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In the sub-RM800 smartphone market of late 2025, the conversation has shifted from raw processing speed to practical usability and everyday performance
You no longer have to settle for laggy, underpowered devices in this price range. Instead, features like 90Hz or 120Hz high-refresh-rate screens, 5G connectivity, and exceptional battery life — often outlasting flagship models — are now becoming the norm.
Here are the best smartphones under RM800 to get in late 2025:
Best Performance — Poco M7 5G
POCO continues to dominate the value segment with the M7 series, offering features usually reserved for devices over RM1,000 at a budget-friendly price.
This RM699 model punches well above its weight, thanks to a surprisingly capable chipset — typically the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 — that handles daily tasks and light gaming like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang without breaking a sweat.
Crucially, it ditches the typical cheap plastic finish for a sleek glass back, offering a much more premium feel. With standout specs like a massive 6.88-inch 120Hz display, a 50MP AI Dual Camera, and 33W fast charging, the POCO M7 is arguably the best choice if you want your RM699 investment to feel like a RM1,200 device.
Most Durable — HONOR X7c 5G
HONOR has successfully brought the rugged DNA of its X9 series to the budget-friendly X7 lineup, creating a device that directly addresses the two biggest concerns for entry-level buyers: fragile screens and battery worries.
By combining HONOR's "crash-proof" durability architecture with a massive 6,000mAh battery, this phone offers a robust package capable of lasting two full days on a single charge.
At only RM699, plus the added protection of IP64 dust and water resistance, it stands out as the ideal choice for delivery riders, students, or parents seeking a dependable workhorse that simply keeps going, regardless of the bumps and spills of daily life.
Most Affordable 5G Device — Infinix Hot 50 5G
Infinix continues to shake up the market with the Hot 50 5G, offering impressive specifications at a bargain price.
Priced at RM599, it stands out as one of the most affordable ways to secure a reliable 5G connection in 2025, providing future-proof speeds while many rivals in this price range remain limited to 4G.
Despite housing a capable battery and a smooth 120Hz display powered by the Dimensity 6300 chipset, the device remains remarkably slim with a 7.8mm profile. For budget-conscious buyers who value fast Internet above all else, this is the clear winner.
Best All-Rounder — Samsung Galaxy A06
While this device won't be breaking any speed records, it triumphs when it comes to trust and software refinement.
Samsung's One UI is renowned for being cleaner and significantly more stable than the interfaces found on many of its budget competitors, offering a user-friendly experience free from the confusing system ads that often plague cheaper devices.
It also pairs seamlessly with Samsung tablets or watches. With a spacious 6.7-inch display and a capable 50MP camera, it supports 25W fast charging, though the charger is usually sold separately.
Ultimately, its straightforward, reliable nature makes it the perfect choice for seniors or less tech-savvy users who prioritise a hassle-free experience over raw power, especially when it's only RM499.
Ultra Budget — Redmi 14C
For those with a very tight budget who still desire a modern aesthetic, the Redmi 14C sets the gold standard.
At only RM399, it costs less than a pair of branded sneakers. It successfully avoids looking "cheap" thanks to its stylish new circular camera module design.
It features a massive 6.88-inch 120Hz display, making it ideal for streaming YouTube or scrolling through TikTok, supported by a substantial 5,160mAh battery that ensures all-day endurance. With 18W charging included, it serves as the ultimate backup device or an excellent first phone for children.
Here are some pointers if you're looking for a smartphone at this price range:
Before making a purchase, it is crucial to verify the contents of the retail box. Industry trends have shifted, and major manufacturers often omit the charging adapter to reduce packaging.
In contrast, value-oriented brands such as Infinix, Poco, and Redmi typically remain generous, usually bundling both a fast charger and a complimentary protective case with the handset.
When it comes to performance, buyers should avoid devices equipped with only 4GB of RAM. In the 2025 Android landscape, a minimum of 6GB or 8GB of physical RAM is required for the system to run smoothly. While many phones boast "Extended RAM" features, this is software-based and cannot replace actual physical memory.
While 128GB of internal storage is the current standard, users who capture a lot of photos or video, or download a lot of apps, should ensure their chosen device features a MicroSD card slot for future expansion.
