The 10 Best Budget Smartphones Under RM1000 in Malaysia for 2025/2026

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Finding the best budget smartphones under RM1000 in Malaysia can be challenging with so many choices. Buyers want phones that deliver excellent performance, battery life and camera quality without overspending. This guide highlights 10 of the top budget phones for 2025/2026 that balance features and affordability.

Choosing Budget Smartphones Under RM1000 in Malaysia 2025/2026. Still Reliable?

Budget smartphones are increasingly powerful, offering features previously reserved for mid-range devices. Phones under RM1000 can handle social media, light gaming and multitasking with ease. In Malaysia, many devices also offer large batteries, fast charging and even 5G support. Choosing the right budget smartphone ensures you get maximum value without compromising quality.

Here are the ten best budget smartphones under RM1000 in Malaysia for 2025/2026, including both 4G and 5G options:

1. POCO M7 Pro 5G – Powerful All-Rounder

Image Credit : POCO M7 Pro 5G ( 128 GB Storage, 6 GB RAM ) Online at Best Price On Flipkart.com

The POCO M7 Pro 5G offers an excellent balance of performance and price. It features a MediaTek Dimensity 7025-Ultra processor and a vibrant 6.67-inch AMOLED display. Its 64MP triple-camera setup and 5000mAh battery with 67W fast charging make it ideal for daily use and media consumption.

Price: RM839
5G Connectivity: Yes

The POCO M7 Pro 5G offers several notable advantages, including its eye-catching design and an IP64 rating for some level of water and dust resistance. The device features a bright AMOLED display with HDR10 certification, making it great for watching media with vivid colors. It also charges quickly, which is convenient for users on the go and the loud stereo speakers provide a solid audio experience. For photography enthusiasts, the phone delivers good photo and video quality for its class. Additionally, the POCO M7 Pro 5G supports 5G connectivity, includes an IR blaster, a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm headphone jack and even FM radio which features not always found in budget phones.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The performance of the chipset is subpar compared to some competitors, which might result in slower performance, especially in demanding applications. Additionally, some rival devices offer 4K video recording, whereas the POCO M7 Pro 5G lacks this feature. Lastly, the phone launches with an older Android version, meaning it will miss out on one of the planned major updates, potentially limiting its long-term software support.

2. Realme 14T 5G – Long-Lasting Battery and Smooth Display

Image Credit : realme 14T 5G – realme (Malaysia)

The Realme 14T 5G has a massive 6000mAh battery and a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display. Its MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor supports smooth multitasking. This phone is a great choice for users who need long battery life and modern performance.

Price: RM999
5G Connectivity: Yes

On the positive side, the display stands out with its high refresh rate, making it excellent for multimedia consumption and general use, providing smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. The stereo speakers deliver loud and immersive audio, enhancing the overall entertainment experience. With a 5000mAh battery, the phone offers solid endurance for moderate users, easily lasting through a full day of use. The design is also impressive, with the green color option receiving particular praise for its attractiveness. In terms of durability, the phone has been tested to meet IP69, IP68, and IP66 standards for water and dust resistance, ensuring it can withstand the elements.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The camera performance is notably underwhelming, especially in low-light conditions where it struggles to capture clear, detailed images. For gaming, while the phone performs adequately with lighter games, it struggles with high-resolution, fast-paced titles, often experiencing stuttering and difficulty keeping up with action. The processor also seems to be a weak point, with some users reporting that its performance lags behind other phones in the same price range, and even other models from Realme. Additionally, the lack of an ultra-wide camera is a significant oversight for those who enjoy versatile photography. Lastly, the phone lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which could be a deal-breaker for users who prefer wired headphones.

3. Infinix NOTE 50S 5G – Photography-Focused

Image Credit : INFINIX Note 50S 5G (8+256GB) [NEW] – Good Deals by KLGadgetGuy

For photography lovers, the Infinix NOTE 50S 5G features a 108MP primary camera and a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Its MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor ensures fast performance, making it one of the best budget smartphones under RM1000 in Malaysia for content creators.

