Top 10 Best Budget Smartphone Philippines – 2024 Review

Rovilyn

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Smartphones are everywhere, and we can’t live without them. From staying in touch with family and keeping up on the latest happenings around town or worldwide crises, our phones have become essential for many of us! Though there’s plenty out there to choose from if you’re looking at more affordable options for a gaming phone or one for daily use, just make sure that what works well enough for your day-to-day doesn’t work within the next week.

Table of Contents

    1. Long Battery Life: Samsung Galaxy M12
    2. Large IPS LCD Screen : OPPO A16
    3. Elegantly Designed: realme 7
    4. Sturdy and Durable: realme C11
    5. MIUI 12 Operating System: Xiaomi Redmi 9A
    6. With 5G Technology: Redmi Note 12
    7. Long-lasting Battery:  Infinix Smart 8
    8. High-resolution Camera: POCO C65
    9. Expandable Storage Option: vivo Y02A
    10. Enhanced Audio Experience: Galaxy A05
  • Affordable Phone Buying Guide
  • Top Budget Smartphone Brands in the Philippines
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs

Quick Comparison Table

(scroll right for more)

ProductRatingPriceCamera ResolutionRAM
Samsung Galaxy M12
Samsung Galaxy M12
5/5$$$
48MP4 GB
OPPO A16
OPPO A16
5/5$$
13MP4 GB
realme 7
realme 7
5/5$$$$
64MP8GB
realme C11
realme C11
5/5$$
8MP2GB
Xiaomi Redmi 9A
Xiaomi Redmi 9A
5/5$$
13MP2GB
Redmi Note 12
Redmi Note 12
5/5$$$$
50 MP8GB
Infinix Smart 8
Infinix Smart 8
5/5$$
13MP4 GB
POCO C65
POCO C65
5/5$$
50 MP8GB
vivo Y02A
vivo Y02A
5/5$$
8MP2GB
Galaxy A05
Galaxy A05
5/5$$
50 MP4 GB

There are so many smartphones on the market, and it can be overwhelming for beginners. We’re here to help you choose a budget phone that won’t break your wallet with this list of the best budget phones in the Philippines!

1. Samsung Galaxy M12

Long Battery Life

Are you looking for a budget-friendly phone that packs a punch? Introducing the Samsung Galaxy M12; an amazing and affordable smartphone option that lets you live life to the fullest without breaking the bank.

The powerful 6.5-inch HD+ display offers users crisp visuals and an immersive gaming experience. Plus, four cameras come included so you can capture photos in stunning 48MP resolution like a professional photographer.

The massive 5,000mAh battery will keep your device going all day and night with 15W fast charging technology getting it back up to full charge in record time. And the side-mounted fingerprint scanner lets you easily access your data with added security within no time. The strong octa-core processor runs on Android 11 with the latest One UI software creating lightning-fast performance so even multi-tasking is effortless.

Pros:

  • 90Hz screen on a budget
  • Great battery life
  • Comes with Android 11

Cons:

  • The camera could be better

2. OPPO A16

Large IPS LCD Screen

The OPPO A16 stands out as a top pick for budget-conscious smartphone users thanks to its combination of performance, design, and affordability. The device offers a 13 MP triple camera setup that captures sharp images with ease, catering to the needs of aspiring photographers without breaking the bank. Users can also enjoy multitasking on the go with its robust MediaTek Helio G35 processor paired with 3GB RAM – an impressive feature at this price point.

With its expansive 6.52-inch IPS LCD screen, watching videos or playing games becomes an immersive experience. Its dual-SIM capability allows users to manage personal and work lines effectively while maintaining compatibility across various GSM networks globally.

Choosing the OPPO A16 as our number one isn’t just about what’s on paper; it’s about real-world functionality that meets daily demands without costing too much. The phone’s long-lasting battery life ensures you’re connected all day, and the fact that it comes unlocked means you have the freedom to choose your carrier without any hassle. Perfect for anyone looking for a reliable phone without splurging on luxury features they might never use.

