Finding the best phone priced under Rs. 20,000 matters for Indian buyers seeking great value without breaking budgets. After extensive analysis of all latest models below 20000 from top brands like Xiaomi, realme, iQOO, and Samsung, we pick the feature-packed Redmi 12 5G as the #1 choice for Feb 2023 and early 2024.
With its slick 90Hz 10-bit AMOLED display, flagship 200MP camera, long battery life and smooth everyday performance courtesy Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, the best phone under 20000 Redmi 12 5G dominates among sub-20000 mobile phones as an irresistible blend of style, cutting edge hardware and software at an affordable cost.
This comprehensive blog post presents our detailed data-driven ranking of the top 10 best mobiles under 20000 in India along with an expanded specs comparison table, revised buying guide, usage/maintenance tips and FAQs.
Here is our ranking of the top phone models priced under 20000 available this month:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G features a powerful Snapdragon 695 5G processor, 8GB RAM for smooth multitasking, 128GB storage, a premium design with a glass back, a 120Hz fluid display, and super-fast charging with a 67W charger.
With top-notch hardware, a gorgeous design, clean software, and very fast charging, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G is a standout choice for the best phone under ₹20,000. Performance is blazing fast thanks to the capable Snapdragon 695 chipset and ample RAM. The big 6.59″ display with a 120Hz refresh rate also impresses. At this price, it’s hard to beat the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G.
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G offers incredible value and performance that defies its price. With powerful internals including the blazing-fast Snapdragon 695 5G processor, ample 8GB RAM, up to 2TB storage expansion with a microSD card, and super-fast charging that can refuel the large 5000mAh battery from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes, the Nord CE 3 Lite delivers an uncompromising experience. Its elegant design with a slim 8.5mm profile and a premium glass back also impresses. For those wanting stunning looks, flagship-rivaling performance, incredible battery life, and future-proof 5G connectivity at an affordable price, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G shines as the best phone under ₹20,000 available today.
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G chip, 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, a 120Hz LCD, a 5000mAh battery with 33W fast charging, and an AI-backed triple camera setup.
As an affordable 5G smartphone with smooth everyday performance, good battery life with fast charging, and a high refresh rate display, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is a solid choice. While the LCD panel and lower RAM could be better, you still get a lot for your money including future-proof 5G connectivity. For budget 5G done right, consider the Nord CE 2 Lite.
Delivering 5G connectivity and great daily performance at an affordable price point, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G impresses as a well-rounded package. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chip and 6GB RAM effortlessly handle tasks like web browsing, social media, video streaming, and basic gaming while allowing for snappy multitasking. The large 5000mAh battery outlasts a full day of active use and quickly recharges to 50% in just 30 minutes with the bundled 33W SUPERVOOC charger. And immersive entertainment is ensured by the big 6.59” LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and transitions. For an affordable ticket to the 5G future, the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G warrants strong consideration.
The realme narzo 60 5G features a MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G processor, 90Hz Super AMOLED display, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, 5000mAh battery with 33W fast charging, 48MP triple camera, innovative vegan leather design, and more.
With an AMOLED display, ample RAM/storage, trendy design, and impressive battery life with fast charging, the realme narzo 60 5G brings excellent value at this price point. Performance is also smooth and responsive for most tasks with the capable Dimensity 700 5G chipset. If you want good looks and great daily usage at an affordable cost, do consider the narzo 60 5G.
As a stylish device bringing next-gen 5G connectivity to an affordable price tier, the realme narzo 60 5G packs quite the punch. It is among the first in its segment with an AMOLED display that’s also high refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and fluid 90Hz visuals ideal for gaming and videos. Power comes from a gaming-centric MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor while a huge 5000mAh battery keeps you powered up with 33W fast charging. Add to that ample RAM and storage, a sleek 8.1mm body with trendy vegan leather back, and capable triple cameras, and the narzo 60 5G makes a compelling case for the best phone under ₹20,000.
The Lava Agni 2 5G features a powerful Dimensity 7050 6nm processor optimized for 5G, a gorgeous curved AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate, 13 5G band support, clean Android software with no ads/bloatware, 66W superfast charging for the 4500mAh battery, and high-quality flagship-inspired design.
The Agni 2 delivers blistering performance courtesy its Dimensity 7050 chip coupled with ample RAM, an immersive 90Hz AMOLED panel, admirable battery life with insanely fast charging that can refuel to 100% in just 42 minutes, and an elegant glass-metal sandwich body. If you want a premium 5G experience on a budget plus the assurance of seamless after-sales support, the Lava Agni 2 is easily one of the best choices for a sub ₹20K phone right now in India.
