Best Mobile Phone in Nepal 2024 | Top Picks & Buying Guide

Which are the best phones in 2024? And what factors should you consider before making a purchase? Here in this article, you’ll find all the useful info and our best phone picks for 2024. Before heading to our top picks and buying guides, let’s have a glance at the history, trends, and types of smartphones in general.

Best Phone in Nepal 2024 Overview

History of Mobile Phones

Mobile phones have been a boon for the present-day world. But where did it begin from? If we turn some pages back in history, the first mobile phone (prototype) was demonstrated by Martin Cooper of Motorola back in 1973. It weighed around 2 kg. Meanwhile, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone in 1979 became the first company to launch the first commercial automated cellular network analog (1G). The technology continued to spread across Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

Meanwhile, the year of 1983 stood as a prominent year with DynaTAC 8000x available commercially as the first handheld mobile phone. Then in 1991, the 2G network arrived in Finland on the GSM standard. Since then, the number of mobile phone users has gone uphill with further technological advancements.

What is a Smartphone?

A smartphone is basically a mobile phone with smart functionalities. In the initial days, mobile phones were limited to making calls and texting. With the ever-changing times, mobile phones have gotten really smart. The ability to surf the internet, click photos, take video calls, send documents and such are super easy tasks for a modern-day mobile phone, which is popularly known as a smartphone. From keypad phones to QWERTY keyboard phones to touch screen phones to a full-fledged smartphone, the trend has been now all about smartphones.

Besides capable hardware like a processor, camera, display, and battery, software plays an important role for a smartphone. In the present day, the smartphone market is dominated by Android and iOS software. 

The Trend of Smartphones in Nepal

Smartphones have become more or less a basic need for humans. In the early 2000s,  the mobile phone market was all about keypad phones. Which rose to pin touch phones in the mid-2000s and then, the touch smartphones after 2010.

At the present time, mobile phone access has reached 73.2% of the general public in Nepal, as per the full report of the National Census of 2022. The report also mentions that 73% of the population uses a smartphone. The age-old landline telephone is now owned by 4.5% only. This shows how the market has been all about smartphones these days.

Besides taking a simple phone call, these modern-day phones offer the world on your screen, technically. You just need an internet connection and a smartphone, you can do a whole lot of things. Plus, social media, esports gaming, friends circle, and other factors have increased the demand for smartphones by a big margin in recent years.

Things to know before buying a smartphone

SoC/ Processor on smartphones

We already know that smartphones can be entry-level, midrange, premium midrange, and flagship. And the type of System on Chip is the key factor in segregating those rankings. As simple as that, entry-level phones carry an entry-level chip and it goes so on. In the Android world, we can witness three major chipsets– Snapdragon, Mediatek, and Exynos. The former two are the most popular ones and can be found across all major Android smartphone brands.

Meanwhile, the Exynos chip is Samsung’s in-house product, so it is obviously found in Samsung phones.

Just a few years ago, Snapdragon was the king in the midrange and flagship arena but the Taiwanese chip maker, Mediatek has become extremely popular, beating the American company, in the midrange segment. Also in the flagship section, Mediatek’s popularity is rising with the latest Mediatek Dimensity 9000 Series.

And for the iPhones, it is the Apple A-Series Bionic chips. These chips are known to be more optimized and powerful than their Qualcomm and Mediatek counterparts. But both competitors are also now slowly catching up with the competition against Apple.

How to choose the right processor 

Lying at the core of a smartphone is a processor. It provides all the computing power and juice for your device. So, choosing the right chipset is also very important. If you are a techie like me, sorting the best among the bunch is never a hassle. But if you are a newbie or someone who’s unaware of smartphone chipsets, fear not, you can always take the help of Google.

• First up, check the processor of the phone you are buying.
• Then, you can check the Antutu and Geekbench benchmark scores of the chip on the web.
• The higher the CPU and GPU score, the better the processor is.
• On the same side, you can compare other chipsets in the range, in this way, you can know the best-performing chip for the price.

LCD or AMOLED panel?

Smartphones in general use two types of display: LCD and AMOLED. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is found usually in the budget range of devices and also in the midrange segment. On the other hand, Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (AMOLED) panels are found in the midrange, premium midrange, and flagship smartphones, due to their superior picture quality, contrast, and deeper blacks.

So, if you are purchasing a smartphone, always look out for the AMOLED options for a much better display experience. If budget is your constraint, you can also opt for an LCD panel but make sure, it is an IPS LCD, which has better viewing angles than the subpar TFT LCD displays with rubbish viewing angles.

60Hz or 120Hz display?

