Smartphones

Best budget smartphones offering great performance, battery life, and value

Finding a good smartphone within a tight budget can be challenging. However, with a variety of options available under Rs 10,000, it’s easier to find a device that offers value without compromising essential features. Here’s a detailed guide to the best budget-friendly smartphones in 2024.

1. Infinix Hot 50 5G

Price: Rs. 9,999
The Infinix Hot 50 5G offers excellent performance for its price. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, it handles everyday tasks smoothly. Its 48 MP triple camera performs well in low-light settings, and the 5000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting use. The phone's IP54 rating makes it durable against splashes and dust.

Pros:
  • Solid build with IP54 rating
  • Great low-light camera
  • Long battery life
Cons:
  • Brightness could be better
  • Slow charging speed

Verdict: If you prioritize durability and camera performance, the Infinix Hot 50 5G is a solid choice for its price.

2. Moto G24 Power

Price: Rs. 7,999
The Moto G24 Power focuses on clean software and dependable battery life. Its sturdy design makes it durable for daily use. However, it lacks 5G capabilities, which might be a downside for some. The phone is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 and provides reliable performance for basic tasks.

Pros:
  • Clean software
  • Strong battery life
Cons:
  • No 5G support
  • Cameras could be better

Verdict: The Moto G24 Power is ideal for users seeking a no-frills experience with a focus on software and battery.

3. POCO M6

Price: Rs. 9,249
With a dual-tone design and solid performance, the POCO M6 provides good value for money. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus and features a 50 MP camera. The phone has a 5000 mAh battery that can last through the day, but its slow charging speed may be a drawback for users seeking faster recharges.

Pros:
  • Stylish design
  • Decent performance
Cons:
  • Bloatware
  • Slow charging

Verdict: For Flipkart shoppers looking for a good-looking device with decent battery life and performance, the POCO M6 is a solid choice.

4. Lava Blaze 2 5G

Price: Rs. 9,999
The Lava Blaze 2 5G offers smooth performance with its MediaTek Dimensity 6020 chipset. The battery life is excellent, making it suitable for heavy usage. However, the display could be brighter, and the cameras are just average for this segment.

Pros:
  • Smooth performance
  • Bloat-free UI
  • Great battery life
Cons:
  • Display could be better
  • Average camera quality

Verdict: A good choice for users wanting 5G connectivity at a budget price with dependable performance.

5. Itel P55 5G

Price: Rs. 8,955
With 5G support and a reliable MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chipset, the Itel P55 5G offers good value at its price. The phone excels in day-to-day performance and battery life. However, the camera quality isn’t exceptional, particularly in low-light settings.

Pros:
  • Reliable performance
  • Long battery life
  • 5G support
Cons:
  • Average camera performance
  • Some pre-installed bloatware

Verdict: The Itel P55 5G is ideal for those who need 5G at a budget-friendly price with decent everyday performance.

6. POCO C65

Price: Rs. 6,799
The POCO C65 is an affordable option for entry-level users. It offers solid battery life and a decent display for casual use. However, the phone’s slow charging and pre-installed apps can detract from the overall experience.

Pros:
  • Strong battery life
  • Good primary camera
Cons:
  • Slow charging
  • Bloatware

Verdict: A good option for users seeking a basic smartphone for daily tasks like messaging and media consumption.

7. Realme Narzo N63

Price: Rs. 8,498
The Realme Narzo N63 stands out with its attractive vegan leather back and reliable battery life. It offers Air Gestures and other smart features, adding value to the overall user experience. However, the phone lacks 5G and the display could be brighter.

Pros:
  • Sleek design
  • Fast charging
  • Smart features
Cons:
  • No 5G support
  • Low brightness

Verdict: A stylish option for users who prefer smart features and decent performance without 5G connectivity.

8. Xiaomi Redmi 13C 5G

Price: Rs. 9,199
The Xiaomi Redmi 13C 5G brings 5G connectivity to the budget market. It offers good battery life and solid build quality. However, users may find the charging speed and camera performance lacking compared to other options in this range.

Pros:
  • Long battery life
  • 5G support
Cons:
  • Slow charging
  • Average cameras

Verdict: If 5G is a priority for you, the Xiaomi Redmi 13C 5G offers good value at a reasonable price.

9. Infinix Hot 40i

Price: Rs. 9,250
The Infinix Hot 40i stands out with its 32 MP selfie camera, a rarity in this price range. It also boasts a dependable battery and decent display. However, the phone’s performance and charging speeds could be better.

Pros:
  • Impressive selfie camera
  • Good battery life
Cons:
  • Slow charging
  • Performance could be better

Verdict: If you're looking for a budget phone with a great selfie camera, the Infinix Hot 40i is worth considering.

10. Tecno Spark 20C

Price: Rs. 7,999
The Tecno Spark 20C delivers a solid multimedia experience with stereo speakers and DTS support. The phone also provides good battery life, though its performance could be better, and it lacks 5G connectivity.

Pros:
  • Great stereo speakers
  • Reliable battery life
Cons:
  • Underwhelming performance
  • No 5G

Verdict: Ideal for users who value a good multimedia experience and reliable battery, but don't need 5G.

Final Thoughts

The smartphones listed here represent some of the best options under Rs 10,000 in 2024. While each device has its own strengths and weaknesses, they all offer great value for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you're looking for 5G connectivity, a strong camera, or long battery life, there’s a phone on this list that will suit your needs.