The mid-range smartphone market is still thriving as 2025 approaches, providing amazing features without going over budget. These phones are perfect for anyone looking for a reliable phone without the flagship price tag because they balance price and performance. We'll go over the best mid-range cell phone choices this year in this post, so you can choose the one that best suits your requirements and price range.
Everything You Need to Know
- Mid-range phones deliver premium features at affordable prices.
- Expect prices between $400 and $700 for the best options.
- Models like the Galaxy S24 FE and Pixel 8a stand out for their performance.
- Battery life and camera quality are key considerations in this range.
- Stay updated as new models may emerge throughout the year.
1. Galaxy S24 FE
Okay, so the Galaxy S24 FE is up first. Honestly, this phone feels like a bit of a steal. It's like Samsung accidentally made it too good for a mid-range device. I mean, on paper, it sounds impressive, but after using it, it's even better than I thought it would be.
While it doesn't have the exact same processor as the flagship Galaxy S24 models, the Exynos 2400e still gives you performance that's pretty darn close. And it's not just the processor; Samsung even threw in the same 50MP main camera. The image quality is just as good as the standard S24 and S24 Plus. That's a big win in my book.
The only real downside I found was the battery life. It's not terrible, but it's not amazing either. I got around 6 hours and 20 minutes in my battery tests. It's decent, but nothing to write home about.
But here's the kicker: it starts at just $649.99 from Samsung's online store. That's a total bargain, especially when you consider the 7 years of software support, the awesome display, and the great dual speakers.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Great display
- Excellent camera
- Long software support
- Decent performance
For the price, it's hard to beat. It's definitely one to watch if you're looking for a solid mid-range phone in 2025.
2. Pixel 8a
Let's talk about the Pixel 8a now. It has been on the market for almost a year and is still one of Google's best phones if you don't want to spend a lot of money. This phone's camera system is where it really shines, especially considering its mid-range price range.
You can capture sharp, detailed images with a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP ultrawide. The Google Tensor G3 processor allows you to handle your daily tasks and even light gaming without any major interruptions. It also has 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, which should be more than sufficient for the majority of users.
One of the coolest things about the Pixel 8a is that it comes with Gemini, Google's new AI assistant. You can wake it up with a long press of the power button or with voice commands like "Hey, Google." It's similar to Google Assistant, but it's likely to get even more features down the road, like composing emails and texts, transcribing meetings, and even controlling your smart home devices. The Pixel 8a is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable phone with great features.
Battery life is decent, but the charging speeds are a bit slow compared to some other phones in this price range. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to keep in mind if you're used to super-fast charging.
Here's a quick rundown of what I like and don't like about the Pixel 8a:
- Bright and vivid screen
- Pixel 8-like performance
- Seven years of software support
- Affordable price
But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are a couple of downsides:
- The bezels around the screen are a bit on the bigger side
- Charging speeds could be faster
3. Galaxy A35 5G
Okay, so the Galaxy A35 5G is definitely in the mix for a solid mid-range option in 2025. It's not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it refines what Samsung's A series is known for. I mean, let's be real, it's a pretty well-rounded device. You're getting a phone that feels good in your hand, and it's not going to fall apart on you anytime soon. The build quality is decent, with glass on both sides and IP67 ingress protection, which is always a plus if you're a bit clumsy like me.
- Sturdy build with glass on both sides and IP67 ingress protection
- Good quality 120Hz Super AMOLED display
- Stereo speakers with good quality
The Galaxy A35 5G is a solid choice if you want a reliable phone that covers all the basics without breaking the bank. It's not the flashiest or the fastest, but it gets the job done, and it does it well. Plus, you get that Samsung One UI experience, which a lot of people seem to really like.
The display is a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is nice for scrolling through social media or watching videos. It's not the brightest display out there, and it doesn't support HDR video, but it's still pretty good for everyday use. The Exynos 1380 chipset is a step up from previous models, and it's enough to keep things running smoothly for most tasks. You also get a big 5,000 mAh battery, which should easily get you through a full day of use. Samsung is promising four years of major software updates and five years of security updates, which is a big deal if you plan on keeping the phone for a while. The Galaxy A35 5G is a good package overall.
