RAG Demo

Tag: Budget

  • Motorola Moto G73 5G

    The Moto G73 5G launched in India in March 2023 at Rs 18,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB. It was one of the first phones with MediaTek's Dimensity 930, and Motorola positioned it as a clean, no-nonsense 5G phone for buyers tired of ad-filled software from rivals like the Redmi Note 12 and Realme 10 Pro.

    Its 6.5-inch IPS LCD runs at 120Hz with full HD resolution. It is sharp and responsive but lacks the contrast of the AMOLED panels common at this price. The Dimensity 930 offers decent everyday performance, while Motorola's near-stock Android 13 keeps the phone feeling quick. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, a headphone jack, microSD expansion and IP52 splash protection add practical value.

    The 50 MP main camera and 8 MP ultrawide produce acceptable daylight photos but struggle in low light, and the 16 MP selfie camera is basic. The 5000 mAh battery lasts well over a day with 30W charging. Against the Redmi Note 12 and Galaxy M34, it wins on software cleanliness but loses on display quality and camera performance.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 18,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 930
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging30W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMidnight Blue, Lucent White

    What we like

    • Clean, near-stock Android
    • Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Good battery life

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Weak low-light camera
    • Single memory variant

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a clean, reliable 5G phone with good battery life and no software clutter.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G

    The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G launched in India in March 2024 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB plus 256 GB. The Pova series targets young, gaming-inclined buyers, and this model continued that theme with an angular design and Arc Interface LED strips on the back that light up for notifications, calls and charging, Tecno's take on Nothing's Glyph lights.

    The 6.78-inch AMOLED runs at 120Hz and has thin bezels. Performance comes from the MediaTek Dimensity 6080, a modest chip that handles daily tasks and lighter games but trails the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 in the Redmi Note 13 Pro. HiOS 14 on Android 14 offers plenty of features, including a gaming mode, but comes with preinstalled apps.

    The headline is endurance: a 6000 mAh battery with 70W charging, a combination that was rare under Rs 20,000. The 108 MP main camera is detailed in daylight, while the 32 MP selfie camera is decent. Dolby Atmos stereo speakers add to the media experience. It suits heavy users who prize battery life and charging speed over raw performance.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.78-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2436
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6080
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Rear cameras108 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging70W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, HiOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP53
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursMeteorite Grey, Comet Green

    What we like

    • Large 6000 mAh battery
    • Fast 70W charging
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED
    • Fun Arc Interface LED lights

    What could be better

    • Dimensity 6080 is underpowered
    • Basic secondary camera
    • Bloatware in HiOS

    Who should buy it

    Heavy users who want long battery life and fast charging under Rs 20,000, with a flashy design.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • CMF Phone 2 Pro

    Nothing launched the CMF Phone 2 Pro in India in April 2025 at Rs 18,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB. It keeps the modular spirit of the CMF Phone 1, with interchangeable lenses and accessories attached through a screw on the back, but is noticeably slimmer and lighter, and moves to a triple camera setup that budget rivals rarely match.

    The 6.77-inch AMOLED runs at 120Hz and reaches high brightness outdoors. The Dimensity 7300 Pro is a minor refresh of the chip in the Phone 1, so performance is similar: smooth in daily use and capable in popular games. Nothing OS 3.2 on Android 15 comes with Essential Space and the Essential Key, features first seen on the Phone (3a).

    The cameras include a 50 MP main, a 50 MP 2x telephoto and an 8 MP ultrawide, giving the phone far more flexibility than most sub-Rs 20,000 devices. The 5000 mAh battery lasts well beyond a day, with 33W charging. Against the Redmi Note 14 and Realme Narzo 80 Pro it offers telephoto zoom and cleaner software, though rivals can charge faster.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 18,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2025
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.77-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2392
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 50 MP 2x telephoto + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, Nothing OS 3.2
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight185 g
    ColoursBlack, White, Orange, Light Green

    What we like

    • Telephoto camera under Rs 20,000
    • Slim and light design
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED
    • Clean software with Essential Space

    What could be better

    • Chipset barely changed from the Phone 1
    • 33W charging is average
    • Weak ultrawide

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want zoom photography and a stylish, customisable phone without paying mid-range prices.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • CMF Phone 1

    The CMF Phone 1 launched in India in July 2024 at Rs 15,999 for 6 GB plus 128 GB, as the first phone from Nothing's budget sub-brand. Its most unusual feature is a back panel held on by visible screws, which can be swapped for different colours and textures, and a corner dial that accepts accessories such as a lanyard, a stand and a card wallet.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED runs at 120Hz and is bright and vivid for the price. The MediaTek Dimensity 7300 is a strong budget chip, efficient and quick enough for most games at medium settings, and noticeably faster than the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 in the Redmi 13 5G. Nothing OS 2.6 on Android 14 is clean, with no ads and few preinstalled apps, and storage is expandable by microSD.