In recent years, 120Hz fast-motion rate displays have become extremely common. It provides a superfluid scrolling experience than a 60Hz panel, but it consumes a bit more battery. But once you have used a 120Hz panel, there is no way going back to a 60Hz one, because, the fun and overall fluidity will never be the same on a static 60Hz panel.

So, despite the 120Hz consumes more battery, always opt for a smartphone with a 120Hz or at least 90Hz display. You can always switch to the 60Hz motion rate on those smartphones, anyway.

How much RAM should you get?

Smartphones currently come with 4GB, 6GB, 8GB, 16GB, and 24GB RAM. Some might also come with 2GB or 3GB of RAM in the entry-level segment. And, choosing the appropriate amount of RAM comes to your usage habits and needs. If you are a basic user, who just uses the phone casually for social media, YouTube, and such, 4GB RAM should be enough for a very basic user.

But if you do multitasking and some gaming as well, 6GB RAM is at least needed while 8GB becomes the norm for the midrange phones. Meanwhile, for flagship devices, 12/16GB RAM is recommended.

The virtual RAM gimmick…

The primary jargon in a local market for selling a smartphone is RAM. But phone companies are marketing their phones with 24GB* RAM, 16*GB RAM, and so on. But, you should always notice the asterisk symbol right there. It is not the actual RAM of the phone, but a combined one with virtual RAM included. For example, the phone has 8GB of physical RAM while the other 8GB is an extended RAM. Virtual RAM is not that useful, and I’d call it more of a gimmick.

Do not fall for MegaPixels trap

While buying a new mobile phone, a bigger megapixel camera might look enticing. But in the actual world, megapixels do not matter that much. A phone might have a 108MP camera but the usual shots are always taken in a pixel-binned 12MP format. You also get a dedicated 108MP or high-res mode, but the results are not drastically different. So, megapixels should not be a major factor here.

So, instead of looking for higher megapixels, look for sensor, ISP, and phone’s overall processing for photos. Sometimes despite having capable hardware, bad processing can ruin the fun. That’s why a 12MP camera can get you better photos than a 108MP one if the software and hardware processing are done right.

OIS in cameras

Another factor you have to look for in a smartphone camera is Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). Phones having OIS can physically move the camera sensor to minimize shakes and jitters. As a result, you can get good stills. Meanwhile in the videos section, having OIS becomes a major perk, resulting in smooth and stable shots. But OIS should be enabled by smartphone manufacturers in this section.

If the smartphone doesn’t have OIS, at least, look for Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) which has nothing to do with photos, but it can provide a decent quality of stabilization for videos.

Top Smartphone brands in Nepal

The Nepalese smartphone market is dominated by three players— Xiaomi, Samsung, and Vivo. The top-dog Xiaomi is arguably the most popular in the market, thanks to its Redmi Note and Redmi Number Series phones. Offering a good overall valued spec at competitive pricing has been the significant reason for the popularity of Xiaomi/Redmi phones in Nepal.

Likewise, Samsung is a veteran player in the smartphone world. Its brand name and trust carry quite a big value for its user base in Nepal. Especially, the midrange and flagship Galaxy lineup of phones are widely popular here. In the meantime, Vivo has also grown with its Y and V series of smartphones in recent days.

Besides these brands, Oppo, OnePlus, Honor, Realme, and Tecno also have a good amount of presence and popularity in the market.

Why buy a new phone or a second-hand phone?

A new phone is for someone who’s always looking for the latest new tech and stuff. New phones come equipped with the latest processors, software, camera, and design. Plus, the feeling of getting something new is always refreshing, isn’t it?

But, buying a second phone cannot be ruled out too. You can get flagship phones from the last generation at cheaper prices, which also makes a great of a deal. In fact, many people opt to buy second hand iPhone too. So basically, it all comes down to your choice and preferences.

Where to buy smartphones at the best price in Nepal?

As always, you should get a smartphone from authorized stores and genuine sellers like Hukut. It will reflect a lot on after-sales support and genuineness. However, you can also buy phones at a cheaper price rate through gray channels but do note, that there might be MDMS compatibility issues in the near future and you’ll miss out on after-sales support and warranty. Meanwhile, you can browse through a plethora of smartphones on Gadgetbyte with their buying links, to make it easy. Always make sure of the product and buying place, before making a purchase.

How much to spend on a smartphone in Nepal?

Well, the answer depends on your budget and needs. If you are a very basic user or want to buy a smartphone for your parents for the sake of a smartphone experience, you can opt for the budget segment. But if you are someone who wants a decent camera and usage experience, the midrange segment is where you should go. You can find dozens of options here. So, make sure to compare your choices and choose the best that suits your needs and budget. Or, you can stretch your budget for a premium midrange smartphone or even a flagship phone. It all comes down to your preference, choice, and budget.

