Best 5G Smartphones Under ₹10,000 in March 2025

Explore top budget 5G choices launched in 2024-2025 based on AnTuTu performance

smartphones, physical devices on table, mobile display close up

Key Highlights

Robust Connectivity: All featured smartphones offer 5G connectivity suitable for emerging network infrastructure.
Performance Metrics: These phones balance performance based on recent AnTuTu benchmarks with efficiency for daily tasks and moderate gaming.
Value for Money: Competitive specs from leading brands like Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, and more at an affordable price point.

Market Overview

In March 2025, the budget smartphone segment in India has witnessed significant enhancements, especially with the introduction of 5G connectivity. Consumers in India have increasingly sought affordable devices that not only support the next generation of mobile connectivity but also deliver reliable performance in daily applications, multimedia, and light gaming tasks. Given the intensive competition among well-known brands launching new models in 2024 and early 2025, the lineup of best 5G smartphones under ₹10,000 reflects a sharpened focus on balancing connectivity, speed, and overall usability.

The performance benchmarks used for these devices, particularly from the AnTuTu app, provide one perspective on their capabilities in terms of CPU efficiency, GPU performance, memory management, and user experience. However, it is important to note that while benchmark scores help compare raw performance among similar budget offerings, real-world usage might introduce variations depending on software optimization, battery management, and overall system design.

Featured Smartphones

Samsung Galaxy F06 5G

Specifications & Performance

The Samsung Galaxy F06 5G is designed to cater to budget-conscious consumers who do not wish to compromise on design or performance. With its incorporation of 5G connectivity, it stands out in this price bracket by offering a mix of reliability and design language reminiscent of higher-end models.

Price: ₹9,999
Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity series chipset, striking a balance between performance and energy efficiency
Camera: Dual or quad-camera setups that include a 50 MP primary sensor
Battery: 5000 mAh battery with fast charging support
AnTuTu Range: While specific scores are not uniformly published, this device is expected to deliver in the mid-tier segment reflecting its robust chipset performance.

The design philosophy behind the Galaxy F06 5G is built on bringing premium aesthetics and user experience at an accessible price. For users looking for a Samsung-branded device that supports 5G, the Galaxy F06 5G remains one of the optimal choices.

Motorola Moto G35 5G

Specifications & Performance

The Moto G35 5G from Motorola represents a strong entry-level 5G offering with near-stock Android providing a smooth and responsive user interface. Its design is focused on practicality and robust performance in a variety of usage conditions.

Price: ₹9,999
Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, delivering consistent color reproduction and clarity.
Processor: Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 720, known for handling daily tasks with efficiency.
Camera: Typically includes a dual-camera configuration such as a 50 MP primary sensor accompanied by a secondary lens to support depth and wide-angle photography.
Battery: 5000 mAh ensuring long endurance on a single charge with modest charging speeds.
AnTuTu Score: Approximately 220,000, making it competitive in the performance landscape for budget devices.

The Moto G35 5G is particularly enticing for users who value a clean software experience and reliable performance. Its adherence to near-stock Android ensures quick updates and minimal bloatware, contributing to its overall efficiency.

Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G

Specifications & Performance

Xiaomi's Redmi A4 5G targets users who seek a mix of performance boosted by 5G connectivity and accessory features such as impressive camera functionalities and battery life. Redmi’s commitment to value is evident in this model, which integrates balanced hardware performance with a user-friendly interface.

Price: Approximately ₹9,999
Display: A 6.7-inch LCD display that provides vivid imagery and broad viewing angles
Processor: Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, a notable choice within this range, ensures efficient multitasking and smoother application performance.
Camera: Equipped with a 50 MP primary sensor in conjunction with a secondary camera, the device delivers commendable photographic and video results under various lighting conditions.
Battery: 5160 mAh battery with support for fast charging ensuring that the device lasts through demanding usage days.
AnTuTu Performance: An estimated score of around 250,000 reflects improvements in performance that significantly enhance daily operation and multimedia tasks.