Price: RM899
5G Connectivity: Yes

The Infinix Note 50s 5G offers several notable advantages that make it a strong contender in the budget smartphone category. One of its most impressive features is its 6.67-inch curved AMOLED display, which offers vibrant colors, deep blacks and a 144Hz refresh rate, all of which make it ideal for multimedia consumption. The phone’s design feels premium with a slim profile and matte metallic finish and the inclusion of the Active Halo lighting for notifications is a nice touch. Performance-wise, the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate chipset handles everyday tasks smoothly and the 5500mAh battery ensures solid endurance, lasting throughout the day even with moderate to heavy use.

However, the Infinix Note 50s 5G does have its drawbacks. While the camera system performs well in ideal lighting conditions, its low-light performance is subpar, with images often appearing washed out despite using night mode. The lack of stabilization during video recording also detracts from its overall camera appeal, especially for users who want steady footage. Gaming performance is another area where it struggles, with PUBG running smoothly at medium settings but COD Mobile capping at 30fps, making it less suitable for avid mobile gamers. Thermal management is also a concern, as the device tends to overheat in hot weather, leading to performance throttling. The audio quality from the stereo speakers could be better, with noticeable distortion at higher volumes.

Despite these issues, the Infinix Note 50s 5G is a great option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize display quality, battery life and general reliability over advanced gaming or photography performance.

4. Samsung Galaxy A16 – Reliable and Affordable

Image Credit : Galaxy A16 LTE Gray 128 GB | Samsung Malaysia

The Samsung Galaxy A16 provides a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display and a 50MP triple-camera setup. It is a dependable 4G device that combines everyday usability with solid battery life, making it an excellent budget option.

Price: RM609
5G Connectivity: No

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G offers a compelling package for budget-conscious consumers seeking 5G connectivity without compromising on essential features. Its sleek design and 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate provide an immersive viewing experience. Powered by the Exynos 1330 or MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, depending on the region and paired with up to 8GB of RAM, the device handles everyday tasks with ease. The 50MP main camera delivers solid photo and video quality, while the 13MP front camera ensures clear selfies. With a 5,000mAh battery supporting 25W fast charging, users can expect all-day usage.

However, the Galaxy A16 5G is not without its drawbacks. The display, while vibrant, lacks HDR support and may not be the brightest under direct sunlight. The absence of stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack may be a downside for audio enthusiasts. Performance can be sluggish at times, with occasional stutters and slowdowns, especially during intensive tasks. The 5MP ultrawide camera is basic, and the device does not support 4K video recording through the stock camera app.

5. Xiaomi Redmi 13C – Budget-Friendly Essentials

Image Credit : Xiaomi Redmi 13C 5G – Digits | Apple Authorized Reseller

The Xiaomi Redmi 13C is a solid 4G device with a 6.79-inch FHD+ display and a 50MP triple rear camera. Its MediaTek Helio G91-Ultra processor offers smooth performance for basic tasks, making it ideal for those seeking a phone under RM600.

Price: RM533
5G Connectivity: No

The Xiaomi Redmi 13C offers a budget-friendly option for those looking for an affordable smartphone, but it comes with a mix of pros and cons. On the positive side, the phone features an attractive design with a large 6.74-inch display, providing a decent viewing experience. The build quality is solid with a matte plastic back and the phone is available in appealing colors such as Midnight Black, Navy Blue and Clover Green. In terms of performance, the device is very affordable, making it a good choice for users with a limited budget. The 50MP main camera performs well in daylight, producing sharp and well-balanced pictures and the battery life is reasonable, with a 5000mAh capacity offering moderate usage throughout the day.

However, the Xiaomi Redmi 13C has its shortcomings. The performance is underwhelming, with slow app launches, sluggish scrolling and weak graphics, especially when it comes to gaming or handling 2D applications. The display, though large, is only 720p, which leads to noticeable pixelation up close and the brightness is mediocre, making it hard to use in direct sunlight. The mono sound from the speaker is another downside, as it doesn’t provide a rich audio experience. The software, HyperOS, has its own approach to Android 14 but includes a lot of bloatware, making the user experience feel cluttered. Additionally, the phone only supports Wi-Fi 5 and lacks stereo speakers, which limits its overall multimedia experience. The camera, while decent for its price, struggles in low-light conditions and lacks image stabilization for videos.

