5G is now launched, but the biggest question of last year is still bothering people. Should you buy a 4G or 5G phone in 2023 in India?
Smartphone brands are launching 5G phones every other day in India.
It seems like the end of the world without a 5G phone, thanks to the companies who created such hype around 5G.
But, Do you really need to buy a phone just for 5G?
- What if you buy a 4G phone in 2023?
- What if your budget is limited, and you can’t spend much to buy a proper 5G phone?
- Is it still worth buying a 4G phone in 2023?
Don’t worry. We got you covered. We have tried our best to clear all of your doubts.
So, should you buy a 4G or 5G phone in 2023 in India? Here is everything you need to know.
Why people are crazy for 5G
After buying a new phone, the trending question that is being asked is, Is your phone 5G?
Everyone knows 5G will take some time to work across all the locations, but still, people are getting too excited about it.
But why is this happening? Why are people preferring 5G smartphones?
The answer is the brand’s Ads. Every smartphone brand is heavily advertising their smartphones as future-proof 5G phones.
No matter if the phone offers good features or not, it comes with 5G, and brands keep advertising it heavily.
Because the brands are promoting 5G, people are thinking twice before buying a 4G phone. That’s why people are getting excited about 5G for no reason.
Is it worth buying a 5G phone now in India?
It’s 2023, and the 5G phones are launching every few days. But the actual question is, Is it worth buying a 5G phone now in India?
The answer is Yes and No. Even though the 5G is launched, it will take at least one year to work properly all across the country.
In the beginning phase, 5G will work in a few selected cities.
So if you buy a phone now, especially for 5G, you are paying for a feature that you can’t use for at least a year if you live in non-selected cities.
Reason to buy a 5G phone
There is only one reason to buy a phone, especially for 5G. The reason is time duration. If you are planning to use your phone for more than two-three years, then you can buy a 5G phone.
If you are a person who doesn’t change smartphones frequently and keeps using one phone for 2-3 years, then it’s worth buying a 5G phone now.
But here is a fun fact.
4G was launched in 2008, but major telecom companies like Airtel launched their 4G network in 2012.
Until 2016, most people had never used 4G. It took eight years for people to use this network, and that’s because of Jio.
So, 5G is going to take a few years to work properly all across the country.
Suppose you buy a phone just because of 5G and plan to use it for more than two years.
Now what?
If 5G starts to work in your location after a year, then you still can’t use the feature for which you have bought the phone for at least a year.
One year has passed, and then? Are 5G plans going to be cheaper? Absolutely not.
It is said that 5G will cost 15-25% more than 4G, but we can’t trust blindly.
5G plans might be inexpensive at the beginning, but the prices will increase with time, just like 4G.
If 5G plans are going to be expensive, then most people won’t even use it even if they have a 5G phone. Then what’s the point of buying a 5G phone? Just think for a moment.
Note: It is our speculation. Depending on an individual, the usage of 5G may vary. Some may use 5G, and some may not.
If you really want a good 5G phone for around 15-16k, then you can consider the Realme Narzo 50 Pro. It’s an underrated phone, but it offers a great set of features.
Is it worth buying a 4G phone now in India?
Yes, it’s absolutely worth buying a 4G phone in India in 2023. If you buy a 4G phone, then you will use all the features of a phone.
The older 4G processors are still powerful enough to run any application.
The best thing about buying a 4G phone is that you aren’t compromising on features.
Many companies have launched good 4G phones, but their 5G variants are just garbage.
For instance, The Redmi Note 10 Pro is still an excellent smartphone under 20k, but the Note 11 Pro 5G is just an average phone. It isn’t a significant upgrade over the Note 10 Pro, but it has 5G.
Just for the sake of 5G, companies are skimping on many features, especially in the budget segment.
In the flagship territory, things are working fine. You will get 5G as well as all the features without any compromise.
Should You Buy 4G or 5G Phone in 2023?
See, we aren’t saying you should never buy a 5G phone now in 2023. All we are saying is, don’t put 5G as your main priority.
Instead of 5G, other useful features should be your main priority. Other features like camera, processor, display, battery life should be on the top of your priority list.
No matter a 4G or 5G phone offers these features. If these features are what you need, then buy that smartphone and live happily with it.
If you are looking for a premium phone, then you can simply go with a 5G phone because flagship phones don’t have such issues.
But as said earlier, if you really want a good 5G phone for around 15-16k, the Realme Narzo 50 Pro is a great option.
Problems with 5G
Although every brand and most reviewers have created hype about 5G, you should know about a few problems that 5G has.
- As 5G is in its early stage, the speed might not meet your expectations. With increasing numbers of 5G users, the data speed drops significantly. However, it’s still faster than 4G.
- 5G consumes 5-10% more battery. Also, phones tend to get warmer while using 5G data. So if your smartphone has less battery life, it will get even less on a 5G network.