Best Phones in 2024 [Our Top Picks]

Best Phone in Nepal under 25,000

The 25,000 category is basically for those guys who are looking for a mid-range smartphone experience with a moderate level of power, light gaming, and multimedia consumption. So you get just the average amount of performance and a fairly decent camera in this range. And, here are our current best picks for phones under 25,000 in Nepal.

3. Tecno Camon 20

In the current market scene, the Tecno Camon 20 is among the best phones under NPR 25,000 in Nepal. The device bears a flat frame with 7.8mm thickness while weighing in the ballpark of 190 grams. And it looks visually attractive too with that lychee pattern rear back. Like the Infinix Note 30 above, this guy is also available with a glass or a leather-like finish at the back.

In terms of ingress protection, it is IP53-certified against dust and minor water splashes for better peace of mind. Up front, you’re looking at a gorgeous AMOLED panel with an FHD resolution. But the screen refresh rate is 60Hz which is underwhelming in 2024.

Helio G85 chip

This smartphone is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G85 processor, suggesting it may not excel in gaming performance. However, it proves to be capable enough for everyday tasks and light gaming, thanks in part to the generous memory configuration provided by Tecno: 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

The battery life is commendable, and while the camera performance of the Camon 20 isn’t exceptional, it holds up decently. Both the 64MP primary and 32MP front cameras produce appealing photos under sufficient lighting conditions. While videography could be improved, overall, the Tecno Camon 20 offers a well-rounded package for its price.

Tecno Camon 20 Specifications:

• Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED screen, FHD+, 60Hz refresh rate
• Chipset: MediaTek Helio G85 4G (12nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage (expandable)
• Software & UI: HiOS 13 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Triple (64MP primary, 2MP depth, QVGA lens)
• Front Camera: 32MP sensor (hole-punch)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (optical in-display)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 5 (Dual-band), Bluetooth, GPS / AGPS / Glonass / Galileo / BDS, USB-C, 4G LTE
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Ambient light and distance, E-compass
• Battery: 5000mAh with 33W charging (18W adapter inside t6he box)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 22,990 (8/256GB)
• Read our Tecno Camon 20 review
• Watch our Tecno Camon 20 review
• Buy Tecno Camon 20 here

2. Redmi Note 12 4G

The Redmi Note 12 4G is still a relevant phone in the category although it’s already one year old phone. It is now available at the starting price of NPR 21,999 for the base 4/128GB trim at Hukut. Talking of the specs here, the phone is powered by a 6nm fabbed Snapdragon 685 chipset, which offers decent performance for day-to-day chores. It initially booted on MIUI 14 while Xiaomi has already pushed the Android 14-based HyperOS update to this guy.

120Hz AMOLED Panel

Most phones in this segment boast an LCD panel, but this guy features an AMOLED panel that too with a 120Hz refresh rate. This 6.7-inch screen also boasts a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection, 240Hz touch sampling rate, and 1200nits of peak brightness. Talking of the design, the phone features a flat frame body with a plastic middle frame and glass back.

Redmi Note 12 4G Specifications:

• Body: 165.66 x 75.96 x 7.85mm, 183.5gm, IP53 dust/water resistant
• Display: 6.67 AMOLED DotDisplay panel, Corning Gorilla Glass 3, 1200 nits (peak), 120Hz refresh rate
• Resolution: FHD+ (2400 x 1080 pixels), 395 PPI
• Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 4G (6nm Mobile Platform)
• CPU: Octa-core (2×2.8 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 6×1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver)
• GPU: Adreno 610
• Memory: 4/6/8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64/128GB UFS 2.2 storage (expandable)
• Software & UI: MIUI 14 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Quad-camera;
  – 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN1, f/1.8 primary lens
  – 8MP, f/2.2 ultrawide lens
  – 2MP, f/2.4 macro sensor
  – LED flash
• Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.45 lens (punch-hole)
• Security: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor
• Battery: 5000mAh with 33W charging (33W charger inside the box)
• Color options: Ice Blue, Onyx Grey, Mint Green
• Price in Nepal:- NPR 21,999
• Read our detailed review of the Redmi Note 12 4G.
• Read the full specs of the Redmi Note 12 4G here.
• Buy Redmi Note 12 4G here

1. Redmi Note 13 4G

Taking the top spot on the podium is the recently unveiled Redmi Note 13 4G, claiming the coveted gold medal. While it maintains the 6nm-fabricated Snapdragon 685 chipset, the standout upgrade comes in the form of a boosted main camera, now boasting an impressive 108MP resolution compared to its predecessor’s 50MP. Additionally, Redmi has opted to retain the 8MP ultrawide and 2MP macro sensors.

