Tag: Rs 50,000 – 80,000

  • Google Pixel 9

    Google launched the Pixel 9 in India in August 2024 at Rs 79,999 for 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. It introduced a new design with flat aluminium sides and a floating, pill-shaped camera island, and was among the first phones built around Gemini, with features like Gemini Live, Pixel Screenshots and Add Me.

    The 6.3-inch Actua OLED is larger than the Pixel 8's and brighter still, while the extra RAM supports on-device Gemini Nano models. Tensor G4 is a modest step over G3, so performance remains behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Galaxy S24 and the A18 in the iPhone 16, but daily use is smooth and thermals improved.

    The camera system pairs a 50 MP main sensor with a new 48 MP ultrawide that captures better detail and macro shots. The 4700 mAh battery and 27W charging deliver a full day comfortably. Against the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 16, the Pixel 9 offers the strongest AI feature set and seven years of updates, though it costs more than discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 79,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2424
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4700 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight198 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony

    What we like

    • Gemini AI features built in
    • Improved 48 MP ultrawide
    • Bright 6.3-inch Actua display
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Tensor G4 is only a small upgrade
    • No telephoto lens
    • Charging speeds still modest

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want Google's AI features and reliable cameras in a mid-sized flagship with long software support.

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

  • Google Pixel 8a

    The Pixel 8a launched in India in May 2024 at Rs 52,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB. It brought the flagship Tensor G3 and the seven-year update promise down to the A series, along with a 120Hz screen at last. The price, however, was significantly higher than earlier A-series Pixels, placing it against the OnePlus 12R and Galaxy S23 FE.

    Its 6.1-inch Actua OLED is bright and smooth, and the compact body with rounded edges is easy to use one-handed. Tensor G3 handles everyday tasks and Google's AI features, including Circle to Search, Best Take and Audio Magic Eraser. The thick bezels and plastic back remind you it is a cheaper Pixel, though IP67 rating is retained.

    The 64 MP main and 13 MP ultrawide cameras produce Pixel-quality images that outclass most phones at this price, particularly in tricky lighting. Battery capacity is 4492 mAh with slow 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging. The OnePlus 12R offers far faster charging and performance for similar money, so the 8a mainly suits buyers who prioritise camera and update longevity.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 52,999 (base variant)
    India launchMay 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.1-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 13 MP ultrawide
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery4492 mAh
    Charging18W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP67
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight188 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe

    What we like

    • Seven years of updates on a mid-ranger
    • Excellent camera for the price
    • Compact, easy to hold
    • 120Hz Actua display

    What could be better

    • Expensive for an A-series Pixel
    • Slow charging
    • Thick bezels and plastic back

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a small phone with Pixel cameras and long software support more than fast charging or gaming power.

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

  • Google Pixel 8

    The Pixel 8 launched in India in October 2023 at Rs 75,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, a sizeable jump over the Pixel 7. Google justified it with a brighter 120Hz display, the new Tensor G3 and, most importantly, seven years of Android OS and security updates, a commitment no Android rival matched at the time.

    The 6.2-inch Actua OLED is smaller than the Pixel 7's screen and very bright, and the softer rounded corners make the phone comfortable to hold. Tensor G3 improved efficiency and enabled new AI tools such as Best Take, Magic Editor and Audio Magic Eraser. It still trails the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Galaxy S23 on gaming performance.

    The 50 MP main and 12 MP ultrawide cameras, now with autofocus on the ultrawide for macro shots, remain dependable and natural. The 4575 mAh battery gives a solid day of use, charging at 27W wired and wirelessly. Against the Galaxy S23 and iPhone 15, it competes on camera and software longevity, but its launch price made it hard to recommend over discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 75,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2023
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.2-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4575 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight187 g
    ColoursObsidian, Hazel, Rose

    What we like

    • Seven years of OS and security updates
    • Bright, smooth 120Hz Actua display
    • Excellent AI photo tools
    • Compact and comfortable

    What could be better

    • High launch price in India
    • Tensor G3 still trails Snapdragon in gaming
    • Charging is slow by Indian standards

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who plan to keep a compact phone for many years and value camera and software over raw speed.

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

  • Google Pixel 7

    The Pixel 7 launched in India in October 2022 at Rs 59,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, the first mainline Pixel sold in the country since the Pixel 4 skipped it. Google positioned it as an alternative to the iPhone 14 and Galaxy S22, betting on software, camera processing and a promise of five years of security updates.

    The 6.3-inch OLED runs at 90Hz rather than 120Hz, a noticeable compromise at the price. Google's second-generation Tensor G2 is not as fast as Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in benchmarks and can run warm, but it powers on-device features such as Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser and fast voice typing. The aluminium camera bar and matte frame give it a distinctive look.

