The Gizchina Portal Editor highlighted a short list of five standout smartphones priced under 20 thousand rubles in December. Here is a deeper look at what made the cut and why these devices resonated with budget-conscious buyers in Russia, with practical insights that can also appeal to readers in North America who track value and performance in mid-range phones.
Leading the pack is the Realme GT Neo2, powered by the Snapdragon 870 processor and a 6.62-inch AMOLED display that refreshes at 120 Hz. This combination delivers snappy everyday performance, smooth scrolling, and vivid visuals for media consumption. The back coverage features a triple camera array: 64 MP main, 8 MP ultra-wide, and 2 MP macro, offering versatility for photos in varied lighting. A large 5000 mAh battery supports 65W rapid charging, meaning users can get a substantial charge in a short time, reducing downtime. This phone’s balance of speed, display quality, camera versatility, and fast charging explains its top position on the list. (Source: Gizchina Portal)
The Redmi Note 12 Pro holds the second slot and is currently targeted at the Chinese market. It introduces the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 chipset paired with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display at 120 Hz for smooth visuals and responsive performance. The device features a 50 MP main camera along with an 8 MP secondary and a 2 MP depth or macro shooter, offering clear photos in diverse scenes while keeping costs accessible. A robust 5000 mAh battery supports 67 W charging, enabling rapid top-ups during a busy day. This model exemplifies how Redmi continues to push high value within a modest price range, appealing to buyers who want modern specs without premium prices. (Source: Gizchina Portal)
The third spot is claimed by the Poco M5s, which relies on the MediaTek Helio G95 to deliver solid performance for everyday apps and gaming at a budget-friendly price. It features a 6.43-inch AMOLED panel that emphasizes brightness and color accuracy for media and browsing. Its quad-camera setup includes a 64 MP main sensor, 8 MP ultra-wide, 2 MP macro, and 2 MP depth sensor, offering flexible shooting options. The 5000 mAh battery is paired with 33-watt charging, providing a reliable all-day charge and reasonable replenishment speed. This device demonstrates how Poco prioritizes value without compromising essential performance. (Source: Gizchina Portal)
The fourth and fifth positions are occupied by the Vivo T2x and the Ulefone Armor 17 Pro, both praised for sturdy design and practical robustness. The Vivo T2x is noted for its reliable performance, decent camera system, and a design approach that appeals to users who want long-term durability. The Ulefone Armor 17 Pro earns a reputation for ruggedness, with a chassis built to withstand tougher environments while still delivering reasonable core specifications. These models illustrate how budget lines often cater to users who prioritize resilience and outdoor usability alongside everyday tasks. (Source: Gizchina Portal)
Across the board, these five models illustrate a trend in mid-range smartphones: strong display technology, capable cameras, and fast charging help stretch a modest price point into a satisfying daily experience. While market availability varies by region, the emphasis on reliable battery life, smooth performance, and modern connectivity remains universal. For readers weighing options, it is worth comparing real-world battery endurance, camera performance in various lighting, and the practical benefits of fast charging when choosing a device in this price band. (Source: Gizchina Portal)