Mobiles
10 Best Smartphones under 20000 in India (2024) - Ultimate Guide
Are you planning to upgrade your phone? If yes, here are the best smartphones you can buy under Rs. 20,000 in India right now.
The significantly preferred price segment in the smartphone industry is ‘below 20000’, which ranges between the premium and flagship categories, featuring the combined goodness of both. The massive sales under this segment are due to the increased average per capita income expenditure on smartphones by the huge Indian middle class. Satisfying the requirements hereby is based mainly on value for money. Mobile phones ruling this category offer configuration with at least 4GB RAM, and a Snapdragon processor with ~60GB internal memory. It seems like any phone under Rs 20000 would be worth buying, but with rapid technological changes, we can enjoy great features on any tight-string budget.
Competitive edge in terms of the bezel-less display, smaller notch display, and better camera quality, amongst others, is currently the major focus of smartphone manufacturers across the globe and holds true within India too.
Huge battery life, quad-camera clicking top-notch pictures, under your budget needs, faster RAM, best phone, period.
Isn't it a win-win situation if you can get a phone that meets all of your needs while still not burning a hole in your pocket?
When it comes to battery life, we must remember both, the time it takes to discharge and charge the handset, and this phone is said to provide the best of both worlds.
Great RAM and an octa-core processor made this a very cost-effective phone.
8GB RAM | 128GB internal memory | Dual SIM (nano+nano) dual-standby (4G)!
Best Camera Quality - MOTOROLA G40 Fusion
You can get the best of the best with a quad camera, high selfie, and rear camera megapixels.
Summary with Smartphones Under Rs 20000 Price List
For an easy glance, here is the list of the best smartphones under 20000 in India along with the price list -
Ranking
Item Name
Price
1
₹ 13,795
2
₹ 18,490
3
₹ 16,999
4
₹ 18,999
5
₹ 14,790
6
₹ 18,999
7
₹ 11,990
8
₹ 17,989
9
₹ 13,489
10
₹ 22,999
After the successful launch of POCO X2, MI POCO X3 entered the budget-friendly smartphone segment. Uniquely, it is currently the most affordable and best smartphone under 20000 range with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G processor.
This phone comes with a 6.67-inch full-HD+ LCD display with Gorilla Glass on the front and back and on the rear camera module. With a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G and 4GB of RAM under the hood, this phone makes short work of processing tasks, quickly loading apps and allowing for seamless multitasking. The phone comes with 64 GB of storage.
Its powerful 5000 mAh lithium-ion polymer battery ensures you don't have to worry about frequent charge-ups. Furthermore, its fast charging is a boon. Regarding camera quality, it is reported to be the most capable purchase with a primary 48-megapixel sensor, an 8-megapixel sensor with a wide-angle lens, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 2-megapixel depth camera. You get a 16-megapixel hole-punch selfie camera that makes your selfies come alive.
Key Features:
Company: Xiaomi
Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android
16.94 cm (6.67 inches) Full HD+
4 GB
5000 mAh
16 MP
64 MP + 13 MP + 2 MP 2 MP
Pros: Awesome camera quality, good battery life, great performance, dual stereo speakers, large RAM & ROM
Cons: Heavy, the front camera doesn't have an LED light flash
The Oppo F17 is another great purchase in the ‘best mobile under Rs.20,000’ price range with superior specifications. Also available in 6/8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage (further expandable up to 256 GB), you can choose this phone in three different colours. This 6.44 inches phone features a water drop full-screen display with 2400 x 1080 pixels resolution and 408 PPI pixel density.
Its in-display fingerprint sensor is something you are sure to love. The phone features a 16 MP main camera + 8MP wide-angle camera + 2MP mono camera + 2MP mono rear camera that enables you to click great photos. Its 16 MP front camera captures alluring selfies even in low-light conditions.
The phone comes with a 2.0Ghz Qualcomm Snapdragon SD662 octa-core processor and runs on the Android v10-based Color OS 7.2 operating system. The battery backup is brilliant, with 30W VOOC flash charging.
Key Features:
Company: Oppo
Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 10
6.44 inch; Full HD+
6/8 GB
4,015 mAh
16 MP
16 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP+ 2 MP
Pros: Comes with an in-display fingerprint sensor, AMOLED display, super-fast charging, lightweight
Cons: Features old Android version, average battery life
Redmi Note 9 Pro Max offers a Snapdragon 720G chipset processor and is undoubtedly one of the best steals under the price range of Rs. 20000 in India, currently based on all specifications.
In terms of camera, this Redmi model offers dual front-facing selfie shooters for an awesome click. Similarly, it also offers a 64MP primary camera and an 8MP ultra-wide shooter. Redmi Note 9 Pro Max is a huge callout for camera lovers and selfie queens as it is embedded with a new processing algorithm, several shooting modes, and a comprehensive manual mode.
The mobile display is an IPS LCD panel with a refresh rate of 90Hz and a resolution of 1080*2400pixels. As its series USP, the Redmi Note 9 Pro Max retains its big display and huge battery with exceptional battery life.
