HTC Desire 626

This is an entry-level device built around a 5-inch 720p screen, so text and icons look reasonably sharp at 294 ppi even though it's not a flagship panel. Depending on the variant, you get either an octa-core Mediatek MT6752 or a quad-core Snapdragon 410, paired with just 1 or 2GB of RAM. That's enough for basic apps and browsing but you'll feel the limits with heavier multitasking. Storage sits at 16GB, with microSD expansion up to 32GB if you need more room for photos and apps.

The camera setup is where this phone tries to stand out for its class, with a 13MP rear shooter that includes autofocus and LED flash, plus a 5MP front camera for video calls and selfies. HTC Desire 626 price in Malaysia starts from RM488, which puts it firmly in budget territory. A 2000mAh battery keeps things running, though by today's standards that's a modest capacity given the phone's Android 4.4.4 KitKat software and dual-SIM support over HSPA and LTE networks.

At 140g and 8.2mm thick, it's light enough for daily carry, and the sound jack plus microUSB port keep things simple for anyone upgrading from an older device.