- Data consumption is significantly higher on 5G. If you have a 1.5GB per day data plan, it won’t be enough for a day. You need to go for higher data plans which will add extra cost to you.
- The true 5G (Standalone 5G) will take years to work in India. Currently, companies are using NSA (Non-Standalone) 5G bands.
We are not discouraging you to use 5G, but you should keep these things in mind before opting for 5G.
Will 4G stop after 5G in India? Will 4G be discontinued?
It is the biggest fear why people are forcing themselves to buy a 5G phone. But do you really need to worry if you buy a 4G phone today?
Let’s make it clear with an example.
The best real-life example is Motorola. They have launched so many phones with 10-13 5G bands. Every tech reviewer praised Motorola to offer 10-13 5G bands on their smartphones.
But, in October 2023, Moto launched the Moto G72, which is a 4G phone, and it costs Rs 19000.
Now, reviewers are defending Moto by saying that 5G doesn’t matter as it will take many years to properly work in India.
We aren’t blaming anyone, but you must have got the point.
4G will work for years, that’s why companies are still launching 4G phones.
It was just one example, but in reality, almost every company is doing the same.
What we want to say is, don’t be afraid about it. 4G isn’t going anywhere, at least for 5-6 years or even more.
If you are looking for a laptop, then Check these laptops in different price segments.
FAQs
Will 5G phones be expensive?
Yes, 5G phones are more expensive than 4G phones. But 5G isn’t everything that affects the cost. Other features like cameras, display, battery, the design also matter when pricing a phone.
Companies are trying their best to keep the cost lower. In return for that, you would have to compromise on specs, like build quality, cameras, or processor.
There are a lot of inexpensive 5G phones in the market that have compromised the specs just for the sake of 5G.
Does 5G phones support 4G?
Yes, all the 5G phones will support 4G. It’s just similar to a 4G phone that supports 3G and 2G.
Similar to it, a 5G phone will support 4G without any doubt.
So, Should You Buy 4G or 5G Phones in 2023? We are sure you know the answer now.
If you still have any doubt in your mind, then feel free to ask in the comments. We would love to help you in this regard.
After buying a new phone, you may need a TWS. Check these best TWS under 2500 to enhance your audio experience.
We hope you have found what you have been looking for. If so, then share this article with others.
Under 11k best phone would be moto g32 or moto g42 they offer very good specs at this price even amoled and 18w charging quite good model than their 5g phones
Should I buy IQOO Z6 44W OR IQOO Z6 5G ? I am really confused about it . I am a College student , i just need a good camera , space , that’s it . I am not into games . Please reply
The IQOO Z6 5G is the better phone of the two.
Is moto g52 a good buy under 15k. I am not concerned about gaming or camera. I want a hassle free experience. I also have experience of using realme ui for 3 years as you mentioned in the post realme narzo 50 pro 5g is a good choice. But right now it’s price is above. Should I wait for the next sale or should I go on to buy moto g52. Also a concern is regarding moto service centers are not available everywhere.
Moto G52 is a great phone for a simple, clean, and hassle-free user experience. If you need a phone right now, then go for it. But if you can wait for a month, then you might see a price drop in the new year sale.
Which phone is better in camera department?
Realme 9i 4G or Oppo k 10 4G for 15k range
Both phones have good cameras. But the Oppo k10 4G lacks details in pictures. The Realme 9i 4G captures sharp images comparatively. The colors are also good on both. Overall, the Realme 9i 4G is better in cameras.
Can u tell me the best 4g and best 5g mobile under 15k plz help plz
With. Preferred on camera and processor
The Realme Narzo 50 Pro 5G is the best all-rounder phone for around 15k. Its current MRP is 17999, but there is a flat Rs 2000 coupon for everyone. It brings down the price to 16k. If you have a card, you can get it for 15k, but even for Rs 16k, it’s an excellent deal.
It has the best processor, Dimensity 920, which is usually found in phones costing around 22-25k.
Its camera is also very good for the price. But if you are not satisfied with its camera performance, then simply install GCam, and it will make a huge difference in camera output.
Is poco X4 pro a better option than realme narzo 50 pro tell me the best
The performance of the Narzo 50 Pro is far better than Poco X4 Pro. The cameras are not much, but slightly better on Narzo 50 Pro.
You can check this GCAM mod for Narzo 50 Pro. It will work fine, but in case it doesn’t, then search it on google, and you will find many. Download the GCam 8.3 or 8.4 for better stable performance.
Okk thanku sir but as per your other answers is realme 9 5g is better than narzo 50 pro
Sir plz help
Ya mai narzo 50 pro hi le lu
Realme 9 5G has an IPS display, Dimensity 810 CPU, and 48+2+2MP cameras.