Besides the chipset, the device initially launched with Android 13-based MIUI 14. However, Xiaomi has recently introduced the Android 14-based HyperOS update, enhancing the overall user experience.

120Hz AMOLED display

The Redmi Note 13 4G has undergone notable improvements in its display design. The bezels are now trimmed, enhancing the overall aesthetics, while the display quality receives a significant upgrade, particularly in terms of visual output. The refresh rate remains at a smooth 120Hz. Additionally, the device features curved side rails and sleek flat frames, lending it a modern appearance. The camera island is also redesigned, resulting in a less cluttered and more organized look.

Powering the phone is a robust 5000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging, ensuring long-lasting performance and quick recharging times.

Redmi Note 13 4G Specifications:

• Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED screen, FHD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 3
• Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 4G (6nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 6/8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 128/256GB UFS 2.2 storage (expandable)
• Software & UI: MIUI 14 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Triple (108MP primary, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro)
• Front Camera: 16MP sensor (hole-punch)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (under-display)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 5 (Dual-band), Bluetooth 5.0, GPS / AGPS / Glonass / Galileo, USB-C
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Ambient light, E-compass, Gyro, Proximity
• Battery: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging (33W adapter inside the box)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 24,999 (6/128GB) | NPR 27,999 (8/256GB)
• Read our Redmi Note 13 4G review
• Buy Redmi Note 13 4G here

Best Phones Under 50,000 in Nepal

The phones under the 50K segment bring more power in terms of CPU and GPU and better cameras. The design side of things is also well taken care of and hence, you can find premium-looking phones here. Here are our current best phones under 50,000 in Nepal.

3. Samsung Galaxy F54

If you’re considering a phone priced under NPR 50,000 in Nepal, the Samsung Galaxy F54 is a solid choice, which is essentially a rebranded version of the Galaxy M54. True to the “Galaxy F” series, it offers a large battery and a design that may be slightly compromised compared to the “Galaxy A” lineup. However, this compromise translates into excellent battery life, easily lasting a couple of days with medium to heavy usage.

Talking of the design, the Galaxy F54 features curved edges on the rear for a comfortable hold and comes in silver and dark blue color options. However, as part of the “F” series, Samsung has chosen a plastic back for this device, and it lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.

Turning to the display, the Galaxy F54 boasts a sizable 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 5 protection. The display offers vibrant colors and adequate brightness levels, ensuring good visibility even in outdoor environments.

Exynos 1380

In terms of performance, the Galaxy F54 is equipped with the same Exynos 1380 chip found in the Galaxy A54. While it appears capable on paper, Samsung’s optimization leaves room for improvement. This isn’t to say the phone struggles with everyday tasks; it handles them fine. However, there are areas such as thermals and gameplay stability that could benefit from enhancements. Nonetheless, Samsung’s commitment to providing 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security updates offers hope for the Galaxy F54’s longevity.

In the camera department, you’ll find a 108MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. Our tests revealed commendable performance across various shooting conditions.

Samsung Galaxy F54 Specifications:

• Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, FHD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 5
• Chipset: Samsung Exynos 1380 5G (5nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage (expandable)
• Software & UI: One UI 5.1 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Triple (108MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro)
• Front Camera: 32MP sensor (teardrop notch)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (side-mounted)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 6 (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / A-GPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou / QZSS, USB-C, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Geomagnetic, Gyro, Light, Proximity
• Battery: 6000mAh with 25W charging (power adapter not provided)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 52,499* (8/256GB)
• Read our Samsung Galaxy F54 review
• Watch our Samsung Galaxy F54 review
• Buy Samsung Galaxy F54 here

2. Samsung Galaxy A35

Second on our list of best phones under NPR 50,000 in Nepal with the new Galaxy A35 5G. This is the successor to the Galaxy A34 5G that you saw above, and it brings a couple of quality-of-life upgrades — alongside a few unfortunate downgrades — to deliver a great smartphone experience overall.

A premium-looking design

A notable change in the Galaxy A35 is the placement of the volume rockers and power button, now situated on what’s referred to as a “Key Island,” a slightly raised area. Regarding the cameras, they sport a similar setup to the Galaxy A34, albeit with some minor enhancements in optimization. During our testing period, this new device delivered reliable performance for both photography and videography.

Driving its performance is the Exynos 1380 5G chipset, which handles everyday tasks adequately, while the OneUI interface operates smoothly. However, if you’re considering this device for gaming purposes, the experience will only be average.

