Tag: Value

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • iQOO Z9

    iQOO launched the Z9 in India in March 2024 through Amazon, sharing most of its hardware with the Vivo T3 sold on Flipkart. It focused on balanced specs for the price: a capable chip, a stabilised main camera and a bright display. Competitors included the Realme Narzo 70 Pro, Redmi Note 13 and Poco X6 Neo.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED display at 120Hz gets very bright outdoors, which reviewers praised. The Dimensity 7200 provided strong performance for the segment, handling popular games at decent settings. IP54 protection against dust and splashes was included. The phone feels light and well built, with a flat frame. Funtouch OS 14 on Android 14 offered gaming features alongside some preinstalled apps.

    The 50 MP Sony IMX882 main camera with OIS takes sharp, natural photos and handles low light better than most rivals at the price, while a 2 MP depth sensor rounds out the rear. The 16 MP front camera is adequate. The 5,000 mAh battery with 44W charging easily lasts a day. Compared with the Narzo 70 Pro, it was faster but missed an ultrawide camera.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7200
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP Sony IMX882 main with OIS + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging44W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Funtouch OS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursBrushed Green, Graphene Blue

    What we like

    • Very bright AMOLED display
    • Dimensity 7200 performance
    • OIS main camera
    • IP54 rating

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • 44W charging trails rivals
    • Some bloatware

    Who should buy it

    Amazon shoppers who want balanced performance and a reliable camera under 20,000 rupees.

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

  • iQOO Neo 7

    The iQOO Neo 7 launched in India in February 2023 as a performance-first mid-ranger. It used MediaTek's then-new Dimensity 8200 and 120W charging, two features rarely seen below 30,000 rupees at the time. It competed with the Poco X5 Pro, OnePlus Nord 2T and Redmi Note 12 Pro+, appealing mainly to gamers and speed-focused users.

    The 6.78-inch AMOLED display at 120Hz offers good colours and smooth gaming. Dimensity 8200 delivered excellent performance, comfortably outpacing the Snapdragon 778G in the Poco X5 Pro in sustained tests. The phone is heavier and thicker than some rivals, reflecting its large battery and cooling system. Funtouch OS 13 on Android 13 included gaming modes but also preinstalled apps.

    The 64 MP main camera with OIS produces decent daytime photos, while the two 2 MP helpers add little. There is no ultrawide, a notable gap. The 16 MP front camera is average. The 5,000 mAh battery with 120W charging is a highlight, refilling in about 25 minutes. Against the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, it was faster and charged more quickly, though Redmi had a 200 MP camera.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 29,999 (base variant)
    India launchFebruary 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.78-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 8200
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras64 MP main with OIS + 2 MP macro + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging120W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Funtouch OS 13
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursInterstellar Black, Frost Blue

    What we like

    • Dimensity 8200 gaming performance
    • 120W fast charging
    • 120Hz AMOLED display
    • OIS main camera

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Heavy and thick
    • Average selfie camera

    Who should buy it

    Gamers on a mid-range budget who want fast performance and very fast charging.

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

  • iQOO Neo 10R

    The iQOO Neo 10R launched in India in March 2025 as a performance phone aimed at younger buyers and gamers. It used the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, a slightly trimmed flagship chip, and a very large 6,400 mAh battery. Its main rivals were the Poco X7 Pro, OnePlus Nord 4 and Realme P3 Ultra, all targeting the space just below 30,000 rupees.

    The 6.78-inch AMOLED display has a 1.5K resolution and refreshes at up to 144Hz, giving sharp visuals and very smooth gameplay. Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 delivers excellent sustained performance, and iQOO highlighted long stable sessions at high frame rates in popular shooters. An IP65 rating adds water-jet protection. Funtouch OS 15 on Android 15 came with a game mode and the usual Vivo-family extras.

    The 50 MP Sony IMX882 main camera with OIS takes dependable photos, and an 8 MP ultrawide is functional but basic. The 32 MP front camera is a step up from earlier Neo models. The 6,400 mAh battery easily lasts more than a day, and 80W charging is quick. Against the Poco X7 Pro, it offered similar speed with a larger battery and a higher refresh rate.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 26,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2025
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.78-inch, AMOLED, 144Hz, 1260 x 2800
    ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP Sony IMX882 main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery6400 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, Funtouch OS 15
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursRaging Blue, Moonknight Titanium

    What we like

    • Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 gaming performance
    • 6,400 mAh battery
    • 144Hz 1.5K AMOLED display
    • IP65 rating

    What could be better

    • Basic ultrawide camera
    • No wireless charging
    • Funtouch OS preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Gamers who want flagship-class speed and a huge battery under 30,000 rupees.

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

  • iQOO Z7

    The iQOO Z7 launched in India in March 2023 through Amazon as a value-focused 5G phone. It shared its compact form factor and much of its design philosophy with the Vivo T2, but used MediaTek's Dimensity 920 chip. Its main rivals were the Redmi Note 12, Realme 10 Pro and Samsung Galaxy M34.

    The 6.38-inch AMOLED display refreshes at 90Hz and includes an in-display fingerprint sensor, a rare combination at this price. The Dimensity 920 performed better than the Snapdragon 695 found in many competitors, making the Z7 a solid choice for casual gaming. The compact, lightweight build was comfortable for one-handed use. Funtouch OS 13 on Android 13 offered useful features but preinstalled apps.