    The 50 MP Sony main camera with a depth sensor produces good daylight photos, though there is no ultrawide. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts two days for light users, with 33W charging. Against the Moto G64 and Realme Narzo 70 Pro it offers a better display, more personality and cleaner software, at the cost of a less versatile camera.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 15,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + depth sensor
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Nothing OS 2.6
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursBlack, Blue, Orange, Light Green

    What we like

    • Swappable back and accessory system
    • Efficient Dimensity 7300
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED
    • Clean, ad-free software

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Accessories cost extra
    • Charger sold separately

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want a fun, customisable phone with a good display and clean software.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G34 5G

    Motorola launched the Moto G34 5G in India in January 2024 at Rs 10,999 for 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. At that price it was among the most affordable ways to get 5G with a respected chipset, and it was aimed at first-time smartphone buyers and anyone wanting a reliable secondary phone.

    The Snapdragon 695 was a proven mid-range chip by then, and in a phone this cheap it delivers smoother performance than the entry-level MediaTek parts in many rivals. The 6.5-inch LCD runs at 120Hz but is only HD+ in resolution, so text looks slightly soft. Motorola includes stereo speakers, a headphone jack, microSD expansion and IP52 splash protection.

    Cameras are basic: a 50 MP main sensor and a 2 MP macro lens, with a 16 MP selfie camera. Daylight photos are usable, but low light is a struggle. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts a day and a half, and the clean Android 14 build is a real advantage over ad-heavy budget skins from some rivals like the Redmi 13C 5G.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 10,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 720 x 1600
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM4 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging18W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursCharcoal Black, Ocean Green, Ice Blue

    What we like

    • Very affordable 5G phone
    • Snapdragon 695 is capable for the price
    • Clean software without ads
    • Stereo speakers and headphone jack

    What could be better

    • HD+ resolution only
    • Weak low-light camera
    • Slow charging

    Who should buy it

    First-time smartphone buyers who want 5G and clean software at the lowest possible price.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G64 5G

    The Moto G64 5G arrived in India in April 2024 at Rs 14,999 for 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. It was a successor in spirit to the G54, and kept the same recipe: a large battery, clean software and a few useful hardware touches that budget phones often drop, such as OIS, stereo speakers and a headphone jack.

    The 6.5-inch full HD LCD runs at 120Hz. It is sharp and fluid but lacks the depth of the AMOLED screens on the Redmi Note 13 and Galaxy M35, and that is the main area where rivals pull ahead. The MediaTek Dimensity 7025 offers steady everyday performance and good efficiency, which pairs well with the 6000 mAh cell.

    On the back, a 50 MP main camera with OIS is joined by an 8 MP ultrawide, and the front has a 16 MP shooter. Battery life is the standout, easily stretching to two days for moderate users, with 33W charging. Android 14 with Motorola's light skin is uncluttered, though the update promise is shorter than Samsung offers on its M and F series.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 14,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7025
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMint Green, Pearl Blue, Ice Lilac

    What we like

    • Excellent two-day battery life
    • OIS on the main camera
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Clean Android 14

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Shorter update promise than Samsung
    • Average ultrawide camera

    Who should buy it

    Students and heavy users on a tight budget who value battery life above everything else.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G85 5G

    Launched in India in July 2024 at Rs 17,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, the Moto G85 5G borrowed the curved-screen styling of Motorola's Edge phones and placed it in a budget-friendly price band. Vegan leather finishes and a slim profile make it look more expensive than it is, which is clearly the point.

    The 6.67-inch curved pOLED refreshes at 120Hz and is a highlight, with rich colour and good outdoor visibility. The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is a modest chip, closer to the older Snapdragon 695 than to a true performance part, so heavy gamers should look at the Poco X6 or Realme Narzo 70 Pro instead. Everyday apps run smoothly on the clean Hello UI build of Android 14.

