With the emergence of technology, many companies are coming up with affordable smartphones. Despite its affordability, an affordable smartphone may not lose when it comes to specifications and functionality. Today’s topic will discuss the 11 Best Budget Smartphone Malaysia.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly smartphone, our list may help you make the best decision. You can get these smartphones for under RM1000.
Not everyone needs an expensive and sophisticated smartphone. A smartphone below the price of RM1000 can do the job well too.
Of course, if you can afford it, a more expensive smartphone provides more functionality. If not, a budget-friendly smartphone does just fine.
What are the 11 best budget smartphones in Malaysia?
Let us dive into the list of best budget smartphone Malaysia and explore reliable smartphones below RM1000.
Features:
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- 6,000 mAh battery life
- Mini-drop fullscreen
The Realme Narzo 30A is a budget-friendly phone that is taking the market by storm. Most users think that this phone packs great performance despite its affordability.
First, a hugely affordable phone comes with many specifications that are on par with more expensive phones. One of these features is the battery life. Many gaming enthusiasts love to use this phone for gaming.
Gamers will fully understand the need for good battery life in gaming. You do not want your gaming experience to be affected by a mediocre battery.
As it is a budget smartphone, it has its flaws as well. Despite the long battery life, some users complained that it takes a long time for the phone to be fully charged. This is not attractive.
Other than that, the camera is average at best. However, the front camera is usable, and some even regard it as impressive.
If you are into gaming, this is the smartphone for you, as attested by many gaming enthusiasts who value the gaming experience.
Pros:
- Great front camera
- Great battery life
- Good budget phone for gaming
Cons:
- Long charging time
- Average touch response
Features:
- 6GB RAM
- 128GB storage
- 5,000 mAh battery life
- Dual SIM (Nano-SIM)
This is arguably one of the best budget smartphones under Samsung. It is also one of the brand’s latest addition, and we can see that it is impressive.
The first thing we are going to talk about has to be its storage. It has large internal storage for a budget-friendly smartphone. It has an internal storage of 128GB and a RAM of 6GB. No doubt, this is an appealing feature.
The battery life is impressive as well, and many reviewers raved about the comfort of using this phone. That aside, other features are quite average, to be honest.
The storage interface is not current but this is compensated by its camera performance. Considering it as a budget smartphone, its camera is performing well as compared to other cheaper phones.
The back design of the Samsung Galaxy A12 is simple and comfortable to hold. Moreover, it is quite resistant to scratches. Overall, one of the forerunners among the cheaper smartphones on the market.
Pros:
- Great battery life
- Great camera performance
- Has a fingerprint scanner
- Fast charging
Cons:
- Not suitable for gaming
- Old flash technology
Features:
- 6GB or 8GB RAM
- 128GB or 256GB storage
- 5,160 mAh battery life
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 860
The POCO X3 Pro is yet another budget smartphone that appeals to gaming enthusiasts. A smartphone is branded as a gaming phone.
The RAM is impressive as it comes in 6GB or 8GB. Without a doubt, the 8GB option is more than enough to serve most gamers’ requirements. Moreover, the battery performance is superb and does not affect the gaming experience.
Not only boasting a long battery life, but it charges quickly as well. Besides, the screen quality is amazing, so it is perfect for gaming and watching movies. Your best companion when it comes to entertainment!
The audio is clear and crisp, and this adds to the gaming experience. If you are looking for a more immersive experience, then this is a good feature.
The phone can be heavy, as compared to other phones. However, this is not a huge problem considering its specifications and performance.
Pros:
- Quick charging
- Smooth screen
- Studio-quality audio
- Great for gaming
Cons:
- Average UI
- Heavy
Features:
- 3GB RAM
- 32GB storage
- 4,230 mAh battery life
- Fingerprint sensor
The OPPO A15 smartphone is truly an affordable option for those on a tight budget. Its specifications may not be impressive, but they still can get the job done.
It has 3GB worth of RAM and a storage size of 32GB. All we can say is that these features are adequate for most basic tasks. If you are looking for a best budget smartphone Malaysia that can run smoothly and multitask, you should look for other models with better specifications.
The battery life is average at best, so if you are not using the phone for gaming or other entertainment purposes, this is the phone for you.
Other than that, its design is sleek and stylish and can cater to the needs of most phone users. It is also comfortable to hold as its thin and sleek design allows that.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Triple rear camera
- Comfortable to hold
Cons:
- Not suitable for gaming
- Average battery performance
Features:
- 2GB RAM
- 32GB storage
- 5,000 mAh battery life
- MediaTek Hello G25 processor
All we can say about the Xiaomi Redmi 9A is that it is a good entry-level smartphone. It is very affordable. Having said that, its features may not be on par with other budget smartphones on the list.
It has 2GB worth of RAM and 32GB internal storage. These may not be sufficient for many people. For those who only wish for a phone for basic use, these can be considered enough.
