Best phone to buy in 2025 in india

Navigating the world of smartphones in 2025 in India can feel a bit like trying to solve a puzzle, right? With so many new models popping up and tech advancing at lightning speed, it’s tough to figure out what’s genuinely worth your hard-earned cash. This guide is here to help you cut through the noise and pinpoint the best phone to buy in 2025 in India, whether you’re eyeing a top-tier flagship, something solid under ₹50,000, or a real steal under ₹20,000. We’re going to look at everything from blazing-fast processors to stunning camera setups and batteries that actually last all day. Expect to see some familiar names like the next-gen Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy S Series, and Google Pixel leading the charge in the premium segment. For those wanting a balance of features and value, mid-range options from brands like OnePlus, Nothing, Xiaomi, and e will be strong contenders. And if you’re on a tighter budget, you’ll still find fantastic performers from Xiaomi, e, and Samsung’s A-series that offer great value. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear idea of what to look for and which devices are truly standing out, so you can make a super confident choice.

Understanding the Indian Smartphone Market in 2025

The Indian smartphone market is always buzzing, and 2025 is no exception! It’s a massive, dynamic space where trends shift quickly, and consumer preferences play a huge role. Looking at the first quarter of 2025, smartphone shipments in India actually saw a slight dip, falling 8% year-on-year to 32.4 million units. This was partly due to weak demand and a bit of a backlog from late 2024. However, the market is still expected to grow modestly, especially as average selling prices ASPs rise and more people opt for premium features through financing options. In Q2 2024, the market grew 3% year-on-year to 35.2 million units, showing continued upward momentum.

Key Trends Shaping the Market:

• 5G is a Must-Have: Forget about 4G. 5G is now practically a necessity, not a luxury. Many phones are now offering full 5G band support, which is crucial for faster, more stable connections, especially for gaming and streaming. Over 55% of total smartphone shipments in Q2 2024 were 5G devices, showing just how quickly India is adopting next-gen connectivity.
• AI Everywhere: We’re seeing AI capabilities become super integrated into everything from camera processing and battery optimization to even voice assistants and predictive user experiences. Features like “Circle to Search” and “AI Call Translation” are becoming common, making phones smarter and more intuitive.
• Camera Tech Stepping Up: Smartphone photography is getting incredibly advanced. We’re talking OIS Optical Image Stabilization for super clear shots, AI scene detection, and advanced night modes. Larger sensors and periscope zoom lenses are becoming more prevalent, letting you capture professional-grade photos. Brands are really pushing the boundaries here, making phones almost comparable to dedicated cameras.
• Battery Life and Fast Charging: Nobody likes a dead phone. In 2025, larger batteries 5000mAh or more are standard, coupled with lightning-fast charging speeds 80W-150W wired, 50W wireless that can juice up your phone in under 30 minutes. Even reverse wireless charging is becoming a thing, so your phone can power up other gadgets. Check out some great options with massive batteries like the POCO F7 or e GT7 if this is a priority for you.
• Displays Getting Better: AMOLED and OLED screens are dominating, offering vivid colors, true blacks, and super high refresh rates 120Hz or even 144Hz for silky-smooth scrolling and gaming. Adaptive refresh rates also help save battery life by adjusting automatically.
• Software Support Matters: Long-term software updates and security patches are becoming increasingly important. People want their phones to stay current and secure for years.
• Premiumization Trend: While the mass-budget segment US$100-US$200 saw a decline in Q1 2025, the premium segment US$600-US$800 actually registered the highest growth, jumping 78.6%. This indicates that many Indian consumers are willing to spend more for higher-end devices.

Brands like Vivo, Xiaomi, and Samsung continue to lead the market share, with Vivo holding the top spot at 22% in Q1 2025. Xiaomi is a strong second, often praised for offering high-end features at budget-friendly prices.

Flagship Contenders: The Best of the Best Above ₹70,000

If you’re someone who always wants the absolute latest and greatest, then the flagship segment is where you’ll find phones that push the boundaries of technology. These devices offer cutting-edge processors, incredible camera systems, and premium designs.