6. TECNO Pova 7 5G – High Storage and Value

Image Credit : TECNO Pova 7 5G – Google Search

The TECNO Pova 7 5G is priced under RM1000 and offers 256GB storage, a 6.9-inch display and a 6000mAh battery. It is suitable for users who want a budget 5G phone with plenty of storage for apps and media.

Price: RM999
5G Connectivity: Yes

The TECNO Pova 7 5G offers impressive value with its performance-focused Dimensity 7300 Ultimate chipset, a large 6000 mAh battery for extended use and an affordable price point starting at around RM999 in Malaysia. Its gaming-oriented features, powered by the 4nm manufacturing process and efficient CPU/GPU configuration, provide smooth gameplay and solid performance, making it a good option for gaming enthusiasts. The large battery ensures longevity, making it ideal for heavy users and those who enjoy extended gaming sessions.

However, the Pova 7 5G does have some notable drawbacks. It lacks an expandable storage option, limiting users to its internal storage capacity of 128GB or 256GB. For photography enthusiasts, the camera performance is only average, making it less suitable for serious photography. Additionally, it uses LPDDR4X RAM, an older standard that doesn’t match the efficiency and speed of LPDDR5X RAM found in some of its competitors. Lastly, while it does offer IP64 dust and water resistance, it can only withstand splashes, meaning it is not fully submersible or ideal for heavy exposure to water.

7. Infinix HOT 60 5G – Affordable 5G Option

Image Credit : Infinix – HOT 60 5G – Malaysia

The Infinix HOT 60 5G is a budget-friendly 5G smartphone with a 6.7-inch HD+ display. Its MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor and 5200mAh battery provide solid performance at an entry-level price.

Price: RM599
5G Connectivity: Yes

The Infinix HOT 60 5G offers a compelling set of features, making it an excellent value in the budget smartphone category. One of its standout pros is the smooth 120Hz high-refresh-rate display, providing fluid animations, clean scrolling and a more responsive user experience, especially for gaming and media consumption. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity processor, the device supports robust 5G connectivity, enabling fast download and upload speeds that are ideal for smooth streaming, gaming and multitasking. Additionally, the large 6000 mAh battery ensures all-day usage and even some extended battery life for power users, making it suitable for long hours of operation without the need for frequent recharging.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The lack of an official IP rating means that users need to be cautious about exposing the phone to water or dust, as it’s not certified for resistance. The audio quality is also only average, with stereo speakers that don’t quite match the quality of more premium devices. Charging speeds are another downside, as the device takes longer to fully recharge compared to some of its competitors in the same price range. Additionally, the Infinix HOT 60 5G may come with software bloat, as seen in the Infinix Hot 60 Pro+ model, which shares a platform with the Tecno Spark 40 Pro+, leading to a less streamlined user experience. Lastly, some models in the Infinix HOT 60 series lack eSIM support, which may be a limitation for those looking to use this feature.

8. Realme C71 – Balanced 4G Performance

Image Credit : realme C71 – realme (Malaysia)

The Realme C71 features a 6.67-inch HD+ display, 6GB RAM, and a 6300mAh battery. It is a reliable 4G smartphone for daily use and casual gaming while remaining under RM1000, making it a strong budget choice.

Price: RM499
5G Connectivity: No

The pros of the Realme C71 include its brighter display compared to many of its competitors, impressive battery life and fast charging speeds for its price range, which is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the C61. These features make it an excellent choice for users who need a reliable phone that can last throughout the day and charge quickly.

However, the phone does have its drawbacks. The processor could be more powerful, as it struggles to handle demanding tasks and apps at times. Additionally, the camera performance in low light leaves much to be desired, which might be a downside for users who frequently take photos in such conditions. Despite these cons, the Realme C71 stands as a great value for a budget phone, especially for those prioritizing battery performance and fast charging.

9. Redmi Note 14 5G – Feature-Rich Mid-Budget

Image Credit : Redmi Note 14 5G Price in Malaysia & Specs – RM699 | TechNave

The Redmi Note 14 5G offers a 6.67-inch AMOLED display and a MediaTek Dimensity 7025-Ultra processor. Its triple-camera setup and 5110mAh battery make it a great combination of performance and affordability.