4. iPhone 16e
Apple's attempt to break into the mid-range market is the iPhone 16e. Put the SE and 14 models out of your mind and think of it as the universal phone. Like the iPhone 14, it has a modern look with a 6.1-inch OLED screen, Face ID, and USB-C. They also added the Action Button, which has been the talk of the town.
It has the same A18 chip found in the standard iPhone 16 under the hood. A 48MP primary camera, 8GB of RAM, and a much longer-lasting battery are also included. With all of the latest Apple Intelligence features, it will run iOS 18. It performs well all around.
But, it's not all sunshine and roses. There's only one camera on the back, so no ultra-wide shots. And you won't find Cinematic or Action video modes, or MagSafe. The price is a bit higher too, around $600.
Honestly, the lack of MagSafe is a bummer. I use it all the time. And while the camera is good, that ultra-wide lens is something I'd miss. Still, for the performance and video quality, it's a decent option if you're already in the Apple ecosystem.
Here's a quick rundown:
- A18 Chip
- Improved Battery Life
- 48MP Main Camera
5. OnePlus 13R
It appears that the OnePlus 13R will be a formidable competitor in the mid-range market. It looks like a great deal at about $599. For less than some flagship phones, you get a gorgeous display, strong performance, and a stylish design. This phone is worth taking a close look at if you're considering an upgrade and want something powerful but reasonably priced.
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset powers this phone, and it really delivers. Whether it was juggling multiple apps or running demanding games, the 13R handled everything with ease. Honestly, it even outperformed a few competitors, like the Pixel 8a, in most tests. The option for up to 16GB of RAM ensures that multitasking is snappy, and the performance overall feels surprisingly close to what we’ve seen in last year’s flagship phones.
Now, let’s talk cameras. The 13R’s main 50MP Sony LYT-700 sensor (with OIS) paired with a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x zoom delivers sharp, detailed images, especially when lighting conditions are good. That said, the 8MP ultrawide camera was a bit underwhelming, and video stabilization could’ve been better—it wasn’t bad, just not great. Still, considering the price point, the camera setup as a whole is solid.
Battery life was another highlight for the most part. The 6,000mAh battery held up well during daily use, although it didn’t last quite as long as its predecessor, the OnePlus 12R. But here’s the thing: the 80W fast charging more than makes up for it. We got from 0 to 62% charge in just 30 minutes during our tests, which is super convenient if you’re always on the go. Plus, OxygenOS 15 adds a layer of smart features, like Task Prediction and real-time translations, which we found useful without being intrusive.
Teaming up with lens specialist Hasselblad continues to pay dividends for OnePlus, as the OnePlus 13 cameras perform better than anything we've seen from the phone maker. Testing produced photos that were very bright and colorful, and I'm particularly impressed with how the OnePlus 13 balances external light sources. Shots in low light turned out well, and the OnePlus 13 clearly has a knack for portrait shots, especially if your subject wears glasses.
6. Poco X7
Alright, let's talk about the Poco X7. This phone is trying to make a splash in the mid-range market, and honestly, it's doing a pretty decent job. It's not perfect, but for the price, it brings a lot to the table. I mean, you can find it for around €235.00 for the 256GB model, which is pretty competitive.
One of the things I appreciate about the Poco X7 is its design. It's got a refreshed look compared to the X6, and it feels pretty good in hand. Plus, the AMOLED display is vibrant and smooth, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos a pleasant experience. The 120Hz refresh rate is a nice touch, too.
Here's a quick rundown of what I like and don't like about the Poco X7:
- IP68 waterproof and improved drop resistance
- Great AMOLED, high-res, 120Hz, Dolby Vision
- Good day-to-day performance
- Slower charging than the X6
- Video stabilization is not very good for walking
- Virtual proximity sensor
Overall, the Poco X7 is a solid device. It's got a well-rounded specs sheet and delivers on most of its promises. If you're looking for a reliable mid-range phone that won't break the bank, the Poco X7 is definitely worth considering. Just don't expect it to be a flagship killer, because it's not. But for everyday use, it's a great option. It's a reworked version of the recent Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G and since it is cheaper than its Redmi counterpart, it easily made it to the top spot in this category. If you are looking for the best midrange phones, this is a good option.