1. Apple iPhone 17 Series Expected Price: ₹79,990 – ₹1,64,990
Apple is set to unveil its iPhone 17 series in India on September 9, 2025. Expect the new lineup to feature Apple’s latest A19 chipset, promising faster performance and improved efficiency. All models are rumored to sport 120Hz ProMotion OLED displays, which means super smooth visuals and responsiveness. The base iPhone 17 is likely to start around ₹79,990, similar to the iPhone 16’s launch price. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will be pricier, with the Pro Max potentially reaching ₹1,64,990. There’s also talk of a new iPhone 17 Air model, which might replace the “Plus” line, starting around ₹99,990 or even between ₹1 Lakh and ₹1.10 Lakh for the base 256GB variant. It’s expected to be ultra-slim, possibly with a 48MP single rear camera, but concerns about its 2900mAh battery life exist due to its thinness. For serious photographers, the iPhone 16 Pro Max from the previous generation is still considered a top-tier camera phone.

2. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra / S25 Ultra Expected Price: ₹1,59,999 for S26 Ultra, S25 Ultra currently around ₹1,05,400
Samsung consistently delivers powerful flagships, and 2025 is no different. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has been a standout in 2025, featuring a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, incredible AI features like “Now Brief” and “Circle To Find,” and a massive 5000mAh battery. Its camera system is truly impressive with a 200MP + 50MP + 50MP + 10MP rear setup, making it one of the best for photography. You can find the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra on Amazon India with a significant price drop, currently around ₹1,05,400 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. Looking ahead, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is anticipated for a 2026 launch, with leaks suggesting a starting price of around ₹1,59,999 in India. It’s expected to feature a new flagship Snapdragon processor and an advanced quad-camera setup, possibly with a 200MP Sony sensor. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip6 are also top-tier options if you’re into foldables, offering beastly performance with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip and excellent cameras.

3. Google Pixel 10 Series Expected Price: ₹75,000 – ₹1,72,999
Google’s Pixel phones are renowned for their camera capabilities and seamless Android experience. The Google Pixel 10 series is set to launch on August 20, 2025, with pre-orders opening on August 21. The base Pixel 10 is expected to be priced around ₹79,990 for the 256GB model, while the Pixel 10 Pro could be ₹1,09,999 and the Pixel 10 Pro XL around ₹1,24,999. There’s even a foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold variant anticipated at ₹1,72,999. These devices will run on the new Google Tensor G5 chipset, built on a more efficient 3nm process, promising better performance and thermal management. Expect a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with up to 144Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, and a strong camera legacy with a rumored 50MP main sensor and enhanced AI computational photography. The Pixel 10 series will likely ship with Android 16 out of the box, offering exclusive AI features.

4. OnePlus 13 Expected Price: Around ₹72,990
OnePlus is a strong contender in the flagship space, often delivering powerful devices with clean software. The OnePlus 13 is highlighted as a great flagship option, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a 6000mAh battery with 100W Super VOOC charging. It boasts a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a high refresh rate, perfect for gaming and media consumption. The triple 50MP camera setup is also a significant highlight for photography enthusiasts. For gamers, the OnePlus 13 with its Snapdragon 8 Elite and Cryo-Velocity cooling system is ideal for long gaming sessions.

The Sweet Spot: Best Phones Under ₹50,000 in India Mid-Range Marvels

This segment is where you find incredible value – phones that offer a fantastic balance of premium features without the flagship price tag. You’re looking for strong performance, good cameras, and excellent battery life.

1. e GT 7 Dream Edition Expected Price: Around ₹49,999
If you’re hunting for a phone that blends power with value, the e GT 7 Dream Edition looks promising. It’s packed with a massive 7000mAh battery and supports super-fast 120W charging, which can get you from 0 to full in under 25 minutes. Powering this beast is the Dimensity 9400e processor, paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 7i protection makes it great for media and gaming. This phone even comes with an IP69 rating for water and dust resistance, which is a nice bonus. The e GT 7 Dream Edition offers a compelling package for its price.

2. iQOO 13 / iQOO Neo 10R Expected Price: iQOO 13 around ₹54,999 – ₹59,999 for top variant, Neo 10R around ₹26,999
iQOO has carved out a niche for itself with performance-oriented phones. The iQOO 13 is aimed at users needing strong performance and a big battery, featuring a 6000mAh battery with 120W fast charging and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. It boasts a 6.82-inch 2K LTPO OLED display with up to 144Hz refresh rate, along with an IP68 and IP69 rating. The iQOO Neo 10R is another solid pick, housing a 6400mAh silicon-carbon battery with 80W fast charging. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz/144Hz refresh rate. It comes with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor and a 50MP main camera with OIS, making it a strong all-rounder. You can often find great deals on iQOO Phones.