Pros:

  • Capture stunning photos with the OPPO A16’s triple camera setup including a 13 MP main lens, a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, and a depth sensor for beautiful portrait shots.
  • Experience seamless performance with the MediaTek Helio G35 processor and multitask effortlessly with 3GB of RAM.
  • Stay connected wherever you go thanks to the extensive network compatibility

Cons:

  • Limited storage capacity

3. realme 7

Elegantly Designed

The new realme 7 series is here and it comes packed with amazing features and jaw-dropping beauty. At first glance, the dual-split design draws you in with its stunning reflections of light, capturing details from all angles. And when you hold it, you’ll appreciate the AG processing technology for outstanding color accuracy and the CD texture for enhanced grip. But the real wow factor is on the inside – an incredible 64MP Quad camera that captures beautiful images that are perfect for posting to social media.

But that’s not all! The realme 7 also makes a bold statement thanks to innovative features like diamond speaker dots on the back cover and a powerful processor so you don’t have to sacrifice performance while keeping up with your responsibilities every day. With something this amazing, you will surely be noticed wherever you go! So if you’re looking for quality, style and performance, look no further than the realme 7.

Pros:

  • Instant Side Fingerprint
  • 3-Card Slot
  • Sony 64MP Quad Camera

Cons:

  • Mono speaker

4. realme C11

Sturdy and Durable

Are you looking for the design and power of a top-end smartphone, but don’t want to be left with an empty wallet? Look no further than the remarkable realme C11. This incredible device is completely redefining what it means to get premium features without a huge price tag.

With its sleek, modern aesthetic, the realme C11 looks like it jumped right out of a catalogue! The best part is that no matter which way you look at it, this device won’t break the bank. Add to that fast processing speed and reliable battery life, and you’ve got a phone that’s truly unbeatable in both quality and value.

The current age of technology calls for devices that offer high performance without sacrificing design. Thankfully, realme understands this and gave us exactly what we want with the C11! Designed for those who don’t want to compromise on style or substance, this shockingly affordable phone will instantly become your favorite companion.

Pros:

  • Super Nightscape Mode
  • 5000mAh Massive Battery
  • Face Unlock

Cons:

  • Not the best speaker output

5. Xiaomi Redmi 9A

MIUI 12  Operating System

The Redmi 9A steals the show with its sleek display, small bezels, and waterdrop notch at the top. Enjoy beautiful visuals with high resolution technology and crystal clear clarity – no matter what activity you’re doing. This device offers unbeatable views for an unbeatable price.

What’s more impressive than just looking at the phone? Underneath its stylish exterior lies Xiaomi’s latest technology and design updates crafted just for you! Enjoy protection from troublesome updates preinstalled with every purchase. And revel in exclusive features that bring convenience into your home or on-the-go lifestyle.

Look no further: The Xiaomi Redmi 9A is here to make your purchasing decisions simple and cost effective without compromising quality performance! Get your hands on it now and have a tech experience that supports all your life needs!

Pros:

  • Face Recognition
  • Supports Google Lens
  • 1,600 x 720 resolution

Cons:

  • No fingerprint sensor

6. Redmi Note 12

With 5G Technology

The Redmi Note 12 leaps ahead in the budget smartphone category with its powerful combination of technology and style. At its heart lies the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 4 Gen 1 processor, a robust engine that guarantees smooth multitasking and efficient power consumption for those always on the go. Gamers rejoice at the fluid motion rendered by the 120Hz Super AMOLED display—each swipe and tap translates into spectacular visual feedback without any lag.

Photography enthusiasts benefit from a versatile camera setup led by a 48MP main sensor that captures stunning detail in every shot, complimented by an ultra-wide lens to fit more into each frame, plus a macro camera for up-close brilliance. The ample battery life from a hefty 5000mAh cell means users won’t be tethered to charging points, while rapid recharge times keep pace with bustling lifestyles. With such standout features packaged in just 7.9mm of sleek design, it’s clear why we placed the Redmi Note 12 as number two on our list; it redefines expectations for what is achievable within an accessible price bracket.

This model strikes an appealing balance between affordability and performance capabilities that are often reserved for higher-end models—it’s this value proposition that resonates with practical consumers searching for top-tier features without breaking the bank. Its inclusion exemplifies how cutting-edge innovation can indeed be within arm’s reach—even when sticking to a budget.

Pros:

  • Capture stunning photos with the 48MP main camera, and explore wider perspectives using the 8MP ultra-wide lens.
  • Experience fast performance and smooth multitasking with the Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU and ample storage.
  • Enjoy an immersive visual experience on the 6.67″ AMOLED display, boasting high contrast ratios and up to 120Hz refresh rates.
  • Stay connected in more places around the world thanks to its wide range of supported network bands, including 5G capability.

