Affordable Smartphones See a Major Shift: 5G and Powerful Features Now Under ₹10,000!
Budget Phones Are Now "Strategic," Not Just "Sensible"; Dominating the Market with Long Battery Life, Excellent Cameras, and 5G Connectivity
The sub-₹10,000 smartphone segment, once known primarily for everyday utility, has undergone a significant transformation. Brands have now infused this price range with premium features like 5G connectivity, large displays, and high-megapixel cameras, elevating it from merely “sensible” to “strategic.” Users can now expect smartphones with extended battery life, smooth user interfaces (UI), and reliable processors for daily tasks, even at a lower price point.
We have curated a list of some of the best smartphones, based on their display, processor, camera, battery, and other essential specifications, that offer excellent value in this range:
1. Samsung Galaxy M07 / Samsung Galaxy F07: A Reliable Choice for Daily Use
These budget phones from Samsung feature a 6.7-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a great visual experience. They are powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, which is sufficient for daily use and light gaming. The Galaxy M07’s camera setup includes a 50MP main + 2MP secondary sensor, capable of taking good photos in daylight. With a 5000mAh battery and running on Android 15, this phone ensures long battery life. The Samsung Galaxy F07 is an online-exclusive version of the M07 with nearly identical specifications.
2. HMD Vibe 5G: Affordable 5G and a Clean User Experience
The HMD Vibe 5G is for users who want an affordable 5G phone with a stock-like Android experience. It comes with a 6.67-inch IPS LCD (720p) display, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 5G-compatible SoC. With a dual 50MP+2MP camera setup, a 5000mAh battery, and Android 15, this phone brings 5G connectivity into the budget segment.
3. Moto G06 Power: The Champion of Long Battery Life
The biggest highlight of the Moto G06 Power is its massive 7000mAh battery, which provides exceptionally long backup. It features a 6.88-inch HD+ display and a 50MP main sensor camera. Running on a MediaTek Helio-series SoC, this phone comes with an IP64-rated build and Android 15, making it an excellent choice for those who need a long-lasting phone.
4. Itel Zeno 20: Compact and Capable
The Itel Zeno 20 features a 6.6-inch display, a Unisoc T7100/octa-core platform, 3GB/4GB RAM, and 64GB/128GB storage options. Its 13MP primary camera, 8MP selfie camera, 5000mAh battery, and USB-C port make it a useful budget smartphone.
5. Infinix Hot 60i 5G: A Feature-Packed 5G Phone
The Infinix Hot 60i 5G boasts a 6.75-inch HD+ display, up to 120Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 6400 5G chipset, and a 50MP main rear camera. A 6000mAh battery ensures long life, making it great for those who need 5G and good features on a budget.
6. Tecno Spark Go 5G: Reliable 5G Experience
The Tecno Spark Go 5G offers a 6.74-inch HD+ display, Dimensity 6400 5G chipset, 50MP primary rear camera, and a 6000mAh battery. Shipping with Android 15-based HIOS, this phone provides a solid 5G experience.
7. AI+ Nova 5G: Large Display and 5G Connectivity
The AI+ Nova 5G comes with a 6.7-inch display, a 50MP main rear camera, and a 5MP front shooter. It features a 5000mAh battery, 6GB/8GB RAM options, 5G connectivity, and a 120Hz refresh rate display, making it an attractive budget 5G smartphone.
These new smartphones demonstrate how technology is becoming accessible across all budgets, allowing users to experience excellent features even at lower price points.