3. Motorola Edge 60 Pro Expected Price: Around ₹29,090 – ₹40,000 for top variants
Motorola has been steadily improving its offerings. The Motorola Edge 60 Pro is a strong contender in this segment, especially if you value a clean Android experience and solid camera performance. One variant features a Dimensity 8350 Extreme processor, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, and a 6000 mAh battery with 90W fast charging. Its 6.7-inch, 120Hz display with a triple 50MP + 50MP + 10MP rear camera setup and a 50MP front camera make it a very capable device for both everyday use and photography. The Motorola Edge 60 Pro offers good value for its features.

4. OPPO K13 5G / OPPO Reno 14 5G Expected Price: K13 5G around ₹17,999 – ₹19,999, Reno 14 5G under ₹50,000
OPPO’s K-series and Reno line offer stylish designs and solid performance. The OPPO K13 5G houses a large 7000mAh graphite battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging. Priced around ₹17,999 for the 8GB+128GB variant, it offers a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset. It’s a great option for extended usage. The OPPO Reno 14 5G is another strong option, featuring a Dimensity 8350 processor, 8GB/12GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a 6000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. Its impressive 50MP + 50MP + 8MP triple rear camera and 50MP front camera make it a solid choice for camera enthusiasts under ₹50,000. You can explore OPPO Phones under 50000 for more options.

Budget Kings: Best Phones Under ₹20,000 in India Great Value

Don’t let the price tag fool you. the sub-₹20,000 segment in India is full of surprisingly capable smartphones. These devices prioritize essential features like good battery life, decent cameras, and smooth performance for daily tasks. This is often where you find the best mobile in 2025 in India under ₹20000.

1. e P4 Pro 5G / e P4 5G Expected Price: P4 Pro 5G around ₹24,999, P4 5G around ₹18,499
e has consistently offered strong contenders in the budget and mid-range segments. The e P4 Pro 5G is expected to come with a massive 7000 mAh battery and a 144Hz display, making it ideal for gaming and heavy use. The standard e P4 5G will likely offer similar value at a slightly lower price point. These phones are designed for users who need long-lasting performance and smooth visuals without breaking the bank. You can often find e Phones under 20000 that offer great value.

2. Xiaomi Redmi 15 5G Expected Price: Around ₹14,999
Xiaomi and its sub-brand Poco are market leaders in delivering high-spec phones at aggressive prices. The Xiaomi Redmi 15 5G is expected to combine affordability with a large battery and a smooth display, making it a strong budget option. It’s a reliable choice if you’re looking for a good all-rounder for everyday needs like browsing, social media, and casual gaming. Xiaomi is known for offering high-end features at budget-friendly prices, often with strong battery life and fast charging. Look for Redmi Phones for excellent budget choices.

3. OPPO K13 5G Expected Price: Around ₹17,999 – ₹19,999
We mentioned the OPPO K13 5G earlier in the under ₹50,000 segment, but its starting price makes it a fantastic option for those under ₹20,000 as well. With its 7000mAh graphite battery and 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, it’s a battery champ. The 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset ensures a smooth user experience. This phone really punches above its weight, especially for battery life, making it a strong contender for the best phone to buy in 2025 in India under 20000. Check out OPPO K13 5G for a reliable option.

4. Infinix Hot 60i Expected Price: Around ₹12,000 – ₹15,000
Infinix has been making waves in the budget segment, offering feature-rich phones. The Infinix Hot 60i is expected to feature a MediaTek Helio G81 Ultimate processor, 4GB RAM, a 50MP rear camera, an 8MP front camera, and a substantial 5160mAh battery with 45W fast charging. Its 6.7-inch IPS LCD display offers a good viewing experience. For users looking for a capable and affordable smartphone for daily tasks, communication, and light entertainment, the Infinix Hot 60i could be a smart pick.

5. Samsung Galaxy A-series e.g., Galaxy A16 5G, Expected Price: Under ₹20,000
Samsung’s A-series consistently delivers reliable budget and mid-range options. The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is expected to offer a 6.7-inch display, a 50MP + 5MP + 2MP triple camera setup, and a 13MP front camera. It’s likely powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and will pack a non-removable 5000 mAh battery. Running on Android 14, it will provide a familiar and dependable Samsung experience. For those who prefer the Samsung ecosystem but are on a budget, an A-series device like the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is often a safe bet.