Cons:

  • Lacks a high-performance chipset.

7. Infinix Smart 8

Long-lasting Battery

The Infinix Smart 8 is a budget-friendly smartphone that seamlessly blends excellent features with a sleek and stylish design. Its 6.6-inch display boasts an impressive 84.0% screen-to-body ratio, providing users with an immersive visual experience. The 720 x 1612 pixel resolution and 20:9 aspect ratio result in a pixel density of approximately 267 ppi, ensuring that your content comes to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.

Under the hood, the Infinix Smart 8 runs on the powerful Unisoc T606 chipset, featuring an octa-core processor with 2×1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6×1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This setup guarantees reliable and efficient performance for a variety of tasks, whether you’re browsing the web, streaming videos, or using your favorite applications. With the device running on Android 13, users can enjoy the latest software features and security updates, providing a smooth and secure user experience.

One of the standout features of the Infinix Smart 8 is its robust 5000 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery. This ensures extended usage on a single charge, allowing users to enjoy their favorite content, stay connected, and accomplish tasks throughout the day without worrying about battery life.

Pros:

  • Impressive 6.6-inch display with a high screen-to-body ratio for immersive viewing.
  • Powerful Unisoc T606 chipset and octa-core processor for reliable performance.
  • Latest Android 13 software for updated features and security.

Cons:

  • The display resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels may not compete with higher-end smartphones.

8. POCO C65

High-resolution Camera

The POCO C65 makes a strong entrance into the competitive market of budget smartphones, offering users a blend of functionality and affordability. Packing a punch with its robust processor, this device handles multitasking with ease, allowing you to switch between apps without experiencing lag. The sizable battery life ensures your day is uninterrupted by charging breaks, perfect for those always on the move.

Camera enthusiasts will appreciate the high-resolution rear camera that captures vivid photos even in low light conditions. Alongside this, the user-friendly interface simplifies photo editing and sharing, making it ideal for social media-savvy individuals who want to post their shots quickly. With extra features like dual-sim support and expandable storage space via a microSD card slot, the POCO C65 becomes more than just a basic phone—it adapts to diverse user needs seamlessly.

Despite its lower price point, the smartphone doesn’t skimp on durability. Wrapped in a sleek exterior that can withstand daily wear and tear, it promises longevity alongside reliable performance. Keen gamers will find solace in smooth graphics provided by an optimised display screen which enriches gaming sessions without draining resources. Clear audio output further enhances multimedia usage—be it streaming music or watching videos—making POCO C65 an all-around performer proving excellence is not limited to flagship models.

Pros:

  • Experience lightning-fast performance with the POCO C65’s powerful processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and quick app launches.
  • Enjoy prolonged usage with the long-lasting battery of the POCO C65, giving you more time for work and play without constant recharging.
  • The sleek design and vibrant display of the POCO C65 offers an immersive viewing experience for all your favourite videos and games.

Cons:

  • Limited storage space may not suit users with high media consumption needs.

9. vivo Y02A

Expandable Storage Option

Introducing the Vivo Y02A, a slim yet powerful smartphone that marks an upgrade from the popular Vivo Y02s. Packed with impressive features, this device is a perfect choice for users seeking an affordable yet capable smartphone. The standout feature of the Vivo Y02A is its robust 5000mAh battery accompanied by a 10W fast charging capability, ensuring that your device is always ready for action.

The MediaTek Octa-Core Processor powers the Vivo Y02A, delivering efficient and smooth performance for a variety of tasks. Its 6.54-inch HD+ Eye Protection Screen enhances the viewing experience, providing vivid visuals while also considering the user’s eye health. The inclusion of Bokeh Mode adds a creative touch to your photography, allowing you to capture stunning images with a beautifully blurred background.

One notable feature of the Vivo Y02A is its expandable storage option, supporting up to 1TB. This ensures that users have ample space to store their favorite apps, photos, videos, and more. The smartphone’s sleek design and powerful performance make it an ideal choice for those who value both style and functionality.

Pros:

  • Affordable pricing for users on a budget.
  • Impressive 5000mAh battery with 10W fast charging for extended usage.
  • MediaTek Octa-Core Processor for efficient and smooth performance.

Cons:

  • The 10W fast charging may be considered relatively slower compared to some competing models.

