In 2021, India had 750 million smartphone users – the second-largest smartphone market in the world. According to reports, the country will have 1 billion smartphone users by 2026. Over the last few years, leading brands such as Xiaomi, OPPO and Samsung, along with new players such as Tecno and Itel have unveiled impressive models in the budget segment. These mobile phones are primarily geared towards individuals living in rural India and people from tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
Unlike yesteryear devices, budget smartphones today aren’t rudimentary handsets meant for just calling and texting. Phones under 10000 are a lot more sophisticated, and come with up to 4GB RAM, fast processors and decent camera modules. Additionally, these devices house large batteries that keep them operational throughout the day. Mobile phones from the sub-₹10,000 category may not come with AMOLED displays or liquid cooling systems, but these are excellent handsets if you are working with a limited budget.
To help you find the latest – and best models in this segment, we provide you with a list of the top five mobile phones costing less than ₹10,000.
- Infinix Hot 11S
One of the most popular models in this price range is the Infinix Hot 11S, which runs on a MediaTek Helio G88 octa-core processor, clocking at 2.0GHz. This chipset ensures that the handset provides a buttery-smooth performance. Additionally, the MediaTek HyperEngine 2.0 Game Boost Technology and the DAR-Link Game Boost Technology guarantee an immersive and lag-free gaming experience. The 6.78-inch FHD+ 90Hz display offers fluid visuals, and the 90.5% screen-to-body ratio provides an expansive screen for your viewing pleasure. On the rear, this handset sports a 50MP AI triple camera module, which lets you click stunning images. All of these features make the Infinix Hot 11S one of the best phones under ₹10,000.
- Realme C31
A gorgeous, dynamic texture design and an ultra-slim profile make the realme C31 an impressive handset in the sub-₹10,000 segment. You can expand the 64GB internal storage up to a whopping 1TB by using a microSD card. Thus, you can easily store large multimedia files on this device without worrying about running out of space. The 4GB RAM and the powerful Unisoc T612 processor also work in tandem to provide a seamless and fluid experience. Accompanying the mobile phone is a robust 5,000mAh battery, which keeps the handset running for hours on end! You can immerse yourself in long gaming or movie sessions without worrying about battery drain issues.
- Motorola Moto e40
In recent years, Motorola made a triumphant return to the Indian mobile phone market, and one of its best offerings is the Moto e40. Its noticeable feature is the 48MP triple-rear camera system, which includes a depth sensor and a macro vision lens. You can capture mesmerising and captivating images by using these class-leading cameras. If you prefer consuming content from your smartphone, the 6.5-inch Max Vision HD+ display does not disappoint. The 20:9 aspect ratio ensures you enjoy the content in its full glory, while the 90Hz refresh rate facilitates smooth scrolling and lag-free visuals.
- Tecno Spark 9T
Tecno entered the Indian smartphone market a few years ago and has quickly become one of the leading brands in the sub-₹15,000 segment. The company primarily caters to the budget and mid-range segments, and its Spark range of mobile phones costs around ₹10,000. One of its popular offerings is the Tecno Spark 9T, which comes with a stunning 50MP camera! Apart from the triple-rear camera module, the device flaunts numerous other class-leading features, such as a massive 5,000mAh battery with 18W Fast Charge support. The Extendable Virtual RAM feature lets you expand the 4GB RAM to 7GB RAM so that you can seamlessly toggle between different tabs or applications. You can also expand the 64GB internal memory to 512GB and save files and folders without worrying about space crunch. Powering the handset is the mid-range MediaTek Helio G35 gaming processor, which facilitates unrivalled performance.
- Xiaomi Redmi 9i
When you talk about phones under ₹10,000, you cannot leave out Redmi handsets. The Redmi 9i lives up to the expectations, as it comes with a 6.53-inch HD+ IPS display, offering visuals with vivid colours and rich details. The Aura 360 design lends the smartphone an air of elegance, as it comes with concentric circles and added grip on the back. The 5,000mAh battery further ensures that the device remains operational for long hours without interrupting your work calls. The high-performance MediaTek Helio G25 processor extends enhanced connectivity and power, while the HyperGame Engine Technology improves your gaming experience.
These are some of the best – and most recent smartphones to hit the mobile phone market. All of these models promise power-packed performance and punch above their weight in this segment.
