Best Smartphones Under ₹20,000 to Buy in 2025

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Aneh Thakur

. 3 min read

As 2025 kicks off, the smartphone market is buzzing with great deals. Some brands are delaying new launches to clear existing inventory, meaning this is the perfect time to grab excellent smartphones at discounted prices. Here’s our handpicked list of the best smartphones under ₹20,000 for photography, gaming, and all-round performance. Whether you’re a gamer, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a reliable device, we’ve got you covered.

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1. CMF Phone 1

The CMF Phone 1 has been a standout choice, earning accolades like the “Best Budget Smartphone of 2024” in our awards.

  • Key Features:

    • Clean Android experience with no bloatware or ads—a rarity in this price range.

    • Regular software updates; currently on the beta version of Nothing OS 3.0.

    • Decent gaming performance with support for 120 FPS in BGMI (averages 83 FPS during gameplay).

    • Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging, ensuring a full day’s use.

    • Swappable back covers and additional accessories available for customization.

  • Pros:

    • Ideal for users seeking a simple, ad-free software experience.

    • Great for casual gaming and daily use.

    • Reliable battery performance.

  • Cons:

    • No charger included in the box; additional purchase required.

    • Average camera quality, making it less appealing for photography enthusiasts.

  • Price: ₹14,000–₹15,000 during sales.

Best For: Users looking for clean software and good value for money. Ideal for gifting to family members or first-time smartphone users.

Click here to buy at Amazon


2. iQOO Z9S

If gaming and performance are your priorities, the iQOO Z9S is a top contender. It builds on the success of the iQOO Z9, offering significant improvements.

  • Key Features:

    • 5,500mAh battery for extended gaming sessions and daily use.

    • HDR-certified display for streaming high-quality content on Netflix.

    • Sony IMX 882 camera sensor with OIS for steady photos and videos.

    • 1080p portrait video recording, which is rare in this segment.

    • Slim and lightweight design despite the large battery.

  • Pros:

    • Excellent battery life.

    • Great for gaming and content consumption.

    • Impressive camera performance with stable video recording.

  • Cons:

    • Lacks an ultra-wide-angle camera, limiting versatility for group photos and landscapes.

  • Price: Under ₹20,000.

Best For: Gamers and those who want good video and photography performance at an affordable price.

Click here to buy at Amazon


3. Motorola Edge 50 Neo

The Motorola Edge 50 Neo combines compact design with powerful features, making it a unique offering in this price range.

  • Key Features:

    • Compact form factor, ideal for one-handed use.

    • 3X telephoto camera for detailed zoom shots.

    • Wireless charging and fast 68W wired charging.

    • Promised long-term software updates, ensuring longevity.

    • Smart Connect feature for seamless integration with Windows laptops.

  • Pros:

    • Best-in-class camera performance with telephoto capabilities.

    • Reliable software updates and clean user interface.

    • Premium features like wireless charging, rare in this price range.

  • Cons:

    • Average performance during heavy tasks like gaming or extensive multitasking.

    • Smaller 4,310mAh battery, though compensated by LTPO display technology for better efficiency.

  • Price: ₹20,000 (after offers).

Best For: Compact phone lovers and photography enthusiasts seeking premium features at a budget.

Click here to buy at Amazon


4. OnePlus Nord CE 4

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 offers a balanced mix of performance, battery life, and software experience, making it a strong all-rounder.

  • Key Features:

    • Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor for smooth performance in everyday tasks and light gaming.

    • Massive 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging—full charge in just 30 minutes.

    • OxygenOS with minimal bloatware for a clean and responsive experience.

    • Regular software updates and security patches for an enhanced user experience.

  • Pros:

    • Excellent battery life and ultra-fast charging.

    • Smooth software experience with minimal bugs.

    • Solid build quality and reliable 5G performance.

  • Cons:

    • Inconsistent camera performance, especially in portrait shots.

    • Occasional issues like green lines on some displays, though less common in Nord devices.

  • Price: ₹21,000 (after offers).

Best For: Users prioritizing 5G connectivity, battery life, and a smooth user experience.

Click here to buy at Amazon


FAQs

  • Which is the best smartphone under ₹20,000 for gaming?

  • Are there any compact smartphones under ₹20,000?

  • Which phone offers the cleanest Android experience?

  • What’s the best camera phone under ₹20,000?

  • Are chargers included with these phones?

You may Like to read:- Top 5 Best Tablets Under ₹30,000 in 2025

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