The mid-range smartphone market in 2024 has emerged as an exciting and competitive space, catering to consumers who seek the perfect balance between quality and affordability. With technological advancements and consumer demands evolving rapidly, smartphones within the ₹25,000 range are now expected to offer impressive performance, stunning display quality, and exceptional camera capabilities—all without breaking the bank. As manufacturers strive to pack flagship-level features into more budget-friendly devices, consumers are presented with numerous options. This article will explore the top smartphones that exemplify the best blend of these features, helping you make an informed choice. From striking displays to robust performance and camera innovation, here are the leading contenders in the mid-range segment that we’ve reviewed.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Smartphone Under ₹25,000
Key Features to Consider
When you’re hunting for a smartphone under ₹25,000, there are a few key features you should definitely keep an eye on. First up is processor performance. A solid processor ensures your phone runs smoothly, whether you’re multitasking between apps, gaming, or just browsing the web. Look for options with mid-range chipsets like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7xx series or equivalent MediaTek offerings. These processors strike a great balance between power and efficiency, giving you a responsive experience without draining your battery too quickly.
Speaking of displays, an AMOLED screen is a fantastic choice if you can find it in this price range. AMOLEDs deliver vibrant colors and deeper blacks, making everything from photos to videos look stunning. Also, consider the refresh rate—90Hz or above can make your interactions feel buttery smooth, which is particularly helpful if you love gaming or scrolling through social media.
Now, let’s talk about cameras. In this segment, it’s not just about the megapixels. While high resolution is great, AI enhancements can truly elevate your photos, offering features like night mode, portrait mode, and real-time adjustments. These AI capabilities can turn even ordinary shots into something special.
Battery life, of course, is crucial. Anything above 4000mAh is usually enough to get you through the day, but more is always better, especially if you’re a heavy user. Quick charging can also be a lifesaver when you’re low on time.
Lastly, don’t forget about software updates. Regular updates not only give you the latest features but also keep your phone secure and smooth over time. Brands that promise regular operating system and security updates can offer better longevity for your device. So, weigh these features against your needs, and you’ll find a smartphone that won’t just fit your budget but also enhance your daily digital life.
Top 5 Best Smartphones Under ₹25,000
1. Poco F6 5G

The Poco F6 5G stands out in the crowded mid-range smartphone market with its impressive feature set and value for money. Packed with a powerful Snapdragon 7 series chipset, this phone offers the performance gamers and power users crave. The processor ensures seamless multitasking and handles graphics-intensive games without breaking a sweat, making it an appealing choice for those who love gaming on their mobile devices.
Key Features
Processor:
Under the hood, the Poco F6 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 780G processor, which is renowned for its energy efficiency and high performance. This chipset, coupled with up to 8GB of RAM, ensures the device runs smoothly across all applications while efficiently managing battery life.
Display:
The device boasts a stunning 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This combination offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and fluid animations, providing an immersive experience whether you’re gaming, streaming videos, or simply browsing. The high refresh rate is particularly beneficial for gamers, delivering smoother gameplay with razor-sharp graphics.
Camera Setup:
Poco F6 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 64MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro camera. The AI-powered features enhance photos with precision, offering excellent performance in low-light conditions and delivering crisp, detailed shots. Features like night mode and portrait mode further elevate the photographic experience.
Battery and Charging:
Equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery, the Poco F6 5G ensures you can go through your day with ease without frequent charging. When it does need a boost, the 67W fast-charging capability minimizes downtime, reaching 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
Why Gamers and Content Consumers Will Love It
The Poco F6 5G caters exceptionally well to gamers and content consumers with its high-muscle processor and vivid AMOLED display. The 120Hz refresh rate makes games responsive and fluid, while the large screen size enhances video streaming and gaming sessions. Additionally, with the 5G connectivity, users can enjoy faster download speeds and more stable connections for online gaming and streaming.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Snapdragon 780G processor ensures top-tier performance.