7. Redmi Note 14 4G
Okay, so the Redmi Note 14 4G is on the list. It's looking like a solid, dependable option if you're not trying to break the bank. From what I'm seeing, it's shaping up to be a good all-rounder, improving on the previous model in some key areas. It's not going to blow you away with speed, but it should handle everyday tasks just fine. Let's get into the details.
One of the things that stands out is the improved durability. It now comes with an IP54 rating, which means it's better protected against dust and splashes. That's always a plus. The display is also worth mentioning. It's a bright, flat OLED screen that should make watching videos and browsing the web a pleasant experience. Battery life is decent, so you shouldn't have to worry about constantly searching for a charger. The main camera is dependable, which is good for everyday snapshots. Plus, it still has a 3.5mm jack, IR blaster, and microSD card slot – features that are becoming increasingly rare these days.
However, it's not all sunshine and roses. The chipset is getting a bit old, so don't expect blazing-fast performance. It also doesn't support 4K video recording, and the selfie camera is a bit disappointing. And, like many phones these days, it doesn't come with the latest Android 15/HyperOS 2 out of the box. Still, for the price, it seems like a reasonable trade-off. The Redmi Note 14 4G performance speed is not the fastest, but it gets the job done.
Overall, the Redmi Note 14 4G looks like a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly phone with a good display, decent battery life, and a dependable camera. It might not be the flashiest phone on the market, but it should handle everyday tasks without any major issues. If you're not a heavy gamer or video editor, this could be a great option.
Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
- Improved durability with IP54 rating
- Bright and nicely specced flat OLED display
- Decent battery life
- Dependable main camera
- 3.5mm jack, IR blaster, microSD card slot
8. Moto G62 5G
Okay, so the Moto G62 5G... it's a bit of a throwback, honestly. It was actually removed from some lists back in November 2023, which tells you something about how fast the phone world moves. I remember when this phone was getting some buzz, but tech years are like dog years, right? Still, let's talk about what it was about.
The Moto G62 5G was once considered a decent mid-range option, but with newer phones constantly hitting the market, it's probably not the best choice in 2025.
It's tough to recommend it now when there are so many better options available. The competition is just too fierce. It's like bringing a knife to a gun fight, or, you know, a flip phone to a smartphone convention.
Here's a quick rundown of what you might have gotten with the Moto G62 5G back in the day:
- A decent display (for its time).
- 5G connectivity (which is pretty standard now).
- A mid-range processor (that's probably showing its age).
Honestly, if you're looking for a mid-range phone in 2025, you're better off checking out the other options on this list. The Galaxy A54, for example, is a much better bet. Or even something like the Poco X7. Times change, and phones change even faster.
9. Infinix Zero 30
The Infinix Zero 30 is trying to make a name for itself in the mid-range market. It's a phone that's been on the radar for a little while now, and it's definitely got some interesting things going for it. I mean, it's not perfect, but what phone is, right? It's one of those phones that you see people talking about online, wondering if it's actually worth the hype.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Infinix Zero 30 can get a little toasty during heavy use. You'll want to make sure the temperature stays below 50°C to keep the battery health in good shape. Nobody wants a phone that overheats, right?
Here's a quick rundown of what you might expect:
- A decent camera setup for the price.
- A design that tries to look premium.
- Performance that's okay for everyday tasks, but maybe not for super intense gaming.
It's a phone that's trying to balance features and price, and whether it succeeds really depends on what you're looking for in a phone.
Final Thoughts on Mid-Range Phones for 2025
So there you have it! The mid-range phone market in 2025 is looking pretty solid. With options that balance price and performance, you can find something that fits your needs without breaking the bank. Whether you want a great camera, long battery life, or just a reliable device for everyday use, there’s a mid-range phone out there for you. Remember, these picks are just the tip of the iceberg. As new models come out, we’ll keep updating our list, so check back often. Happy phone hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a mid-range mobile phone?
- Why should I choose a mid-range phone over a flagship?