    Photography is the reason to buy it. The 50 MP main camera and 12 MP ultrawide deliver consistent, natural results with excellent dynamic range and Night Sight, and video improved noticeably over the Pixel 6. Battery life is adequate rather than great from the 4355 mAh cell, and charging is slow by Indian standards, with no charger in the box.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 59,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2022
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, OLED, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G2
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.8 MP
    Battery4355 mAh
    Software at launchAndroid 13
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight197 g
    ColoursObsidian, Snow, Lemongrass

    What we like

    • Excellent point-and-shoot camera
    • Clean Android with useful AI tools
    • Five years of security updates
    • IP68 and wireless charging

    What could be better

    • Only 90Hz display
    • Tensor G2 runs warm
    • Slow charging, no charger in box

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want the most reliable camera and clean Android in a compact flagship.

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

  • Motorola Razr 40

    The Razr 40 launched in India in July 2023 at Rs 59,999, making it one of the cheapest mainstream clamshell foldables available at the time and a direct alternative to the far pricier Galaxy Z Flip 5. It folds flat without a visible gap and comes in soft vegan leather finishes that give it a grippy, distinctive feel.

    Inside, a 6.9-inch pOLED main display runs at up to 144Hz, while the cover screen is a small 1.5-inch panel that shows notifications, time and a camera viewfinder but little else. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 is a mid-range chip, fine for daily use but not a gaming performer, and the hinge holds the phone at angles for hands-free video calls.

    Its 64 MP main camera with OIS and 13 MP ultrawide produce decent results, and the 4200 mAh battery is notably larger than in most flip phones of the period, comfortably lasting a day. Charging is 33W wired with 8W wireless. Against the Galaxy Z Flip 5 it gives up the big cover screen and flagship chip but costs tens of thousands less.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 59,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2023
    SegmentFoldable
    Display6.9-inch, Foldable pOLED, 1.5-inch OLED cover display, 144Hz, 1080 x 2640
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7 Gen 1
    RAM8 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 13 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery4200 mAh
    Charging33W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 13
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight188.6 g
    ColoursSage Green, Summer Lilac, Vanilla Cream

    What we like

    • Most affordable mainstream flip at launch
    • Large battery for a flip phone
    • Gapless fold and smooth 144Hz screen
    • Wireless charging included

    What could be better

    • Tiny cover display is limited
    • Mid-range chipset
    • Only IP52 splash resistance

    Who should buy it

    First-time foldable buyers who want the flip experience without paying flagship prices.

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

  • Motorola Edge 50 Ultra

    Launched in India in June 2024 at Rs 59,999 for a single 12 GB plus 512 GB configuration, the Edge 50 Ultra was Motorola's attempt to undercut the OnePlus 12 and Galaxy S24 while offering something they did not: a choice of a genuine wood back or Pantone-matched vegan leather. It feels distinctive in the hand and carries an IP68 rating.

    The 6.7-inch curved pOLED runs at up to 144Hz with a sharp 1.5K-class resolution, and the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 delivers near-flagship speed, a step below the full Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in sustained gaming but more than enough for daily use. Hello UI is clean, with useful gestures and the Moto AI features introduced that year.

    Cameras are a strong point: a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP ultrawide and a 64 MP 3x periscope that gives it real zoom flexibility, plus a 50 MP selfie camera. The 4500 mAh battery is smaller than rivals, but 125W wired and 50W wireless charging compensate. Compared with the OnePlus 12 it trades some raw performance and battery capacity for a lighter feel and a periscope lens.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 59,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.7-inch, Curved pOLED, 144Hz, 1220 x 2712
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8s Gen 3
    RAM12 GB
    Storage512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 50 MP ultrawide + 64 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera50 MP
    Battery4500 mAh
    Charging125W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Hello UI
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursForest Grey, Peach Fuzz, Nordic Wood

    What we like

    • Real wood back option is unique
    • 64 MP periscope zoom at this price
    • 125W wired and 50W wireless charging
    • Generous 512 GB base storage

    What could be better

    • 4500 mAh battery is small for a flagship
    • Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 trails the full 8 Gen 3
    • Only one memory variant

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want flagship-class cameras with periscope zoom and fast charging in a lighter, more distinctive body than the usual glass slabs.

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

  • Realme GT 7 Pro

    Realme launched the GT 7 Pro in India in November 2024 at Rs 59,999 for 12 GB and 256 GB. It was the first phone in the country with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite, and it marked Realme's most serious attempt yet at the full flagship segment. The Indian version shipped with a 5,800 mAh battery, smaller than the Chinese model because of local regulatory constraints.

    Performance is top tier, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite handling any game or workload with ease. The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED, a Samsung-supplied panel, is bright and accurate. Cameras include a 50 MP Sony LYT-808 main with OIS, an 8 MP ultrawide and a 50 MP 3x periscope telephoto. Charging is rated at 120 W, and the phone carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for strong water and dust resistance.

    Rivals included the iQOO 13, the OnePlus 13, the Samsung Galaxy S24 and the Vivo X200. The iQOO 13 offered the same chip at a lower price, and the OnePlus 13 had a larger battery with wireless charging. The GT 7 Pro competed on early availability, its periscope camera and durability.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 59,999 (base variant)
    India launchNovember 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.78-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 1264 x 2780
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Elite
    RAM12 GB / 16 GB
    Storage256 GB / 512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 50 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5800 mAh
    Charging120W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, Realme UI 6.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursMars Orange, Galaxy Grey

    What we like

    • Snapdragon 8 Elite performance
    • 3x periscope telephoto
    • IP68 and IP69 protection
    • 120 W charging

    What could be better

    • Smaller battery than the Chinese model
    • iQOO 13 offers the same chip for less
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want top-tier performance and a periscope camera in a durable flagship below Rs 60,000.

