8 Best Mobile Phones Under ₹40,000 (May 2026)
Summary
- With smartphone prices increasing every week, finding the best phone under ₹40,000 feels like a challenge.
- There many options available from Motorola, OnePlus, Samsung and more.
- From OnePlus Nord 6 to Samsung S24 FE, here are the best options you can buy right now
Update: We last updated this article with new best mobile phones under ₹40,000 on May 18, 2026
These days, most Indian buyers prefer premium smartphones over budget ones. While flagship phones offer top-of-the-line features, they also come with a hefty price tag. That’s where ‘flagship-killers’ or phones under ₹40,000 come in. They pack flagship-level specs at a much more affordable price, with just a few compromises here and there. Here is a list of the best mobile phones under ₹40000
1. Motorola Edge 70 Pro
- AnTuTu Score: 2.15 million
- Software Updates: Android 16 | 3 OS updates (till Android 19 | 4 years of security updates
- Price: ₹38,999 for 8GB/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
The Motorola Edge 70 Pro is the newest addition to the list of the best phones under ₹40000. It offers a perfect balance of specs and software experience with reliable cameras. You get a massive 6.8-inch curved AMOLED panel and smooth performance with Dimensity 8500 Extreme. With an IP69 rating, a capable dual camera setup, and features like NFC, it’s a great choice for most users. Despite the slim form factor, you get a 6,500mAh battery with 90W fast charging support.
Who Should Buy It:
The Motorola Edge 70 Pro is ideal for those who want a good experience without compromising on the experience. Not only does it provide reliable everyday performance, but you can also play games on it. The dual camera setup can capture detailed photos.
Who Shouldn’t Buy it:
Since it’s 2026, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro does come with some compromises. Compared to last year’s Edge 60 Pro, you don’t get a telephoto lens. Also, there’s no wireless charging present on last year’s model. Motorola’s update timeline is still slow, and you only get 3 OS updates. Despite packing a 6,500mAh battery, the backup remains average at best.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Smooth performance with Dimensity 8500 Extreme | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅Faster UFS 4.1 storage over Edge 60 Pro | ❌ Only 3 OS updates |
| ✅ Durable build with military-grade certification and IP69 rating | ❌ Average battery backup |
| ✅ Great camera tuning | ❌ No wireless charging |
2. iQOO Neo 10
- AnTuTu Score: 2.1 million
- Software Updates: Android 15 | 3 OS updates (up to Android 18) | 4 years of security updates
- Price: ₹36,998 for 8/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
The iQOO Neo 10, which previously dominated the under 30K segment, has now entered the sub 40K segment. While it’s definitely pricier than before, it remains one of the best mobile phones under ₹40000. It uses the same Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip as the Poco F7 but offers a more polished experience. Also, it is one of the few phones to offer a dedicated Q1 gaming chip, letting you enjoy games like BGMI at 144FPS. The 7,000mAh battery is a standout feature, lasting 8 to 9 hours even under heavy load.
Who Should Buy It:
The iQOO Neo 10 caters to hardcore gamers with its powerful hardware and 144Hz refresh rate. Furthermore, it has 120W wired charging, and you even get bypass charging support. It has a large vapour cooling chamber, and it also received the OriginOS update.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The iQOO Neo 10 isn’t made for those who want a good design or versatile cameras. It misses out on a telephoto lens, and the plastic back won’t blow away your mind. The ultrawide camera is average, and the lowlight camera performance could be better. Also, the 144Hz refresh rate only works in select phones.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 | ❌ Cheap plastic back |
| ✅ Smooth 144Hz refresh rate | ❌ UFS 3.1 in base variant |
| ✅ Fast 120W wired charging | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Large vapour cooling chamber | ❌ Average lowlight camera performance |
3. OnePlus 13R
- AnTuTu Score: 2 million
- Software Updates: Android 15 | 4 years of OS updates (up to Android 19) and 6 years of security updates guaranteed.
- Price: ₹39,999 for 12/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
Despite the launch of the OnePlus 15R, last year’s OnePlus 13R still dominates the sub-40 K segment. The reason is simple: the 15R caters to power users while the 13R was more of an all-rounder. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, while a bit dated, is still powerful enough for most tasks. You also get a flat AMOLED panel with LTPO support and a 50MP telephoto lens, two key features missing on the newer 15R. Other features include the iconic alert slider, stereo speakers, and a massive 6000mAh battery.
