Best Smartphones Under ₹10,000 in March 2025

An In-Depth Ranking Based on 2024 & 2025 Launches, Android 14+, 5G, and AnTuTu Scores

Key Highlights

Latest Features: All smartphones run Android 14 or later with 5G connectivity.
Performance Metrics: Ranking considers key specifications including processor type, RAM, storage, camera configuration, battery, and estimated AnTuTu scores.
Price & Value: These devices are priced under ₹10,000, targeting budget-conscious users without compromising much on performance.

Overview

In March 2025, the Indian smartphone market continues to offer an impressive range of budget devices equipped with contemporary features such as Android 14 (or higher), robust 5G connectivity, and competitive hardware specifications. Many of these smartphones were introduced in late 2024 and early 2025 and are now revolutionizing the budget category.

The primary focus when ranking these devices is their overall performance and feature set – including processor efficiency, battery performance, camera quality, and user experience integrated with Android 14. Furthermore, performance benchmarks such as AnTuTu scores serve as a critical indicator of processing power and speed, guiding decisions to rank from the best to the worst according to their hardware capabilities.

The rankings not only emphasize the devices’ promising features but also cater to the rising demand for 5G smartphones, even in the low-budget segment. The following list provides detailed analyses, ranking these smartphones by specifications and estimated performance scores.

Ranked Smartphone List with Specifications and Performance Scores

The list below summarizes the top smartphones under ₹10,000 that were launched in 2024 and 2025. They are evaluated primarily on factors like processor type (with a preference for Snapdragon variants due to their generally superior performance), memory specifications, camera capabilities, battery performance, and the corresponding AnTuTu scores.

1. Leading Contenders: Snapdragon-Powered Devices

Devices equipped with Snapdragon chipsets are commonly regarded as the superior option in this category. They offer enhanced performance, smoother processing, and efficient power management. Two models in particular, the ones bearing the Redmi A4 5G and the Poco C75 5G, stand out in this group.

Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G

Known for its well-rounded features and strong battery performance, the Redmi A4 5G integrates a Snapdragon processor that meets the high demands of everyday use. This device comes with 4GB RAM and 128GB of expandable storage, making it extremely valuable for users on a budget. Its dual rear camera, coupled with the Android 14 interface, ensures smooth performance and access to the latest security and feature updates.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Around 330,000 to 350,000. This luminary of the mid-budget range stands out due to its balanced performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.

POCO C75 5G

The POCO C75 5G is another flagship contender in this range. It generally features a reliable Snapdragon chipset, which delivers excellent overall performance, sufficient for both productivity tasks as well as multimedia consumption. Featuring 6GB of RAM and 128GB storage, it is especially attractive for consumers looking for a slightly enhanced memory configuration. Additionally, its design focuses on rapid response times in day-to-day tasks.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Approximately 320,000. The device balances efficiency and power, making it a suitable option in this ranked list.

2. Balanced Performance: Devices with MediaTek Processors

Many other smartphones in this price bracket are equipped with MediaTek processors. Although generally not as powerful as the leading Snapdragon series, these chipsets still offer reliable performance. They typically cater to users with moderate needs and are ideal for standard apps, media streaming, and gaming at lower settings.

Samsung Galaxy F06 5G

The Samsung Galaxy F06 5G is a well-loved option that utilizes a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset too. Combined with Android 14 and 128GB internal storage (expandable), the device ensures a feature-rich experience. Its standout features include an AMOLED display and camera capabilities such as a 50MP main sensor paired with a secondary sensor for enhanced photography.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Around 350,000. This relatively high score for a MediaTek-powered device makes it a compelling choice.

Moto G35 5G

Another noteworthy model is the Moto G35 5G, which also employs a MediaTek Dimensity chipset. This device is appreciated for its pure Android experience and user-friendly software interface. With a 6.5-inch display, a triple camera setup led by a 50MP primary sensor, it provides a blend of reliable imaging and performance.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Approximately 310,000. The balanced hardware specifications ensure that it performs well for a range of usage scenarios while also maintaining battery efficiency.

Infinix Hot 50 5G

Infinix Hot 50 5G offers robust battery performance with a 5000 mAh capacity and supports 18W fast charging. The device is built on a MediaTek chipset and runs on a customized Android version based on Android 14. Users appreciate it for its value proposition, particularly for prolonged usage periods in regions where charging opportunities might be limited.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Usually a bit lower than the premium MediaTek devices, estimated in the 260,000 to 270,000 range.

3. Other Budget-Friendly Options

Beyond the leading contenders and balanced MediaTek devices, there are other notable models which, while not featuring premium Snapdragon processors, still offer decent performance and an attractive set of features.

itel Color Pro 5G

The itel Color Pro 5G is designed for users who require basic functionality with 5G support. Featuring a 6.6-inch display and a processor from the Unisoc family, it offers a modest yet efficient performance level. Its main selling point is its cost-effectiveness, making 5G technology accessible at a very low price point.