Despite the mediocre storage and RAM, the battery life is one to impress. It has a large battery and long battery life. Therefore, you do not need to charge it often and use it with ease for basic surfing or even watching movies.
This phone is not suitable for gaming, but some users enjoy using it for light gaming. Its technology allows for comfortable viewing so your eyes can be protected. Overall, a cheap phone for you to consider when selecting a budget smartphone for basic use.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Great battery life
- Comfortable viewing feature
Cons:
- Not suitable for gaming
- Low storage space
Features:
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB storage
- 6,800 mAh battery life
- 0 inch fullscreen
Most users may not be familiar with the Nowa 8 smartphone. This budget smartphone may be unfamiliar to most, but it does pack some serious performance.
It has a RAM of 8GB, so this is one impressive feature. Moreover, the 256GB internal storage is amazing. Other than that, the battery life is more than average. The screen is large, so it contributes to the viewing experience. Many movie lovers will find this feature inviting.
However, it has its downsides as well. Many users deem it unsuitable for gaming. The smartphone tends to get hot quite quickly. Thus, it is not suitable for gaming or watching movies for a long time.
Overall, many are not supporting this phone like a gadget for heavy-duty purposes. Nevertheless, it can be a great spare phone.
Pros:
- Great battery life
- Large fullscreen
- Light and comfortable to use
Cons:
- Has heating problems
- Not a heavy-duty phone
Features:
- 3GB RAM
- 32GB or 64GB storage
- 3,260 mAh battery life
- IPS LCD
Many users are divided when it comes to reviewing the Vivo Y81 smartphone. This is an affordable smartphone, no doubt, but its features are average at best.
It has 3GB worth of RAM, so this is considered adequate for most basic tasks. If you are not choosy about this, then this feature can be more than enough. Some smartphones do not even have 3GB worth of RAM at the same price.
The battery life can be disappointing, as it requires constant charging. If you are only using your phone for basic tasks, then this can be manageable. This phone is not suitable for gaming or most entertainment purposes.
One appeal of this phone lies in its affordability, and besides this, we can only regard this smartphone as an average gadget.
Pros:
- Expandable memory
- Large screen size
- Comfortable to hold
Cons:
- Not suitable for gaming
- Mediocre battery life
Features:
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- 6,000 mAh battery life
- Helio P35 CPU
If you are looking for an affordable smartphone Malaysia, the OUKITEL K9 may be the ultimate choice. An affordable smartphone has features on par with more expensive phones.
The battery life is one to impress. It is amazing as it has long battery life. As it is a smartphone that is designed for games and videos, this feature is important. With the long battery life, you can expect a better experience when gaming or watching movies.
Its long battery life is due to its low power consumption as well. In short, a smartphone saves energy and performs well.
Its main downside has to be its camera. Many users agree that the camera is mediocre and disappointing.
Pros:
- High endurance battery
- Designed for games and videos
- Low power consumption
Cons:
- Average camera performance
- Average sound quality for high volume
Features:
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- 5,000 mAh battery life
- Dual SIM
The Huawei Y6P is another affordable smartphone that we recommend. Unlike most budget smartphones on the list, this phone is suitable for light gaming. For more intensive gaming, users may be put off by the low display quality. Users complained about the grainy display when using the phone for gaming.
It has 4GB worth of RAM, so it is more than enough for most tasks, even demanding tasks. Thus, you can expect your phone to run smoothly even when multitasking.
The internal storage is on the lower side, so that can be a downside. Besides that, the battery life is impressive. It has a long battery life, making it ideal for light gaming and watching movies.
Pros:
- Good build quality
- Good battery capacity
- Decent gaming experience
Cons:
- Mediocre camera performance
- Uncomfortable grip
Features:
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- 3,000 mAh battery life
- Snapdragon 625 Octacore
Fans of budget-friendly smartphones are impressed by the Lenovo S5 K520. They laud it for its features and specifications.
The RAM and internal storage of this smartphone are more than average. This is an advantage if you want your phone to run smoothly especially when multitasking. Other budget smartphones that lack this often lag.
On the other hand, the battery life is quite disappointing. It is not suitable for demanding tasks. Of course, gaming is not advisable and even watching movies can be a problem with the average battery performance.
Some users regard it as an average phone where it provides an uncomfortable grip. Comfort is one important factor to consider when choosing a smartphone. Thus, this can be a disadvantage of this smartphone.
Pros:
- Fast charging
- Comfortable grip
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Low battery life
Features:
- 3GB RAM
- 32GB storage
- 3,000 battery life
- Dual SIM
This is another affordable option for those who are looking for a best budget smartphone Malaysia for basic use. It has decent specifications when it comes to performing basic tasks like browsing and chats.
The battery life of this smartphone is not impressive, but it is more than enough for basic tasks. If you are looking at more demanding tasks, such as gaming and watching movies, this smartphone may disappoint.