- 120Hz AMOLED display offers vibrant visuals and smooth motion.
- Versatile and capable camera setup with excellent AI enhancements.
- Large 5000mAh battery with 67W fast-charging capability.
- 5G connectivity ensures future-proofed mobile experience.
Cons:
- Lacks water and dust resistance found in some competitors.
- No expandable storage, relying on internal memory capacity.
- MIUI may come with some bloatware that users might find unnecessary.
Overall, the Poco F6 5G is a formidable mid-range contender, offering features that appeal to gamers and multimedia enthusiasts alike. It combines robust performance, stellar visuals, and excellent battery life, making it a top choice in its price segment.
2. iQOO Z9s Pro 5G

The iQOO Z9s Pro 5G positions itself as a powerhouse in the competitive smartphone landscape, particularly appealing to gamers, multitaskers, and those seeking a robust mobile experience. With a focus on delivering outstanding performance, cutting-edge technology, and rapid charging, this device is crafted for power users who refuse to compromise on any aspect of their digital engagement.
Gaming Performance
Equipped with the Snapdragon 888+ processor and up to 12GB of RAM, the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G offers top-tier gaming capabilities. Its Adreno 660 GPU ensures smooth graphics rendering and supports high-refresh-rate displays, making it perfect for even the most demanding games. The 144Hz AMOLED display further enhances the gaming experience by providing fluid motion and vivid colors, while the advanced cooling system prevents overheating during extended gaming sessions. Users will find the phone highly responsive with minimal latency, delivering an unparalleled competitive edge during gameplay.
Camera System
The iQOO Z9s Pro 5G features a triple-camera setup that emphasizes quality and versatility. The 64MP main camera captures sharp and detailed images, while the 16MP ultra-wide lens allows users to explore expansive perspectives. Completing the trio is a 5MP macro lens for capturing fine details from up close. With AI enhancements, night mode, and video stabilization, this camera system excels in various lighting conditions, offering flexibility and creative freedom for photographers and casual users alike.
Fast Charging Capabilities
The device houses a 4,400mAh battery paired with a 120W fast-charging capability. Users can expect incredibly swift charging times, reaching up to 100% in under 20 minutes, thus minimizing downtime and ensuring that power is always at hand. This feature is particularly advantageous for the always-on-the-go power user, providing confidence that their device will keep up with the demands of a fast-paced lifestyle.
Advantages for Multitasking
Multitasking is seamless on the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G, thanks to its ample RAM and efficient processor. Users can easily switch between numerous applications without experiencing lag or performance drops. The device also supports split-screen functionality, allowing power users to operate multiple apps simultaneously, which is invaluable for productivity tasks, entertainment, and communication.
Suitability for Power Users
For power users, the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G is a perfect companion. Its advanced hardware configuration supports intensive applications, gaming, and multitasking, while the 5G connectivity ensures fast internet access and reduced latency. The phone’s design also incorporates thoughtful ergonomics, providing comfort during prolonged use. Collectively, these features make it a compelling choice for those who demand more from their smartphone, whether for work, play, or creativity.
In summary, the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G emerges as a formidable option for consumers desiring an immersive, powerful, and efficient smartphone experience. Its blend of superior gaming performance, versatile camera system, and rapid charging makes it an exceptional choice for tech-savvy individuals seeking a device that compliments a dynamic, multitasking lifestyle.
3. Edge 50 Neo

The Edge 50 Neo stands out in the crowded smartphone market with its sophisticated premium design and impressive technical specifications. With a sleek profile and striking aesthetics, the Edge 50 Neo caters to users who value style alongside performance. The cutting-edge craftsmanship is evident in its seamless metal-and-glass construction, contributing to both durability and elegant appeal.