10. Galaxy A05

Enhanced Audio Experience

Introducing the Samsung Galaxy A05, a feature-packed smartphone that seamlessly combines a large and vibrant display with powerful camera capabilities and efficient performance. The device features a massive 6.7-inch HD+ TFT display, ensuring an immersive and visually pleasing experience for all your content. The 50MP main camera, coupled with a 2MP depth sensor, delivers stunning and detailed shots, while the 8MP front camera captures crisp and clear selfies.

Under the hood, the Galaxy A05 is equipped with a MediaTek G85 processor running at 2.0GHz, providing smooth and responsive performance for a variety of tasks. With 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, users have ample space for their apps, photos, and videos. The storage is expandable up to a whopping 1TB, ensuring that you never run out of space for your growing digital content collection.

The device boasts a robust 5,000mAh battery capacity, offering extended usage on a single charge. The 25W fast charging feature ensures that you can quickly top up your device and get back to your activities without any prolonged downtime. With Dolby Atmos support, the Galaxy A05 provides an immersive audio experience, enhancing your multimedia consumption. Running on the latest Android 13, the device ensures access to the latest software features and security updates.

Pros:

  • Large and vibrant 6.7-inch HD+ TFT display for an immersive viewing experience.
  • Powerful 50MP main camera and 2MP depth sensor for stunning photography.
  • Generous 4GB RAM + 64GB storage, expandable up to 1TB for ample space.

Cons:

  • The display technology being TFT may not provide as vibrant colors

Affordable Phone Buying Guide

Battery Life – You can’t go anywhere without your smartphone these days, but carrying one device that lasts for hours and requires no charging is worth every penny. Be sure to buy affordable phones with long battery life if this is something important in your daily routine because there isn’t any room left over!

Screen Size – The screen size of a smartphone can be an important decision. If you want to use your phone for just texting and calling, then choose one with a smaller screen size. However, if it is used as well in media consumption such as watching videos or playing games on multiwindow mode then go ahead and get something bigger like 5 inches which gives more viewing space without compromising comfortability when holding and using the device comfortably.

Processor and RAM – The processor in your phone is the most important part of its performance. If you have a good one, then all other factors being equal – for example, different RAM capacities or versions- will be less concerning when it comes time to decide what size phone would best suit your needs.

Camera Resolution – The camera is one of the most important features of a smartphone. You want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth when purchasing, so here are some tips for shopping wisely. Cameras often come with resolutions measuring different amounts; higher numbers mean better quality and maxing out at 10MP while lower resolution options start around 2-3 MP on an affordable phone!

 Top Budget Smartphone Brands in the Philippines

Oppo 

The market is a competitive one, and it’s hard for companies to stand out. OPPO has managed just this with their innovative mobile cameras that are designed differently than any other on the shelf!

realme

The cutting-edge technologies of smartphones and IoT devices have allowed Realme to offer products with top-quality, innovative features that deliver incredible digital experiences.

Conclusion

Smartphones are a part of our everyday lives and it’s hard to imagine living without them. They keep us connected with family and friends, help us stay up-to-date on the latest news, and allow us to access information whenever we need it. While there are many affordable smartphone options available, it’s important to choose one that meets your needs today – and won’t become obsolete next week.

FAQs

What are the common features of a smartphone?

Smartphones are devices that can do everything from making calls to browsing the web. Along with basic features such as text messaging, email and GPS navigation they also come equipped with high-speed Internet access so you never have an excuse for not being able connect when needed! The first thing most people notice about their smartphones is its operating system (OS). Some examples include Google’s Android or Apple's iOS which power some incredible mobile devices in today's market due primarily because both were designed specifically for portable computer use

Is it safe to use Wi-Fi on my smartphone?

If you are checking your bank account or making payments on the go, don't use free Wi-Fi at a coffee shop. Avoid using that public network connect with an open hotspot so as not to put yourself in danger. Instead go for the password protected network that can only be accessed by yourself and no one else in order to avoid attack from hackers who try intercepting traffic with malware

Rovilyn

This post was brought to you by Kimz House.

Disclaimer: The opinion is solely based on our testing or intensive research with customer feedback around the most popular shopping platform such as Shopee and Lazada. The products/services shown here are available and valid upon the publication date. It may change from time to time. Please email us at [email protected] if there is any discrepancy.