This year has already witnessed mid-range phones offering a good mix of performance and price point delivering flagship type of experiences but at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re someone who loves taking pictures, or you want a dedicated device for gaming, the mid-range still has plenty to offer and at a competitive position.
The Growth of the Mid-Range Smartphone
Sure, there has been growth seen in the budget phones and the high-end ones, but it is the mid-range segment that has been the most marketed for growth. Manufacturers have started upping their game which has made it possible to gain access to advanced attributes such as powerful chipsets and best cameras without overpaying. Smartphones in this range particularly under 350$ now feature flagship grade specs, trustworthy software support and innovative camera features aiming to give a full experience.
Remarkable Devices For 2024
Moto Edge 50 Neo
Motorola seems to have nailed it with their Edge 50 Neo as it falls comfortably under the 300$ price range while still offering great features. While looking at the specs and features, the phone surely competes with premium devices such as Nothing Phone(2a) while being powered by Dimensity 7300. It also features an IP68 rating along with MIL-STD-810 SGS certifications making sure the phone and its vegan leather back is safe to use.
The device supports a 6.4-inch LTPO AMOLED screen, a 10MP telephoto lens with a 3x zoom, and wireless charging which is uncommon in this price category. Thanks to the Motorola smartphone software being predicted for five years of updates, it’s also a long-term investment although it’s still to be seen how Motorola performs with its software.
Google Pixel 8a
This Android device is easily compact and powerful, especially at a price point that June 8, the device was listed for 625$ and has since dropped to keep an eye on as low as 400$ . The Tensor G3 chip within the device allows for ease of use while the 6.1-inch OLED screen with a 120hz refresh rate allows for an immersive viewing experience.
Features that stand out the most are substantially Mp’s on the camera– 64 Mp on the primary lens with 13 Mp on the ultrawide lens, which Google integrates with its software, mostly in the form of its computational photography. Some of the AI capabilities offered on Pixel 9 series are absent, but Google’s commitment to providing seven years of Android updates makes this reliable for the future.
Poco F6
For gamers, the Poco F6 is a flagship level device with price that is friendly to the user’s pocket. The handset works effortlessly due to having a Snapdragon 8s gen 3 chipsets. Moreover, due to having Poco’s HyperOS integrated into it the performance feels smooth and easy.
Although one may consider the plastic rear of the phone as a turn-off, the functionality of the phone and an impressive lens compensates, allowing the phone to compete in this range. It is clear that the Poco F6 is a notable choice for users who value efficiency and speed.
Xiaomi 14
Flagship offerings are fitted in the mid-range premium category on the Xiaomi 14. With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and a 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED touch screen, it is extremely suitable for one-handed use. Equipped with Leica-tuned cameras, the phone features three 50MP sensors, making it ideal for both stills and videos.
If one requirement is a cost-effective durable mobile with compact size and features of a flagship, then Xiaomi 14 is perfect for you.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Pride in offering quality build and rich software experience is well maintained by the brand S.A.M.S.U.N.G in its Galaxy S23 FE mobile. The Exynos 2200 chipset is slightly slow but comfortably manages the basic requirements of the user. In addition to its IP67 certification against dust and water, it is also packed with the Samsung AI suite. Although its camera setup might not be the best in this category, the S23 FE offers excellent software support, making it one of the most versatile options under 350$ .
Honourable Mention: Realme GT 6T
The GT 6T has a powerful Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset making it recommended in the more premium smartphone category. There is a missing telephoto camera and the plastic back of the GT 6T but still considering the price it offers high end performance making it an ideal for many buyers.
Conclusion
The mid-range segment in 2024 is still astonishing while considering all the software and hardware updated available. The features that were previously with the flagships only are now available making the performance, camera and longevity still optimal for use without breaking the bank.
