Navigating the smartphone market in Malaysia can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re on a sensible budget. As we move through August 2025, the sub-RM1000 category is more crowded and competitive than ever. Every brand promises the 'best' features, but sifting through marketing jargon to find genuine value is a real challenge. You want a phone that feels modern, handles your daily tasks without fuss, takes decent photos for your social feeds, and won't feel obsolete in a year. Decision fatigue is real.
This guide is for anyone looking for a reliable, capable smartphone without spending a fortune. We've focused on models that deliver where it counts: solid day-to-day performance, respectable cameras for the price, good battery life, and future-ready 5G connectivity. These selections are not just about the cheapest price, but about securing the best possible experience for your money. So, if you're asking, "What is the best smartphone under RM1000 in Malaysia for 2025?", this guide provides our top recommendations to help you choose with confidence.
Editor
Denise chevron_right
Table of Contents
How We Picked These Products
To find the best budget smartphones, we focused on what truly matters for everyday users in Malaysia. This isn't a lab-tested comparison of benchmarks but a curated list based on real-world value and usability. Several key principles guided our selection process.
Budget options, price cap at RM1000
Every phone on this list offers excellent value, with a strict price ceiling of RM1000. We looked for devices that punch above their weight, giving you features often found in more expensive models. The goal is to maximise your ringgit without compromising on core functionality.
Solid performance
A good budget phone in 2025 must be smooth and responsive. We prioritised devices with capable processors and sufficient RAM (typically 8GB) to handle multitasking, from juggling WhatsApp and Waze to browsing social media and streaming on Netflix, without frustrating lag.
Decent camera
While you won't get flagship-level photography, the camera needs to be good enough for capturing memories, sharing on Instagram, and scanning documents. We looked for phones with competent main sensors that perform well in good lighting and offer useful software features.
Future-ready connectivity
With Malaysia's 5G network expanding, having a 5G-capable phone is no longer a luxury—it's a practical choice for future-proofing your purchase. All our recommendations include 5G, ensuring you can take advantage of faster speeds for years to come.
Our Top Smartphones under RM1000 in Malaysia this August 2025
Mini verdict
The quintessential budget champion, offering a brilliant mix of features that feel more expensive than its price tag suggests.
Key features
- Vibrant, high-refresh-rate AMOLED display.
- Capable main camera sensor for clear daylight shots.
- Large battery with respectable fast charging.
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
Why we recommend it
The Redmi Note series has long been the standard-bearer for value in Malaysia, and the Note 14 5G continues this legacy (even as the best phone under RM700). It expertly balances a premium-feeling screen, a battery that easily lasts a full day, and a processor that doesn't stumble under pressure. For most people, this phone hits the sweet spot, delivering a dependable and enjoyable experience without any major compromises. It's the kind of device you can recommend to friends and family without hesitation.
Specs
- Display: ~6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7000-series or similar
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB
- Battery & Charging: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging
- Camera setup: 108MP main + ultrawide + macro
- Operating System: MIUI based on Android 15
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
User tip
Dive into the MIUI display settings to calibrate the colours to your liking; the 'Saturated' mode makes the AMOLED panel truly pop.
Mini verdict
A safe and dependable choice from a trusted brand, prioritising software longevity and a polished user experience.
Key features
- Clean and intuitive One UI software
- Industry-leading promise of long-term OS and security updates
- Bright and clear Super AMOLED display
- Solid build quality and brand reliability
Why we recommend it
While other phones may offer more impressive specs on paper, the Samsung Galaxy A26 5G's strength lies in its software and reliability. Samsung's promise of four major OS updates and five years of security patches is unmatched in this price bracket. This makes it an excellent investment for those who want a phone that will remain secure and up-to-date for years. The One UI interface is also a pleasure to use—it's clean, smart, and packed with genuinely useful features.
Specs
- Display: ~6.5-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED, 90Hz
- Processor: Samsung Exynos 1400-series
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 128GB/256GB
- Battery & Charging: 5000mAh with 25W fast charging
- Camera setup: 50MP main + ultrawide + macro
- Operating System: One UI 7 based on Android 15
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
User tip
Use the 'Modes and Routines' feature to automate settings, like silencing your phone at work or enabling a specific power-saving mode at night.
