Huawei Ascend G525

Specs here put the Ascend G525 firmly in entry-level territory. The Snapdragon MSM8225Q quad-core chip runs at 1.2 GHz, paired with just 1 GB of RAM and 4 GB of internal storage, so you'll want that microSD slot (up to 32 GB) if you plan on keeping more than a handful of apps and photos. The 4.5-inch IPS LCD screen runs at 540 x 960, which works out to around 245 ppi, decent enough for basic use but nothing sharp by today's standards.

Camera-wise, there's a 5 MP autofocus rear shooter and a VGA front camera for the occasional low-res selfie or video call. Huawei Ascend G525 price in Malaysia starts from RM574. Battery capacity sits at 1700 mAh, modest even for 2013 standards, and the phone runs Android 4.1 Jelly Bean out of the box, with dual SIM support and HSDPA data speeds up to 7.2 Mbps rounding out the connectivity.

It's a phone built for basic calls, texts and light browsing rather than anything demanding. The 155g weight and 9.9mm thickness make it easy enough to carry, and it comes in Black or White.