Smartphones Under 5000: Looking for a reliable phone without torching your wallet? The under-Rs 5,000 segment has quietly transformed into a goldmine of practical features, throwback charm, and even some smart perks. From devices that support UPI to music phones that double up as mini jukeboxes, these budget-friendly handsets go well beyond the basics of calling and texting.
Here’s a curated list of the top five phones under Rs 5,000 that offer serious value — whether you’re looking for accessibility, style, or pure nostalgia.
JioPhone Prima 2: Smart Features In A Compact Body
Price: Rs 2,799
JioPhone Prima 2 brings a surprisingly rich feature set, thanks to its KaiOS platform and Qualcomm internals. From Google Assistant to YouTube, JioTV, Facebook, and JioPay for UPI — this keypad phone blends classic design with app-driven utility.
Its only caveat? It’s locked to Jio’s network. But for Jio users, it’s a sweet deal. As Jio describes it, “Curved Premium Design” and “Prime Social Connectivity” aren’t just buzzwords — they reflect its surprising versatility.
Nokia 2660 Flip: A Retro Revival With Real-Life Safety Features
Price: Rs 4,339
The Nokia 2660 Flip stands out with its classic clamshell design that brings back the satisfying flip-to-end-call action. Priced at Rs 4,339, this phone isn’t just about vintage aesthetics. It features a 2.8-inch internal display, a secondary outer screen, and large tactile buttons — perfect for older users or anyone who prefers simplicity with functionality.
Its unique safety edge? A dedicated emergency button that can alert up to five contacts, along with an easy-to-use Zoom UI. Nokia puts it simply: “Big buttons, big sound, and a big 2.8” primary display.”
Lava A5 (2025): UPI-Ready And Accessibility-First
Price: Rs 1,222
Don’t let the price tag fool you — the Lava A5 (2025) is more than just a basic keypad phone. It supports UPI transactions, call recording, multilingual input, and even has a camera. Most impressively, it features a BOL keypad that audibly reads out numbers and messages, making it incredibly useful for visually impaired users.
“Send & receive money with ease using the built-in UPI,” the brand says — a bold claim for a phone this affordable, and one that holds up.
Itel Flip One: Premium Looks On A Shoestring Budget
Price: Rs 2,389
Itel Flip One offers one of the most stylish bodies in this range, featuring a faux leather back and a vibrant 2.4-inch display. With Type-C charging, dual SIM support, and KingVoice voice assistance, this device adds a premium touch to the basics.
The company touts its “Premium Leather Design” and “7 days of battery backup” — a rare feat in today’s charge-hungry world.
Carvaan Saregama Punjabi: For The Music-Loving Minimalist
Price: Rs 1,899
Carvaan Saregama Don Lite M23 is tailor-made for music fans. It comes pre-loaded with 351 Punjabi songs and also supports Bluetooth, FM radio, and voice recording. The device is less about features and more about soul.
Its core appeal? As the brand puts it: “351 Superhit songs.” Simple, sentimental, and satisfying.
These five phones prove that you don’t need to spend big to get a lot. Whether it’s UPI transactions on a keypad, emergency alerts for seniors, or music playback on the go, each handset has something distinct to offer.
For those seeking a reliable backup, a fuss-free device for elders, or just a functional phone that doesn’t break the bank, these budget picks pack plenty of punch.