    The 64 MP main camera with OIS takes stable photos in daylight and handles low light better than non-stabilised rivals, while the 2 MP depth sensor is largely decorative. The 16 MP selfie camera is acceptable. The 4,500 mAh battery is smaller than average, but efficient hardware keeps it going for a day, with 44W charging. Buyers wanting a compact, quick 5G phone found it a good fit.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 18,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.38-inch, AMOLED, 90Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 920
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Rear cameras64 MP main with OIS + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery4500 mAh
    Charging44W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Funtouch OS 13
    5GYes
    ColoursNorway Blue, Pacific Night

    What we like

    • Compact AMOLED display
    • Dimensity 920 outperforms many rivals
    • OIS main camera
    • Lightweight design

    What could be better

    • Smaller 4,500 mAh battery
    • Only 90Hz refresh rate
    • No ultrawide camera

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a compact, fast 5G phone with a stabilised camera.

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

  • Vivo T3 5G

    Vivo launched the T3 5G in India in March 2024, sharing much of its hardware with the iQOO Z9 that arrived around the same time. It focused on balanced performance, a capable camera and a bright AMOLED screen, competing against the Realme Narzo 70 Pro, Redmi Note 13 and Poco X6 Neo.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED display at 120Hz is bright and colourful, making it great for video and gaming. MediaTek's Dimensity 7200 is a strong performer in this segment, offering better gaming frame rates than the Dimensity 7050 in Realme rivals. IP54 dust and splash resistance adds peace of mind. Funtouch OS 14 on Android 14 was functional, with the usual Vivo customisation options.

    The 50 MP Sony IMX882 main camera with OIS produces detailed, well-balanced photos in daylight and decent results at night, while a 2 MP depth sensor rounds out the rear. The 16 MP front camera is fine for selfies. The 5,000 mAh battery with 44W charging lasts a full day. Compared with the Narzo 70 Pro, it was faster but lacked an ultrawide camera.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7200
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP Sony IMX882 main with OIS + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging44W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Funtouch OS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursCosmic Blue, Crystal Flake

    What we like

    • Dimensity 7200 performance
    • OIS main camera
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED display
    • IP54 rating

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • 44W charging is slower than rivals
    • Some preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want strong performance and a stable main camera.

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

  • Realme P1

    The Realme P1 opened a new Flipkart-focused P-series in April 2024, effectively positioning itself as a value alternative to the Narzo line sold on Amazon. It packed familiar Realme hardware into a fresh design with a large circular camera module, aiming squarely at the Redmi Note 13, Poco X6 Neo and iQOO Z9 in the sub-16,000 to 20,000 rupee range.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED display refreshes at 120Hz and gets bright enough for outdoor use, which is a clear advantage over LCD rivals. The Dimensity 7050 provides consistent, if unspectacular, performance for gaming at medium settings and multitasking. IP54 dust and splash protection and a vapour chamber for cooling were highlighted at launch, reflecting the P-series focus on durability and sustained performance.

    Cameras include a 50 MP main sensor and a 2 MP depth unit, delivering good daylight results but nothing remarkable after dark. The 16 MP front camera is fine for video calls. A 5,000 mAh battery with 45W charging gives dependable endurance. The iQOO Z9 offered better low-light photos with OIS, but the P1 often undercut it on price during sales, which made it a popular value choice.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 15,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging45W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursPeacock Green, Phoenix Red

    What we like

    • AMOLED 120Hz display
    • Reliable Dimensity 7050 performance
    • IP54 rating
    • Good value during sales

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Average low-light photos
    • Bloatware in Realme UI

    Who should buy it

    Flipkart shoppers who want an AMOLED 5G phone at a tight budget.

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

  • Realme Narzo 70 Pro

    The Narzo 70 Pro arrived in March 2024 with one clear selling point for its price: the Sony IMX890 sensor with optical stabilisation, the same main camera found in far more expensive phones of the previous year. Realme also marketed air gestures, letting users scroll or answer calls with a hand wave, and a glass back with a textured finish. Its main competition came from the Redmi Note 13, iQOO Z9 and Poco X6.

    The flat 6.67-inch AMOLED display runs at 120Hz and has thin enough bezels to feel current. Performance comes from the Dimensity 7050 again, which is dependable for daily tasks and moderate gaming but not a step up from the previous Narzo. An IP54 rating offers splash protection. Realme UI 5.0 on Android 14 brought a tidier interface, although bloatware remained a common complaint among reviewers.

    Photos from the main camera are the real reason to pick this phone: natural colours, good dynamic range and steadier low-light shots thanks to OIS. The 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro are average. The 5,000 mAh battery with 67W charging is a reliable pairing. Against the iQOO Z9, which had a stronger Dimensity 7200, the Narzo traded some performance for a better primary sensor.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP Sony IMX890 main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursGlass Gold, Glass Green

    What we like

    • Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED screen
    • 67W fast charging
    • Air gestures are a neat extra

    What could be better

    • Same chipset as the older Narzo 60 Pro
    • Weak secondary cameras
    • Bloatware on the software

    Who should buy it

    Camera-focused buyers who want stabilised photos for under 20,000 rupees.

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