Key Features:
Company: Xiaomi
Launch Date: 6 June 2020
Price: Rs. 22,999
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 10
6.67 inches; Full HD+
6/8GB
5,020 mAh
32 MP
64MP+8MP+2MP+ 2 MP
Pros: Impressive quad camera, reliable overall performance, good battery life
Cons: Quite heavy in weight, low refresh rate, pre-installed bloatware, average low-light video recording.
Re-entering the affordable smartphone segment, Samsung launched Samsung Galaxy M33 in its popular M-Series portfolio. This model comes with Octa-core Exynos 1280 and a display resolution of 1080*2400 pixels. The screen is a super AMOLED screen with full HD+ resolution. Truly a gem of mobile under Rs 20000, its features will leave you bewildered.
The camera quality has progressed as against its previous launch of Galaxy M30s with an addition of a fourth camera and a 50 MP sensor upgrade to its primary shooter. Overall, the model offers a versatile Quad camera setup-50MP (F1.8)+ 5MP (F2.2/UW- 123 FOV) + 2MP (F2.4/Depth) + 2MP (F2.4/Macro) QuadCamera| 8MP (F1.8) Front Camera. It is undoubtedly worth being listed in India's best smartphones under the Rs 20000 category.
The battery backup is excellent with 6,000 mAh capacity and a fast charging feature. This model is available in two variants based on its storage:
- 6 GB RAM+4 GB Storage
- 6GB RAM+ 128GB Storage
Key Features:
Company: Samsung
Launch Date: 31 March 2022
Price: Rs. 18,999
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 12
6.6inch; LCD Display, FHD+
6/12 GB
6,000 mAh
8MP+ 8mMP
50MP+5MP+2MP+2MP
Pros: Good display, excellent battery life, awesome camera performance, neat software, premium punch-hole design
Cons: Overall performance is not satisfactory, poor video stabilisation
Surprisingly, the launch of the Motorola G40 Fusion smartphone in the price range of under Rs 20000 segment was quite a surprise. The newly launched Motorola G40 Fusion is powered by a Qualcomm 2.3GHZ processor with a resolution of 1080*2460 pixels.
In terms of camera specifications, Motorola G40Fusion offers a 64MP primary with aperture f / 1.7, 1.4µm) Ultra-wide angle, 118° Macro Vision, minimum 2.5cm focus distance 2MP (f/2.4, 1.75 µm), depth, Front Camera 16 MP (f/2.2, 1 µm), Quad Pixel technology has also been included.
What is unique in this model is that the internal storage can be expanded to 1 TB with the help of an SD Card. We also could not ignore its good loudspeakers complimenting the crisp display of the smartphone.
Battery back-up is good with 6000 mAh and a 20w charging capacity. The phone is 225 gms in weight.
Key Features:
Company: Motorola
Launch Date: 24 August 2021
Price: Rs. 14,790
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 11
6.8inch; FHD+
6 GB+
6000 mAh
16 MP
64MP+8MP+2MP
Pros: Versatile camera, quick capture, three-finger screenshot, no pre-installed bloatware, useful gesture-based features
Cons: Big battery, not very fast charging, low light photography is average, plastic body not ensuring durability, near-stock android
The Vivo Y35 is another worthy pick in the best smartphones under Rs.20,000 segment. Available in 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage (expandable up to 1TB), the Vivo Y35 only offers two colour choices. The phone features a spectacular triple-rear camera with a 50 MP primary camera, 2 MP macro sensor, and 2 MP depth lens. It's 16 MP AI front camera clicks bright and gorgeous selfies.
This 6.58-inch phone features an FHD+ LCD display with 2408 x 1080 pixels resolution. Its massive 5000mAh lithium-ion battery is sure to hush up battery woes. The phone runs on the latest Funtouch OS 12 based on the Android 12 operating system and is backed by Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor.
Key Features:
Company: Vivo
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 12
6.58 inch; FHD+LCD
8 GB
5,000 mAh
16MP
50 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP
Pros: Features the latest Android version, great camera quality, long battery life, great multitasking performance
Cons: Limited colour choice, only 8 GB RAM available
Available in two variants viz. 4 GB RAM & 64 GB storage, and 6 GB RAM & 128 GB storage, the Oppo A54 offers you three unique colour choices. This smartphone model uses a 2.3GHz octa-core processor and runs on the Android v10 based on Color OS 7.2 operating system.
This 6.5 inches phone features a punch-hole display with a 90Hz screen refresh rate, 1600 x 720 pixels resolution. With no heating issues, the Oppo A54 is a smart choice for people looking for an efficient phone good for amateur gaming and multitasking. Its 5000mAH lithium-polymer battery supports 18W fast charge technology and easily lasts long without high power consumption.
Speaking of the camera quality, the 16 MP punch-hole front camera is great for selfie shoots. At the same time, the rear AI triple camera package includes a basic 13 MP primary sensor, 2 MP macro camera, and 2 MP camera for depth.