Samsung Galaxy A35 Specifications:

• Display: 6.6-inches AMOLED screen, FHD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus+
• Chipset: Samsung Exynos 1380 5G (5nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 6/8GB RAM, 128/256GB storage (expandable)
• Software & UI: One UI 6.1 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Triple (50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro)
• Front Camera: 13MP sensor (hole-punch cutout)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (optical in-display)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 6 (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / A-GPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou / QZSS, USB-C, NFC, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Geomagnetic, Gyro, Hall, Light, Virtual proximity
• Battery: 5000mAh with 25W charging (25W power adapter provided)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 46,999 (8/128GB)
• Read our Samsung Galaxy A35 review
• Watch our Samsung Galaxy A35 review
• Buy Samsung Galaxy A35 here

1. Redmi Note 13 Pro+

Bagging the gold in the list is none other than the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, the top-end model in Xiaomi’s latest Redmi Note 13 series. It comes with extravagant features, that too for under 50,000 rupees. Like Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection, IP68 dust and water resistance rating, and 120W fast charging.

The design is premium too. You get a nice curved finish on both sides and either a glass or leather finish at the back of the phone. But unfortunately, the leather variant of Redmi Note 13 Pro+ isn’t available in Nepal. As for the display, Xiaomi has gone for a 6.67-inch AMOLED panel with 1.5K resolution, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ certification, 1,800 nits of peak brightness, and so much more.

Dimensity 7200 Ultra

The Note 13 Pro+ is fueled by the potent Dimensity 7200 Ultra chip, delivering ample power for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming. Xiaomi has been generous with storage, offering a substantial 256GB in the base model.

In terms of software, it runs on MIUI 14 atop Android 13. While Xiaomi pledges 3+4 years of updates for this device, some may have hoped for its launch with the Android 14-based HyperOS instead. Regarding its camera setup, it features a triple-camera array on the rear. Despite utilizing the same camera hardware as last year’s Redmi Note 12 Pro+, it impresses with notable improvements in photography performance.

Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Specifications:

• Display: 6.67-inches AMOLED screen, FHD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus
• Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra 5G (4nm)
• Memory: 8/12GB LPDDR5 RAM, up to 512GB UFS 3.1 internal storage (fixed)
• Software & UI: MIUI 14 on top of Android 13
• Rear Camera: Triple (200MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro)
• Front Camera: 16MP sensor (hole-punch cutout)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (optical in-display)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 6 (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / A-GPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou / QZSS, USB-C, NFC, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Ambient light, E-compass, Gyro, Infrared, Proximity
• Battery: 5000mAh with 120W charging (120W adapter inside the box)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 47,999 (8/256GB)
• Read our Redmi Note 13 Pro+ review
• Watch our Redmi Note 13 Pro+ review
• Buy Redmi Note 13 Pro+ here

Best Phones Under 1 Lakh in Nepal

This category brings some semi-flagship and flagship killer phones to Nepal. As such, you are sorted with superb cameras, build, display, and processor but with some small catches as compared to the flagship guys. Check out our current picks of the best phones under 1 lakh in Nepal.

3. iPhone 13

The Apple iPhone 13 makes its way to the list of best phones under NPR 1 Lakh in Nepal. After all, it’s a balanced mix of performance, design, and functionality. The A15 Bionic chip is still strong and can handle multitasking and gaming with ease. Its sleek look is on par with newer iPhones, while the 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display delivers vibrant visuals, though limited to a 60Hz refresh rate.

The 12MP dual cameras can still capture sharp, punchy photos and stable 4K videos. Although the battery life might not be great, its lightweight aluminum frame and IP68 rating add to its durability and appeal.

Still a good choice in 2024?

Despite its drawbacks, the iPhone 13 remains a valuable choice in 2024, offering a no-frills experience that excels in design, display, cameras, performance, and software. While other phones like the Galaxy S23 FE or the OnePlus 11 may offer faster performance and larger, smoother displays, none can match the consistent reliability of the iPhone 13, particularly in terms of software and camera quality. That’s why it continues to be the top choice for many users.

iPhone 13 Specifications:

• Display: 6.1-inch (2532 × 1170 pixels) OLED, 460 PPI, Super Retina XDR, 60Hz
• Chipset: Six-core A15 Bionic 64-bit processor, 16-core Neural Engine
• Memory: 128/256/512GB
• Software and UI: iOS 15, upgradable to iOS 17.4
• Back Camera: Dual (12MP main, 12MP ultrawide)
• Front Camera: 12MP sensor
• Security: TrueDepth camera for FaceID facial recognition
• Connectivity: 5G (sub-6GHz and mmWave), Gigabit LTE with 4×4 MIMO and LAA, 802.11ax Wi‑Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, GPS with GLONASS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou
• Sensors: Face ID, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
• Battery: 3,240mAh, 20W fast charging, 7.5W Qi Wireless Charging, 15W MagSafe Wireless Charger (No adapter included in the box)
• Price in Nepal: Rs. 95,000 (128 GB)
• Read our long term review of iPhone 13 here.
• Watch our long term review of the iPhone 13 here.
• Buy iPhone 13 here

2. OnePlus 12R

The OnePlus 12R takes the second spot in our best phones under 1 lakh category. It boasts a sleek design with glass panels on both sides and a metal frame, though it lacks some high-end features like top-notch vibrations and protection against water and dust.

