Top 5 Best 5G Phones Under ₹12,000 in 2024

In 2024, the race for budget-friendly 5G smartphones is hotter than ever, with major players introducing models under ₹12,000 that offer advanced features previously seen only in higher-end devices. The advantages of 5G connectivity, including faster download speeds and seamless video calls, are now accessible at this price point, enabling users to enjoy premium experiences without the premium price. This list of the Top 5 Best 5G Phones Under ₹12,000 in 2024 takes into account essential factors like display quality, processing power, camera features, battery life, and, of course, value for money.

Whether you’re a casual user, a streaming enthusiast, or a mobile gamer, these phones bring the best of modern technology within an accessible price range. Let’s dive into what makes each device stand out and determine which one fits your needs best.

1. iQOO Z7i – Power and Performance at an Affordable Price

Key Features:

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6020
Display: 6.51-inch HD+ with 120Hz refresh rate
Camera: 50MP primary camera
Battery: 5,000mAh with 18W fast charging
Price: Around ₹11,500

The iQOO Z7i combines powerful hardware with a sleek, modern design, making it a fantastic option in the budget 5G segment. The MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor is particularly impressive in this price range, enabling smooth multitasking and efficient power usage. The 6.51-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides an ultra-responsive experience, perfect for users who love gaming or frequently scroll through social media.

Its 50MP camera delivers detailed photos, which can capture vibrant colors and decent low-light shots, although it lacks an ultra-wide lens. Despite this, for users looking for a strong balance between performance and style, the iQOO Z7i is an excellent choice.

Pros:

Responsive 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals
Density 6020 processor supports lag-free multitasking
Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery life with reliable 18W charging

Cons:

The display is limited to HD+ resolution
No ultra-wide camera lens

2. Redmi Note 12R – The Reliable Performer

Key Features:

Processor: Snapdragon 4 Gen 2
Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ with 90Hz refresh rate
Camera: 50MP primary sensor with night mode support
Battery: 5,000mAh with 33W fast charging
Price: ₹11,999

The Redmi Note 12R is packed with features that make it one of the most reliable budget phones of the year. Powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, this device effortlessly handles day-to-day tasks and casual gaming. It offers a 6.5-inch Full HD+ display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, providing a crisp and enjoyable experience, especially while watching videos or browsing the web.

One standout feature is its 50MP primary camera with night mode, which performs well in low-light environments, delivering clear and detailed shots. Combined with its 5,000mAh battery and 33W fast charging, this phone can power through a full day with ease, making it ideal for busy users who rely on their devices.

Pros:

Smooth 90Hz refresh rate with Full HD+ resolution
Night mode support in the camera for improved low-light performance
Fast 33W charging for quick battery top-ups

Cons:

Limited to two rear cameras
Doesn’t support 4K video recording

3. Realme Narzo 60i – Sleek Design Meets Smooth Functionality

Key Features:

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6100
Display: 6.6-inch Full HD+ with 120Hz refresh rate
Camera: 50MP main sensor
Battery: 5,000mAh with 18W charging
Price: ₹11,999

The Realme Narzo 60i is a well-balanced phone offering a mix of performance and style. It boasts a sleek, premium design that resembles high-end models, making it one of the more attractive options in this budget range. The Dimensity 6100 processor handles multitasking efficiently, ensuring a smooth experience whether you’re using apps, browsing, or gaming. Its 6.6-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers an immersive experience for video content, gaming, or just scrolling through feeds.

With a 50MP main camera, the Narzo 60i captures sharp images in well-lit conditions, although like most budget phones, low-light performance is a bit limited. The 5,000mAh battery keeps the device powered throughout the day, and 18W charging ensures you’re not waiting too long to recharge.

Pros:

Full HD+ display with 120Hz for smooth visuals
Sleek design and sturdy build
Good battery life for all-day use

Cons:

No ultra-wide camera
Limited to 18W fast charging, which could be faster

4. Samsung Galaxy F14 – Perfect for Multimedia Enthusiasts

Key Features:

Processor: Exynos 1330
Display: 6.6-inch Full HD+ with Gorilla Glass protection
Camera: 13MP dual rear camera
Battery: 6,000mAh with 25W fast charging
Price: ₹11,500

The Samsung Galaxy F14 is an outstanding choice for users who consume a lot of media on their phones. Its 6.6-inch Full HD+ display is not only large but also durable, thanks to Gorilla Glass protection. The Exynos 1330 processor powers the device efficiently, ensuring that day-to-day usage is smooth, although this phone is not designed for heavy gaming.

Its 6,000mAh battery is a significant advantage, easily lasting through two days of moderate use, making it ideal for users who don’t want to worry about charging frequently. The 13MP dual camera setup does a fair job for casual photography, though it lacks the advanced sensors found in higher-end models. Samsung’s reputation for quality and software updates makes this phone a reliable option.

Pros:

Excellent battery life with 6,000mAh capacity
Gorilla Glass protection for added durability
Ideal for multimedia consumption

Cons:

Limited camera functionality
Not as powerful for multitasking and gaming

5. Poco M5 5G – A Great All-Rounder for the Price

Key Features:

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 700
Display: 6.58-inch FHD+ with 90Hz refresh rate
Camera: 13MP primary, 2MP depth sensor
Battery: 5,000mAh with 18W charging
Price: ₹11,499

The Poco M5 5G rounds out this list as a well-balanced phone that covers all essential features, making it one of the best-value choices. Its Dimensity 700 processor handles routine tasks smoothly, making it a good pick for budget-conscious users. The 6.58-inch FHD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate offers a pleasant viewing experience, perfect for video streaming or social media.

The 13MP primary camera does a commendable job in good lighting, delivering clear images for social media or casual photography. While the 2MP depth sensor is not as robust as those in higher-end models, it does help enhance portrait shots. Overall, the 5,000mAh battery ensures a full day of usage, making the Poco M5 5G a solid choice for users who want good all-around performance.

Pros:

Reliable Dimensity 700 processor
Smooth 90Hz display with Full HD+ resolution
5,000mAh battery provides consistent battery life

Cons:

Camera performance could be better in low light
Lacks ultra-wide camera

How to Choose the Right 5G Phone Under ₹12,000

To get the best value from your purchase, here are some tips to help you pick the right phone:

Prioritize Display and Refresh Rate: For smooth scrolling and an immersive experience, look for phones with a high refresh rate (90Hz or 120Hz) and at least a Full HD+ resolution.
Consider Battery Life and Fast Charging: Battery size and charging speed matter if you’re on the go. Phones like the Samsung Galaxy F14 with 6,000mAh and 25W charging offer longer use and faster recharge times.
Camera Requirements: For those who enjoy photography, a higher megapixel count doesn’t always mean better quality, but models like the Redmi Note 12R with night mode features can be a game-changer in low-light conditions.
Processor Performance: A strong processor like the Dimensity 6020 or Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 ensures better performance for gaming and multitasking, especially if you plan on using demanding apps.
Software Support: Phones from brands with a reliable update schedule like Samsung and Xiaomi tend to keep devices running smoothly longer, with frequent bug fixes and security patches.

Final Thoughts

Each phone on this list brings unique strengths, so understanding your own needs can guide you toward the perfect fit. With fast 5G connectivity and advanced features now available under ₹12,000, it’s an ideal time to upgrade to a future-ready device without stretching your budget. Happy shopping!

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