    Photography is handled by a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide, a dependable combination in daylight. The 32 MP front camera is better than most rivals at this price. A 5000 mAh battery and 33W charging give all-day endurance. Overall it is a design-led phone that does the basics well rather than chasing specifications.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 17,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, Curved pOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 6s Gen 3
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Hello UI
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    ColoursOlive Green, Cobalt Blue, Urban Grey

    What we like

    • Curved pOLED rare at this price
    • OIS on the Sony main camera
    • Slim, premium-looking design
    • Clean software

    What could be better

    • Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is underpowered for gaming
    • Only IP52 splash resistance
    • 33W charging is average

    Who should buy it

    Style-conscious budget buyers who want a curved OLED and dependable cameras under Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G54 5G

    The Moto G54 5G landed in India in September 2023 at Rs 15,999 for 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, and it focused on stamina and clean software. A 6000 mAh battery, near-stock Android and a generous memory configuration made it a sensible pick against the Redmi Note 12 and Samsung Galaxy M34 in the crowded under-Rs 20,000 space.

    Its 6.5-inch IPS LCD runs at 120Hz with full HD resolution; it lacks the contrast of the AMOLED panels on rivals but is sharp and smooth. The MediaTek Dimensity 7020 is a modest performer built for efficiency. Motorola kept practical extras such as a 3.5 mm headphone jack, microSD expansion, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and IP52 splash protection.

    The 50 MP main camera has OIS, unusual at this price, which helps in low light and video, while the 8 MP ultrawide is basic. Charging is 30W, so refilling the large battery takes a while, but a full charge comfortably lasts two days. Its main weakness is the LCD, which looks dull next to the Galaxy M34's Super AMOLED.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 15,999 (base variant)
    India launchSeptember 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7020
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging30W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMidnight Blue, Mint Green, Pearl Blue

    What we like

    • 6000 mAh battery lasts two days
    • OIS on the main camera
    • Clean, near-stock Android
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot

    What could be better

    • LCD lacks AMOLED contrast
    • 30W charging is slow for the battery size
    • Modest chipset

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who prioritise battery life and clean software over display quality.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (September 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 12x

    Realme launched the 12x in India in April 2024 at Rs 11,999 for 4 GB and 128 GB. It targeted budget buyers who wanted 5G and fast charging, a combination that was rare under Rs 12,000, and it carried an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. It also includes a 120 Hz screen.

    The 6.72-inch full HD+ LCD runs at 120 Hz, making scrolling smooth. The Dimensity 6100+ handles everyday tasks and light gaming. The 50 MP main camera is accompanied by a 2 MP depth sensor and produces decent daylight photos. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 45 W, noticeably faster than most rivals at this price. Realme also included its Air Gestures feature for touch-free control of some apps.

    Rivals included the Redmi 13C 5G, the Poco M6 5G, the Samsung Galaxy M15 and the Lava Blaze 5G. The Galaxy M15 offered a larger battery and longer software support, while the 12x stood out with its faster charging and sharper screen. Heavy gamers should look a little higher up the price range.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 11,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.72-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6100+
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera8 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging45W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursWoodland Green, Twilight Purple

    What we like

    • 45 W charging at a budget price
    • Full HD+ 120 Hz display
    • IP54 protection
    • Affordable 5G

    What could be better

    • LCD only
    • Basic camera setup
    • Modest gaming performance

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want 5G, a smooth screen and fast charging under Rs 12,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite

    The Nord CE4 Lite arrived in India in June 2024 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It moved the entry-level Nord from an LCD to an AMOLED display for the first time, and OnePlus highlighted its very high peak brightness and the ability to charge other devices through its USB-C port.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright, rated for up to 2,100 nits, and comfortable to use outdoors. The Snapdragon 695 is an older chip; it handles daily use but is modest for gaming. A 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS takes reliable photos, supported by a 2 MP depth sensor. The 5,500 mAh battery delivers excellent endurance and charges at 80 W. The headphone jack and IP54 rating are welcome.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 5G, the Realme Narzo 70 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M35 and the iQOO Z9. The iQOO Z9 had a faster chip, while the Galaxy M35 offered longer updates. The CE4 Lite stood out with its battery, charging and bright display. Its chip, however, is clearly ageing.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMega Blue, Super Silver, Ultra Orange

    What we like

    • Very bright AMOLED display
    • 5,500 mAh battery with 80 W charging
    • Reverse wired charging
    • Headphone jack

    What could be better

    • Older Snapdragon 695 chip
    • No ultrawide camera
    • Modest gaming performance

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want excellent battery life and a bright screen with clean software.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.