Tag: Headphone jack

  • 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.

  • Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro

    The ROG Phone 8 Pro launched in India in January 2024 at Rs 99,999 for 16 GB plus 512 GB. Asus redesigned the series to look and feel more like a normal flagship, slimming the body, adding IP68 water resistance for the first time on a ROG phone and introducing a camera gimbal, while keeping the gamer-focused AniMe Vision mini-LED panel on the back.

    The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED runs at up to 165Hz in games and drops to 1Hz when idle. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is the fastest Android chip of its generation, supported by effective cooling, AirTrigger ultrasonic shoulder buttons and an optional AeroActive Cooler accessory. Asus kept a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a rarity among 2024 flagships.

    The camera system improved substantially, with a 50 MP gimbal-stabilised main sensor, a 13 MP ultrawide and a 32 MP 3x telephoto. The 5500 mAh battery delivers excellent endurance with 65W wired and 15W wireless charging. Against the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iQOO 12, it is the clear choice for serious mobile gamers, though its cameras are not quite class-leading.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 99,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.78-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 165Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3
    RAM16 GB / 24 GB
    Storage512 GB / 1 TB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main (gimbal) + 13 MP ultrawide + 32 MP 3x telephoto
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging65W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14, ROG UI
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight225 g
    ColoursPhantom Black

    What we like

    • Top-tier gaming performance and cooling
    • 165Hz LTPO display
    • IP68 and headphone jack together
    • Excellent battery life

    What could be better

    • Very expensive
    • Cameras good but not class-leading
    • Heavy at around 225 g

    Who should buy it

    Serious mobile gamers who want the fastest, best-cooled Android phone with a headphone jack.

    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.

  • 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.

  • OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE 2 Lite in India in April 2022 at Rs 19,999, making it the most affordable OnePlus phone at the time. It targeted buyers who wanted the OnePlus software experience on a budget, and it kept practical features such as a headphone jack and microSD card slot.

    The 6.59-inch LCD runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution, smooth if lacking the contrast of AMOLED. The Snapdragon 695 is efficient and handles daily use well, with moderate gaming possible. The 64 MP main camera produces decent daylight photos, supported by 2 MP depth and macro sensors. A 5,000 mAh battery with 33 W charging gives solid endurance.

    Competitors included the Redmi Note 11 Pro+, the Realme 9 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M33 and the iQOO Z6. The Realme 9 Pro had very similar hardware, while the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ offered an AMOLED screen and faster charging. The CE 2 Lite appealed mainly for its clean OxygenOS software.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2022
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.59-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 12, OxygenOS 12.1
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight195 g
    ColoursBlack Dusk, Blue Tide

    What we like

    • Clean OxygenOS software
    • Smooth 120 Hz display
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Good battery life

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Filler depth and macro cameras
    • No IP rating

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want OnePlus software and dependable battery life on an affordable 5G phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2022). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE3 Lite

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE3 Lite in India in April 2023 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It stood out visually with its bright Pastel Lime colour and kept the budget-friendly recipe of the CE 2 Lite while upgrading the camera, display and charging speed. It was positioned for students and first-time OnePlus buyers.

    The 6.72-inch LCD runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution. The Snapdragon 695 handles everyday tasks smoothly but is showing its age in demanding games. A 108 MP main camera captures good daylight detail, supported by 2 MP depth and macro sensors. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W, a big step up from the previous 33 W. OnePlus also marketed its loud stereo speakers and kept the headphone jack.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 5G, the Realme 10 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M34 and the iQOO Z7. The iQOO Z7 offered an AMOLED with OIS and a faster chip for similar money, while the CE3 Lite appealed mainly through its clean software and fast charging. Gamers will want something faster.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.72-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras108 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13.1
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight195 g
    ColoursPastel Lime, Chromatic Gray

    What we like

    • 108 MP main camera
    • 67 W charging
    • Headphone jack and microSD
    • Clean OxygenOS

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Ageing Snapdragon 695
    • Filler secondary cameras

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want fast charging and a clean software experience at under Rs 20,000.

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

  • Samsung Galaxy A05s

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A05s in India in October 2023 at Rs 14,999 for 6 GB/128 GB. Unlike most phones in this list, it is a 4G-only device, built for buyers who want a large screen and Samsung's software without paying for 5G. It sits just below the Galaxy A14 5G and M14 5G in Samsung's range.

    The 6.7-inch PLS LCD runs at 90Hz with full HD+ resolution, good for videos and reading but without the contrast of AMOLED panels. Qualcomm's Snapdragon 680 is a well-known efficient chip that handles messaging, social apps and video calls smoothly, though it struggles with demanding games. The plastic body is light enough and fits the price.

