Flagship smartphones are usually known for their all-around performance, offering the best of everything in one device. However, over the years, flagships have become significantly more expensive, with some costing over a lakh rupees. In contrast, budget phones often compromise on the overall experience. To fill this gap, brands have introduced a new lineup of smartphones known as value flagships. These devices offer nearly everything that a high-end smartphone does, but at affordable prices.
If you’re looking for a good value flagship, consider phones priced around Rs 40,000. These devices usually offer almost flagship-like performance, great cameras, premium design, and more.
Here are a few things to keep in mind while looking for a value flagship smartphone:
Focus on the chip first
When considering a phone around Rs 40,000, ensure it has the best possible chip. While it might not feature the latest flagship offering, something like a year-old Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 or even the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 will provide excellent performance for years to come. Make sure it has the fastest possible RAM and storage type, which will help the smartphone keep up with future computing needs, especially if you intend to use it for several years.
Design matters
There are plenty of well-built, good-looking phones around the Rs 40,000 price mark, one has to just look for it! Look for a phone with a premium glass sandwich design, a metal frame, or even a vegan leather finish if you prefer that style. Also consider phones with an IP rating so that the device is protected from accidental water damage.
Keep an eye on software support
While buying a new phone, one not only needs to make sure that it is shipping with the latest version but also needs to keep an eye on how long the device will be supported. Always go for the one, which has at least three years of promised OS updates, and four years of security updates.
Big battery and fast-charging
Always opt for a phone with a large battery of at least 5,000 mAh and ensure it supports fast charging. Look for devices that come with a charger included. Fast-charging technology allows you to quickly recharge your phone and get back to your activities without waiting for extended periods.
With these criteria in mind, here are four excellent smartphones to consider as value flagships in 2024:
OnePlus 12R
Rs 37,999
The OnePlus 12R (review), equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, offers performance comparable to the OnePlus 11 at a more affordable price point. Featuring a premium glass sandwich design and a metal frame, it boasts a curved display with a 120Hz refresh rate. With eligibility for four years of OS upgrades and currently running on Android 14-based OxygenOS 14, it promises longevity and up-to-date software. While its camera may not be the best in its class, the OnePlus 12R is a well-rounded value flagship worth considering.
Xiaomi 14 CIVI
Rs 39,999
If you are looking for a value flagship with excellent cameras and a premium design, the Xiaomi 14 CIVI, powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 is a good pick. Its compact size, sporting a 6.5-inch quad-curved display with minimal bezels, will particularly appeal to users who prefer smaller devices. Additionally, it stands out as one of the most affordable smartphones in the market with Leica-tuned cameras, capable of capturing 4K videos across all four cameras. Furthermore, its dual-selfie camera setup adds to its photography prowess.
Motorola Edge 50 Pro
Rs 31,999
Despite its affordability, this device boasts impressive features such as 50W wireless charging and a Pantone-validated curved display. Additionally, it holds an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC, the Motorola Edge 50 Pro (review) features a triple camera setup with dedicated ultra-wide angle and telephoto lenses. Its vegan leather back panel adds a unique aesthetic to the device. While it sports a slightly smaller 4,500 mAh battery, its 125W fast charging capability enables a full recharge in under 30 minutes.
TECNO CAMON 30 Premier
Rs 39,999
This camera-first value flagship stands out as one of the most affordable options. It features a 50 MP periscope zoom lens, with all four cameras, including the selfie shooter, boasting a 50 MP resolution. Its premium design features a leather back and a metal frame. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8200, it offers 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, catering to the needs of even the most demanding users.
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First uploaded on: 13-06-2024 at 12:00 IST
Deepak Sen is a tech enthusiast who covers the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets. His articles provide readers with a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of technology.
