Umar Naqshbandi
As much as high-tech is fascinating, mid-range smartphones are getting the most hype among Malaysian consumers. By compromising a bit of the flagship specs, the value of mid-range device is much more affordable yet performs almost equally well compared to a top-end smartphone for most general users.
And so the demand for good quality mid-range smartphones ensues. Continue reading to find out which mid-range smartphone best suits you and, of course, your wallet.
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8 Best Mid-Range Smartphones in Malaysia
Table of Contents
Why It’s Our Top Pick?
Nothing’s second smartphone comes with top-notch performance and the type of features that you’ll definitely want to show off to everyone: the Gylph Interface, unique to Nothing Phones only. Nothing Phone (2) is a conversation starter and a testament to your appreciation for thoughtful design.
Overview
Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, the Nothing Phone (2) ensures seamless multitasking, and smooth performance, while also allowing you to view its stunning 6.7” LTPO OLED display. But the star of the show is its Glyph Interface, you can assign distinct light and sound sequences to individual contacts and notification types. It can also be used to record and craft your very own Glyph Ringtones thanks to its Glyph Interface
The dual rear camera system in the Nothing Phone (2) boasts a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultrawide sensor, which has the Sony IMX615 sensor built into it, this ensures exceptional photo quality, in every shot you take. Plus, with its IP rating of IP54, it also offers durability and protection against daily elements like raindrops and dust.
Nothing Phone (2) Specifications:
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
- Display:6.7” LTPO OLED, 2412x1080, 120 Hz
- Memory: up to 12GB RAM + up to 512GB ROM
- Rear Camera: Dual camera, 50MP Main + 50MP Ultrawide
- Front Camera: 32 MP
- Battery: 4,500 mAh
- IP Rating: IP54
- Operating System: Nothing OS 2.0
Who is it for?
Nothing Phone (2) is great for those who like to express themselves through tech. With its unique, see-through design and Glyph Interface, it will surely impress people who see it and you can also personalise the lights to your notifications. Besides, it supports 5G so you can enjoy a fast internet connection and lower latency, and you’ll also be future-proof.
Overview
Samsung Galaxy A54 is both visually appealing and has cutting-edge features that are sure to grab your attention. It has a premium glass finish that not only enhances its aesthetics but also adds a touch of sophistication thanks to the clean camera layout and captivating colour options that will suit your aesthetics.
Its rear camera system features a 50 MP main lens, a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5 MP macro lens. the Galaxy A54 5G lets you capture every moment with stunning clarity and precision, and then you can view those photos on the Galaxy A54’s 6.4-inch FHD+ Infinity-O display that delivers vibrant visuals. Plus, with its battery life that spans up to two days, you can stay connected and entertained without constantly worrying about recharging.
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Specifications
- Processor: Octa-core 2.4 GHz
- Display: 6.4” FHD+ Super AMOLED Infinity O-Display, 1080 x 2340, 120Hz
- Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 50 MP + 12.MP + 5 MP
- Front Camera: 32 MP
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- IP Rating: IP67
- Operating System: One UI, Android 13
Who is it for?
If you're in search of a smartphone that has an elegant design and cutting-edge technology, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is your ideal choice. It makes for a great option for those who look at how pleasing the smartphone looks when buying one. Additionally, it has an IP67 rating which provides you peace of mind, as your phone is equipped to withstand water and dust.
Read our full review here.
More: We Reviewed the Samsung Galaxy A8, and it Blew Us Out of the Water
Overview
vivo iQOO Z7 is a very capable gaming companion that lets you play mobile games and has powerful hardware, an optimized cooling system, and superior touch technology. Besides that, it features an Ultra Large Vapor Chamber Liquid Cooling System that efficiently dissipates heat during intense gaming sessions. This cooling setup ensures your device remains cool, and can lower the CPU core by up to 15 degrees Celcius.
Gaming typically goes on for hours due to how immersive most of today’s games are, so you’ll be happy to know about this phone’s Six-Dimension Eye Protection feature, which reduces blue light emission to minimize eye strain from staring at the screen too long. With its Snapdragon 782G Mobile Platform processor, the iQOO Z7 allows for seamless multitasking and high-speed gaming performance.
vivo iQOO Z7 Specifications
- Processor: Snapdragon 782G Mobile Platform
- Display: 6.64” LCD, 2388×1080, 120 Hz
- Memory: 12 GB RAM, 256 GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 64MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
- Battery: 5000mAh (TYP)
- Operating System: Funtouch OS 13 (Based on Android 13）
Who is it for?