Offering a truly premium 5G experience that effortlessly handles anything from basic tasks to intensive games without breaking a sweat, the Lava Agni 2 redefines value in its segment. Powered by a gaming-centric 6nm Dimensity 7050 processor with ample 8GB RAM, it chews through works like browsing, social media usage, streaming videos, and popular games without a hint of lag while enabling smooth background multitasking. The curved 6.78” AMOLED panel impresses with crisp details, vibrant colors, and fluid 90Hz visuals that make all content really pop. Add to that capable cameras, superfast 66W charging that can give nearly 2 days use from just 30 minutes of charging, and an exquisite design language not common at this price, and the Agni 2 makes a strong case for being the undisputed best 5G device under ₹20,000 available right now.
The iQOO Z7s 5G features a Snapdragon 695 processor built on an efficient 6nm fabrication process, 8GB LPDDR4x RAM, vibrant 6.58” AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, 64MP main camera with OIS for steady shots, 44W FlashCharge that recharges the 5000mAh battery in 54 minutes, Extended RAM 3.0, andFunTouch OS 13 based on Android 13.
Consider the iQOO Z7s if you seek flagship-rivaling performance from a budget 5G device with smooth gaming, snappy multitasking, and good battery life with insanely fast charging. The 120Hz AMOLED display is also slick while the main 64MP OIS camera captures steady photos and 4K videos. For an affordable 5G experience that doesn’t compromise, the Z7s should be on your radar.
Pulling no punches when it comes to delivering a true flagship-caliber experience, the iQOO Z7s 5G excels as an affordable powerhouse thanks to considered hardware plus software-level optimizations. Powered by a cutting-edge 6nm Snapdragon 695 octa-core CPU that works in conjunction with up to 8GB RAM and clever software tricks like Extended RAM 3.0 to extract maximum capability, it breezes through intensive gaming, steady multitasking, and more without breaking a sweat while still being highly power efficient for excellent battery longevity on its sizeable 5000mAh cell. 55-60 minutes of charging with the bundled 44W FlashCharge adapter juices it to full as well. A gorgeous 120Hz AMOLED panel, fun gaming-centric additions, and more make the Z7s a stellar value aimed squarely at savvy buyers seeking uncompromised 5G performance on a budget.
The realme Narzo 50 Pro 5G features a Dimensity 920 5G chip, up to 8GB RAM, 90Hz Super AMOLED display, 5000mAh battery with 33W Dart Charge, 48MP Nightscape portrait camera, Aerospace-grade cooling system, and elegant Light Shift design.
Among the first with MediaTek’s capable Dimensity 920 processor plus ample RAM, a slick 90Hz AMOLED panel, and 33W fast charging, the realme Narzo 50 Pro 5G brings a dash of premium to the budget segment. Gaming is a breeze while the phone effortlessly handles anything from video streaming to heavy multitasking. For uncompromised 5G performance that doesn’t break the bank, it’s a top choice in this range.
Ushering MediaTek’s powerful Dimensity 920 5G chipset into an affordable price point, the realme Narzo 50 Pro 5G delivers speed and graphics performance comparable to phones twice its cost. The 90Hz AMOLED display is also slick, allowing for vibrant colors and smooth scrolling in apps and games that support higher frame rates while a large 5000mAh battery keeps you powered up for over a day of active use. With up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, ample UFS 2.2 storage, and realme’s cooling expertise ensuring sustained peak performance, the Narzo 50 Pro promises flagship-grade speed and responsiveness for gaming, steady multitasking, and 5G connectivity at an irresistible sub-₹20K cost.
The Redmi 12 5G features a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor enabling 5G compatibility, 90Hz 10-bit AMOLED display with peak 1200 nits brightness, 5,000mAh battery with 33W Pro fast charging support, 200MP primary camera, and IP53 splash resistant coating.
With its efficient Qualcomm processor enabling smooth everyday usage and next-gen 5G connectivity, gorgeous 90Hz AMOLED panel, incredible 200MP camera, and long-lasting battery life, the Redmi 12 5G marks another disruptive value play by Xiaomi. For those wanting a future-proof 5G phone with a dash of premium features at an affordable cost, the Redmi 12 5G warrants a top spot among sub-₹20K devices currently on sale in India.
Packing best-in-class features starting with a slick 90Hz 10-bit AMOLED panel and flagship grade 200MP camera, the Redmi 12 5G packs a punch way above typical devices in its segment. Flagship-inspired design and thoughtful touches like an IP53 splash resistant coating further add to its appeal at this price point. With a power efficient Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chip plus ample RAM optimizing performance, you can bank on steady speeds for messaging, browsing, reasonable gaming, and 5G connectivity while still netting over a day’s endurance from the large 5000mAh battery. For those seeking style, substance, and specs way over typical phones in this range, the Redmi 12 5G is easily among the best buys under ₹20K today.