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

  • OnePlus 13

    OnePlus launched the 13 in India in January 2025 at Rs 69,999 for 12 GB and 256 GB. It was one of the first phones in the country with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and it addressed long-standing gaps by adding IP68 and IP69 ratings, magnetic wireless charging support through cases, and a much larger battery.

    Performance is top tier, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite runs efficiently. The 6.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED is bright, accurate and flatter than earlier OnePlus curved screens. All three rear cameras are 50 MP: a Sony LYT-808 main, an ultrawide and a 3x periscope, tuned with Hasselblad. The 6,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery delivers excellent endurance, with 100 W wired and 50 W wireless charging.

    Rivals included the Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25+, the iPhone 16, the Vivo X200 and the iQOO 13. The iQOO 13 offered the same chip for less, and the Galaxy S25 a longer update promise. The OnePlus 13 stood out with battery life, durability and charging speed. Its cameras also hold their own against similarly priced rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 69,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2025
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.82-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 1440 x 3168
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Elite
    RAM12 GB / 16 GB / 24 GB
    Storage256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 50 MP ultrawide + 50 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging100W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 15, OxygenOS 15
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursMidnight Ocean, Arctic Dawn, Black Eclipse

    What we like

    • Snapdragon 8 Elite performance
    • 6,000 mAh battery with 100 W charging
    • IP68 and IP69 protection
    • Versatile triple 50 MP cameras

    What could be better

    • Expensive higher variants
    • Zoom trails dedicated camera flagships
    • Large and heavy

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a fast, durable flagship with excellent battery life and charging.

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

  • OnePlus 12

    OnePlus launched the 12 in India in January 2024 at Rs 64,999 for 12 GB and 256 GB. It addressed several complaints about the OnePlus 11 by restoring wireless charging, adding a periscope telephoto, and improving water resistance to IP65, while keeping the alert slider and the large circular camera module.

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers top-tier performance with good thermal management. The 6.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED is exceptionally bright, rated for up to 4,500 nits peak. Cameras include a 50 MP Sony LYT-808 main, a 48 MP ultrawide and a 64 MP 3x periscope, all Hasselblad-tuned, producing natural colours and good zoom. The 5,400 mAh battery charges at 80 W wired in India and 50 W wireless.

    Rivals included the Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24+, the iPhone 15, the Xiaomi 14 and the iQOO 12. The Galaxy S24 offered seven years of updates and a compact size, while the iQOO 12 was cheaper with a similar chip. The OnePlus 12 stood out for its display, charging and battery life.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 64,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.82-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 1440 x 3168
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3
    RAM12 GB / 16 GB
    Storage256 GB / 512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 64 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5400 mAh
    Charging80W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight220 g
    ColoursFlowy Emerald, Silky Black

    What we like

    • Very bright 2K LTPO display
    • Wireless charging returns
    • Useful 3x periscope
    • Strong battery life

    What could be better

    • Only IP65
    • Heavy at 220 g
    • Shorter update promise than Samsung

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a fast, long-lasting flagship with a superb screen and versatile cameras.

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

  • OnePlus 11

    OnePlus launched the 11 in February 2023, dropping the Pro label and repositioning its main flagship at a lower price of Rs 56,999. It brought back the alert slider, introduced a large circular camera island, and promised four years of Android upgrades, a notable improvement in OnePlus support policy at the time.

    Performance from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is excellent and much cooler than the previous year's 8 Gen 1. The 6.7-inch LTPO3 AMOLED at 1440p is bright and fluid. The camera system pairs a 50 MP Sony IMX890 main, a 48 MP ultrawide and a 32 MP 2x portrait telephoto, tuned with Hasselblad, and portraits are a highlight. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 100 W, although wireless charging was dropped.

    Rivals included the Samsung Galaxy S23, the iPhone 14, the iQOO 11 and the Vivo X90. The Galaxy S23 was smaller and offered wireless charging and an IP68 rating, while the OnePlus 11 had a bigger screen, faster wired charging and a lower price. Its IP64 rating and lack of wireless charging were the main compromises.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 56,999 (base variant)
    India launchFebruary 2023
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.7-inch, LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz, 1440 x 3216
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2
    RAM8 GB / 16 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 32 MP 2x telephoto
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP64
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight205 g
    ColoursTitan Black, Eternal Green

    What we like

    • Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is fast and efficient
    • Sharp LTPO3 1440p display
    • 100 W charging
    • Alert slider returns

    What could be better

    • No wireless charging
    • IP64 rather than IP68
    • No true long-range zoom

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a fast, well-rounded flagship with excellent charging at a lower price than Samsung or Apple.

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