Realme Narzo 50 Pro has an AMOLED display, Dimensity 920 CPU, and 48+8+2MP cameras.
In daily life, the Narzo 50 Pro performs better than the Realme 9 5G. We still suggest you go with the Narzo 50 Pro 5G.
I wish to buy a Samsung in <20k range. I am looking for a stable piece that will last 4-5yrs with decent camera, good quality display & storage and high battery. I narrowed down on Samsung F23 & M32 but now I see that 5G variant of M32 isn't that great. Any suggestions?
I would prefer a 5G, since I anticipate it will soon be available where I live.
If you have an eligible bank card, then we suggest the Galaxy M53 5G. It’s a good phone for the price of around 20k.
If you don’t have a card, then go with the Galaxy M52 5G. It’s usually priced under 20k.
Coming to F23, it’s also a very good phone, but it’s available for under 15k. So if you want to save some money, then get the F23.
Can u tell me the best phone under 30k preference camera and processor
The Realme 9 Pro Plus is the best camera phone under 30k. It also delivers very good performance. But you should also look for iQOO Neo 6 for the best performance and very solid cameras.
Hlo sir can u tell the best 4g under 10k priority camera and performance
Plz help max budget 11k
There isn’t any camera-centric phone under 11k, but the Realme 9i 4G comes with a very good 16MP front camera. You can get this phone for 11k.
Which is better between samsung f13, m13, redmi 10 and redmi note 11
Redmi Note 11
which is best samsung f23 5g or m33 5g ?
both are availbale at same price ? Can you please help me the offer will end soon
For better and stable performance, go with the Galaxy F23. But for better battery life, go with the M33. Rest, both the phones are similar.
also should i prefer realme 9 5g or galaxy F23
Realme 9 5G is a slightly better phone overall.
Suggest a good phone for my mom, Under 15K. All I need –
6 GB RAM,
Stock or Near Stock Android/ Samsung UI
Should I go for 5G or not?
The Moto G71 5G is the best phone for your needs.
Now I am confused between Moto G62 and G71. Help Me.
The primary difference between the G62 and G71 is the display. G62 has a 120Hz IPS display, whereas the G71 has a 60Hz AMOLED panel.
We prefer AMOLED over IPS, but the choice is always yours.
Other differences are the 18W charger with G62 and the 33W with G71. Also, G62 has a hybrid sim slot, but G71 doesn’t.
Overall, we will recommend the G71 over the G62.
nokia g21 is a good option. build quality of nokia and also made in india
How is Vivo T1?
It’s a good smartphone, but you can get the Realme Narzo 50 Pro for an almost similar price. The Narzo 50 Pro is a much better option.
Hey should I buy the I Phone 11 in the bbd sale ,or some other phone is of better value in that price segment with clean UI and a decent camera? Would appreciate your help my man.
iPhone 11 is a good phone, still today, but its biggest drawback is the LCD panel. It’s just a decent display that lacks the vibrancy of an AMOLED panel.
You should look for the Pixel 6a. It’s available for under 30k using any debit or credit card. It has a clean stock UI and the best cameras in the segment.
Sir ji kya 25k budget me is sale me realme 9 pro plus ke alawa koi redmi ka phone best nhi h kya realme se plz tell sir I am thankful tu u
At Rs 24k, the Redmi K50i is also a great phone overall. You can surely buy it.
Should I buy tecno camon 19 pro 5g? Or tecno camon 19 pro Mondrian edition?
If looks really matter to you then the Mondrian Edition is a much better option.
should we buy POCO smartphone under 11 k ? will it last for 4-5 years ..
i want to buy it for long term usage , so it should be performant enough in long term also ..like it should not hand
Yes, for around 11k, you can buy a Poco phone, especially the M4 Pro 5G. It will last for a good 3-4 years easily.
I am going to buy poco m4 pro of 11k as it is a good deal overall and 5g is not coming in near 1.5 year as well as people will shift to 5g 4g will run more seamlessly. As well after 1 year I mean next year the price will drop too much as the customer will pay it before we invest in 5g of the company cost on 5g equipments.
Yes, the Poco M4 Pro is a very good smartphone for 11k.
MY budget 10k to 18k
priority:-
1. cam
2. storage 6/128
3. battery
use for at least 3 year
confused between
1. poco M4 pro
2. samsung f23
For Rs 11000, get the Poco M4 Pro.
For Rs 15-16000, get the Poco X4 Pro.
For Rs 17000, get the Realme Narzo 50 Pro. It’s an excellent phone.
the problem with poco M4 pro is it does not support 4g volte
Since sale is going on , can you please recommend , good 4g smartphone under 11k ?
