect for streaming, gaming, and browsing.
Versatile Camera System: The triple rear camera comprises a 48MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide lens, and 2MP macro lens that captures every special moment, and a 16MP front-facing camera for high-quality selfies and video-calling.
Long-lasting Battery: its 5000mAh battery and 18W fast charging give you long usage times and pace in its recharging, keeping you connected all day long.
Ample Storage: From the Narzo N61, a user gets 128GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 1TB via microSD card. It should be enough for your apps, photos, videos, and other data.
More Feature-Rich Smartphone: With the device powered by Realme UI 4.0 based on Android 13, the device runs smoothly with a rich set of features that helps with supporting a better experience.
Solid Build Quality: The Narzo N61 does get the usual Realme treatment, which ensures the device is good to best in construction and is robust enough to be carried in hand or pocket daily.
Tips for Buying a Budget Smartphone
With so many options available, choosing the right budget smartphone can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
1. Set Your Budget
Decide how much you are really willing to pay. There are budget smartphones in India whose price ranges between ₹8,000 to ₹15,000. Knowing this figure will narrow down your options and also keep you from overspending on features you may not need.
2. Usage
Consider what you will mainly be using the smartphone for. If you’re a gamer, you will be after phones with higher processors and significantly more RAM. For photography enthusiasts, it’s the quality of the camera. If you’re going to use your phone simply for calls, messaging, and social media, then a device with decent all-around performance would be fine.
3. Research and Read Reviews
Check online reviews from authentic bloggers, and video reviews to judge the phone’s performance for yourself. User reviews on e-commerce websites can also provide insights into any common issues or advantages.
4. Check for Offers and Discounts
Budget phones often have several offers and discounts during festive seasons and sales events. This is easily the best value for your money because of cashback offers, exchange deals, and accessory bundle offers.
5. Compare Specifications
Utilize the comparison tools on e-commerce websites or from a host of tech blogs to compare the specifications side by side, one feature at a time of different handsets in order to understand the best picks available for you according to your priority.
Future Trends in Budget Smartphones
The segment keeps getting better and better, and manufacturers tend to bring premium features to a relatively more affordable device. Some trends one can expect in the value-for-money segment over the next years include:
1. 5G Connectivity
More 5G areas are set to roll out in India. This is going to make budget 5G-enabled smartphones even bigger because these give the fastest internet between your devices and quick signal power-up times.
2. Enhanced AI Capabilities
AI-powered features, including great improvements in camera effectiveness, good optimization of the battery, and general user experience customization, are going to be commonly found.
3. Improved Displays
There will be the trend of improved displays at higher refresh rates, like the current trend of 90Hz and 120Hz for ultra-smooth scrolling and gaming, in these budget smartphones. The improvement with the display technology and AMOLED panels will continue.
4. Better Build Quality
More emphasis is also expected to be placed on premium designs and build quality: a lot of devices are going to be made of glass and metal material to provide a high-end smartphone feel in budget smartphones.
5. Software Updates
Regular software updates in terms of user-friendly features and proper security patches will be required to keep the budget smartphone secure and current with new features.
Conclusion
So, yes, budget smartphones have truly come of age in India to really boast great features and impressive performance at very pocket-friendly prices. Be it a strong battery, quality camera, or nice display, there exists a budget smartphone suitable for anyone. Just make sure to set limits on your expenditure, know your area of preference, and research all the details you can obtain. With the times changing and technological advancements being super high all through, a budget smartphone is going to be even better value in the years.
FAQs
Q1: Which is the best brand for budget smartphones in India?
A1: Some of the best budget smartphone brands in India include Xiaomi, Realme, Samsung, Poco, Vivo, and many others. Now, since each of these brands comes with a different range and set of models that appeal to different senses of thought, the best brand would pretty much depend on your needs or preferences.
Q2: Is gaming possible on budget smartphones?
A2: Yes, most contemporary budget smartphones pack quite powerful processors and sufficient memory to run the most popular mobile games. One needs to go for higher RAM variants and devices that come with gaming processors like the MediaTek Helio G series or the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6xx series.
Q3: Are budget smartphones good for photography?
A3: Budget smartphones may not be as great as the flagship models with cameras, but most of them still have decent camera performance. Devices with multiple rear cameras and higher megapixel accounts provide better photography.
Q4: How important is battery life for a budget smartphone?
A4: Battery life is a very big deal, especially if you burn your phone the whole day long. Let’s look at it from a budget smartphone that offers no less than a 4000mAh battery to take you through usage periods without the need for regular charging.
Q5: Do budget smartphones get software updates?
A5: Yes, many budget smartphones receive regular software updates and security patches. To be sure to always get a good experience from the device, select a brand that supports its devices decently well.
Call to Acton
We hope this guide has given you an idea of what to look for in a budget smartphone and, at least, some models worth looking out for in 2024. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences with budget smartphones, go ahead in the comments section below. Don’t forget to explore other articles on more tech tips and reviews.
See also: Apple iPhone 16 Unleashed: The Ultimate Guide to the Hottest New Features