The realme narzo N55 features a Unisoc T510 processor, 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, 64MP primary AI camera, 5000mAh battery with 33W Dart Charge, 6.5-inch FHD+ mini-drop display with 90Hz refresh rate, and premium metallic body.
While not mind-blowing in any spec, the realme narzo N55 brings the essentials together into a well-rounded package – good display, reliable performance for daily tasks, solid imaging, excellent battery life with fast charging, premium feel, and more. So as an affordable phone for essential use, it’s quite appealing and thus deserves a top mention among sub-₹20K devices in 2023.
Featuring a slim and light metallic body with premium aesthetics belying its price, the realme narzo N55 focuses on core essentials – steady daily performance courtesy capable hardware and software optimization, long-lasting 5000mAh battery life aided by segment-leading 33W fast charging, crisp and colorful 90Hz FHD+ display, reliable camera hardware plus AI-powered imaging, and more. So if your needs are basic and you want reliable performance rather than flashy features or branding, the narzo N55 deservedly warrants shortlisting as among the best phones under ₹15K one can buy today.
The Redmi A2 highlights MediaTek Helio A22 CPU, 2GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB storage, AI-backed dual rear cameras (13MP + 2MP depth), 5,000mAh battery, leather textured back, and Full HD+ 6.52” IPS LCD display.
The Redmi A2 nails basics like battery life, essential performance for messaging/calls and light usage, durable build quality, decent LCD display, and passable camera quality at an entry-level price. For basic use without spending much or as a secondary device, it remains a practical choice even in late 2023 courtesy Xiaomi’s solid hardware reputation and software optimizations.
Bringing Xiaomi’s essentials-focused value pedigree to an entry-tier price point, the Redmi A2 focuses on core usage – steady performance for messaging and basic smartphone functions courtesy capable MediaTek hardware and MIUI optimizations.
The realme narzo 60X 5G highlights MediaTek’s Dimensity 700 5G processor, 6GB LPDDR4X RAM, 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, 50MP main camera with Nightscape and Panorama modes, 16MP front camera, 90Hz 6.5” FHD+ IPS LCD, and 5000mAh battery with 33W Dart Charge fast charging.
While not exactly mind-blowing, the narzo 60X 5G brings capable 5G-ready hardware, decent imaging, high refresh rate display, and excellent battery life with very quick charging to an affordable price point. For essential daily use with a dash of future-proofing via 5G, it warrants consideration as among the better values under ₹15K this year.
Ushering in affordable next-gen 5G connectivity for the masses, the realme narzo 60X 5G impresses with well-rounded fundamentals. Powered by MediaTek’s gaming-centric Dimensity 700 5G chip fabricate don an efficient 7nm process for the right balance of performance and power efficiency, it promises reliable speeds for messaging, browsing, social media, videos, and even popular games without breaking a sweat. This allows the large 5000mAh battery to easily last over 1.5 days per charge while 33W Dart Charge tops it up rapidly when needed. With ample RAM, smooth 90Hz visuals, and basics covered, it’s a capable 5G option on a budget.
The realme narzo N53 highlights a Unisoc T710 12nm processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage that’s expandable up to 1TB, 6.58” 90Hz FHD+ display, 16MP front camera, 50MP main + 2MP B&W lens rear cameras, and 5,000mAh battery with 33W Dart Charge fast charging.
Thanks to the Unisoc T710 CPU plus ample RAM, the narzo N53 promises very good performance for everyday tasks and reasonable gaming while still retaining excellent battery life with rapid 33W fast charging. A vibrant 90Hz display, capable main camera, and premium metal body add to the phone’s appeal as a sub-₹15K all-rounder in late 2023 deserving strong consideration from value-focused buyers.
An affordable smartphone bringing MediaTek’s capable 12nm T710 processor to the sub-₹15K segment for the first time, the realme narzo N53 promises excellent performance courtesy clever optimizations. With ample 8GB RAM to keep apps and games running smoothly even in the background, the phone rips through everything from browsing, social media and streaming video to reasonable gaming without breaking a sweat while retaining incredible 1.5 day+ battery life. Segment-leading 33W Dart Charge then juices up the large 5000mAh battery rapidly during any downtime while a slick 90Hz display keeps visuals fluid across compatible apps and games.
The realme narzo 60X 5G features a MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor with integrated 5G modem, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage expandable up to 2TB, 50MP Nightscape main camera plus 16MP selfie camera, 90Hz 6.58” FHD+ display, and 5000mAh battery with 33W Dart Charge.
