Which smartphone to choose in 2022 up to 15,000 rubles? Rating TOP-12 best models

What to look for when choosing a mid-range smartphone up to 15,000. Rating of popular models in this segment. The main features of the rating. You will find all this in the article.

There is an opinion that the cheaper smartphone, the worse it is. This is partly true, but partly not.

Of course, a cheap gadget cannot have fancy camera, highest performance and super clear screen.

But in the middle price category up to 15 thousand rubles, it is quite possible to find a device that is not much inferior in its characteristics to expensive models.

To make sure of this, consider the rating of gadgets at an acceptable cost.

Rating of the TOP-12 best smartphones under 15,000 rubles

Place	Model	Price
The best in terms of price and quality
#1	Xiaomi Redmi 9 4/64GB (NFC)
#2	ZTE Blade 20 Smart
#3	HONOR 9X 4/128GB
#4	HUAWEI P30 Lite
With a good camera
#1	Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro 6/64GB
#2	Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 4/64GB
#3	HONOR 10i 4/128GB
#4	Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 Pro 6/128GB
with a good screen
#1	Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T 4/64GB
#2	Samsung Galaxy M21
#3	HONOR 20 Lite 4/128GB (UK)
#4	Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 3/64GB (NFC)

What to look for when choosing?

But first, let's figure out what details to focus on when looking for a device at an average price:

Work speed.
Varies by processor type and affects system performance and responsiveness.
The better the characteristics, the more tasks the device can simultaneously perform.
RAM.
It cannot be expanded or added, so you should pay attention to this indicator before buying.
Depending on the goals: modern games require as much RAM as possible.
For everyday use, this indicator is not so important.
Battery capacity.
The more powerful the processor, the better the picture and the stronger the camera, the more energy the device consumes.
Accordingly, the higher the battery capacity, the better.
Camera.
The higher the MP and the higher the resolution, the clearer the photos and videos are.

And now consider the popular models of this price category.

The best in terms of price and quality

Rating TOP-4 best models up to 15,000 rubles in terms of price and quality.

Xiaomi Redmi 9 4/64GB (NFC)

A solid gadget equipped with modern options, a high-quality screen and practical battery life.

A textured pattern is engraved on the back of the device.

This eliminates the appearance of prints on the surface and prevents slipping out of the hands.

The place for a memory card is located separately from the two slots for SIM cards. The screen is based on IPS LCD technology with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels.

The high dot density makes it possible to use a VR helmet to view content. Filtering blue lightens eye strain.

Does not heat up during long games and performance stress. There is a contactless payment option.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.53?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 4 pcs. (13 MP F/2.20, 8 MP F/2.20, 5 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 8 MP;
built-in / RAM - 64/8 GB;
battery capacity - 5020 mAh.

Advantages

autonomy at an excellent level;
the presence of the NFC function;
loud speaker;
presentable appearance;
system speed.

Flaws

fingers do not slide well on the factory film;
the camera works normally only in good lighting;
a lot of preinstalled google apps that can't be uninstalled.

ZTE Blade 20 Smart

Despite its price, the model has amazing performance and an incredibly good camera.

There is a bright notification indicator. The case is completely plastic, the surface is glossy.

The card tray allows you to put either 2 sims or 1 sim and 1 memory card at the same time.

The display matrix is made using S-IPS technology. The maximum brightness is enough to use the smartphone in sunny weather.

The Helio P60 octa-core processor allows you to easily play modern games at medium graphics settings.

At the maximum - it can sometimes slow down.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.49?;
screen resolution - 1560 × 720 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (16 MP F/1.80, 8 MP and 2 MP);
front camera - 8 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 5000 mAh.

Advantages

impressively bright screen;
Possibility of contactless payment;
the battery lasts two days with average use of the device;
built-in memory is impressive;
instant response to any action.

Flaws

there is not even a simple case included;
case creaks when pressed;
fast charging only works if you do not use your smartphone at that moment.

HONOR 9X 4/128GB

Middle class model with retractable front camera.

The main emphasis in the device is made on the camera.

The triple 48 MP module allows you to take incredibly clear and high-quality shooting.

Artificial intelligence simplifies handling of settings. The back panel reflects light, which makes the design of the smartphone presentable.

The Kirin 710F octa-core processor handles the load of today's games with dignity.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.59?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 2 pcs. (48 MP F / 1.80 and 2 MP);
front camera - 16 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 4000 mAh.