Mini verdict
An unapologetically performance-focused device that delivers maximum horsepower for gamers on a budget.
Key features
- Powerful chipset designed for smooth gaming.
- High-refresh-rate screen with a fast touch response rate.
- Advanced cooling system to maintain performance during long sessions.
- Aggressive, gamer-centric design.
Why we recommend it
The Poco M7 Pro is built for one thing: speed. If you spend more time in Mobile Legends or PUBG Mobile than on Instagram, this is the phone for you. Poco consistently prioritises the processor above all else, giving you a gaming experience that rivals more expensive devices. The addition of a high-refresh-rate display and a capable cooling system ensures that gameplay is not just fast, but also smooth and sustained. It’s the closest you can get to a dedicated gaming phone without breaking the RM1000 barrier.
Specs
- Display: ~6.67-inch FHD+ LCD, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8000-series (performance-tuned)
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB
- Battery & Charging: 5000mAh with 67W fast charging
- Camera setup: 64MP main + ultrawide
- Operating System: MIUI for Poco based on Android 15
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, IR Blaster
User tip
Activate the 'Game Turbo' mode before launching a game to optimise system resources, block notifications, and enable performance-enhancing tweaks.
Mini verdict
A fashion-forward smartphone that stands out from the crowd with its unique design and incredibly fast charging speeds.
Key features
- Slim, lightweight build with an eye-catching finish
- Blazing-fast charging technology, among the best in its class
- Bright, fluid display
- Competent camera system for social media
Why we recommend it
For those who view their phone as a style accessory, the realme 13 5G is a top contender. Realme consistently delivers some of the most interesting designs in the budget segment, and this model is no exception. Beyond its good looks, its standout feature is the super-fast charging. Being able to top up your battery from near-empty to over 50% in the time it takes to have a coffee is a practical benefit that makes a real difference in a busy day.
Specs
- Display: ~6.7-inch FHD+ LCD, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7000-series
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB
- Battery & Charging: 5000mAh with 67W SuperVOOC charging
- Camera setup: 108MP main + depth sensor
- Operating System: Realme UI based on Android 15
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
User tip
Customise the 'Always-On Display' with your own patterns or text to make the phone's look even more unique.
Mini verdict
A premium mid-range phone with a flagship-level AMOLED display and impressive durability features.
Key features
- 6.78" AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits peak brightness
- MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate chipset for reliable 5G performance
- IP64 water resistance and MIL-STD-810H compliance for durability
- Unique scent micro encapsulation technology lasting up to 6 months
- 5500mAh battery with 45W fast charging and reverse charging
- 64MP main camera with large sensor for better low-light performance
Why we recommend it
The Infinix Note 50S stands out with its premium AMOLED display that rivals flagship phones, making it perfect if you consume lots of video content or mobile gaming. The IP64 rating provides crucial protection during our rainy season, while the unique scent technology adds a distinctive touch. At its price, it offers exceptional value with features typically found in phones costing twice as much.
Specs
- Display: 6.78" AMOLED, 144Hz, 1300 nits peak, Gorilla Glass 5
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate (4nm)
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB (no microSD slot)
- Battery: 5500mAh with 45W charging, 10W reverse charging
- Camera: 64MP main (f/1.8) + 2MP + 13MP front
- OS: Android 15, XOS 15 (2 major updates)
- Special: IP64, MIL-STD-810H, RGB notification light
- Connectivity: 5G, dual nano-SIM
User tip
Take advantage of the 144Hz display by enabling it for gaming and video streaming - the smooth visuals make a noticeable difference in user experience, especially for action games.
Mini verdict
A gaming-focused powerhouse with exceptional battery life and smooth 144Hz display.