Though not exactly mind-blowing, the narzo 60X 5G brings the essentials together into a decent package at an affordable price – steady daily performance and long battery life courtesy able internals plus optimizations, 90Hz visuals, and basics like triple card slots and dedicated microSD support. If 5G readiness plus solid fundamentals are what you want in a tight budget, do consider it.
Ushering in an era of affordable 5G devices to the masses, realme’s narzo 60X 5G impresses with good fundamentals beyond the hype. Built on MediaTek’s highly capable Dimensity 700 processor with an integrated 5G modem, it delivers reliable speeds for daily tasks like messaging, social media, browsing, and video playback while still being highly power efficient to extract over 1.5 days usage per charge from the large 5000mAh battery. Clever RAM management works alongside ample onboard storage with microSD expansion to enable smooth basic multitasking as well.
The iQOO Z7s 5G boasts a Snapdragon 695 CPU built on an efficient 6nm process enabling 5G connectivity, 6.58” 120Hz AMOLED display with 1300 nits peak brightness, 64MP main camera with OIS, 44W FlashCharge technology that can refuel the 4,900mAh battery in just 55 minutes, Game Frame Interpolation, Extended RAM 3.0 and more.
Among few phones that pack flagship-caliber 120Hz AMOLED displays, 65W+ charging and highly capable performance at under ₹15K, the iQOO Z7s warrants strong consideration. With Extended RAM aiding smooth multitasking, Intelligent Display Refresh bolstering battery life, fun gaming-centric touches, and more, it promises to deliver on expectations courtesy well-optimized hardware plus software.
Delivering speed, graphics and battery life comparable to phones twice its cost, the iQOO Z7s 5G punches well above its weight courtesy considered hardware optimization. With Qualcomm’s gaming-centric Snapdragon 695 5G SoC enabled further by ample RAM, fun software tricks like Extended RAM 3.0 and Game Frame Interpolation, 65W charging juicing up the battery at insane speeds, and one of few 120Hz AMOLED panels in its category, it promises uncompromised performance for gaming, steady multitasking and 5G without emptying your wallet.
Phone | RAM | Storage |
---|---|---|
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G | 8GB | 128GB |
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G | 6GB | 128GB |
realme narzo 60 5G | 8GB | 256GB |
Lava Agni 2 5G | 8GB | 256GB |
iQOO Z7s 5G | 8GB | 128GB |
realme Narzo 50 Pro 5G | 8GB | 128GB |
Redmi 12 5G | 8GB | 256GB |
realme narzo 55 | 6GB | 128GB |
Redmi A2 | 2GB | 64GB |
realme narzo 60X 5G | 6GB | 128GB |
realme narzo N53 | 8GB | 128GB |
realme narzo 60X 5G | 4GB | 128GB |
iQOO Z7s 5G | 6GB | 128GB |
When choosing among top phones priced below 20000, keep these key factors in mind:
Focus on aspects like CPU core architecture (newer is generally better), fab process (lower nm like 6nm, 7nm preferred for efficiency), 5G compatibility for future-proofing, RAM amount for steady multitasking, UFS 2.1/2.2/3.0/3.1 storage for faster data speeds, Mali or Adreno GPU etc. Phones like the iQOO Z7s with a Snapdragon 695, ample RAM and clever software optimization promise reliable everyday speeds.
Evaluate parameters like panel type (AMOLED preferred to LCD for vivid colors/contrast), refresh rate (90Hz/120Hz enable fluid visuals in compatible apps/games), peak brightness (500+ nits is good), Gorilla Glass protection against scratches, HDR or Widevine L1 certification for high-quality streaming, and so on. For example, the Redmi 12 packs a slick 90Hz AMOLED panel great for videos and games.
See mAh rating (higher is better, 5000mAh+ recommended), charger peak wattage (33W/44W/65W+ fast charging preferred), Type-C port allowing quick data transfers etc. The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite boasts a 5000mAh battery with 67W charging for incredible longevity and charging speeds.
See aspects like megapixels (64MP+ suitable), aperture (lower f/ like f/1.8 preferred), OIS/EIS stabilization (reduces shake), night modes for low light shots, 4K video capture at 30fps, and so on. For instance, the 64MP OIS camera on the iQOO Z7s enables steady photos and high-res video recording.
Build quality, weight/dimensions, dedicated microSD slot for storage expansion, virtual RAM support, 5G bands count for network compatibility, Wi-Fi standards like WiFi 6, Bluetooth version, software experience (leaner/smoother is better), after-sales service network etc also merit evaluation before locking in your choice.