Advantages

excellent quality of photos;
large amount of internal memory;
there is no drop-shaped camera on the screen, which covers the usable area;
instant identification of a fingerprint;
quick turn-on response.

Flaws

GPS consumes a lot of battery power;
sometimes there are errors with Google Pay;
There is no notification light.

HUAWEI P30 Lite

Stylish mid-range smartphone with a focus on the flagship.

A distinctive feature of the design of this model are flat ends at the top and bottom, which allows you to put the device vertically without much effort.

The tray is double, you have to choose: either a second SIM card, or a memory card. The matrix is assembled according to the LTPS standard.

Maximum viewing angles. The camera is equipped with a night mode and anti-shake option.

The Kirin 710 processor allows you to enjoy modern games at medium graphics settings. The battery lasts for 1.5 days with active use.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.15?;
screen resolution - 2312 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (24 MP F/1.80, 8 MP and 2 MP);
front camera - 32 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 3340 mAh.

Advantages

amazing pixel density and screen brightness;
from the original charger charges quickly;
quick response to actions;
the presence of a contactless payment function;
nice to hold in hand.

Flaws

case is easily scratched;
very slippery case, you have to buy a cover;
distorts some sounds in the video recording.

With a good camera

The best smartphones under 15,000 rubles with a good camera.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro 6/64GB

Budget option with an incredibly powerful camera and the ability to play any PC and mobile games.

Has a classic brand design.

The MediaTek Helio G90T processor allows you to play almost all games at maximum graphics settings without lags and brakes.

With a long load, the case does not heat up. Despite the energy-intensive battery, with continuous use it works no more than a day.

The powerful 64 MP camera captures the finest details. The fingerprint sensor is not very conveniently located - in line with the cameras.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.15?;
screen resolution - 2312 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (24 MP F/1.80, 8 MP and 2 MP);
front camera - 32 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 3340 mAh.

Advantages

moisture protection allows short-term stay in water;
fast screen response;
excellent photo quality even in night mode;
colorful display, large viewing angles;
There is a contactless payment option.

Flaws

despite the strength of the screen declared by the manufacturer, it is still scratched by simply carrying it in your pocket;
not all applications are adaptive for the screen of this model;
the standard case does not protect the sides of the camera from damage.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 4/64GB

A bright representative of the famous line from Xiaomi with four cameras.

The screen is equipped with an IPS-matrix with a resolution of Full HD +.

The pixel density is high enough that there is no grid even in the fonts.

The battery lasts for continuous surfing the Internet for 16 hours.

The octa-core Snapdragon 665 processor easily runs heavy games at medium graphics settings and does not heat up during prolonged use.

There is an infrared port for using a smartphone as a remote control.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.3?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 4 pcs. (48 MP F/1.75, 8 MP F/2.20, 2 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 13 MP;
built-in / RAM - 64/4 GB;
battery capacity - 4000 mAh.

Advantages

large and bright screen with good coverage, the finger glides freely;
quick unlock both by face and by touch of a finger;
charges very quickly;
instant response to any action;
speaker is loud enough.

Flaws

no NFC;
no wireless charging option;
quiet sound in headphones.

HONOR 10i 4/128GB

Stylish, powerful and inexpensive camera phone with precious overflows.

The signature iridescent gradient is a distinctive feature of the models of this brand.

Unlocking is carried out in two ways: by fingerprint or face recognition.

There is only one SIM card, plus a slot for a memory card. The display uses an IPS-matrix with wide viewing angles.

Texts are easy to read in sunlight. The Kirin 710 processor supports all heavy games at medium settings. Heats up slightly under load.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.21?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (24 MP F/1.80, 8 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 32 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 3400 mAh.

Advantages

loud speaker;
a lot of memory;
instant response to all actions;
there is NFC;
The camera takes clear pictures.

Flaws

hard to reach for the fingerprint scanner;
easy to scratch the glass;
There are no notification LEDs.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 Pro 6/128GB

Extremely fast and stylish smartphone of the famous Redmi line.

Case material - glass, matte panels. The brushed aluminum frame emphasizes the sophistication of this model.

The model is protected from dust and water ingress into the case. The color IPS screen gives the highest detailing of images.

The maximum brightness is enough to use the gadget in sunny weather.

