Xiaomi Redmi 9C

Budget hardware here, and it doesn't pretend otherwise. The Helio G35 chipset paired with just 2GB RAM and 32GB storage keeps this in entry-level territory, fine for calls, messaging and light browsing, but you'll feel the limits if you're multitasking or gaming. The 6.53-inch IPS LCD runs at 720 x 1600, which is standard for this price bracket, and there's a microSD slot if 32GB runs out fast.

Where it earns its keep is battery life. A 5000mAh cell means you're not chained to a charger daily, even if the 10W charging speed means top-ups take a while. The triple camera setup, 13MP main with a 5MP macro and 2MP depth sensor, covers basic photography needs without adding cost. Xiaomi Redmi 9C price in Malaysia starts from RM338, which puts it firmly in the budget category alongside phones built for essentials rather than extras.

It still has a rear fingerprint sensor, NFC, and infrared, features that some pricier phones skip. Just note it runs on microUSB rather than USB-C, and Android 10 out of the box is dated by now.