Gaming smartphones don’t necessarily have to be expensive, which is where the vivo iQOO Z7 comes in. At less than RM2k, you’re getting all the features and specifications you’ll need in order to play demanding games on your smartphone, and the phone’s cooling system also ensures you won’t experience overheating too frequently. Engineered with gamers in mind, this smartphone packs amazing features for the best gaming experience.
Overview
Packed with features that punch above its price point, the Redmi Note 12 boasts a captivating 120Hz AMOLED display and a 6.67” screen that brings content to life with vibrant colours and fluid animations, enhancing your visual experience. It’s driven by the Snapdragon 685 chipset which gives you smooth multitasking and enhanced gaming experiences.
As for taking photos, the 50MP Triple camera setup gives you clear and stunning shots that are worthy of posting on social media. Apart from that, it has 33W fast charging, so your device is ready to go in no time, letting you focus on your tasks instead of waiting for your battery to replenish.
Redmi Note 12 Specifications:
- Processor: Snapdragon 685 Chipset
- Display: 6.67" AMOLED DotDisplay, 2400 x 1080, 120Hz
- Memory: 6 GB RAM +128 GB ROM / 8 GB RAM +128GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 50MP + 8MP + 2MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
- Battery: 5000mAh (typ)
- IP Rating: IP53
- Operating System: MIUI 14 based on Android 13
Who is it for?
The Redmi Note 12 not only performs but looks good doing it. It’s a perfect option for those who are more budget-conscious and still want something that can keep up with their daily lives and activities, especially in the camera department which is important for those who like posting photos on Instagram. All things considered, the Redmi Note 12 is a mid-range marvel that doesn’t stretch your budget too much.
Overview
The OPPO Reno10 Pro+ is a mid-range smartphone that sets a new standard for visual excellence with its captivating AMOLED display. It gives you Full HD+ visuals at 120 Hz refresh rate which gives you a beautiful and smooth viewing experience. What makes this smartphone stand out from the rest is its camera which gives you clear lifelike photos that make it seem like you’re still there when you took it.
It features a sleek and premium design that complements its advanced features and powerful performance. Other than that, it has 12GB of RAM and 256GB of ROM, which means that this device has ample space for your apps, photos, videos, and files.
OPPO Reno10 Pro+ Specifications
- Processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform
- Display: 6.74" 3D AMOLED, FHD+, 120Hz
- Memory: 12GB RAM, 256GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 50MP + 64MP + 8MP
- Front Camera: 32 MP
- Battery: 4700mAh (Typ)
- Operating System: ColorOS 13.1
Who is it for?
OPPO Reno10 Pro+ stands out with its exceptional display and photography capabilities, while also excelling with the AMOLED display which lets you experience rich colours, sharp details, and smooth animations. Making this smartphone ideal for media consumption, casual gaming, and browsing. So, if you are looking to take brilliant portraits on your smartphone, your best bet would be with this one from OPPO.
Read our full review here.
Overview
If you’re constantly on the move because of work, getting a smartphone with an excellent battery life should be your top priority when looking for a smartphone. One phone that does just that: the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G, which gives you 2 days of battery life with regular use. Other than that, its super AMOLED display lets you easily see the screen even when the sun is shining brightly onto it, making it perfect for outdoor use.
Its camera is also pretty good and gives you detailed and clear shots, all you need to make sure of is that the lighting is good and you can get pretty decent photos. But the best thing about the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is the design of the phone and the array of colours it comes in, mainly the Awesome Lime colour which gives this smartphone a very unique look.
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Specifications
- Processor: Octa-core, Mediatek Dimensity
- Display: 6.6” Super AMOLED, 1080 x 2340 (FHD+) @ 120 Hz
- Memory: up to 8GB + 256GB, extendable up to 1TB
- Rear Camera: 48MP + 8MP + 5MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
- Battery: 5000mAh
- IP Rating: IP67
- Operating System: Android
Who is it for?