Key Features:
Company: Oppo
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 10
6.5 inch; punch-hole display
6 GB
5,000 mAH
16 MP
13 MP + 2 MP + 2MP
Pros: Sleek body, durably built quality, fast charging, smooth gaming experience
Cons: Camera performance is average, hybrid SIM tray that limits extra SIM card or microSD card usage
The Vivo Y33T is one of the best and the most value-for-money choice in the best mobile phone under 20000 categories in India. The phone is sleek, slim, and classic, with a massive 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage (expandable up to 1 TB). This 6.58 inches phone features a Halo FullView Display with FHD+ Display and a side fingerprint sensor.
Regarding camera quality, it is packed with a 50 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP AI triple rear primary camera and a 16 MP super night selfie camera. The phone runs on the Funtouch OS 12 Based on the Android 11 operating system and is backed by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 Octa-core processor.
Its 5000 mAH Lithium-ion battery lasts long, consumes low power and features 18W fast charging technology to save you time and power bills. Built wisely, the phone is quite lightweight and perfect for multitasking.
Key Features:
Company: Vivo
Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 11
6.58 inch; FHD+ Display
8 GB
5,000 mAH
16 MP
50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP
Pros: Overall performance is good, excellent battery life, nice camera quality, thin, lightweight, features the latest Android version
Cons: Hybrid SIM slot, unavailability of NFC to transfer data, slightly heavy
If you can extend your budget to a thousand bucks more, the Vivo Y21is an even better choice featured in the best smartphones under 20000 segment. The phone is available in two colour choices and offers a 6.51-inch capacitive touchscreen with 1600 x 720 pixels resolution. With Vivo Y21, you get 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage.
In terms of camera, the phone comes with a triple rear camera set-up of 13MP+2 MP. The 8MP front camera captures remarkable selfies that you are sure to love.
This smartphone model runs on the Mediatek Helio P35 Octa core processor and is backed by Funtouch OS 11.1 based on the Android 11 operating system. Regarding battery life, the Vivo Y21 offers a 5000 mAh battery paired with an 18 W fast charger capacity.
Key Features:
Company: Vivo
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
FunTouch OS, Android 11.1
6.51 inch; HD+ Display
4GB
5000 mAh
8 MP
13 MP + 2 MP
Pros: Super display, great battery life with fast charging, in-display fingerprint sensor, great for multitasking, high camera quality
Cons: Limited battery life, no stereo speakers
The smartphone is based on Android 11. The display offers 1080*2400 pixels with a Larger Screen to Body ratio of 90.8%.
This smartphone offers an overall smooth experience in video streaming, gaming, and keeping up with fluid display in the best smartphones under 20000 segment in India.
Ultra-slim Retro Design with Industry First Fiberglass-leather finishes and Orbit Light for Notifications.
Camera-wise, the phone has a quad-camera set-up of 64MP lens, 2 MP, and 2MP sensors. It also has a front camera of 32MP. Oppo offers excellent battery life with 4500mAh with 33W fast charging.
Key Features:
Company: Oppo
Launch Date: 12 April 2022
Price: Rs.22,999
Key Specifications
OS
Display
RAM
Battery
Front Camera
Rear Camera
Android 11
6.43-inch; HD display
8GB
4500mAh
32 MP
64MP+2MP+2MP
Pros: Good camera performance, battery longevity, waterdrop notch design
Cons: Low camera quality, no quad-camera availability
Conclusion
If this list helped you choose your next best smartphone under 20000, do write to us. We have narrowed it down based on price, features, qualities, durability, and credible reviews. It’s always good to research before investing your money, and since it’s a smartphone, the device that will be used 24/7, research thoroughly and tell what phone you would buy. We would love your feedback and suggestions, if any, to help you make decisions based on facts, not assumptions.
How do we rate the best smartphones in India?
Look out for the specifications you really want to focus on, which always vary from person to person. Your preference should depend on your requirements; one might require more storage space, others require a good battery life, and some require good camera quality.
Some customers have criteria for buying cheaper smartphones. Besides, due to technological advancements, all the features we get in an expensive phone are also available in phones which are much less expensive.
Some experts believe that the human eye cannot catch any difference between HD and 2K resolution screens. The important features here would be the brightness and the colour quality; choose a smartphone that is bright enough to see outdoors and sharp enough not to make the text look blurry.
The bigger the smartphone, the lesser the portability and comfort would be. Bigger phones are a little restrictive in typing and swiping. Also, all parts of the screen are not reachable with the help of just one hand. So, try not to compromise on comfort and portability.
Storage space is really important; rather than facing problems in the future, try to buy a phone with a minimum of 32 GB or 64 GB storage or at least buy a phone that can insert microSD to expand the memory in future.
While buying a new smartphone, consider one with good battery life, battery health and fast charging ability. The fast chargers available these days in many phones have the ability to charge your smartphone in a matter of just a few minutes.
Smartphone cameras of good quality are a much needed feature you should look for while purchasing one. Instead of focusing on the megapixels, try to buy a phone with features like aperture, dual lenses, optical image stabilization, etc.
This blog lists the ten best smartphones under 20000 available in India to help you make an informed decision. The collated data and reviews are based on information sourced from the public domain, and suggestions from Tech Guru, NDTV, Tech Radar, and Gadget Spy, among others.
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