Its display impresses with vibrant colors and clear visuals, and it even supports touch input with wet fingers, which is handy for people on the move.

Performance

Running on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with either 8 or 16GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, the OnePlus 12R performs well for daily tasks and gaming, although it may encounter minor issues with demanding games.

With a large 6.78-inch screen featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO 4.0 technology, the OnePlus 12R ensures a smooth viewing experience. The camera captures detailed shots in normal lighting conditions but struggles in low light. The battery life is commendable, and it supports rapid 100W wired charging for quick refills.

OnePlus 12R Review: Specifications

• Display: 6.78-inch ProXDR AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, LTPO 4.0 (1-120Hz), 450 PPI
• Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 5G (TSMC 4nm)
• Memory: 8/16GB LPDDR5X RAM, 128 / 256GB UFS 3.1 storage
• Software & UI: Android 14-based OxygenOS 14
• Rear Camera: Triple (50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
• Front Camera: 16MP, f/2.4 (punch-hole)
• Security: Fingerprint (under display, optical)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6/7, dual-band, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BDS
• Sensors: Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, color spectrum
• Battery: 5500mAh with 100W SuperVOOC charging (wired)
• Price in Nepal: Rs. 90,999 (12/256GB)
• Read our review of the OnePlus 12R here.
• Watch our review of the OnePlus 12R here.
• Buy OnePlus 12R here

1. Xiaomi 14

The Xiaomi 14 stands out as the leading choice among smartphones priced under 1 lakh in Nepal, offering a compelling blend of affordability and top-tier performance. With its 6.36-inch screen boasting vivid colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, it excels in delivering an immersive multimedia experience. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and equipped with an Ice Loop vapor chamber for efficient cooling, it ensures seamless performance even during demanding tasks or gaming sessions.

Its 4600mAh battery, coupled with 90W charging, provides fair battery life in our usage. The Xiaomi 14 impressively combines style, functionality, and value, establishing itself as a formidable competitor in its category.

Leica Cameras

The camera system on the Xiaomi 14 has undergone significant enhancements, featuring a new 1/1.3″ 50MP Light Fusion 900 primary sensor that captures 180% more light compared to its predecessor, the Xiaomi 13’s IMX800 camera. It also has two additional 50MP sensors for ultrawide and zoom shots, with the latter offering a 3.2x optical zoom and a minimum focus distance of just 10cm. Additionally, Xiaomi has upgraded its lenses to Leica’s “Summilux” series, resulting in improved color accuracy, contrast, and light capture. Portrait options include a Leica 75mm mode, producing elegant, vintage-inspired images with pleasing background blur.

Xiaomi 14 Specifications:

• Display: 6.36-inches LTPO OLED panel, 120Hz refresh rate, 3000nits peak brightness, HDR 10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, Gorilla Glass Victus
• Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm Mobile Platform)
• Memory: Up to 16GB RAM, 1TB UFS 4.0 storage
• Software & UI: Android 14 with HyperOS on top
• Rear Camera: Triple Leica cameras (50MP main, 50MP telephoto, 50MP ultrawide)
• Front Camera: 32MP sensor (punch-hole)
• Security: Fingerprint (under display, optical)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BDS, USB Type-C 3.2, OTG
• Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass, barometer, color spectrum
• Battery: 4600mAh with 90W wired charging, 50W wireless, 10W reverse wireless
• Price in Nepal:Rs 99,999 (12/512GB)
• Read our review of Xiaomi 14 here.
• Watch our review of the Xiaomi 14 here.
• Buy Xiaomi 14 here

Best Flagship Phones in Nepal

3. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

Foldable phones become a thing in recent years. And as known, Samsung is a dominant player in this sector, while other brands like OnePlus (Open), Honor (Magic V2), and Tecno (Phantom V Fold) have also stepped their foot in the scene.

In Nepal, you can step into the foldable zone as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 are both officially available in the country.

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is what you’d expect from a proper folding phone. It comes with a regular-sized display up front, that can transform into a mini tablet of sorts with a simple motion. And on the fifth iteration, Samsung has essentially perfected what an inward folding phone should be like, which is why it takes the bronze medal on our list of best smartphones in Nepal.

