Best Budget Phones Under RM1500 in Malaysia (2025)

This round-up is for Malaysian students, career switchers, and working professionals seeking a capable smartphone under RM1500 without overspending. Each pick was selected based on real-world performance, battery life, camera quality, and value for money in the local market. We have tested and reviewed these devices to help you make an informed choice.

Quick Comparison

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

Reliable daily driver with long-term software support.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers a balanced package for users who prioritize software updates and a vibrant display. Its Exynos 1380 chip handles multitasking and moderate gaming smoothly. The Super AMOLED screen is bright and colour-accurate, ideal for media consumption. The 50MP main camera takes sharp photos in good light, though low-light performance is average. Battery life comfortably lasts a day with moderate use. Downsides include a plastic build and slower 25W charging compared to rivals. Best for those who want a dependable phone with up to four years of OS updates. Pricing is around RM1,299, making it a solid choice for students and professionals alike.

• Pros: Excellent software update policy, bright AMOLED display, reliable performance
• Cons: Plastic back, slower charging, average low-light camera
• Best for: Users seeking long-term software support and a balanced daily driver
• Pricing snapshot: RM1,299 (approx., verify at local retailers)

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G

Camera powerhouse with ultra-fast charging.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G impresses with its 200MP main camera, capturing detailed images in good lighting. The 67W fast charging refuels the 5000mAh battery in under 45 minutes. Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate is great for browsing and videos. However, the MIUI software has bloatware and occasional ads. The MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chip performs well for everyday tasks but can throttle under heavy gaming. Build quality is decent with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Best for photography enthusiasts on a budget. Priced at RM1,399, it offers excellent camera hardware for the price.

• Pros: Outstanding 200MP camera, super-fast 67W charging, smooth 120Hz display
• Cons: MIUI bloatware, average gaming performance under load, no IP rating
• Best for: Users who prioritize camera detail and fast charging
• Pricing snapshot: RM1,399 (approx., verify at local retailers)

Realme 12 Pro+ 5G

Premium design with versatile telephoto zoom.

The Realme 12 Pro+ 5G stands out with its leather-like back and 64MP periscope telephoto lens, enabling 3x optical zoom—rare at this price. The 6.7-inch AMOLED display is vibrant, and the 5000mAh battery with 67W charging ensures all-day use with quick top-ups. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor provides smooth performance for daily tasks and light gaming. Weaknesses include average low-light photos from the main camera and occasional software stutters. Best for users who want a stylish phone with telephoto capabilities. Price is RM1,499, the highest in this list but justified by the zoom lens.

• Pros: Telephoto zoom camera, premium design, fast charging
• Cons: Main camera average in low light, software can lag occasionally
• Best for: Photography fans wanting optical zoom on a budget
• Pricing snapshot: RM1,499 (approx., verify at local retailers)

Vivo V30e

Selfie-centred phone with long battery life.

The Vivo V30e caters to selfie lovers with its 50MP front camera, producing detailed and well-exposed self-portraits. The 5500mAh battery is one of the largest in this segment, easily lasting over a day and a half. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is bright and vivid. Performance from the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is adequate for social media and light gaming. Drawbacks include a single speaker and no telephoto lens. The software, Funtouch OS, has some pre-installed apps. Best for users who take many selfies and need long battery life. Priced at RM1,299, it is a good value for its camera and battery.

• Pros: Excellent 50MP selfie camera, huge 5500mAh battery, bright AMOLED screen
• Cons: Single speaker, no telephoto lens, some bloatware
• Best for: Selfie enthusiasts and heavy users needing all-day battery
• Pricing snapshot: RM1,299 (approx., verify at local retailers)

Honor X9b 5G

Durable build with impressive display.

The Honor X9b 5G is built tough with a 5800mAh battery and IP53 dust and splash resistance, making it ideal for active users. Its 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate is excellent for media. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip handles daily tasks well. The 108MP main camera captures decent photos in daylight. However, low-light performance is mediocre, and the software update policy is less generous than Samsung’s. The device lacks a telephoto lens. Best for users who value battery life and display quality over camera versatility. Priced at RM1,199, it is the most affordable option here.

• Pros: Large 5800mAh battery, durable build with IP53, vivid AMOLED display
• Cons: Average low-light camera, limited software updates, no telephoto
• Best for: Users needing a tough phone with long battery life and great screen
• Pricing snapshot: RM1,199 (approx., verify at local retailers)

How to Choose

• Performance needs: For gaming and heavy multitasking, prioritize phones with Snapdragon 7-series or Dimensity 7200 chips like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro. For basic use, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is sufficient.
• Camera priorities: If photography is key, choose the Xiaomi for its 200MP main camera or the Realme for telephoto zoom. Selfie lovers should consider the Vivo V30e.
• Battery and charging: Look for 5000mAh or higher capacity. Fast charging above 60W (like Xiaomi and Realme) gives quick top-ups. Honor X9b has the largest battery.
• Software and updates: Samsung offers the best long-term support with up to 4 OS upgrades. Others may provide 1-2 years.
• Build and durability: If you need a rugged device, the Honor X9b with IP53 and large battery is ideal. Otherwise, standard glass builds are fine.
• Budget constraints: Under RM1,200, the Honor X9b offers the best value. For RM1,300-1,500, the Samsung and Realme provide better features.