The Redmi A4 5G distinguishes itself by offering smooth performance and an excellent user interface that complements its hardware capabilities. Its competitive processing power makes it a strong contender in the low-budget 5G market.

Poco C75 5G

Specifications & Performance

The Poco C75 5G is especially popular among those who are keen on a large display and smooth refresh rate without compromising on performance. This model comes with enhancements that appeal to a younger audience, particularly gamers and streaming enthusiasts.

Price: ₹7,999
Display: A notably large 6.88-inch display paired with a 120Hz refresh rate which significantly improves the fluidity of visuals during gaming and video playback.
Processor: MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra, a chipset designed to handle graphics-intensive tasks, ensuring a robust mid-range performance.
Camera: Carries a single 50 MP camera designed to capture sharp and detailed images.
Battery: 5160 mAh capacity offering long sessions of operation and fast charging capabilities that complement the large battery size.
AnTuTu Score: Typically around 230,000, this score validates the device’s ability to manage daily operations and moderate gaming with ease.

The Poco C75 5G stands out due to its display and refresh rate, qualities that make it ideal for users prioritizing media consumption and interactive applications. Its competitive specifications make it a leading option in the sub-₹10,000 segment.

Additional Notable Models

Emerging Contenders

While the above models are among the top picks in terms of published data, there are several other models that deserve mention:

Lava Yuva 2 5G: Known for incorporating Android v14, a 6.67-inch display, and a dual camera setup, this model is designed to offer a balanced experience focused on everyday tasks.
Infinix Smart 8 HD 5G: With a 6.5-inch display and a MediaTek Dimensity 900 chipset, this phone provides competitive performance and design aesthetics at an affordable price.
Xiaomi Redmi 14C: Another emerging model that integrates a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor alongside smooth display attributes including a 120Hz refresh rate. It's aimed at providing higher efficiency, especially in multi-tasking and graphics performance.

These additional models, though not always the primary benchmark comparison, add to the diversity of options available in the sub-₹10,000 budget 5G arena. Some may offer slightly different feature sets targeting niche user preferences such as photography, battery longevity, or user interface simplicity.

Analyzing AnTuTu Benchmark Scores

Understanding the Scores

AnTuTu Benchmark scores provide a reference point for assessing the performance of smartphones based on several metrics: CPU speed, GPU performance, memory, and overall user experience. Score variability can arise from differences in chip architecture, cooling solutions, and software optimizations. In the sub-₹10,000 range, even though these devices are not designed to match the performance of flagship smartphones, they nonetheless prove capable of delivering a smooth user experience for everyday tasks, video streaming, and light gaming.

Here is a tabular comparison summarizing some of the essential specifications and estimated AnTuTu scores for the featured models:

Smartphone Model	Price (₹)	Display	Processor	Camera	Battery	AnTuTu Score
Samsung Galaxy F06 5G	9,999	6.5" Super AMOLED	MediaTek Dimensity (series varies)	50 MP Primary (+ optional lenses)	5000 mAh with fast charging	Mid-tier range (approx. 220,000-250,000)
Motorola Moto G35 5G	9,999	6.5" IPS LCD	MediaTek Dimensity 720	50 MP + 2 MP dual-camera	5000 mAh	Approximately 220,000
Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G	9,999	6.7" LCD	Snapdragon 4 Gen 1	50 MP + 2 MP dual-camera	5160 mAh with 18W fast charging	Around 250,000
Poco C75 5G	7,999	6.88" with 120Hz	MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra	50 MP single camera	5160 mAh fast charging	Approximately 230,000

This side-by-side comparison highlights the balance between cost, performance, and battery life, which are crucial in a market where every rupee counts. Consumers looking for the best possible performance in terms of benchmark metrics should compare the chipset performance and expected real-world usability, while also considering software updates and user interface experience.