Who Should Buy It:
The OnePlus 13R is an easy pick for the best mobile phones under ₹40000 if software is your priority. The OxygenOS 16 update has made the phone smoother, while the 1.5K display is sharp enough for consuming content. You also get 80W SUPERVOOC charging and 12GB of RAM, something which is rare, especially in this era of chip shortage.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The OnePlus 13R, being a OnePlus phone, misses out on some key aspects. For starters, there’s no wireless charging, and the phone does get warm during intense tasks. Furthermore, the telephoto lens is limited to 2x zoom, and the low-light camera performance can be a bit inconsistent.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | ❌ Flat design may feel less premium compared to last year’s curved display |
| ✅ Huge 6,000mAh battery that fast-charges in an hour | ❌ No wireless charging |
| ✅ OxygenOS 15 with cool new AI features | ❌ The camera setup is versatile, but not the best |
| ✅ Comes with Wi-Fi 7 and support for Jio 5.5G in India |
4. Poco X8 Pro Max
- AnTuTu Score: 2.7 million
- Software Updates: Android 16 | 4 years of major Android updates (up to Android 20) and 6 years of security updates guaranteed.
- Price: ₹42,999 for 12/256GB (₹40,849 with offers)
Why We Recommend It:
The Poco X8 Pro Max is the spiritual successor to the Poco F7 from last year. It is the first phone to use the new MediaTek Dimensity 9500s based on a 3nm process. This processor offers performance similar to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. The 9,000mAh battery is the biggest in this segment, and you also get 100W fast charging.
Who Should Buy It:
Poco X8 Pro Max is one of the best mobile phones under ₹40000 for those who want a good combination of performance and battery backup. The large vapour cooling chamber ensures sustained FPS during gaming, making it the go-to choice for gamers. With a massive 6.83-inch AMOLED panel and Dolby Vision support, it also caters to all the binge watchers out there. Poco has also optimized the primary cameras, and there’s also an IP69K rating.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Those looking for a clean software experience or a complete set of cameras should skip the Poco X8 Pro Max. HyperOS 3 isn’t the best software skin out there, and it misses out on a telephoto lens. Also, the 8MP ultrawide lens isn’t the best, and there is no 4K recording on the front camera.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 1st phone in India with MediaTek Dimensity 9500s | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Premium display with Dolby Vision support | ❌ Average ultrawide camera |
| ✅ Massive 9,000mAh battery with 100W charging | ❌HyperOS 3 feels unoptimized |
| ✅ Premium build with glass and stainless steel | |
| ✅ Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner | |
| ✅ 4 years of OS updates and 6 years of security patches |
5. OnePlus Nord 6
- AnTuTu Score: 2.4 million
- Software Updates: Android 16| 4 OS upgrades (till Android 20) | 6 years of security updates (until 2028)
- Price: ₹38,999 for 8/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
Want a phone that can last longer than your relationship? The OnePlus Nord 6 is the best phone under ₹40000 for you. With a 9000mAh battery, it can easily last for two days, even with heavy use. It has the same 165Hz display as OnePlus 15 and the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 can handle more than just casual tasks. You even get all the AI features found in OnePlus 15 and the same 4 years of update promise. 3
Who Should Buy It:
The OnePlus Nord 6 is made for all the power users and gamers out there. It supports 165 FPS in games like BGMI, CODM and Free Fire MAX. There’s also a touch reflex chip for faster response times and a dedicated Wi-Fi chip to ensure you stay connected. With a massive battery and smooth refresh rate, it’s an easy recommendation for hardcore gamers.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If cameras and design are your priorities, you should probably look elsewhere. The Nord 6 has a plastic back and misses out on a telephoto lens. The screen size has also been slightly reduced compared to the Nord 5. Moreover, you get plenty of preinstalled apps and there’s no 512GB variant available. The camera experience is a bit inconsistent and you only get 2 color options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Literally a powerbank with a 9000mAh battery | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Smooth 165Hz refresh rate | ❌ No 512GB variant |
| ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 | ❌ Plastic back |
| ✅ Dedicated Wi-Fi chip and TouchReflex chip | ❌ Plenty of preinstalled apps |
| ✅ 4 years of OS updates | ❌ Inconsistent camera experience |
6. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
- AnTuTu Score: 1.94 million
- Software Updates: Android 14 | 7 years of updates (till almost Android 21)
- Price: ₹35,499 for 8/128GB
Why We Recommend It:
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Fan Edition (FE) is a phone made for true Samsung fans. This best mobile phones under ₹40000, which is the only one to offer 7 years of OS updates. It gives you the same One UI experience as the flagship Ultra series. Furthermore, the rest of the package is pretty good too, as you get a capable triple camera setup, IP68 rating, and vibrant screen. There are all the Galaxy AI features too, so you aren’t missing out on much.