Stunning 144Hz OLED Display
At the heart of the Edge 50 Neo’s allure is its vibrant 144Hz OLED display, which delivers unparalleled visual quality. The rich color gamut and deep blacks make it perfect for multimedia consumption, providing an immersive viewing experience for streaming video content and playing graphic-intensive games. The high refresh rate ensures fluid motion, which is particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming and scrolling through content, offering a smooth and captivating display experience.
Versatile Camera Features
The camera system of the Edge 50 Neo is equally formidable, designed to capture stunning photographs and videos in any scenario. Featuring a high-resolution primary sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a depth sensor, this setup offers users flexibility in photography. The device’s AI-driven enhancements ensure that every shot is optimally captured, whether in low light conditions or during high-action sequences, making it a remarkable tool for both casual users and photography enthusiasts.
Superior Multimedia and Gaming Capabilities
Underpinned by a powerful processor and ample RAM, the Edge 50 Neo shines in delivering exceptional multimedia and gaming performance. Users can enjoy lag-free gaming with impressive graphics rendering, while the enhanced audio system elevates the entire multimedia experience through rich, clear sound. The phone’s robust hardware ensures that demanding applications and multitasking burden are handled effortlessly, maintaining quick responsiveness and efficiency.
Perfect for Style-Conscious Power Users
In conclusion, the Edge 50 Neo is ideal for users who seek a phone that doesn’t compromise on style or substance. Its premium design and exceptional performance characteristics create a harmonious blend that caters to those desiring both elegance and high functionality. Whether for multimedia indulgence, gaming enjoyment, or capturing life’s moments, the Edge 50 Neo is equipped to exceed expectations, making it a standout choice for discerning, performance-oriented individuals.
4. Nothing Phone 2a 5G

The Nothing Phone 2a 5G brings a breath of fresh air to the smartphone industry with its innovative design and unique features that set it apart from conventional devices. A key highlight of the phone is its eye-catching transparent back, which gives users a glimpse into the phone’s inner workings, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation. This transparency is not only a design statement but also serves as a functional element with its embedded LED notification system. The LEDs are strategically placed to offer customizable alerts for incoming calls, messages, and other notifications, adding a level of personalization and convenience that stands out in a sea of nondescript phones.
Unique Software Experience
Underlining the user experience is the Nothing OS, a bespoke software experience that marries clean design with intuitive functionality. This operating system is devoid of unnecessary bloatware, providing a streamlined interface that enhances user engagement without distractions. The minimalist approach of Nothing OS ensures smooth navigation and swift access to essential features, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity and efficiency in their digital interactions.
Camera Capabilities
The Nothing Phone 2a 5G excels in its photographic ventures, sporting a dual-camera system designed to capture high-quality images across varying environments. The primary sensor boasts a significant megapixel count, delivering sharp and vibrant photos, while the secondary ultra-wide lens allows users to expand their framing opportunities, ideal for landscapes and group photos. Advanced computational photography techniques, such as night mode and portrait lighting, empower users to achieve professional-level results effortlessly.
Display Features
Complementing its futuristic aesthetics is a brilliant OLED display that offers a feast for the eyes. The screen features high resolution and an impressive color accuracy that brings photos, videos, and games to life with stunning clarity. The high refresh rate ensures smooth and seamless visuals, particularly beneficial for gaming enthusiasts and multimedia consumers, providing an immersive experience with reduced motion blur.
Ideal User Profile
The Nothing Phone 2a 5G is tailor-made for trendsetters and tech enthusiasts who appreciate the marriage of form and function. Its distinctive design and unique LED notifications cater to those who wish to make a style statement while staying organized. The minimalistic software experience, coupled with robust camera capabilities and an outstanding display, make it an ideal partner for individuals seeking innovation along with efficiency. Whether for photography, gaming, or everyday tasks, the Nothing Phone 2a 5G is poised to meet and exceed the demands of modern smartphone users who embrace the cutting edge.