Snapdragon 675 octa-core processor supports all modern games. The phone practically does not heat up.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.3?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 2 pcs. (48 MP F/1.80 and 5 MP);
front camera - 13 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/6 GB;
battery capacity - 4000 mAh.

Advantages

high performance;
nice appearance with a metal frame;
large display with high definition;
there is protection against ingress of liquid and dust particles into the device;
battery.

Flaws

fingerprints remain on the case;
no contactless payment option;
The factory settings are unsuccessful, you have to redo it.

with a good screen

Which phone is better to buy up to 15000 with a good, high-quality screen.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T 4/64GB

Middle class model with high quality display and great performance.

The classic design with beveled edges is recognizable for the products of this brand.

The IPS LCD screen delivers sharp image detail and optimal brightness for outdoor use.

The Qualcomm SDM665 Snapdragon 665 octa-core processor guarantees work without brakes and freezes.

Modern games run at high graphics settings. There is support for contactless payment. The microphone is equipped with a noise reduction system.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.3?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 4 pcs. (48 MP F/1.75, 8 MP F/2.20, 2 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 13 MP;
built-in / RAM - 64/4 GB;
battery capacity - 4000 mAh.

Advantages

excellent screen and high-quality matrix;
it is possible to install two SIM cards and a memory card together;
comfortable to hold with one hand;
loud speaker;
quick response of the system to actions.

Flaws

there are no light indicators of events;
noticeably heats up under high loads;
many pre-installed programs.

Samsung Galaxy M21

A well-deserved leader in battery capacity among budget models with a premium display.

The glossy plastic case is rather slippery, so it is inconvenient to use with one hand.

Instead of a light indication of events, Always on Display technology is used, which displays notification icons on the locked screen, as well as the date and time.

The AMOLED screen does not reflect glare from light and has large viewing angles.

The Exynos 7 Series 9611 octa-core processor is smooth and stable under any load.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.4?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (48 MP F/2, 8 MP F/2.20 and 5 MP F/2.20);
front camera - 20 MP;
built-in / RAM - 64/4 GB;
battery capacity - 6000 mAh.

Advantages

large battery, enough for two days at least;
big screen with rich colors;
performance is impressive, instant response;
there is NFC;
2 microphones improve audibility when calling.

Flaws

changing the white background to yellow when the screen is rotated;
slippery;
short charger cable.

HONOR 20 Lite 4/128GB (UK)

A budget class model with excellent screen performance and a triple camera.

Housing materials: polycarbonate, metal and glass.

The bezel-less display adds elegance. An LTPS-matrix with excellent detail produces images of increased contrast.

Wide viewing angles. The blue tint filtering function saves the user's eyes.

The HiSilicon Kirin 710 octa-core processor allows you to enjoy modern games at maximum settings.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.15?;
screen resolution - 2312 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 3 pcs. (48 MP F/1.80, 8 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 24 MP;
built-in / RAM - 128/4 GB;
battery capacity - 3340 mAh.

Advantages

there is NFC;
comfortable to hold with one hand;
excellent color reproduction;
the fingerprint scanner is fast;
confidently picks up mobile communications.

Flaws

the camera does not live up to expectations;
battery capacity is small;
combined slot for memory card and sim.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 3/64GB (NFC)

A powerful budget smartphone delivers an absolute flagship experience.

IPS-screen gives a clear and bright picture. The brightness is enough for reading books in the sun.

MediaTek Helio G85 octa-core processor ensures comfortable system performance.

Games only run on low graphics settings. There is a contactless payment option.

A special coating protects the body from splashes and scratches. There is support for fast charging.

Specifications:

diagonal - 6.53?;
screen resolution - 2340 × 1080 pixels;
root chambers - 4 pcs. (48 MP F/1.79, 8 MP F/2.20, 2 MP F/2.40 and 2 MP F/2.40);
front camera - 13 MP;
built-in / RAM - 64/3 GB;
battery capacity - 5020 mAh.

Advantages

attractive design;
large and bright display;
the battery holds a charge for a long time;
instant response to actions;
decent processor.

Flaws

no notification indicator;
no front flash;
heats up under load.

Reviews

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conclusions

Based on the rating, we can highlight the features of budget models:

camera not top notch but shoots clearly;
batteries up to 3500 mAh are few, and more - just right;
processors on most phones work great;
almost all have a contactless payment function.

Useful video

This video provides an overview of the TOP 10 best budget smartphones:

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