In today’s constantly changing smartphone landscape, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy flagship-level features. The ₹45,000 price range has emerged as a sweet spot for consumers seeking high-performance, great cameras, premium builds, and long battery life—all without entering ultra-premium territory.
If you’re looking to upgrade your smartphone in 2025, here’s a handpicked list of the top phones available under ₹45,000 that give you the best bang for your buck.
1. OnePlus 12R – The Flagship Killer Returns
Price: ₹42,999 (approx.)
OnePlus continues to reign supreme in the mid-premium segment with its 12R, providing flagship features at an affordable price. Fueled by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it provides silky smooth performance whether gaming, multitasking, or streaming.
Key Features:
6.78″ 120Hz refresh rate AMOLED display
5000mAh battery with 100W SUPERVOOC fast charging
50MP Sony IMX890 primary sensor for clear photography
Lightweight OxygenOS experience with least bloatware
If speed and smoothness with a top-notch build is what you’re looking for, the OnePlus 12R is a no-brainer.
2. iQOO Neo 9 Pro – Power-Packed Performer
Price: ₹37,999 (8GB/128GB variant)
For those seeking best-in-class gaming and performance, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro is a performance monster. Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, this device is built for speed, and it delivers.
Main Features:
6.78″ AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Dual-tone back with racing stripe pattern
Big vapor cooling chamber for improved thermal management
5160mAh battery with 120W fast charging
It’s a powerful pick for gamers and power users looking for maximum performance without emptying their pockets.
3. Nothing Phone (2) – Style Meets Substance
Price: ₹44,999
Nothing Phone (2) may be all about looks—though that transparent back and Glyph Interface sure are eye-catching. Under the surface, however, it brings its A-game with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, providing top-notch real-world performance and battery life.
Key Features:
Iconic Glyph LED notification system
Clean Nothing OS on Android 14
Dual 50MP cameras with consistent output
4700mAh battery with 45W wired & wireless charging
If you desire something new without sacrificing capability, the Nothing Phone (2) is the trendsetter to choose.
4. Samsung Galaxy A55 5G – Samsung’s Mid-Range Marvel
Price: ₹42,999
Samsung’s new Galaxy A55 introduces flagship-level design and features to the upper mid-range market. With a good camera setup and Samsung’s best AMOLED screen, it’s an excellent all-rounder.
Key Features:
6.6″ FHD+ Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
Exynos 1480 chipset with improved GPU
50MP primary camera with OIS
IP67 water and dust resistance
Ideal for those who desire a premium Samsung experience without going the whole way to the Galaxy S series.
5. Google Pixel 7a – Pure Android, Stellar Camera
Price: ₹43,999
The Google Pixel 7a is still wowing with its class-leading camera and stock Android experience. It might not be the most powerful on paper, but the Tensor G2 chip provides silky-smooth performance and AI-powered features.
Key Features:
64MP primary sensor with Pixel’s signature computational photography
Android 14 with guaranteed updates till 2028
6.1″ OLED display, compact and easy to use
Face and fingerprint unlock options
If clean software and photography are more important to you than raw specs, this is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
People buying smartphones in 2025 have some amazing choices within ₹45,000. Whether you are a gamer, a photographer, or just someone who wants a beautiful design and clean software, there’s a device made specifically for you in this category.
So, if you want to find the ideal combination of premium functionality and reasonable price, any one of these challengers can be your next smartphone buddy—without taking a bite out of your wallet.