Key features
- 6.78" Full HD+ 144Hz IPS LCD for smooth gaming and scrolling
- MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate chipset for solid gaming performance
- 6000mAh battery for all-day heavy usage
- Up to 24GB expandable RAM for multitasking
- Gaming-optimised cooling system
- 108MP main camera for detailed photography
Why we recommend it
The Tecno Pova 7 5G excels as a gaming phone that doesn't compromise on daily usability. With its high refresh rate display and powerful processor, it handles demanding games smoothly, while the massive 6000mAh battery ensures you won't run out of power during extended gaming sessions. The expandable RAM feature is handy if you want to multitask between social media, gaming, and productivity apps.
Specs
- Display: 6.78" Full HD+ 144Hz IPS LCD
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate
- RAM & Storage: 12GB + 256GB (expandable to 24GB RAM)
- Battery: 6000mAh with 70W fast charging
- Camera: 108MP main + 50MP ultra-wide + 16MP front
- OS: Android 14, HiOS 14
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3
User tip
Enable the high refresh rate mode selectively for games and smooth apps to maximise battery life while still enjoying the fluid experience when it matters most.
Mini verdict
A sensible 5G phone that delivers dependable performance without unnecessary frills at an honest price.
Key features
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset for efficient 5G performance
- IP64 water resistance with a washable design for practical durability
- Dual stereo speakers with 300% ultra-high volume for excellent audio
- 50MP AI Motion Sensing camera with intelligent photography features
- 5,200mAh battery providing reliable all-day usage
- Clean Magic UI interface based on Android 14
Why we recommend it
The Honor 200 Smart 5G addresses the core needs of most Malaysian smartphone users without breaking the bank. At under RM1000, it delivers genuine 5G connectivity, solid build quality, and reliable everyday performance. The IP64 rating and washable design make it particularly practical for our Malaysian weather conditions, whilst the dual speakers provide surprisingly good audio quality for media consumption. It's the ideal choice for those who want a dependable phone that covers all the basics.
Specs
- Display: 6.8" FHD+ LCD
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4nm)
- RAM & Storage: 8GB + 256GB
- Battery: 5,200mAh with 35W charging
- Camera: 50MP AI Motion Sensing main + front camera
- OS: Android 14, Magic UI
- Special: IP64 rating, washable water resistance
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers
User tip
Take advantage of the washable design feature - you can rinse the phone under running water to clean it!
Buying Guide
Understand Your Priorities
In the sub-RM1,000 category, every phone is a story of compromise. A phone with a great processor might have a mediocre camera. A phone with a massive battery might be bulky and heavy. The key is to decide which compromises you’re willing to make. Think about your daily usage in Malaysia.
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Performance or Camera? Do you play games like Mobile Legends, or do you mostly take photos for Instagram and family albums?
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Battery Life or Design? Do you need a phone to last all day on a single charge while using Waze, or do you prefer something slim and lightweight that’s easy to carry?
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Screen Quality or Price? Is a vibrant AMOLED screen a must-have for watching videos, or are you happy with a basic LCD to save some money?
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Do you need NFC? Contactless payments and topping up your TNG card with your phone is a huge convenience many people now rely on.
Answering these questions will help you zero in on the phone that best fits your actual needs.
What to Expect at This Price
Instead of strict price tiers, it's more helpful to think in terms of priority. All these phones are under RM1,000, but they cater to different needs.
Battery Champions (RM700 - RM900)
Phones in this bracket prioritise longevity above all else. You’ll get massive batteries (6,000mAh+) that can easily last two days, but you’ll likely compromise on screen resolution, processor speed, and camera quality. They are often bigger and heavier.
Recommended pick: Tecno Pova 7 5G
Balanced All-Rounders (RM900 - RM1,000)
This is the sweet spot. These phones try to offer a good mix of everything: a decent screen (sometimes AMOLED), capable performance for daily use, a solid main camera, and fast-ish charging. They are the safest bet for most users.
Recommended pick: HONOR 200 Smart 5G
Budget Specialists (Around RM1,000)
These phones push the budget to excel in one specific area. You might find a device focused entirely on gaming performance or another on delivering the best possible camera or design for the money, while making bigger compromises elsewhere.