    On the back are a 50 MP main camera with 2 MP depth and 2 MP macro sensors, while the 13 MP front camera handles selfies and calls. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts more than a day, and 25W charging is faster than many entry-level Samsung phones of earlier years. Rivals like the Redmi 12 5G offered 5G at a similar price, which limited its appeal.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 14,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.7-inch, PLS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 680
    RAM6 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5.1
    5GNo
    Headphone jackYes

    What we like

    • Large 90Hz screen
    • Efficient Snapdragon 680
    • 25W charging
    • Headphone jack and microSD

    What could be better

    • No 5G support
    • LCD display
    • Rivals offer 5G at the same price

    Who should buy it

    Users on 4G networks who want a big-screen Samsung for calls, video and social media.

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

  • Samsung Galaxy M14 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy M14 5G in India in April 2023 at Rs 13,490 for 4 GB/128 GB, sold primarily through Amazon and Samsung's own store. It shared much of its hardware with the Galaxy A14 5G but swapped the battery for a larger 6000 mAh cell, a classic M-series move aimed at online buyers who prioritise endurance.

    The 6.6-inch PLS LCD has a 90Hz refresh rate and full HD+ resolution. It is fine indoors but less vibrant than the AMOLED screens found in the Redmi Note 12 at slightly higher prices. The Exynos 1330 chip, built on a 5 nm process, gives smooth basic performance and excellent efficiency, though it is not meant for demanding games.

    On the back is a 50 MP main camera with 2 MP depth and 2 MP macro sensors, and a 13 MP selfie camera on the front. Battery life routinely extends to two days of light use, and 25W charging support helps, though the charger was not included in the box. A headphone jack and microSD slot add practical value for the target audience.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 13,490 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.6-inch, PLS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2408
    ProcessorExynos 1330
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursBerry Blue, Icy Silver, Smoky Teal

    What we like

    • Massive 6000 mAh battery
    • Efficient 5 nm chip
    • 128 GB base storage
    • Headphone jack and microSD

    What could be better

    • LCD screen
    • No charger in the box
    • Weak secondary cameras

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want a 5G Samsung that comfortably lasts two days on a charge.

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

  • Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A14 5G in India in January 2023 at Rs 16,499 for 4 GB/64 GB. It was one of the first phones to use Samsung's own 5 nm Exynos 1330, and its main promise was reliable 5G with long software support at a price where many rivals offered only two years of updates.

    The design is plain plastic with a flat back and separate camera lenses. The 6.6-inch PLS LCD runs at 90Hz with full HD+ resolution, a solid choice for budget buyers but dimmer than AMOLED screens on the Redmi Note 12 5G. Performance from the Exynos 1330 is fine for social apps and calls; heavy games run at modest settings. A side-mounted fingerprint reader handles unlock.

    The triple rear camera is a 50 MP main backed by 2 MP depth and 2 MP macro sensors, so in practice only the main camera is worth using. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts more than a day, though charging at 15W is slow. A headphone jack and microSD slot keep it practical, and Samsung's service network was a major reason it sold well in smaller towns.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 16,499 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.6-inch, PLS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2408
    ProcessorExynos 1330
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage64 GB / 128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging15W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursDark Red, Light Green, Black

    What we like

    • Long battery life
    • Efficient 5 nm Exynos chip
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Good software update promise for the price

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Slow 15W charging
    • Filler depth and macro cameras

    Who should buy it

    First-time smartphone or 5G buyers who want a dependable Samsung with a long-lasting battery.

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

  • Realme C55

    Realme launched the C55 in India in March 2023, and it drew attention mainly for one software trick: the Mini Capsule, a pill-shaped indicator around the punch-hole that showed charging status and data usage, clearly inspired by Apple's Dynamic Island. Beyond the gimmick, it was an affordable 4G phone aimed at buyers stepping up from basic handsets, competing with the Redmi 12C, Samsung Galaxy M14 and Poco C55.

    The 6.72-inch IPS LCD panel has full HD resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate, which made scrolling smoother than many rivals at the price. Performance from the MediaTek Helio G88 is adequate for WhatsApp, YouTube and light games but slows with heavy multitasking. Realme kept practical features such as a microSD slot and a 3.5mm headphone jack, both valued by budget buyers.

    The 64 MP main camera takes decent daylight photos, though low-light shots get soft and noisy. Battery life from the 5,000 mAh cell is strong, and 33W charging was fast for this price class in 2023. Its biggest limitation was the lack of 5G, which the Galaxy M14 offered at a similar price, so buyers who planned to keep a phone for years had a reason to look elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 10,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.72-inch, IPS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Helio G88
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage64 GB / 128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera8 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Realme UI 4.0
    5GNo
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursSunshower, Rainy Night

    What we like

    • Mini Capsule adds a fun touch
    • Full HD 90Hz display
    • 33W charging is quick for the price
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot

    What could be better

    • No 5G support
    • Helio G88 struggles with heavy use
    • Weak low-light photos

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers upgrading from a basic phone who do not need 5G yet.

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