5. OnePlus Nord CE 4

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 stands out as a well-rounded option for those seeking a reliable smartphone that delivers both performance and value. At its core is the renowned OxygenOS experience, which offers a seamless and intuitive user interface. OxygenOS is praised for its near-stock Android feel and responsive performance, ensuring that everyday tasks are handled with ease and without the clutter of unnecessary bloatware. This clean and efficient operating system is designed to provide a smooth user experience, complete with plenty of customization options to meet individual preferences.
Camera Features
On the photography front, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 impresses with its versatile camera system. The phone features a high-resolution main camera that captures detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. Alongside the primary lens, there is also an array of additional sensors, including an ultra-wide lens for capturing expansive landscapes and a macro lens for up-close shots. The camera’s software enhancements, such as night mode and AI-powered scene recognition, further augment its performance, making it easy for users to take stunning photographs without needing professional-level skills.
Battery Performance
Battery performance is another area where the OnePlus Nord CE 4 excels. Equipped with a substantial battery capacity, it ensures that users can go through their day without frequent recharging. Additionally, the phone supports fast charging technology, minimizing downtime when the battery does run low. This longevity and efficiency in power management make it a dependable choice for users who need a device that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Why It’s a Well-Balanced Smartphone
Overall, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 is a well-balanced smartphone that caters to the general user who values both functionality and affordability. Its blend of a smooth OxygenOS experience, capable camera features, and enduring battery life makes it perfect for everyday use, whether for communication, entertainment, or productivity. This balance ensures that users do not have to compromise on essential features, making the Nord CE 4 a standout option in the crowded mid-range smartphone market.
Comparative Table
Specification | Poco F6 5G | Vivo T3 Pro 5G | iQOO Z9s Pro 5G | Edge 50 Neo | Nothing Phone 2a 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 4 |
Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | MediaTek Dimensity 9000 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 870 | Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 750G |
Display | 6.7″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.8″ FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.6″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.7″ OLED, 144Hz | 6.55″ OLED, 120Hz | 6.43″ AMOLED, 90Hz |
Camera | 64MP (main), 8MP (ultra-wide) | 108MP (main), 8MP (ultra-wide) | 50MP (main), 8MP (ultra-wide) | 50MP (main), 16MP (ultra-wide) | 50MP (main), 12MP (ultra-wide) | 64MP (main), 8MP (ultra-wide) |
Battery | 5000mAh, 67W fast charging | 5000mAh, 80W fast charging | 4800mAh, 66W fast charging | 5000mAh, 68W fast charging | 4500mAh, 33W fast charging | 4500mAh, 30W fast charging |
Price | $499 | $599 | $529 | $579 | $549 | $399 |
Unique Features | LiquidCool Technology 3.0 | Audio Spatial Delivery | Monster Gaming Mode | Edge Lighting Customization | Transparent back, LED notifications | OxygenOS Experience |
Gaming Excellence: The iQOO Z9s Pro 5G leads in gaming with its advanced Monster Gaming Mode enhancing performance and reduced lag, coupled with its consistent Snapdradon 8 Gen 1 processor handling high-demand games effortlessly.
Photographic Superiority: The Vivo T3 Pro 5G excels in photography, with its 108MP main sensor capturing stunning high-resolution images, and robust computational enhancements for varied lighting conditions.General Performance: The Edge 50 Neo stands out for general performance with its Snapdragon 870 processor providing balanced efficiency for everyday tasks while boasting an immersive display with a 144Hz refresh rate, making it an excellent all-rounder.
Best Overall Smartphone Under ₹25,000
From the list provided, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 emerges as the best overall smartphone under ₹25,000. It expertly balances performance, camera quality, and value for money, making it a top contender in this price bracket. Powered by the Snapdragon 750G processor, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 delivers reliable performance for everyday use and moderate gaming needs without significant lag or overheating issues, especially compared to some peers in this range.