Who Should Buy It:
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is made for those who want a phone from a reputable brand for long-term usage. Samsung’s software experience and timely updates make it a reliable pick. The camera tuning is excellent, and the Samsung brand value means you get good resale value, too. With the S25 FE bringing only incremental upgrades, it makes more sense to save money and opt for the S24 FE instead.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Those looking for the best mobile phones under ₹40000 for performance or a battery should avoid the S24 FE. The Exynos 2400e is notorious for its heating issue and isn’t the fastest chip around. Furthermore, you only get an 8MP telephoto lens and slow 25W charging speeds. Also, you need to buy a charger separately, and the 4,700mAh battery feels quite small in comparison to its rivals.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 7 years of updates for reliable, long-term use | ❌ Exynos 2400e has heating issues |
| ✅ Good quality display | ❌ 8MP telephoto isn’t the sharpest |
| ✅ Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and IP68 rating | ❌ 4700mAh battery feels compared to the competition |
| ✅ Solid software with AI features | ❌ No charger in the box |
| ✅ NFC support enables easy tap-to-pay via Samsung Wallet | ❌ Slow 25W charging speeds |
| ✅ Wireless Charging |
7. Realme GT 7
- AnTuTu Score: 2 million
- Software Updates: Android 15 | 4 years of OS updates (Android 19) | 6 years of security patches
- Price (in India): ₹39,999 for 8GB/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
The Realme GT 7 was the first phone in India to use the Dimensity 9400e chipset. With a massive 7,000mAh battery and four years of updates, it is still one of the best mobile phones under ₹40000. It also boasts a robust cooling system featuring IceSense Graphene, a material designed for enhanced heat dissipation.
Who Should Buy It:
The Realme GT 7 is a compelling option for those who prioritize a long-lasting battery, a top-tier display, and a powerful processor for daily use. The extensive software support and AI features are also attractive additions. So, if you have these things as priorities, then this is the best smartphone under ₹40,000.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
However, the phone’s performance isn’t entirely flawless. While the Dimensity 9400e is a powerful chipset, it tends to get warm. Similarly, the camera system is decent but doesn’t quite stand out in its price segment. While the 50MP primary sensor captures good daylight shots, the 8MP ultrawide camera underperforms, struggling with edge detection
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9400e processor | ❌ Severe heating issues during prolonged gaming sessions |
| ✅ Massive 7,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging | ❌ Average rear camera performance, especially the ultrawide lens and portrait mode |
| ✅ Stunning 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display | ❌ Primarily plastic build doesn’t feel as premium as some competitors |
| ✅ Four years of Android OS updates and six years of security patches | ❌ Pre-installed bloatware that needs to be removed manually |
| ✅ IP69 rating for dust and water resistance | ❌ Design lacks a unique flair or “oomph” factor |
| ✅ Advanced cooling system with IceSense Graphene | |
| ✅Useful AI features like AI Planner and AI Gaming Coach | |
| ✅Fast UFS 4.0 storage | |
8. Vivo T4 Ultra
- AnTuTu Score: 1.8 million.
- Software Update: Android 15 | 3 years of OS updates (until Android 18) and 4 years of security patches
- Price (in India): ₹37,999 (8GB/256GB)
Why We Recommend It:
The Vivo T4 Ultra positions itself as a compelling contender for the best mobile phones under ₹40000. It aims to bridge the gap between mid-range and flagship with its MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor and a periscope camera lens. also features AI-powered photography tools and an Aura Light for enhanced low-light photography. It’s a good option for those who want a stylish design and a capable camera without sacrificing performance.
Who Should Buy It:
Ultimately, the Vivo T4 Ultra is a solid option for users prioritizing a high-quality display, a versatile camera system with a periscope lens, and fast charging at a competitive price. The processor, while not the latest, is still a capable chip in 2026. It is the perfect combo of design, cameras, and performance.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
However, some aspects might give users pause. While the design is premium, the IP64 rating offers only basic dust and splash resistance. The display, though impressive, is not adaptive and doesn’t offer LTPO support. The 8MP ultrawide-angle lens is average at best, and the 5,500mAh battery isn’t the biggest in this segment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and 5000 nits peak brightness. | ❌ IP64 rating, not as robust as IP68. |
| ✅ Powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor. | ❌ Bloatware pre-installed |
| ✅ Versatile triple camera setup with a 50MP periscope telephoto lens | ❌ Average 8MP ultrawide camera. |
| ✅ Fast 90W wired charging. | ❌ No wireless charging |
9. Google Pixel 9a
- AnTuTu Score: 1.5 million.
- Software Update: Android 15 | 7 years of OS updates (until Android 22) and 7 years of security patches
- Price (in India): ₹39,999 for 8GB/256GB
Why We Recommend It:
Despite the launch of the Google Pixel 10a, the Pixel 9a remains a solid option. You get 7 years of updates, useful AI features and almost the same specs as Pixel 10a. It uses the same Tensor G4 chipset and 50MP dual camera setup. The 5,100mAh battery can easily last a day and you get a capable camera setup with Google’s processing magic.
