Top Smartphones Around Rs 40,000 in India in March 2024: OnePlus 12R, Nothing Phone (2), iQOO Neo 9 Pro, and Others

With so many new mobile phones hitting the market each month, choosing the right one may be difficult. To help our readers in this attempt, a team of experts has thoroughly developed a list of the top five smartphones priced around Rs 40,000 in March 2024. This curated collection includes a wide range of devices, including popular rivals like the OnePlus 12R, Nothing Phone (2), iQOO Neo 9 Pro, and numerous more, allowing customers to make sensible decisions within their budget.

OnePlus 12R

• Price: Rs 39,999 (8GB+128GB) and Rs 45,999 (16GB+256GB)
• Display: Boasting a sizable 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with a fluid 120Hz refresh rate, the display of the OnePlus 12R dazzles with its remarkable clarity and vibrancy, reaching peak brightness levels of 4500 nits.
• Processor: Fueled by the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, the OnePlus 12R ensures seamless performance and lightning-fast responsiveness across various tasks and applications.
• Rear Cameras: Equipped with a versatile array of cameras, including a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor, the OnePlus 12R delivers stunningly detailed and immersive photography experiences.
• Selfie Camera: For capturing flawless self-portraits and engaging video calls, the OnePlus 12R features a 16MP front-facing camera.
• RAM and Storage: Available in configurations of 8GB RAM paired with 128GB of internal storage or an expansive 16GB RAM coupled with 256GB of storage capacity, the OnePlus 12R offers ample memory and storage options to suit diverse user needs.
• Software: Running on the latest iteration of Android, the OnePlus 12R is powered by ColorOS 14, delivering a sleek and intuitive user experience with a host of customizable features and optimizations.
• Battery: With a robust 5,400mAh battery capacity, the OnePlus 12R ensures long-lasting endurance, further enhanced by blazing-fast 100W fast charging technology for swift and convenient recharging.

The OnePlus 12R stands out as an affordable flagship phone, with major advancements over its predecessor, the OnePlus 11R. Among its major enhancements are a brighter display, longer battery life, and increased performance, resulting in a more seamless user experience. However, it is worth mentioning that there have been no improvements in camera quality over its predecessor.

Advantages	Dwonsides
Excellent display quality.	Wide-angle and macro cameras provide poor results
Smooth performance	Limited to just three major software upgrades.
Excellent display quality.	-
Excellent battery life and speedy charging capabilities.	-

iQOO Neo 9 Pro

• Price: Rs 35,999 (8GB+128GB, upcoming), Rs 37,999 (8GB+256GB), and Rs 39,999 (12GB+256GB)
• Display: 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, reaching up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC
• Rear cameras: 50MP+8MP dual shooters
• Selfie camera: 16MP front-facing camera
• RAM and Storage: Available in 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB, and 12GB+256GB configurations
• Software: Funtouch OS 14 runs on Android 14.
• Battery: Equipped with a 5,160mAh battery and supports 120W fast charging

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro stands out as a dependable and performance-driven smartphone at a competitive price range. Its enhanced 50MP camera provides impressive performance in a variety of lighting conditions, excelling in both well-lit and low-light settings. However, the ultra-wide camera's performance may be improved. Nonetheless, for customers who value battery life and rapid charging features, the Neo 9 Pro stands out as a reliable alternative.

Advantages	Dwonsides
Consistent and reliable performance.	Average 8MP ultra-wide camera
Features include an impressive 50MP main camera and a 120W charging capacity.	-
A seamless gameplay experience.	-

Redmi Note 13 Pro+

• Price: Rs 31,999 (8GB+256GB), Rs 33,999 (12GB + 256GB), and Rs 35,999 (12GB+512GB)
• Display: 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, 1800 nits peak brightness, and more
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC
• Rear Cameras: 200MP+8MP+2MP sensors
• Selfie Camera: 16MP front sensor
• RAM and Storage: 8GB+256GB, 12GB + 256GB, and 12GB+512GB
• Software: Android 13-based MIUI 14
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 120W fast charging

Setting itself apart in the market, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ includes an extensive list of flagship-grade features, such as Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection and a huge 512GB storage capacity, all at a price point around Rs 36,000. Notable improvements in design and camera performance increase its appeal. While the commitment to offering three years of Android upgrades is commendable, there is room for improvement in the user interface to ensure a more seamless experience. Furthermore, a more competitive price plan may increase its appeal to potential purchasers.

Advantages	Dwonsides
Stylish design	Pre-installed applications
Vivid display	Unreliable low-light photography
Quick charging capabilities	-
High-resolution 200MP camera	-

Nothing Phone (2)

• Price: Rs 35,999 (8GB+128GB), Rs 36,999 (12GB+256GB), and Rs 38,999 (12GB+512GB)
• Display: 6.7-inch OLED 120Hz display, with a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and more
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC
• Rear cameras: Dual 50MP shooters
• Selfie camera: 32MP front camera
• RAM and Storage: Available in configurations of 8GB+128GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB
• Software: Runs on Nothing OS 2.5, based on Android 14
• Battery: Equipped with a 4,700mAh battery, supports 45W fast charging (wired), and 15W wireless charging

The Phone (2) preserves the recognizable design language of its predecessor, the Phone (1), while improving performance, display quality, and other characteristics. The updated Glyph LEDs are especially significant, since they provide more customizing choices. While the pricing may seem exorbitant in comparison to its specs, fans of the Glyph UI and design aesthetics may find it enticing. Nonetheless, addressing specific areas for improvement in the camera department might increase the overall attractiveness.

Advantages	Dwonsides
Eye-catching design	Dynamic range performance could be enhanced
Strong performance and battery longevity	Design lacks innovation compared to its predecessor
Competent camera capabilities	Charging speeds fall behind competitors
Enhanced Glyph features	Pricing is relatively steep

iQOO Neo 7 Pro 

• Prices:  Rs 30,999 (8GB+128GB) and Rs 33,999 (12GB+256GB).
• Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display with peak brightness up to 1,300 nits and more.
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC. 
• Rear cameras: 50MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide lens, and 2MP depth sensor.
• Selfie Camera: 16 MP front-facing camera
• RAM and storage: 8GB+128GB and 12GB+256GB.
• Software: Funtouch OS 14 is runs on Android 14.
• Battery: 5,000 mAh with 120W rapid charging support.

The iQOO Neo7 Pro stands out as an appealing option for gamers seeking a high-performance mobile experience. It ticks several boxes for smartphone fans, including an excellent display, a good camera system, and fast charging. However, prospective purchasers should note its somewhat bulkier body and the possibility of bloatware in the software.

Advantages	Dwonsides
Reliable performance	Pre-installed apps
Impressive primary camera	Uninspired design
Vibrant display	-
Lightning-fast 120W charging	-