The ₹40,000 price segment in 2025 bridges the gap between mid-range and flagship smartphones, offering users a premium experience without a hefty price tag. Phones in this range come equipped with powerful processors, stunning displays, flagship-grade cameras, and advanced features like wireless charging, IP ratings, and premium designs.
If you’re looking to upgrade to a smartphone under ₹40,000 in India, here’s an expertly curated list of the best options in this category.
1. OnePlus 12R
Price: ₹39,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP OIS + 8MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro, 16MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh with 100W SUPERVOOC charging
- OS: OxygenOS 14 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The OnePlus 12R offers flagship-level performance with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 processor and lightning-fast charging, making it a top choice for gamers and power users.
2. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Price: ₹39,499
Key Features:
- Display: 6.4-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 2400
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 128GB
- Camera: 50MP OIS + 12MP ultra-wide + 8MP telephoto, 10MP front
- Battery: 4500mAh with 25W charging, wireless charging support
- OS: One UI 6.1 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The Galaxy S23 FE brings a refined design, excellent camera quality, and the reliability of Samsung’s One UI software, making it a well-rounded option for everyday use.
3. iQOO 12 Pro
Price: ₹38,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 2K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9300
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 64MP OIS + 13MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro, 16MP front
- Battery: 4700mAh with 120W charging
- OS: Funtouch OS 14 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The iQOO 12 Pro is a performance powerhouse with a stunning 2K display and ultra-fast charging, catering to gamers and heavy multitaskers.
4. Google Pixel 8a
Price: ₹38,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 90Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor G3
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 128GB
- Camera: 64MP + 13MP ultra-wide, 13MP front
- Battery: 4500mAh with 20W charging, wireless charging support
- OS: Android 14 (Stock)
Why Choose?
The Pixel 8a excels in computational photography and delivers a clean, bloat-free Android experience, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and Android purists.
5. Realme GT 5 Pro
Price: ₹37,499
Key Features:
- Display: 6.74-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP OIS + 8MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro, 16MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh with 150W UltraDart charging
- OS: Realme UI 6.0 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The Realme GT 5 Pro combines top-notch performance with ultra-fast charging and a high-refresh-rate display, making it a strong contender for gamers and power users.
6. Nothing Phone (3)
Price: ₹39,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP + 50MP ultra-wide, 16MP front
- Battery: 4800mAh with 45W fast charging, wireless charging support
- OS: Nothing OS 3.0 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The Nothing Phone (3) stands out with its unique transparent design, clean UI, and balanced performance, catering to those who value aesthetics and functionality.
7. Vivo X80 Lite
Price: ₹38,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP OIS + 12MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro, 32MP front
- Battery: 4700mAh with 80W fast charging
- OS: Funtouch OS 14 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
The Vivo X80 Lite delivers premium camera features and smooth performance, perfect for users focused on photography and multitasking.
8. Motorola Edge 40 Ultra
Price: ₹39,499
Key Features:
- Display: 6.67-inch pOLED, FHD+, 144Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 108MP + 13MP ultra-wide, 32MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh with 68W charging
- OS: My UX (Android 14)
Why Choose?
Motorola Edge 40 Ultra provides a near-stock Android experience with a high-refresh-rate display and solid performance, catering to both gamers and professionals.
9. Asus ROG Phone 7 Lite
Price: ₹39,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 165Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP + 13MP ultra-wide, 13MP front
- Battery: 6000mAh with 65W fast charging
- OS: ROG UI (Android 14)
Why Choose?
Tailored for gamers, the ROG Phone 7 Lite delivers unmatched gaming performance, a high-refresh-rate display, and a robust battery life.
10. Xiaomi 14 Lite
Price: ₹36,999
Key Features:
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB
- Camera: 50MP + 12MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro, 20MP front
- Battery: 5000mAh with 120W HyperCharge
- OS: MIUI 15 (Android 14)
Why Choose?
Xiaomi 14 Lite combines an exceptional camera setup, robust performance, and ultra-fast charging, making it a well-rounded device for all users.
Buying Guide: What to Look for Under ₹40,000
- Display: Prioritize AMOLED or OLED panels with high refresh rates (120Hz or more).
- Processor: Look for Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1/2, Dimensity 9000, or comparable for flagship-level performance.
- Camera: Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and high megapixels for top-tier photography.
- Battery & Charging: Fast charging (80W or more) and a battery capacity of at least 4500mAh.
- Build Quality: Features like IP rating, Gorilla Glass protection, and premium materials add durability and style.
Conclusion
Smartphones under ₹40,000 in 2025 are packed with flagship-grade features, providing incredible value for money. Whether you’re a gamer, a photography enthusiast, or someone who values design and performance, this list has something for everyone. Evaluate your priorities, and choose the device that best fits your needs.
