Best Gaming Mobile Phones Under 30,000 (Jul 2024)

Verdict: With its functional RGB aesthetics, tall-vivid display, and snappy performance, the Infinix GT 20 Pro remains a top choice for gamers on an aggressive budget. It also offers a long battery backup, though the charging speed could be improved in the next iteration. The additional accessories, like the GT Metcha Case and Cooling fan, add loads of versatility to the overall device. Its cameras are decent, at least in daylight, but low-light performance can use refinements.

Verdict: The OnePlus Nord CE4 features many thoughtful upgrades, making it a much more compelling option than last year`s Nord CE3. The phone also checks many boxes for everyday users, whether it is the display, battery, or performance. Its cameras are also good, if not the best. While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC promises cutting-edge AI features, we are still awaiting the availability of those features from OnePlus.

Verdict: The POCO X6 Pro is a smartphone worth exploring, especially for power mid-range users. The handset leaves several of its current competitors behind with its performance. While the phone`s display may not have a curved design, it stands out as one of the best panels you can find in the segment right now. This is further enhanced by the finely tuned stereo speakers and the impressive battery backup, complemented by a quick charging solution.

Verdict: Infinix GT 10 Pro pricing starts from Rs 17,999, and introducing a gaming-centric phone at this price is commendable. And due to its consistent gaming performance and that too without heating up, Infinix definitely has a strong case for its phone here. Having said that, the phone`s camera performance could surely have been better. Overall, the phone offers you good and reliable performance, comes with an eye-catching design, and manages to come at a pocket-friendly price.

Verdict: The POCO F6 feels like a modest upgrade to the F5, maintaining the current trends. The smartphone`s performance is among the best, and the display quality is impressive, though I wish it featured an LTPO panel. Despite this, the cameras are good for a gaming-focused device, and both battery life and charging speeds are respectable.

Verdict: The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ pushes the boundary by offering some of the flagship-grade features, including Corning Gorilla Glass Victus and 512GB of storage under Rs 35K. It also incorporates design and camera upgrades, which I like. While three years of Android OS promise is thoughtful, I feel there needs to be improvements to the overall UI. I am also waiting to see some native AI features that most phones in the segment lack. Lastly, pricing could`ve been more competitive.

Verdict: OPPO F27 Pro+ comes with a premium design and durability features that make it extremely rugged. It also offers decent cameras with better image quality than most other phones in its price range. However, the processor feels underwhelming in this price range. If you want a phone that can survive torrential weather and frequent drops, this is the phone for you. But if your priority is performance, you should look elsewhere.

Verdict: Motorola Edge 50 Fusion is not aimed at a particular audience or at those who just want a long-lasting battery. The phone aims to offer well-rounded features across the board that could attract all users. It manages to offer a clean and clutter-free user experience, a slim and lightweight design, and decent charging speeds. On the flip side, it doesn`t really top the charts when it comes to aspects like performance and camera.

Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy A35 is a great choice for those who prioritise reliable performance, crisp display, loud speakers, and all-day battery backup. The phone also exhibits good camera performance in daylight, though low-light performance needs improvement. The Galaxy A35 even sets itself apart from most competitors by promising four years of major Android updates and five years of security updates. When it comes to fast charging, Samsung could benefit from closely observing its competitors in China.

Verdict: The Nothing Phone (2a) is off to a great start. While there are smartphones in the segment that offer unique aesthetics, none quite match the uniqueness of the handset`s transparent back and Glyph Interface. This appealing aspect is nicely complemented by the smartphone`s display, cameras, battery life, and performance, making it well-suited for regular users.

Verdict: The Vivo V30`s highlights include a slim, svelte design, curved display and an interesting, useful Aura light at the back. The phones delivers in most aspects, including display, cameras and fast charging, and while performance and battery life are quite good too. A few pre-installed apps and lack of stereo speakers are the only notable foibles in an otherwise solid mid-ranger.

Verdict: The Honor 90 marks Honors return to India with an attractive design and a stunning display, showing us that Honor is very much ready to take on the competition. However, its inconsistent cameras and lack of stereo speakers leave you wanting more, especially in this price range.

Verdict: The iQOO Neo7 Pro appears to be an impressive contender for consumers looking for a high-performance smartphone focused on gaming. On top of that it offers an impressive display, decent camera capabilities, and super fast charging. However, users should also consider the handset`s slightly thicker form factor and the potential bloatware concerns associated with the software.

Verdict: The Realme 11 Pro+ is a visually stunning phone which can be easily mistaken for an ultra-premium handset. It boasts elegant design choices like a faux leather back panel and a curved AMOLED screen, both of which are immaculately done. Although the primary camera is excellent, the ultra-wide shooter could be improved and the handset`s processing capabilities are not the best in class.

Verdict: The Motorola Edge 40 stands out with its sleek design and impressive features, including an IP68 rating and wireless charging. Despite minor drawbacks including heating and less-than-ideal battery life, it`s a strong contender in the mid-range segment.

Verdict: The POCO F5 is a capable device for gamers and streamers. It offers a splendid screen and a powerful processor. While the design and cameras of the phone may not be as impressive, the battery life and fast charging capabilities are truly excellent.

Verdict: The iQOO Neo7 comes across as a solid mobile gaming companion and will not disappoint in any facet related to performance. You also get a nice display, long battery life, and a capable stereo speaker setup. However, camera aficionados might be left wanting more.

Verdict: While being a perfectly crafted handset with a premium build quality, the Reno8 T lacks slightly in camera versatility and performance metrics. However, the device is a perfectly reasonable device for most users not engaging in high-end gaming and looking for an option priced under Rs 30,000.

Verdict: The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has the right processing capabilities, a super fast charging solution and an opulent display. Now while I appreciate the 200MP sensor`s daylight photography chops, I really think the low-light capabilities can do with a bit of fine-tuning. Putting that slight niggle aside, you will be hard-pressed to find a better daily driver in the mid-range market than the Note 12 Pro+.