The Indian smartphone market is booming, with a constant demand for affordable yet feature-rich devices. For budget-conscious consumers seeking 5G connectivity, navigating the market can be overwhelming. Fear not! This comprehensive guide explores the top five 5G-enabled smartphones available for under ₹10,000 in India, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Domestic Delight: The Lava Blaze 2 5G
Leading the charge is the Lava Blaze 2 5G, a homegrown contender launched in 2023. This budget-friendly option boasts a starting price of ₹9,999 for the base model (4GB RAM + 64GB storage). If you crave additional storage, the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage variant bumps the price tag to ₹10,999. The Lava Blaze 2 5G comes in three attractive color options: Glass Black, Glass Blue, and Glass Lavender. You can purchase it through popular retailers like Amazon, Flipkart, and the brand’s official website.
The Lava Blaze 2 5G features a spacious 6.56-inch HD+ (720×1600 pixels) display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring a visually pleasing experience. Powering this device is the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC, a reliable chipset for everyday tasks. Additionally, the phone supports virtual RAM expansion, offering a potential performance boost when needed.
On the software front, the Lava Blaze 2 5G runs Android 13 with a commitment to receive an upgrade to Android 14. Security updates are also prioritized, with the promise of receiving them quarterly for two years. In terms of photography, the device boasts a decent 50MP dual-rear camera system and an 8MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
Lava hasn’t skimped on battery life either. The Blaze 2 5G packs a hefty 5,000mAh battery, ideal for users who demand extended usage throughout the day. The phone supports 18W fast charging, ensuring you can quickly power up when needed.
Moto G34 5G: A Competitive Offering
The Moto G34 5G is another compelling sub-₹10,000 option, with a starting price of ₹10,999 for the base model (4GB RAM + 128GB storage). However, keep an eye out for deals and promotions, as some sellers offer it for as low as ₹9,999 with specific credit or debit cards.
The Moto G34 5G comes pre-loaded with Android 14, a welcome upgrade for users who value the latest software experience. The phone boasts a vibrant 6.5-inch HD+ (720×1600 pixels) LCD with a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, enhancing user experience with its ability to adjust refresh rates based on content. Powering this device is the reliable Snapdragon 695 SoC, ensuring smooth performance.
Multimedia enthusiasts will appreciate the Moto G34 5G’s dual stereo speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos sound technology, offering an immersive audio experience. Additionally, the phone packs a 5,000mAh battery with 20W TurboPower charging, allowing you to quickly refuel your device and get back on track.
POCO M6 Pro 5G: A Powerhouse for Gamers
For budget-conscious gamers, the POCO M6 Pro 5G emerges as a strong contender. Currently available for ₹9,499 on Flipkart, it offers a larger 6.79-inch full-HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, perfect for enjoying mobile games with smooth visuals.
Under the hood, the POCO M6 Pro 5G utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, catering well to everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The phone runs Android 13-based MIUI 14, the latest iteration of POCO’s custom user interface.
In the camera department, the POCO M6 Pro 5G doesn’t disappoint. It features a 50MP AI-backed primary sensor capable of capturing decent photos, accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor for improved portrait shots. The phone boasts a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging and an IP53 rating for dust and splash resistance, adding a touch of durability.
A Glimpse into the Future: The Jio 5G Smartphone
It’s important to note that leading telecom operator Reliance Jio has partnered with Qualcomm to launch its first-ever 5G-enabled smartphone in the Indian market. The Jio 5G smartphone is expected to be priced under $99 (roughly ₹8,200) and is anticipated to be announced by the end of 2024. This upcoming device has the potential to shake up the budget 5G smartphone market in India.
With its incredibly competitive price point, the Jio 5G smartphone could become the most affordable 5G option in the country. However, as the phone is not yet available, its specifications and features remain under wraps. It will be interesting to see how Jio positions this device against the established players in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing a sub-₹10,000 5G smartphone?
A: Consider factors like:
- Processor: Opt for a processor that can handle everyday tasks and your preferred level of gaming.
- Display: Choose a display size and resolution that suits your needs. Consider the refresh rate for a smoother visual experience.
- Camera: Decide on the camera quality that’s important to you.
- Battery Life: Select a phone with a battery capacity that can last you throughout the day.
- Brand and Support: Research after-sales service and software update policies.
Q: Are there any trade-offs when buying a sub-₹10,000 5G smartphone?
A: Yes, some trade-offs are likely. You might encounter slightly lower display resolution, less powerful processors, or fewer camera features compared to higher-priced phones.
Q: Will these phones receive software updates?
A: Update policies vary by brand. Each phone mentioned in this guide has a confirmed upgrade path to the next version of Android, but the duration of security updates may differ.
