In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, finding the perfect balance between features and affordability can be a challenge. For many users, the Rs 30,000 price point represents a sweet spot, offering devices with premium features without breaking the bank. As we navigate the smartphone market in July, several smartphone manufacturers have stepped up to offer compelling options in this segment, bringing powerful processors, versatile cameras and long-lasting batteries.
We bring you the best smartphones in the under Rs 30,000 category, including the ones that deliver exceptional value for money. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a mobile gamer, or simply looking for a reliable daily driver, our curated list has something for everyone.
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Realme GT 6T
The Realme GT 6T has a large 6.78-inch display, which is an LTPO AMOLED panel with a curved design. Its screen offers a crisp resolution of 2789×1264 pixels and supports a 120Hz refresh rate. Touch responsiveness is impressive with a 2500Hz instant touch sampling rate, while eye comfort is enhanced by 2160Hz PWM dimming. Durability is a key aspect of the phone, with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protecting the front panel. The phone also boasts an IP65 rating, offering resistance against dust and water splashes. Under the hood, the GT 6T is powered by Qualcomm’s newest mid-range powerhouse, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chip. This processing package is complemented by advanced memory configurations, offering up to 12GB of speedy LPDDR5X RAM. Storage options are equally impressive, with up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage available, ensuring quick data access and ample space for apps and media.
Poco X6 Pro
Among the contenders in this price range, the Poco X6 Pro 5G stands out for its impressive storage capacity. This device offers an expansive 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring ample space for apps, media, and files. The phone is driven by MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 Ultra chip, a potent processor that delivers robust performance. Complementing this is a generous 12GB of RAM, facilitating smooth multitasking and app launches. For photography enthusiasts, the Poco X6 Pro 5G features a versatile triple camera setup: a main shooter with a 64MP sensor with OIS, accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro camera for close-up shots. Selfie lovers will appreciate the 16MP front-facing camera, suitable for both self-portraits and video calls. On the software front, this Poco device runs on the latest Android 14, overlaid with Xiaomi’s newly introduced HyperOS interface.
Realme 12 Pro+ 5G
The Realme 12 Pro+ 5G stands out in this price category with its striking design, featuring a curved display and a sophisticated faux leather back. Its unique selling point is the inclusion of a dedicated telephoto lens, a rarity in this segment. The device boasts a 64MP periscope telephoto camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), capable of 3X optical zoom. This is complemented by a 50MP main camera, also with OIS, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. Selfie enthusiasts will appreciate the high-resolution 32MP front-facing camera. At the heart of the Realme 12 Pro+ 5G is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor. While this chip delivers decent performance, it doesn’t quite match the raw power of the Dimensity 8300 Ultra or Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 found in some competitors. However, this device prioritises style and photographic capabilities over sheer processing might. The base model offers 8GB of RAM paired with 128GB of internal storage.
Motorola Edge 40
For those who value a slim profile and a more streamlined Android experience, the Motorola Edge 40 is an attractive option. This device impresses with its svelte design, measuring a mere 7.6 mm in thickness. Despite featuring a durable aluminum frame, it maintains a lightweight feel at approximately 170 grams. The Motorola Edge 40 offers flexibility in its aesthetics, allowing users to choose between a sleek plastic back panel or a more premium eco-leather finish. The front of the device showcases a curved 6.55-inch P-OLED display, boasting 10-bit color depth for rich and vibrant visuals. This screen stands out with its higher-than-average 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring exceptionally smooth scrolling and animations. Visual quality is further enhanced by a peak brightness of 1200 nits and HDR10+ certification, promising excellent visibility in various lighting conditions and improved contrast in supported content.
OnePlus 11R 5G
The OnePlus 11R 5G is now available for under Rs 30,000 and it is an incredibly compelling offer that is hard to ignore. Its specifications aare likely to align with the needs of the ones looking for a great device under Rs 30,000. Notaby, this device bears a striking resemblance to its more expensive sibling, the OnePlus 11 5G, and the similarities extend beyond mere appearances. At its core lies Qualcomm’s top-tier processor, the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1. Currently, you one can buy the 8GB of RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage model under Rs 30,000. The OnePlus 11R 5G in this segment is a game-changer, offering near-flagship performance at a mid-range price point.