Specialized Picks: Gaming, Camera, and Battery Life

Sometimes, you need a phone that excels in a specific area. Here are some top picks for those particular needs in 2025.

Best Gaming Phone:
For serious gamers, performance is everything. You need a powerful processor, high refresh rate display, and efficient cooling.

• Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro: This one is a beast. With a 185Hz AMOLED display and super-fast processing tech, it’s arguably the best gaming phone overall. It comes with plenty of storage and RAM to handle the most demanding games.
• Vivo X200 Pro 5G: This phone is a strong contender with its MediaTek Dimensity 9400 processor, 120Hz AMOLED display, and a massive 6000mAh battery with 90W FlashCharge. It handles heavy titles like Genshin Impact with zero stutter.
• e GT 7 5G: Another excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for a “budget flagship” gaming experience. It reportedly has a 7000mAh battery for extended gaming sessions and an AI Gaming Coach to optimize FPS and touch response.
• OnePlus 13: Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite and a Cryo-Velocity cooling system, the OnePlus 13 is designed for long, intense gaming.

Best Camera Phone:
If capturing stunning photos and videos is your priority, look for phones with advanced sensors, OIS, and excellent computational photography.

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: This is consistently rated as one of the best camera phones, featuring a 200MP main sensor and powerful computational photography. Its AI features also significantly enhance photo editing.
• Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Often recommended for advanced photographers, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is another high-end option with impressive camera capabilities.
• Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max / iPhone 17 Pro Max: iPhones are known for their consistent and high-quality camera performance. The iPhone 16 Pro Max from the previous generation is still a strong pick, and the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to continue this legacy.
• Google Pixel 10 / Pixel 10 Pro: Pixel phones are famed for their AI-driven camera systems, delivering stunning results even in challenging conditions. The Pixel 10 is set to continue this legacy with a rumored 50MP main sensor and enhanced AI features.
• Vivo X200 Pro: This phone comes with ZEISS-engineered primary camera system, which can truly redefine your photography experience. It’s excellent for close-ups and macro shots.

Best Battery Life Phone:
For those who need their phone to last all day and then some without constantly hunting for a charger, battery capacity and efficient power management are key.

• POCO F7: This phone boasts a massive 7550mAh battery, making it a top contender for all-day usage and more. It also supports 90W turbo charging. You can find the POCO F7 for excellent battery performance.
• e GT 7 / e GT 7 Dream Edition: With a 7000mAh battery and 120W fast charging, the e GT 7 is a champion for battery life and quick top-ups.
• iQOO Z10 / Vivo T4: These phones house a substantial 7300mAh battery and support 90W fast charging, offering excellent endurance while maintaining a sleek profile.
• OPPO K13 5G: Featuring a 7000mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, the OPPO K13 5G provides extended usage and quick recharges.

What to Look For Before You Buy

Choosing the right phone in 2025 isn’t just about picking the flashiest model. it’s about finding the perfect fit for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of crucial features to keep in mind:

• Processor and Performance: The heart of your smartphone! In 2025, you’ll want to look for chipsets like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, Dimensity 9400, Apple A19 Bionic, or Google Tensor G5 for flagship-level performance. For mid-range, look for Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, Dimensity 8300, or similar. Aim for at least 6GB RAM for daily use, but 8GB-12GB is better for heavy multitasking and gaming. Faster storage types like UFS 3.1 or 4.0 are also important for quick app loading.
• Display Quality: A great display makes a huge difference. Look for AMOLED or LTPO OLED panels for vibrant colors, true blacks, and better contrast. A high refresh rate 120Hz or 144Hz is essential for smooth scrolling and gaming, and adaptive refresh rates help save battery. HDR10+ or Dolby Vision support enhances video streaming.
• Camera System: Don’t just look at megapixels! While a 50MP or 200MP sensor sounds impressive, also consider features like Optical Image Stabilization OIS for blur-free photos, AI scene detection, and robust night modes. Multiple lenses ultra-wide, telephoto, macro add versatility. For video, 4K/8K recording with stabilization is key.
• Battery Life and Charging Speed: This is a big one. Target phones with 5000mAh or larger batteries for all-day use. Fast charging is also vital. look for at least 80W wired charging, which can fill your battery in under an hour. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are nice bonuses.
• Software Support & Updates: You want your phone to stay fresh and secure. Look for brands that promise at least 3-4 years of major Android/iOS updates and 4-5 years of security patches. Google Pixels, iPhones, and some OnePlus and Samsung devices are usually excellent in this regard. The new Samsung Galaxy S24 Snapdragon is launching with Android 15 out of the box, giving buyers an extra year of usage.
• Connectivity 5G: Make sure the phone supports multiple 5G bands relevant to Indian networks for the best possible speeds and coverage.
• Build Quality and Durability: Consider materials like glass backs, metal frames, and IP ratings for water and dust resistance. A phone with Gorilla Glass protection on the display is also a smart choice.
• Security Features: In-display fingerprint sensors especially ultrasonic ones, Face ID or equivalent 3D face recognition, and AI-powered privacy features are important for keeping your data safe.
• AI Capabilities: Beyond simple voice assistants, look for phones integrating AI for advanced photo editing, live translation, smart search features, and battery optimization.