Having said that, the main appeal of this smartphone has to be its exterior. It boasts attractive colours and stylish designs.
Pros:
- Cheap price
- Attractive colours
- Vibrant screen display
Cons:
- Low battery life
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to choose the best budget smartphone in Malaysia?
Budget remains the most important factor to consider when choosing the best budget smartphone. There are various aspects to prioritise. You would not want to choose a cheap smartphone that does not cater to your needs. Likewise, you would not wish to buy an expensive smartphone that does not meet your requirements.
Therefore, we have compiled our list of factors to look for when choosing a budget smartphone. They do not only apply to those who are looking for budget smartphones.
RAM
RAM is an important consideration when buying a smartphone. Even if you are looking to buy a budget-friendly smartphone, you have to ensure that the RAM is sufficient to perform the most basic tasks.
Typically, a 2GB RAM is considered ideal for most basic tasks. If you are looking at gaming and heavier tasks, then 4GB RAM is more suitable. It is advisable to choose a smartphone that has sufficient RAM for your phone to run smoothly.
Display
We all know that smartphone displays have various sizes. When it comes to buying a budget smartphone, we advise one that caters to your needs in terms of display.
If you are concerned about simplicity and portability, choose a smartphone that has a smaller display. This makes it compact enough for the phone to fit into your pocket or even your hand.
On the other hand, if you are a gaming enthusiast, a smartphone that has a larger display is the ultimate choice. The same goes for those who love watching movies on their mobile. The large display enhances the experience greatly.
Storage
This is another factor to consider when choosing a best budget smartphone Malaysia. Storage is one important aspect to look at as it determines how you use the phone. Some phones come with limited storage, while others provide expandable storage.
If you are using a smartphone that has limited storage, then be prepared to delete stuff on your phone constantly. This is a disadvantage, especially when it comes to deleting things that are important to you. Our advice is to choose a smartphone that has a large enough capacity for your needs.
Operating system
As a rule of thumb, iPhone runs on iOS while the other models run on Android. If we are to choose? We think that both operating systems have their pros and cons.
Be sure to choose one that fits your needs and requirements. Different brands have their features as in their user interface. Therefore, do your due research and choose wisely.
Screen size
When it comes to screen size, personal preference is of the utmost importance. Phone screens nowadays come with or without the bezel. This is largely dependent on your requirements. If you are a gamer or a movie enthusiast, you should choose one that enhances the experience.
Ideally, it is best to look for a budget smartphone that comes with a larger screen. With a larger screen, your fingers can move around more. In addition, it will also enhance the gaming experience if you are a gamer or the viewing experience if you love movies.
Budget
Budget is an important factor here. If you want a budget smartphone worthy of your investment, you have to consider this aspect seriously. The ideal smartphone fits into your budget while catering to your needs as well.
First, you have to set a maximum price that you are willing to pay for a budget smartphone. Then you can research more on the features and specifications of the specific model of phone.
Of course, the price of budget smartphones differs from model to model. Therefore, doing your due research is the way to go.
What makes a good gaming smartphone?
We usually do not associate gaming with affordable smartphones. However, with so many new mobiles on the market, it is not difficult to choose a budget smartphone that is suitable for gaming.
Even the most affordable smartphones nowadays can be used for occasional light gaming. As this is a frequently asked question for many people, we present our opinions regarding this matter.
When looking for a budget smartphone for gaming, be sure to look at the below aspects. CPU remains the most important factor when selecting a phone for gaming.
Besides, it has to have a large enough display for the most immersive gaming experience. Battery life is another crucial aspect. You do not want a phone that has mediocre battery performance when gaming.
Last but not least, the phone has to have good cooling properties. Heating is a common issue when using a smartphone for gaming.
What are some famous brands for smartphones in Malaysia?
There are a few mainstream brands when it comes to buying a smartphone in Malaysia. The same goes for budget smartphones.
The list of smartphone brands include Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and realme. Huawei’s smartphones appeal to users in terms of sophisticated design and premium features. However, it lacks of popular Google apps.
Apple and Samsung have a loyal fanbase. They stand out in terms of their software and hardware.
Android or iOS? Which is better?
This is another endless debate that is worthy of discussion. We can only say that both have their pros and cons.
Android phones are generally more budget-friendly as compared to its counterparts. For Apple phones, they usually come with a premium look. Despite that, their prices are on the higher side.
Having said that, their software is considered more superior than Android phones. Besides, they generally show higher reliability.
Conclusion
Choosing a smartphone can be daunting. Even more for a budget smartphone as you need to prioritise your budget. The variety of brands on the market is not helping either.
The most important thing to do is research and make plans before selecting the best budget smartphone Malaysia for you.
The most expensive smartphone may not be the best fit for you. Therefore, choose the best smartphone that fits your budget the best while catering to your needs. Many budget smartphones under RM1000 perform well.