In 2025, 5G smartphones have become more affordable and accessible for everyone in India. With the rapid growth of 5G networks, even budget phones now offer high-speed internet, smooth gaming, and great camera features. For people who want to enjoy the latest technology without spending too much, there are many good options under ₹12,000.
Choosing the right 5G phone can be confusing because there are so many choices. Most people look for a phone that has a strong battery, a good camera, and a fast processor. In this article, we will discuss the top 5 best 5G phones under ₹12,000 in March 2025. These phones are perfect for students, working professionals, and anyone who wants a future-ready smartphone at a budget price.
We have selected these phones based on their overall performance, camera quality, battery life, and value for money. Whether you like to play games, take photos, or just want a reliable phone for daily use, you will find a suitable option here.
Top 5 Best 5G Phones Under ₹12,000
| Phone Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Poco M6 Plus 5G | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, 108MP camera, 120Hz LCD, ₹10,080 |
| Samsung Galaxy F16 5G | Dimensity 6300, AMOLED 90Hz, 50MP triple camera, ₹11,499 |
| Infinix Note 50x 5G | 6.7″ display, 50MP camera, 5000mAh, ₹11,499 |
| Moto G45 5G | Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, 50MP camera, 120Hz LCD, ₹9,999 |
| Lava Storm Play | 6.5″ display, 5000mAh battery, ₹9,999 |
| Redmi 14C 5G | 6.79″ LCD, 50MP camera, 5000mAh, ₹10,999 |
| Realme Narzo 70x 5G | 6.72″ LCD, 50MP camera, 5000mAh, ₹11,499 |
| iQOO Z9x 5G | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, 50MP camera, 6000mAh, ₹11,999 |
1. Poco M6 Plus 5G
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Accelerated Edition
- Display: 6.79-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 108MP main + 2MP rear, 13MP front
- Battery: 5030mAh
- Price: ₹10,080
Highlights:
- Highest refresh rate and peak brightness in this segment.
- Great for gaming and watching videos.
- Big 108MP camera for sharp photos.
Cons:
- Video recording quality is not the best.
- No LTPO technology.
2. Samsung Galaxy F16 5G
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 50MP + 5MP + 2MP rear, 13MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Price: ₹11,499
Highlights:
- AMOLED screen offers bright and colorful visuals.
- Triple camera setup for versatile photography.
- Reliable battery life for daily use.
Cons:
- Peak brightness could be better.
- Video recording is average.
3. Infinix Note 50x 5G
- Display: 6.7-inch large display
- Camera: 50MP main camera
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Price: ₹11,499
Highlights:
- Big screen, good for movies and games.
- Decent camera for the price.
- Long battery life.
4. Moto G45 5G
- Processor: Snapdragon 6s Gen 3
- Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- Camera: 50MP + 2MP rear, 16MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh with 20W fast charging
- Price: ₹9,999
Highlights:
- Smooth performance for multitasking.
- High refresh rate for a better experience.
- Clean Android interface with less bloatware.
5. Lava Storm Play
- Display: 6.5-inch display
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Price: ₹9,999
Highlights:
- Affordable 5G option.
- Good battery backup for all-day use.
- Simple and user-friendly design.
Why Choose a 5G Phone Under ₹12,000?
- Affordable Access: Over 60% of new smartphone buyers in India now prefer 5G-ready models for future-proofing.
- Faster Internet: 5G speeds are up to 10 times faster than 4G, making streaming and downloading much quicker.
- Better Gaming: Low latency and smooth graphics help in online gaming and video calls.
- Good Cameras: Even budget 5G phones now offer 50MP or higher cameras for clear photos.
- Long Battery Life: Most phones in this range come with 5000mAh or bigger batteries, lasting a full day on one charge.
Key Features to Look For in Budget 5G Phones
- Processor: Look for Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, or Dimensity 6300 for smooth performance.
- Display: A 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate gives a smoother experience, especially for gaming and scrolling.
- Camera: 50MP or higher main cameras are common; some models even offer 108MP for detailed shots.
- Battery: 5000mAh or more ensures the phone lasts all day.
- Storage: 128GB is now standard in most phones under ₹12,000.
- Software: Latest Android versions (Android 14 or 15) provide better security and features.
Pros and Cons Table
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 5G Connectivity | Fast internet, future-ready | Network coverage may vary by area |
| High Refresh Rate | Smooth gaming and scrolling | Uses more battery |
| Large Battery | Lasts all day, good for travel | Some models charge slowly |
| High-Res Camera | Sharp, detailed photos | Video quality may be average |
| AMOLED Display | Bright, colorful visuals (Samsung F16 5G) | Not available in all models |
| Fast Processor | Good for multitasking and gaming | Entry-level chips may lag in heavy use |
| Affordable Price | Fits student and family budgets | May lack premium build quality |
Tips for Buying the Best 5G Phone Under ₹12,000
- Check for Offers: Prices can drop during sales or with exchange deals.
- Read User Reviews: Look for feedback on battery, camera, and software updates.
- Compare Specs: Use tables like above to compare features side by side.
- After-Sales Service: Choose brands with good service centers in your city.
- Future Updates: Phones with newer Android versions get updates for longer.
Conclusion
Buying a 5G phone under ₹12,000 in March 2025 is a smart choice for anyone who wants modern features at a low price. The models listed above offer a mix of strong performance, good cameras, and long battery life. With 5G networks expanding across India, these phones will keep you connected and ready for the future.
Whether you need a phone for gaming, photography, or daily tasks, you will find a perfect match in this list. Always compare features and prices before making your final decision, and enjoy the benefits of fast, reliable 5G technology on a budget.