Remember, the best phone to buy in 2025 in India isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It truly depends on what matters most to you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important features to consider when buying a smartphone in 2025 in India?

When buying a smartphone in 2025, you should prioritize a powerful processor like Snapdragon 8 Elite or Dimensity 9400 for high-end, or Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 for mid-range with at least 8GB RAM for smooth performance. A vibrant AMOLED or LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz or higher refresh rate is key for a great visual experience. For cameras, look for Optical Image Stabilization OIS, strong AI features, and versatile multi-lens setups. Lastly, a large 5000mAh+ battery with fast charging 80W+ is essential to keep you going all day. Don’t forget 5G connectivity with multiple band support and robust software update policies.

Which phone is best for gaming in 2025 in India?

For the ultimate gaming experience in India in 2025, phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro with its 185Hz AMOLED display and powerful processor or the Vivo X200 Pro 5G featuring Dimensity 9400 and 6000mAh battery are top contenders. The e GT 7 5G and OnePlus 13 with their flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite chipsets and advanced cooling systems also offer exceptional gaming performance. Look for high refresh rate displays, efficient thermal management, and large batteries for extended play.

What are the best camera phones to buy in India in 2025?

If photography is your passion, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, with its 200MP main sensor and advanced AI computational photography, is consistently a top pick. The Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max or previous iPhone 16 Pro Max and Google Pixel 10 Pro are also excellent choices, known for their exceptional image processing and versatile camera systems. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Vivo X200 Pro are strong contenders for advanced photographers, offering large sensors and specialized optics.

Are there good phones under ₹50,000 in India in 2025?

Absolutely! The under ₹50,000 segment offers some fantastic value. The e GT 7 Dream Edition with its Dimensity 9400e processor and 7000mAh battery, and the iQOO 13 or Neo 10R with Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and fast charging, are excellent choices. The Motorola Edge 60 Pro and OPPO Reno 14 5G also provide a great balance of performance, display quality, and camera capabilities for this price range. These phones often bring premium features that were once exclusive to much more expensive devices.

Which are the best phones under ₹20,000 in India in 2025?

For budget-conscious buyers in India in 2025, there are several strong options under ₹20,000. The OPPO K13 5G stands out with its massive 7000mAh battery and 80W fast charging. The e P4 Pro 5G and Xiaomi Redmi 15 5G are expected to offer great value with large batteries and smooth displays. The Infinix Hot 60i provides solid performance for daily use, while a Samsung Galaxy A16 5G can give you reliable performance within the Samsung ecosystem. Look for 5G support, decent processors, and good battery life in this segment. Best older iphone to buy in 2025

What are the latest smartphone trends impacting purchases in India in 2025?

In 2025, the Indian smartphone market is heavily influenced by the widespread adoption of 5G connectivity, with over 55% of shipments being 5G devices. AI-powered features are also a huge trend, enhancing everything from camera performance to user experience and battery optimization. There’s a growing demand for larger batteries and ultra-fast charging speeds. Furthermore, there’s a trend towards premiumization, with more consumers investing in higher-end devices, particularly in the US$600-US$800 segment.

When is the best time to buy a new phone in India in 2025?

While new phones are launched throughout the year, major flagship releases often happen in August-September for Google Pixel and Apple iPhone and January-February for Samsung Galaxy S series. These launch periods can also trigger price drops on older models, offering good deals. The festive season sales like Diwali also bring significant discounts across all segments, making them excellent times for a purchase.