In the camera department, the Nord CE 4 features a 64MP main camera that excels in taking detailed and vibrant photographs. The inclusion of an ultra-wide lens adds versatility, enabling users to capture more expansive scenes. Its camera software enhancements, including night mode and AI scene detection, further elevate the user experience, making photography effortless and enjoyable even for non-professional users.
Priced at $399, approximately ₹29,999, it might slightly exceed the ₹25,000 mark, but its array of features and benefits ensure that it offers exceptional value. The robust OxygenOS provides a smooth, uncluttered user interface with desirable customization options, enhancing usability and satisfaction. The OnePlus Nord CE 4 stands as the ideal choice, combining performance, photographic prowess, and a user-friendly experience within a budget-friendly package.
Best Gaming Smartphone Under ₹25,000
For gaming enthusiasts looking for the best smartphone under ₹25,000, the Poco F6 5G stands out as an exceptional choice. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, this device boasts impressive computational capabilities that provide fast and seamless gaming performance. The high-performance Adreno GPU ensures smooth graphics rendering, which is critical for modern mobile games that demand high-definition visuals and quick responsiveness.
Additionally, the Poco F6 5G features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing for ultra-smooth animations and responsive touch mechanics that are vital in fast-paced gaming scenarios. This refresh rate helps reduce motion blur and gives gamers a competitive edge by providing fluid transitions between frames, making every movement appear smoother and more natural.
These powerful specifications combined make the Poco F6 5G an ideal device for gamers who seek lag-free performance, vibrant visuals, and an overall enhanced gaming experience, all while remaining within a budget-friendly segment. Whether battling in intensive multiplayer arenas or immersing in rich single-player narratives, the Poco F6 5G delivers a captivating gaming experience that rivals more expensive models.
Best Smartphone for Photography Enthusiasts Under ₹25,000
For photography enthusiasts looking for a smartphone under ₹25,000, the Vivo T3 Pro 5G is an outstanding choice. Its camera capabilities are truly remarkable, featuring a robust 108MP main sensor that allows users to capture strikingly detailed and high-resolution images. This high megapixel count ensures that every photo boasts sharpness and clarity, ideal for those who appreciate fine details in their captures.
The Vivo T3 Pro excels in low-light performance, owing to its sophisticated computational photography enhancements. It utilizes advanced algorithms and AI technologies to automatically adjust settings for optimal exposure and noise reduction, making it possible to take clear and vibrant photos even when lighting conditions are suboptimal. The inclusion of a dedicated night mode further enhances its performance in dimly lit environments, allowing users to capture the essence of nightscapes with improved brightness and color accuracy.
Additionally, the Vivo T3 Pro incorporates AI-powered enhancements such as scene detection and optimization, which intelligently recognizes different settings and subjects, from landscapes to portraits, and applies tailored adjustments to enhance image quality. This automatic fine-tuning ensures that users can capture stunning photographs without needing professional photography skills, making the Vivo T3 Pro 5G an ideal companion for photography lovers who desire an excellent camera experience coupled with user-friendly functionality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right smartphone under ₹25,000 can seem daunting given the plethora of choices available, but understanding their standout features can make the decision much easier. The OnePlus Nord CE 4 is the best overall option, offering balanced performance with its Snapdragon 750G processor, impressive camera capabilities, and a smooth user experience, enhanced by OxygenOS. For gaming, the Poco F6 5G is unmatched, providing powerful performance with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and visually rich experiences on its 120Hz AMOLED display. Photography enthusiasts will find the Vivo T3 Pro 5G to be the perfect match with its 108MP sensor and outstanding low-light capabilities. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G leads in gaming excellence with advanced performance-boosting features, and the Edge 50 Neo remains a solid all-rounder with its Snapdragon 870 processor and 144Hz display. These options offer unique attributes tailored to different user needs, from seamless gaming to exceptional photography. We encourage readers to delve into these choices and select the smartphone that best aligns with their preferences and requirements, ensuring a tech companion that meets both current and future demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Smartphones Under ₹25,000
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