Factors Beyond the Benchmarks

User Experience and Practical Considerations

While AnTuTu scores offer a quantitative measure of performance, several factors can influence the overall user experience:

Software Optimization: Phones running near-stock or heavily optimized user interfaces may provide smoother navigation even if the benchmark score is modest.
Battery Efficiency: Real-world battery performance and charging speeds should be evaluated alongside a device's processing power, as even high performance can be hampered by poor battery life.
Display Quality: The type of display – whether AMOLED or LCD – affects not only the viewing experience but also power consumption during media playback.
Camera Capabilities: The daily usability of a smartphone is often enhanced by the camera quality, with features such as multiple lenses, AI enhancement, and night mode offering great value in budget devices.
Connectivity: True 5G connectivity requires a robust network infrastructure. While these smartphones are equipped to handle 5G signals, the real-world data speeds will depend on network availability and service quality in specific regions.

Tailoring to Different User Needs

Diverse Use-Cases

The best 5G smartphones under ₹10,000 are designed to cater to a wide range of user needs:

Casual Users: Those who engage in daily communication and social media will appreciate the longevity and connectivity offered by these models.
Entertainment Enthusiasts: With features such as high refresh rate displays and acceptable GPU performance, these phones provide a lively multimedia and gaming experience.
Photography Fans: Devices that offer 50 MP cameras deliver good photographic capability, which, when paired with modern software improvements, produce impressive images in well-lit conditions.
Value Seekers: Budget-conscious consumers benefit from the competitive pricing, ensuring that most of these models excel in balancing fundamental features with modern connectivity.

Each of these devices has carved out a niche in a crowded market, ensuring that regardless of your primary use-case, there is likely a model that offers a tailored experience without stretching your budget.

Market Dynamics and Future Trends

Evolving Budget Technology

With the rapid evolution of smartphone technology, the budget segment is quickly catching up with mid-range and even some flagship features. In 2024 and 2025, manufacturers have ramped up their efforts to incorporate cutting-edge connectivity like 5G within affordable models. The integration of improved SoCs, enhanced power management, and better display technology has allowed brands to push the envelope without compromising on the quality of the overall user experience.

As network infrastructure continues to expand across India, these devices will be pivotal in bridging the connectivity gap. Future updates, both in software and on the hardware front, are likely to further enhance the performance reliability of these smartphones, ensuring that 5G connectivity becomes more the norm than the exception in the budget range.

User Tips for Maximizing Value

When choosing a new affordable smartphone, consider the following:

Software Updates: Look for devices with a good track record of software and security updates. This ensures longevity and better performance over time.
Warranty and Support: Brand reputation in after-sales support can influence your overall experience, especially in budget segments where hardware issues might require prompt repairs or replacements.
Hands-on Experience: If possible, visit a local retailer to test the devices. The benchmark scores provide one perspective, but tangible experience with the interface, camera quality, and ergonomics is invaluable.
Comparative Analysis: Compare multiple models not just on specifications but on real-world user reviews and reliability reports, so that your final decision is well-informed.

Pricing, Availability, and Final Thoughts

Budget Allocation and Availability

The price limit of ₹10,000 has pushed manufacturers to innovate within severe constraints, meaning that every component must perform efficiently without the luxury of high-end alternatives. During the early months of 2025, various brands have introduced models that strategically fit within this criteria, particularly as entry-level 5G connectivity becomes more commonplace.

Retailers across India, including both online and offline stores, have aggressively priced these models to appeal to economically savvy consumers. Seasonal sales, festive discounts, and trade-in offers further enhance the value proposition, making it an exciting time to invest in technology on a tight budget.

Ultimately, while benchmark scores like those from AnTuTu offer insight on raw performance capabilities, they form only one aspect of a comprehensive buying decision. Factors such as build quality, battery life, user interface experience, and camera quality all contribute holistically to the overall satisfaction derived from these devices.