Who Should Buy It:
Want timely updates with AI features and the best Android experience? The Google Pixel 9a caters to all the stock Android purists out there who want their updates served on day one.There are no ads or bloatware giving you the cleanest software experience. And unlike other Pixel phones, there’s no camera bump so it looks completely clean.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The Pixel 9a isn’t made for power users or gamers. The Tensor G4 isn’t the fastest chip out there and you get slower UFS 3.1 storage. Also, there’s no telephoto lens and you get 128GB of storage in the base variant. Last but not least, 8GB of RAM means some AI features like Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes are not available.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 7 years of OS update with clean software | ❌ Weak performance |
| ✅ All the AI features such as Add Me and Magic Eraser | ❌ Thick bezels look outdated |
| ✅ Compact and vibrant display | ❌ No telephoto lens |
| ✅ Dedicated vapour cooling chamber | ❌ No wireless charging |
Best Phone Under ₹40000: Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Edge 70 Pro | iQOO Neo 10 | OnePlus 13R | Poco X8 Pro Max | OnePlus Nord 6 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Realme GT 7 | Vivo T4 Ultra | Google Pixel 9a |
| Starting Price | ₹44,999 | ₹34,999 | ₹39,999 | ₹32,999 | ₹32,999 | ₹59,999 | ₹42,999 | ₹31,999 | ₹43,999 |
| Display | 6.7″ 1.5K pOLED, 144Hz | 6.78″ 1.5K LTPO AMOLED, 144Hz | 6.78″ 1.5K LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.8″ 1.5K AMOLED, 144Hz | 6.74″ 1.5K AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | 6.78″ 1.5K LTPO OLED, 120Hz | 6.78″ 3D Curved AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.1″ OLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 4 | Exynos 2400e | Snapdragon 8 Elite | MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM / Storage | 12GB / 256GB | 12GB / 256GB | 12GB / 256GB | 12GB / 256GB | 8GB / 128GB | 8GB / 128GB | 12GB / 256GB | 12GB / 256GB | 8GB / 128GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP (OIS) + 50MP (UW) + 12MP (Tele) | 50MP (OIS, IMX921) + 8MP (UW) | 50MP (OIS, Sony LYT-600) + 8MP | 50MP (OIS) + 50MP (UW) + 50MP (Tele) | 50MP (OIS, Sony LYT-600) + 8MP | 50MP (OIS) + 12MP (UW) + 8MP (Tele) | 50MP (OIS) + 50MP (Tele) + 8MP (UW) | 50MP (OIS) + 50MP (UW) + 2MP | 48MP (OIS) + 13MP (UW) |
| Front Camera | 50MP | 16MP | 16MP | 32MP | 16MP | 10MP | 16MP | 32MP | 13MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 6100 mAh (Silicon-Carbon) | 6000 mAh | 6000 mAh | 5500 mAh | 4700 mAh | 6500 mAh (Titan Battery) | 5700 mAh | 4800 mAh |
| Charging | 125W Wired / 50W Wireless | 120W FlashCharge | 100W SUPERVOOC | 120W HyperCharge | 100W SUPERVOOC | 25W Wired / 15W Wireless | 120W SUPERVOOC | 90W FlashCharge | 18W Wired / 7.5W Wireless |
| Key Feature | IP68, Hello UI AI features | Q1 Gaming Chip, Ultra-slim | Alert Slider, Cryo-velocity Cooling | IP68, Periscope Zoom, WildBoost | Alert Slider, Metal Frame | Galaxy AI, IP68, 7-year Updates | IP69, Eco2 OLED Plus Display | 3D Curved Design, Slim Profile | Gemini Nano AI, Clean Android 15 |
Which Phone Should You Pick?
Picking the right phone from this list can feel tricky, but it really comes down to what you care about most. Here are the top recommendations for the best mobile phones under ₹40000:
- For gaming: The iQOO Neo 10 is a powerhouse with Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, a super-smooth 144Hz display, and 120W charging.
- For all-day use: The OnePlus Nord 6 is a great daily driver thanks to its massive 9,000mAh battery steady performance. Prefer MediaTek chip and premium design? The Realme GT 7 will serve you better.
- For a unique design: The Vivo T4 Ultra also looks premium with a slim profile and classy finish.
- For a well-rounded experience: The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE nails the basics with reliable cameras, compact build, and long software support.
- For the best value: The OnePlus 13R delivers flagship-grade performance, long updates, and capable cameras without flagship pricing. I
- For brand value & long-term support: Want a phone that can be used for years to come? The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE offers 7 years of updates with all the fancy Galaxy AI features.
At the end of the day, the best phone is the one that fits your priorities.