I want to give it to my mom & she will use it for approx next 4-5 years ?
or should i increase my budget and buy some 5g phone under 15k ? (I’m worried at 15k i will get 5g phone, but it will be of avg quality i think )
The Poco X4 Pro 5G is a very good smartphone for Rs 15k. But again, parents don’t require so many features and power.
For around Rs 11k, the Poco M4 Pro 4G is the best phone. It has everything that is required in everyday use.
Sir should I buy moto g31 4g phone in September 2022.or if you have a better phone in your mind in the price range of 10k please suggest. I want a better camera quality phone..
If you want a stock android experience, then Moto G31 4g is surely a good option. But its camera is just average. Poco M4 Pro 4G is a better phone than the Moto G31.
Go for g42
Kindly advise best 4G smartphone under 20k. I really loved your article.
Sir, for Rs 20k, you can get a very good 5G phone. The Realme 9 Pro Plus is the best phone for 20k. It has excellent cameras, a great display, and a powerful CPU.
The second great phone is Vivo T1 Pro. It also has great overall specs.
If you prefer a Samsung phone, then the Galaxy M52 5G is the best phone to go with.
Ok Thanks, but I see Vivo T1 has no amoled display.
Hello,
I wanted to gift phone to my mother and my budget is around 15k.
I am little dubious to invest in 4G phones but the place where ai stay we don’t even get proper 4G connectivity.
Like you said in the article 5G was my main feature but what I feel after reading the article is absolutely correct.
My mother can’t use 5G as it is not going to be launched in such remote areas atleast for the next two years.
So can anyone please suggest me any decent phone under that budget for my lovely mom?
P.S: I feel moti g52 can be a good pick.
Moto G52 is a very good smartphone, but note that its camera is average. It takes decent photos in daylight and average photos in lowlight.
If your mother doesn’t use cameras that much, then it’s a great phone to gift your mother.
Can you suggest any other phone with better camera set-up.
The usage patterns will be Call being the most important one so connectivity should be good in remote areas and consuming content, yeah she’s not much of a photographer will be taking some photos in day as well as low light when she is too exited for something 😅😅
Go for the Poco X4 Pro then. It’s an all rounder phone for under 15k.
Can anyone help me as I m really confused about which phone I should take
My budget is 15k
I want overall performance to be good
I m not much into games but yeah I like playing heavy games sometimes
I m photogenic so I want camera to be good
I m thinking I should take 4g or 5g phone as I live in small city and I want to use my phone for atleast 4 years plzz recommend
The POCO X4 Pro 5G is an all-rounder phone. You can get it for Rs 15,500 without any card.
If you can trust Infinix, then the Infinix Note 12 Pro is a great phone overall. It has a very good set of cameras, and its performance is also great.
Cn u pls tell the best phone under 10k with priority on camera and processor
If you have a card, then you can get the Galaxy M32 and Realme Narzo 50 for around 10k. The Galaxy M32 has very solid cameras and a decent CPU, while the Narzo 50 has everything good in it. The performance is great, and the cameras are also good for the price.
But, if you don’t have any card or can’t stretch your budget, then go with Realme Narzo 50A. Overall, it’s a very good phone for under 10k.
Go for moto g32 or 42 , g42 is 1k more expensive for its amoled just otherwise design wise and decent features wise they are my fav
Have decided to go for samsung note available with warranty. But I’m confused on samsung s10 lite, s10 ans s10+ models.
Please please I appreciate if I can kindly clear my query. Thank you
The Galaxy S10 series is way older now. It has a way smaller battery, and you might not receive updates. Can you please tell us the reasons for picking up this phone over others?
Don’t be so confused. If you are worried about 4G, then get a 5G phone. We suggest you go with a 5G phone if you are spending 20-25k.
Under 20k, Galaxy M52 5G is a great phone with a good camera and battery.
Under 25k, Realme 9 Pro Plus and Redmi K50i are great options.
Realme 9Pro Plus has a great camera, but its battery life is slightly on the lower side.
Redmi K50i is an all-rounder phone with a powerful CPU, but it has an IPS display.
We have used the Nord CE 2 Lite. It’s a decent phone overall, but its camera is average. It boosts colors too much. Galaxy M52 5G is a better phone than the CE 2 Lite, but it also lacks dual speakers and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Hlo sir ek last bar help kr dijiye ab sale suru ho gai h to 22k ke andar pe sbse best 5g phone kaun sa h camera aur processor main hona chahiye plz sir mere pas bank cards h to last bar ek help kr dijiye aur sbse best phone is range me bta dijiye
The Realme 9 Pro Plus is the best camera phone under 25k. You can get it for around 18k using cards, and for that price, it’s a stellar deal. Its processor is also capable of handling heavy tasks, but it slightly lags while very heavy gaming.
The Vivo T1 Pro is the second best phone in this range. It also has a great camera and excellent performance.
You can get both these phones for under 20000.