There are a few major categories one can explore in the sub-₹20K smartphone segment this year:
Phones like the iQOO Z7s with flagship-level specs – 120Hz AMOLED panel, 65W+ charging, high megapixel cameras with OIS/EIS stabilization, ample RAM/storage – at an affordable budget. Great for uncompromised experience without spending 30K+
Models tuned for gaming with aspects like high refresh rate displays to enable smoother graphics in titles like BGMI/COD, powerful chipsets, vapor cooling technology and software game modes boosting performance. The realme Narzo 50 Pro is a good example.
For those wanting marathon battery life, options with 5000mAh+ cells plus software-based power optimizations easily lasting over 2 days per charge make sense. Cases in point are the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite and realme narzo 60 5G.
With 5G rollouts picking up pace, devices with compatible modems like Snapdragon 480+, Dimensity 700 and above allow future-proofing while still great for current 4G networks. Strong choices in late 2023 are the realme Narzo 60X 5G and Lava Agni 2 5G.
Here are some key pointers to safeguard your investment:
🔋 Avoid exposure to temperature extremes during usage or charging
💧 Prevent accidental liquid damage; don’t use phone when raining
⚡ Use bundled charger & quality cables for optimal charging experience
📵 Enable auto brightness & close background apps to conserve battery life
🛡️ Keep OS & security patches updated; Periodic reboots help too
🆘 Seek repairs from professionals instead of DIY attempts
Following these tips will help you safeguard your investment and allow your phone to deliver the optimal experience over years of untethered performance. Reaching for a service cover with accidental/liquid damage protection is also prudent.
The Redmi 12 5G emerges as the best phone priced under ₹20,000 courtesy its incredible mix of style, substance and well-balanced specs. Key highlights include a gorgeous 10-bit 90Hz AMOLED display with 1200nits peak brightness for a cinematic viewing experience, 200MP main camera with OIS promising incredible detailing and clarity across modes, IP53 rating for splash resistance, large 5000mAh battery with 33W Pro fast charging support, and more – all powered smoothly by an efficient Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor.
For that perfect blend of cutting edge hardware plus software features bringing an uncompromising flagship-grade experience below ₹20K, the Redmi 12 5G is easily number one currently.
Currently Samsung does not have a compelling phone that we could comfortably recommend as the singular best choice priced below ₹20,000. While the Galaxy M33 5G and M32 retail currently under 20K, competitors like Xiaomi, realme and others outclass them on aspects like performance, battery technology, charging speeds and cameras.
Hopefully Samsung unveils compelling options soon around ₹15-20K since we regularly see excellent innovation from them in even mid-range price tiers focusing on stunning OLED screens, versatile camera systems with optical stabilization, marathon battery life and more. Options like a hypothetical Galaxy M53 5G with an FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging, 108MP main camera and Exynos 1280 processor could find many takers around 18-20K when optimized well with One UI 5.0.
Aspects like high refresh rate AMOLED displays for an immersive visual experience, capable processors enabling smooth performance for everything from messaging to gaming plus steady background multitasking, ample RAM to keep apps running in memory, faster storage, bigger batteries with quick charging for marathon usage, multiple cameras with higher megapixels and stabilization, slimmer/lighter builds with premium touches etc – merit focus here for a well-rounded usage experience.
With a flagship-inspired 200 megapixel primary camera powered by a Samsung ISOCELL HP1 sensor, the Redmi 12 5G promises incredible detail and clarity across modes like night, portrait etc that puts it a cut above anything else near its ₹17K pricing. Beautiful AI-powered bokeh, 8K video recording, innovative vlog templates and more help novice users get pro-level results as well relatively easily courtesy Xiaomi’s well-earned camera optimization expertise.
Not necessarily. Case in point is the excellent Redmi 12 5G available under ₹18K with features like 200MP main camera, 90Hz AMOLED display with 1200 nits peak brightness, IP53 splash resistance and more typically seen in models upwards of ₹25K.
A1. With a flagship-grade 200MP Samsung HP1 primary sensor promising incredible details & clarity plus multiple high-res modes, the Redmi 12 5G is easily the undisputed camera king under Rs. 20K currently.
A2. Yes, with its 120Hz AMOLED display, capable 65W fast charging and OxygenOS optimizations, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 makes a strong case for itself just under 20K even if its cameras seem less flashy.
So rather than blindly spending more, focus on aspects like value flagships from major brands oriented towards delivering flagship features without the typically excessive premium. Devices like the iQOO Z7s are great examples of such value flagships phones perfect for buyers upgrading from budget devices without emptying their wallets.
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