The Indian smartphone market under Rs 20,000 is brimming with compelling options in June 2025. Several devices stand out, balancing performance, features, and value for money. Here's a look at some of the top contenders: the CMF Phone 2 Pro, OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite, and Realme P3.
CMF Phone 2 Pro
Launched on April 28, 2025, the CMF Phone 2 Pro by Nothing offers notable upgrades over its predecessor. The phone features a triple camera setup, a design element teased prior to its launch. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro chipset, ensuring smooth performance for daily tasks and moderate gaming.
Available in Black, Light Green, Orange, and White, the CMF Phone 2 Pro starts at Rs 18,999 for the 8GB RAM/128GB storage variant, while the 8GB/256GB model is priced at Rs 20,999. Launch offers, including bank discounts and exchange bonuses, can bring the price down to as low as Rs 16,999. The phone is available through Flipkart, Vijay Sales, Croma, and other retailers in India.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite
The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G aims to deliver a premium experience at an accessible price point. As of June 6, 2025, it's available on Amazon India starting from Rs 17,998.
The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G features a 6.67-inch full-HD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. A significant highlight is its 5,500mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging. The camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor with OIS and a 2MP depth sensor, along with a 16MP front camera.
Realme P3
The Realme P3 5G, launched on March 19, 2025, is another strong contender in this price segment. As of June 7, 2025, the base variant is priced at Rs 15,990.
The Realme P3 5G boasts a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor, coupled with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. It ships with Android 15. The phone sports a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP secondary sensor, along with a 16MP front camera. A standout feature is its large 6000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. The Realme P3 5G comes in Comet Grey, Nebula Pink, and Space Silver colors.
Other Notable Mentions
Besides the highlighted models, other smartphones also offer compelling features under Rs 20,000. These include the Nothing Phone (2a), known for its unique design and smooth software experience; the Poco X6 Pro, praised for its powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra chip and vibrant display; and the Motorola Edge 60 Fusion, which offers a near-stock Android experience and a capable MediaTek Dimensity 7400 SoC. The iQOO Z9s is also a good option, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 and featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a smartphone under Rs 20,000, consider factors such as processor performance, display quality, camera capabilities, battery life, and software experience. Features like 5G connectivity, fast charging, and ample storage are also important. Ultimately, the best smartphone for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
