Best phones under Rs 40,000 in India in March 2024: OnePlus 12R, Nothing Phone (2), iQOO Neo 9 Pro, and more

Published On: March 20, 2024

With several new phones hitting the market each month, choosing the perfect one can be challenging at times. Therefore, to assist readers, our experts have curated a list of the five best phones priced under Rs 40,000 in March 2024. This list, which includes the OnePlus 12R, Nothing Phone (2), iQOO Neo 9 Pro, and more, provides users with the best options within the specified budget.

Table of Contents

OnePlus 12R

Price: Rs 39,999 (8GB+128GB) and Rs 45,999 (16GB+256GB)
Display: 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, 4500 nits peak brightness and more
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC
Rear cameras: 50MP+8MP+2MP sensors
Selfie camera: 16MP on the front
RAM and Storage: 8GB+128GB and 16GB+256GB
Software: Android 14-based ColorOS 14
Battery: 5,400mAh with 100W fast charging

Expert comment: The OnePlus 12R (review) is an affordable flagship phone that provides notable improvements over its predecessor, the OnePlus 11R. It offers enhancements such as a brighter screen, improved battery battery life, and faster performance compared to its predecessor. However, there are no changes to the camera quality.

Pros	Cons
Excellent display	Average wide-angle and macro cameras
Smooth performance	Only three major software updates
Superb battery life and charging	–

iQOO Neo 9 Pro

Price: Rs 35,999 (8GB+128GB, to be available soon), Rs 37,999 (8GB+256GB) and Rs 39,999 (12GB+256GB)
Display: 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, 3,000 nits of peak brightness and more
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC
Rear cameras: 50MP+8MP shooters
Selfie camera: 16MP front sensor
RAM and Storage: 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB and 12GB+256GB
Software: Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14
Battery: 5,160mAh with 120W fast charging

Expert comment: The iQOO Neo 9 Pro (review) is a dependable, performance-focused phone at a reasonable price. Its upgraded 50MP camera performs effectively in various lighting situations, including both bright and dim environments. However, there’s room for enhancement in the performance of the ultra-wide camera. For those prioritising battery life and quick charging, the Neo 9 Pro remains a reliable choice.

Pros	Cons
Reliable performance	Average 8MP ultra-wide camera
Good 50MP primary camera	Boring design
120W charging	–
Smooth gaming	–

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 of peak brightness and more
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC
Rear cameras: 200MP+8MP+2MP sensors
Selfie camera: 16MP on the front
RAM and Storage: 8GB+256GB, 12GB + 256GB and 12GB+512GB
Software: Android 13-based MIUI 14
Battery: 5,000mAh with 120W fast charging

Expert comment: The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ (review) stands out by providing flagship-like features such as Corning Gorilla Glass Victus and 512GB of storage, all for under Rs 36,000. It also introduces some neat design and camera enhancements. While the promise of three years of Android updates is commendable, there’s room for improvement in the user interface. Additionally, the pricing could have been more competitive.

Pros	Cons
Trendy design	pre-installed apps
Crisp display	Inconsistent lowlight photography
Fast charging	–
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, 1,600 nits of peak brightness and more
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC
Rear cameras: 50MP+50MP shooters
Selfie camera: 32MP on the front
RAM and Storage: 8GB+128GB, 12GB+256GB and 12GB+512GB
Software: Android 14-Based Nothing OS 2.5
Battery: 4,700mAh 45W fast charging (wired) and 15W wireless charging

Expert comment: The Phone (2) (review) shares a similar design to Phone (1) but brings improvements across various areas, including performance, display, and more. The Glyph LEDs, which garnered much attention, have also been upgraded for better customisation. While the phone may seem a bit expensive considering its specs, it could still be a good choice if you like the Glyph UI and design. However, some improvements in the camera department could enhance its overall appeal.

Pros	Cons
Standout looks	Dynamic range could be better
Good performance & battery life	Similar design as predecessor
Decent cameras	Charging speeds don’t match rivals
Glyph improvements	Priced on the higher side

iQOO Neo 7 Pro

Price: Rs 30,999 (8GB+128GB) and Rs 33,999 (12GB+256GB)
Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, 1,300 nits peak brightness and more
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC
Rear cameras: 50MP+8MP+2MP sensors
Selfie camera: 16MP front camera
RAM and Storage: 8GB+128GB and 12GB+256GB
Software: Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14
Battery: 5,000mAh with 120W fast charging

Expert comment: The iQOO Neo7 Pro (review) seems like a strong option for gamers seeking a high-performance smartphone. It boasts a good display, a capable camera, and rapid charging. However, potential buyers should note its slightly thicker design and the possibility of bloatware in the software.