Price: RM689
5G Connectivity: Yes

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 5G offers a compelling mix of features tailored for budget-conscious users seeking modern smartphone capabilities. Its standout attributes include an attractive design with improved durability, a flat OLED display supporting HDR10+ for vibrant visuals and fluid day-to-day performance powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset. The device also boasts relatively quick charging, loudspeakers that deliver impressive volume (though at the expense of audio quality) and practical features like a 3.5mm headphone jack, IR blaster and microSD card slot.

However, the Redmi Note 14 5G is not without its drawbacks. The camera quality, while adequate for casual photography, falls short of expectations especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, some competitors in the same price range offer more powerful chipsets, potentially providing better performance. The absence of 4K video recording support may be a limitation for users interested in high-resolution video capture. Moreover, the device lacks a charger in the EU market, which could be an inconvenience for some users. The virtual proximity sensor, while functional, may not match the responsiveness of traditional sensors. Lastly, the device does not come with the latest Android 15 or HyperOS 2 out of the box, which could affect users seeking the newest software features.

10. Honor X6c – Compact and Affordable

Image Credit : New Buy HONOR X6c – Price & Review | HONOR MY

The Honor X6c is ideal for users who prefer a compact 4G phone. It features a 6.78-inch display, a 6000mAh battery and solid performance for everyday tasks. It’s a dependable choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly smartphone under RM1000 in Malaysia.

Price: RM599
5G Connectivity: No

The Honor X6c offers several benefits, particularly for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with solid features. It provides 4G support and comes equipped with a large 5300 mAh battery, ensuring reliable daily usage. The 35W fast charging feature is a great addition for quick top-ups, and the IP64 rating offers some level of protection against dust and water, making it a more durable option. Additionally, the Honor X6c has a tall 120Hz refresh rate TFT LCD screen, offering smooth visuals for regular tasks. It also supports NFC-enabled payment features and includes a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to those who prefer wired audio.

However, the Honor X6c does come with its drawbacks. The display resolution is limited to HD, which can be less sharp compared to higher-end smartphones. Performance for gaming is mediocre, meaning it may struggle with more demanding games. Video recording quality is also average, lacking features like 4K recording. The 5MP selfie camera produces low-quality results and the phone offers a shared microSD slot, meaning you can’t expand storage without sacrificing the second SIM card. Additionally, the absence of 5G connectivity is another downside, particularly for those seeking future-proofing. Finally, the phone lacks Corning Glass protection, making it more vulnerable to scratches and damage.

Tips for Choosing the Best Budget Smartphone Under RM1000 in Malaysia

When shopping for a budget smartphone, consider the following to maximize value:

Storage: Choose phones with at least 128GB to avoid running out of space.
Display: FHD+ or AMOLED displays offer better viewing experiences.
Battery Life: Phones with 5000mAh or larger ensure all-day use.
Processor: A MediaTek Dimensity or Snapdragon chipset provides smooth multitasking and gaming.
Connectivity: 5G models are future-proof and offer faster internet speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which phone is worth buying in 2025 under RM1000 in Malaysia?
The POCO M7 Pro 5G is highly recommended for its 5G connectivity, fast charging, and balanced performance.

Who is the top smartphone vendor in Malaysia in 2025?
Top brands include Xiaomi, Samsung, Realme, and POCO, offering a wide range of budget-friendly devices.

What is the best low-budget smartphone in Malaysia?
The Xiaomi Redmi 13C offers excellent performance and value under RM600.

What is the best-selling phone in 2025 under RM1000?
Phones like the POCO M7 Pro 5G and Infinix NOTE 50S 5G are among the best-selling budget devices due to their features and affordability.

Conclusion: The Best Budget Smartphones Under RM1000 in Malaysia for 2025

Choosing the best budget smartphones under RM1000 in Malaysia doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Whether you’re looking for a solid performer with great battery life or a phone with impressive camera features, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. From the POCO M7 Pro 5G to the Honor X6c, these devices provide fantastic value and the latest features at an affordable price.

Take your time, compare options and pick the best phone that suits your lifestyle and budget. With the phones listed above, you’ll get top-tier performance without breaking the bank in 2025.

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