Recommended pick for performance: POCO M7 Pro 5G
Features Worth Stretching Your Budget For
Even under RM1,000, an extra RM100 can make a difference. Here are features worth paying a little more for:
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AMOLED Display: Offers significantly better contrast and colours than LCD - a considerable upgrade for watching videos.
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Faster Charging (67W+): Being able to get a 50% charge in under 30 minutes is a massive quality-of-life improvement.
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8GB of RAM: While 6GB is usable, 8GB provides more headroom for multitasking and helps the phone feel faster for longer.
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NFC: Essential in Malaysia for convenient TNG card reloads. Don't overlook this feature.
When to Buy
To get the best price, time your purchase around major online sales events. Merdeka sales (August) are on right now. Beyond that, the most significant discounts are found during the 9.9 (9th September), 11.11 (11th November), and 12.12 (12th December) campaigns on Shopee and Lazada. Look for stackable vouchers from the platform, the seller, and bank partners to maximise your savings.
Final Reminder
Don't get lost chasing the highest number on a spec sheet. The best phone under RM1,000 is the one that reliably does what you need it to do every day. A phone with a 2-day battery life is a better choice for a heavy user than one with a slightly faster chip that dies by 4 PM. Be honest about your priorities, and you’ll find a phone you’ll be happy with.
FAQs That Matter
Is 6GB of RAM enough for a phone in 2025?
For basic use (WhatsApp, Instagram, browsing), 6GB of RAM is still acceptable. However, we strongly recommend opting for a model with 8GB of RAM if your budget allows. It makes a noticeable difference in multitasking and will help the phone feel smoother for longer as apps become more demanding.
Do these budget phones get software updates?
Software support varies by brand. Samsung is generally the best in this category, offering up to four years of security updates on some models. Brands like Xiaomi and Honor are improving but may be less consistent. You can typically expect at least two years of security updates, but major Android version upgrades are not always guaranteed.
Is it safe to buy phones from Shopee or Lazada?
Yes, it is very safe, provided you buy from the right sellers. Always purchase from:
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Official Brand Stores: (e.g., Xiaomi Official Store, Samsung Official Store) on LazMall or Shopee Mall.
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Authorised Retailers: Reputable sellers with high ratings and thousands of reviews. This ensures you get a genuine Malaysian set with an official local warranty. Avoid sellers with low ratings or deals that seem too good to be true.
Should I buy a 5G phone in this price range?
Yes. As of August 2025, Malaysia's 5G network is widely available in urban areas. All the phones on this list are 5G-capable, making them future-proof. 5G offers significantly faster download and upload speeds, which enhances everything from streaming high-quality video to online gaming.
Which phone brand has the most service centres in Malaysia?
Samsung Support Centre:
Samsung is one of the biggest smartphone manufacturers in the world, and also in Malaysia, so naturally, they have plenty of service centres here. You can easily run into a Samsung service centre in most of the modern shopping malls nationwide. And it’s not only smartphones; you can also get all your Samsung devices, including wearables and home appliances, serviced on an appointment basis!
OPPO Customer Service Centre:
You’ve probably seen OPPO Customer Service Centres everywhere. They can be connected in a shopping mall or as a stand-alone store. Similar to other brands, you can find the list of service centres available from its dedicated support website.
Final Recommendations
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For the student who needs a phone that never dies: The Tecno Pova 7 5G and its massive 7,000mAh battery is the obvious choice.
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For the casual gamer on a strict budget: The POCO M7 Pro 5G delivers the best performance and smoothest gameplay in this category.
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For the person who wants a reliable, no-fuss daily driver: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 5G is the best all-rounder, offering incredible value. The Samsung Galaxy A26 5G is an excellent alternative if you prefer its software and long-term support.
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For the aspiring social media photographer: The HONOR 200 Smart 5G offers a slight edge in camera quality for your daily snaps.
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For the style-conscious user: The realme 13 5G stands out with its premium design and high-speed charging.
Choosing a budget phone doesn't mean you have to settle for a poor experience. The market today is filled with excellent, high-value options. By understanding your own needs and knowing where each phone excels, you can easily find a device that feels like a bargain, not a compromise.