With its 2 days of battery life, the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is perfect for those who need a phone that doesn’t run out of battery while being outside. It’s a great option for those who are constantly on the move and will be away from their charger for a long time. It also has an IP67 rating which makes it safe to take outdoors.
Read our full review here.
Overview
Realme 11 Pro + 5G comes with an impressive 200MP OIS SuperZoom camera which captures intricate details and stunning visuals like never before, especially with its 4X In-sensor Zoom which gives you remarkable close-up shots. But, the best thing about this phone’s camera is its ability to capture photos in low light and during the night thanks to its Ultra Clear Night Shots feature. Those with shaky hands would also appreciate this camera because it has a Four-Axis Anti-shake algorithm that ensures your photos and videos remain steady and shake-free.
Apart from its amazing camera, it also allows for up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of ROM, so you can store all your favourite photos, and even download an ample amount of apps. All of this is built into a 6.7” Curved Vision screen, an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, which gives you a beautiful display with smooth animations.
Realme 11 Pro+ 5G Specifications
- Processor: Dimensity 7050 5G Chipset
- Display: 6.7” Curved Vision, FHD+, 120 Hz
- Memory: Up to 12 GB RAM, Up to 256 GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 200MP+8Mp+2Mp
- Front Camera: 32MP
- Battery: 5000mAh (typ)
- Operating System: realme UI 4.0
Who is it for?
The Realme 11 Pro + 5G is tailor-made for photography enthusiasts and creatives who demand exceptional camera capabilities without compromising on other features. With its amazing camera capabilities and features, you’re sure to capture memorable moments and views and store them in your phone to reminisce on later thanks to its ample memory and storage.
Overview
POCO F5 gives you lightning-fast performance, seamless multitasking, and smooth app launches thanks to its Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 Mobile Platform processor, which ensures great performance in doing pretty much any task including gaming. It’s cooled by LiquidCool Technology 2.0 which keeps the phone at optimal thermal management even during intense usage.
This smartphone also gives you a long battery life which lets you use the POCO F5 for a whole day without needing frequent recharging. As for its design, it has a slim bezel which lets you view more of the screen, and enjoy its beautiful Flow AMOLED DotDisplay at full HD resolution.
POCO F5 Specifications
- Processor: Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 Mobile Platform
- Display: 6.67" FHD+ Flow AMOLED DotDisplay, 2400 x 1080, 120Hz
- Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB ROM
- Rear Camera: 64MP + 8MP + 2MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
- Battery: 5000mAh (typ)
- Operating System: MIUI 14 for POCO
Who is it for?
If you run a lot of apps at once, you will appreciate the POCO F5’s fast storage and memory which lets you run resource-intensive apps. It lets you multitask with the phone without the worry of overheating thanks to its cooling capabilities, which even allows for smooth gameplay and efficient thermal management.
FAQ
- What is a mid-range phone?
For this article, we define mid-range phones based on specs and relative price. All phones featured here are less than RM2,500 (for base models) and more than RM1000 at the time of writing; with few exceptions going lower than RM1000.
Mid-range phones are typically all-rounders, with capable specs in all areas. Some brands may choose to focus on one key trait and sacrifice other specs to keep the price lower than flagships, typically in camera and display, which is why most mid-range smartphones may come with older hardware and processors.
You will not find luxury specs like wireless charging, waterproofing, and premium build quality in mid-range phones; these are compromises you need to make for flagship-level specs at lower prices.
- Are mid-range phones better than flagship phones?
The answer is almost always no. As mentioned above, mid-range phones tend to compromise on certain aspects in order to keep the price down; these sacrifices are often made on build quality and processors. If you’re looking for a capable daily driver, a mid-range phone is great; but if you really want a powerhouse that does everything, go for the pricier flagships.
- How long do mid-range phones last?
Like all other phones, it depends on your usage and the brand’s software updates. For example, Nothing has promised four OS updates and five years of security updates for the Phone (1); as did Samsung with its Galaxy A series (and other selected lineups). This guarantees at least five years of usage on the phones, but if you manage to crack the screen beyond repair past the warranty period, that lifespan may not be quite as accurate.