Estimated AnTuTu Score: Approximately 250,000. The performance is sufficient for essential applications and daily tasks.

Additional Models Overview

There are several other models such as the Infinix Smart 8 HD, Moto G45 5G, and variants like Lava Yuva Smart which also meet the criteria but are ranked lower largely due to variations in hardware configurations. These devices often feature Unisoc chipsets or lower-tier MediaTek processors and offer slightly less performance compared to the top contenders in this list.

For example:

Infinix Smart 8 HD: Provides a decent experience for its price with basic performance metrics.
Moto G45 5G: Solid variant with performance similar to other MediaTek-based devices, close in performance to the Moto G35 5G but often lagging slightly in benchmark scores.
Lava Yuva Smart and Lava Yuva 4: Featuring basic specification sets and aimed at users looking for very affordable choices.

Comprehensive Comparison Table

The table below summarizes the performances of several smartphones under ₹10,000 launched in 2024 and 2025. The table includes the most critical hardware specifications and estimated AnTuTu scores, helping you visualize the rankings based on performance and features.

Rank	Model	Processor	RAM / Storage	Key Camera Specs	Battery (mAh & Charging)	Estimated AnTuTu Score
1	Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G	Snapdragon (mid-range)	4GB / 128GB	Dual (50MP + 2MP)	5000 mAh, 10W fast charging	330,000–350,000
2	POCO C75 5G	Snapdragon (mid-range)	6GB / 128GB	Dual (50MP + 2MP)	5000 mAh, 18W fast charging	320,000
3	Samsung Galaxy F06 5G	MediaTek Dimensity 700	4GB / 128GB	Dual (50MP + 2MP)	5000 mAh, 15W fast charging	350,000
4	Moto G35 5G	MediaTek Dimensity 700	4GB / 64GB (Expandable)	Triple (50MP + 2MP + 2MP)	5000 mAh, 20W fast charging	310,000
5	Infinix Hot 50 5G	MediaTek Dimensity (Comparable)	4GB / 128GB	Dual (13MP + ?)	5000 mAh, 18W fast charging	260,000–270,000
6	itel Color Pro 5G	Unisoc	4GB / 128GB	Dual (50MP + 2MP)	5000 mAh, 10W charging	250,000

Detailed Analysis

Performance and Benchmark Considerations

The performance of a smartphone is best evaluated using benchmark scores such as AnTuTu, which takes into account the device’s CPU, GPU, memory, and overall user experience. Among these, devices with Snapdragon processors typically benefit from more efficient performance, especially in multitasking and gaming scenarios. The Redmi A4 5G and POCO C75 5G are prime examples, as they provide quick responses and strong overall performance in daily tasks.

When comparing devices with MediaTek processors like the Galaxy F06 5G, Moto G35 5G, and Infinix Hot 50 5G, subtle differences in performance are often noticeable. Manufacturers optimize their devices with custom interfaces that can sometimes counterbalance slight hardware deficits. However, the AnTuTu scores remain a reliable benchmark for gauging smooth operation.

Display and Camera Technologies

Even within the budget segment, display quality and camera performance have a great impact on the user experience. Many smartphones in this list come with large screens, typically ranging from 6.5 to 6.79 inches in diagonals, featuring either HD+ or AMOLED technologies. The Samsung Galaxy F06 5G distinguishes itself here with an FHD+ AMOLED display that enhances media consumption and gaming.

Camera configurations, particularly with a 50MP primary sensor combined with secondary cameras, demonstrate that even budget devices are incorporating high-resolution imaging capabilities. This trend reflects the increasing competitiveness of the market, as manufacturers attempt to provide flagship-level camera features at a fraction of the price.

Software Experience

Running on Android 14 (or updated Android versions), each of these devices offers modern UI features, improved security protocols, and a smoother integration with various apps. In addition, manufacturers are now including two-year OS update promises which grant access to new features even in budget models. The native and near-stock Android experiences (seen in models like the Moto G series) further contribute to a user-friendly interface without excessive bloatware.

It is also worth noting that some of these smartphones come with customized Android skins that enhance the visual appeal and functional efficiency. Overall, the software optimizations significantly contribute to the perceived performance which sometimes bolsters the overall AnTuTu benchmark scores.

Value Proposition and Market Impact

With aggressive pricing under ₹10,000, these smartphones are driving market penetration in India. They effectively blend functionality with affordability, making 5G technology and modern specifications accessible to a broader consumer base. As performance benchmarks continue to rise across the segment, consumers are increasingly expecting advanced features even on a limited budget.

The smartphone rankings discussed here illustrate that even within a constrained price range, there is significant innovation. Whether it is through enhanced processing, improved cameras, or superior display technology, manufacturers are continuously refining their offerings to remain competitive. This broad competition ultimately leads to better devices available for under ₹10,000 – a situation that benefits both tech enthusiasts and average users alike.