Gapless hinge

While it may not boast the ultra-slim profile of competitors like the OnePlus Open, Huawei Mate X5, or Xiaomi Mix Fold 2, the Fold 5 sets itself apart with its seamless hinge, offering a notably improved tactile experience compared to earlier Z Fold iterations. The folding experience on the Fold 5 is genuinely impressive, leveraging the same Armor Aluminum hinge as its predecessor but now reinforced with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on both the cover display and the back panel.

While some enhancements to minimize the crease would have been appreciated, it appears to be on par with previous iterations.

Continuing the legacy of its forerunner, the Fold 5 boasts IPX8 water resistance and Samsung assures durability with the claim of withstanding 200,000 folds. Furthermore, it packs a host of premium features including the bespoke Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, 120Hz AMOLED displays, flagship-grade cameras, and more. Samsung’s One UI is adeptly optimized to maximize the utility of the expansive foldable display.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 Specifications:

• Display:
  • 6.2-inches AMOLED screen (outer), HD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus 2
  • 7.6-inches AMOLED screen (inner), QHD+, 120Hz refresh rate
• Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (4nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 8/12GB RAM, Up to 1TB storage (fixed)
• Software & UI: One UI 5 on top of Android 12 (upgradeable)
• Rear Camera: Triple (50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto)
• Front Camera: 10MP sensor (hole-punch), 4MP sensor (in-display)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (side-mounted)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 6E (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / AGPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou, NFC, USB-C, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Barometer, Geomagnetic, Gyro, Hall, Light, Proximity
• Battery: 4400mAh with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging (power adapter not provided)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 226,999 (12/256GB) | NPR 239,999 (12/512GB)
• Check out the full specs of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 here.
• Buy Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 here

2. iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max

Securing the second position on our roster of premier smartphones in Nepal are Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. If you’re seeking the epitome of Apple’s smartphone prowess, these two models are the ones to opt for. However, while the distinction between Apple’s “Pro” and “Pro Max” iPhones has traditionally revolved around their physical dimensions and battery longevity, this time around, opting for the iPhone 15 Pro Max might be the choice if you’re in pursuit of nothing short of the absolute best.

The primary reason for my assertion lies in the presence of the 5x periscope telephoto camera featured exclusively on the larger model of the iPhone. While the iPhone 15 Pro maintains the standard 3x telephoto lens, the inclusion of the 5x camera on the iPhone 15 Pro Max marks a significant advancement. Particularly beneficial for portrait photography, its 120mm lens facilitates the capture of remarkable portraits with superior subject clarity, background defocus, and overall image quality.

Nevertheless, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges inherent in capturing 5x portraits, as it often requires maintaining a considerable distance from the subject. Beyond this, the camera performance across both iPhone models remains largely similar. Comparable to the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, the latest “Pro” variants produce high-resolution 24MP images with impressive detail and dynamic range. Additionally, they excel in video recording capabilities, solidifying their position as the top choice for smartphone videography.

Titanium Frame

The standout feature of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max is undoubtedly their titanium frame. It’s a mixed blessing, though. On one hand, Apple has succeeded in significantly reducing the weight of these phones by switching from stainless steel to a titanium frame. However, there’s a downside in terms of durability, as well as a tendency for the frame to discolor relatively easily.

In terms of performance, the iPhone 15 Pro models are powered by the brand-new A17 Pro processor. Notably, this marks the first instance of Apple incorporating the “Pro” label into its mobile chip nomenclature. Moreover, it’s the sole processor currently manufactured on TSMC’s state-of-the-art 3nm node.

With features ranging from hardware ray tracing to a MetalFX Upscaling method reminiscent of DLSS, this “Pro” chip lives up to its name. It’s not just about gaming prowess either; these devices also embrace USB-C connectivity and boast impressive battery life. Taken together, the iPhone 15 Pro duo rightfully earns its spot on our list of top smartphones in Nepal.

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max Specifications:

• Display: 120Hz refresh rate, Ceramic Shield glass
  • iPhone 15 Pro: 6.1-inches OLED screen, FHD+
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max: 6.7-inches OLED screen, 2K
• Chipset: Apple A17 Pro (3nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 8GB RAM, 128GB to 1TB storage (fixed)
• Software & UI: Apple iOS 17 (upgradeable)
• Rear Camera: Triple (48MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto)
• Front Camera: 12MP sensor (notch)
• Security: Face ID (from TrueDepth camera)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano / eSIM), WiFi 6 (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / AGPS / Glonass / Galileo / QZSS / Beidou / NavIC / iBeacon, UWB, USB-C, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Barometer, Dual ambient light, High-g accelerometer, High dynamic range gyro, LiDAR, Proximity
• Battery: (power adapter not provided)
  • iPhone 15: 3274mAh with 20W wired and 15W wireless charging
  • iPhone 15 Plus: 4422mAh with 20W wired and 15W wireless charging
• Read our iPhone 15 Pro Max review
• Watch our iPhone 15 Pro Max review
• Price in Nepal:
  • iPhone 15 Pro: NPR 176,500 (128GB) / NPR 195,400 (256GB) / NPR 233,200 (512GB) / NPR 270,900 (1TB)
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max: NPR 214,300 (256GB) / NPR 252,100 (512GB) / NPR 289,900 (1TB)
• su_button url=”https://hukut.com/iphone-15-pro-price-in-nepal” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#3a67d8″ color=”#ffffff” size=”7″ center=”no” icon=”icon: paper-plane-o” text_shadow=”0px 0px 0px “]Buy iPhone 15 Pro here[/su_button]
• Buy iPhone 15 Pro Max here

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The number one spot on our list of best smartphones in Nepal goes to the new Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. While Samsung effectively perfected the flagship formula last year with the Galaxy S23 Ultra (review), it’s managed to take things a step further this time. It definitely doesn’t look all that different from its predecessor, but all the upgrades Samsung has made definitely add up to deliver an even better smartphone experience overall.

The new S24 Ultra has an improved 50MP periscope camera that can zoom in 5 times without losing quality. This replaces the old 10MP camera that could zoom in 10 times. It might seem like a step back, but it actually makes more sense. Now, there’s no big jump from 3x to 10x zoom, making it easier to get the right zoom level. Plus, the 3x to 5x range is more versatile for taking pictures.

Unlike the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the S24 Ultra lets you take portraits at 3x zoom, which is useful when you’re close to your subject. Overall, the S24 Ultra’s camera works well in different situations, although it’s not quite as good for videos as the iPhone. Still, Samsung deserves credit for their impressive camera improvements this time.

Mad for flat

The Galaxy S24 Ultra introduces several quality-of-life enhancements, with Samsung’s choice of a flat display being particularly noteworthy. This design minimizes accidental touches during everyday use and gaming, while also boasting impressive anti-reflective properties for better outdoor visibility, even in bright sunlight or under direct light sources. Additionally, the device features tougher Gorilla Glass Armor for enhanced durability.

On the performance front, the Galaxy S24 Ultra excels. It utilizes a slightly overclocked version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and incorporates a 1.9x larger vapor chamber cooling system, resulting in exceptional performance. Samsung has integrated various AI features such as “live translate” for voice calls and “circle to search,” further enhancing the user experience. Moreover, the S24 Ultra guarantees 7 years of OS upgrades and security updates, a commendable commitment to longevity.

In a nod to Apple, Samsung employs titanium frames, though the weight difference compared to the Galaxy S23 Ultra is minimal due to the lighter aluminum frame. However, battery life remains impressive, and the inclusion of the built-in S Pen offers a unique and versatile experience.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Specifications:

• Display: 6.8-inches AMOLED screen, WQHD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Armor
• Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy (4nm mobile platform)
• Memory: 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 256GB to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage (fixed)
• Software & UI: One UI 6.1 on top of Android 14 (upgradeable)
• Rear Camera: Quad (200MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, 50MP periscope telephoto, 10MP periscope)
• Front Camera: 12MP sensor (hole-punch)
• Security: Fingerprint sensor (ultrasonic in-display)
• Connectivity: Dual-SIM (Nano), WiFi 7 (tri-band), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS / AGPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou / QZSS, NFC, UWB, USB-C, 4G LTE, 5G
• Sensors: Accelerometer, Barometer, Geomagnetic, Gyroscope, Hall, Light, Proximity
• Battery: 5000mAh with 45W wired and 15W wireless charging (power adapter not provided)
• Price in Nepal: NPR 184,999 (12/256GB) | NPR 199,999 (12/512GB)
• Read our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review
• Watch our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review
• Buy Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra here

Best Phone in Nepal: Conclusion

Best phone in Nepal list is subject to change anytime. New launches and rice drops are the key factors for change here. But fear not, we’ll make sure to update this article constantly if any changes happen. Apart from that, price of Mobile in Nepal differs from one smartphone brand to another. Some brands may offer better smartphones with better specs at cheaper prices than others. So, one must explore different models available at similar price segments, do proper market research, and then proceed to buy a smartphone. For that, you can always count on our buy guides articles and YouTube videos as well.

• Check out the other buy guides for smartphones.