Best Smartphones

Best Upper-Midrange Smartphones from $400 to $600

January 2021 Edition

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When premium phones are out of financial reach and entry-level handsets just don’t make your cut, something in between is the next best thing. This is our updated list of the best upper-midrange smartphones retailing from US$ 400 to US$ 600.

Formulating this category was tricky, since you can’t set an exact price and some of these devices are, in fact, the flagship phones of their respective brands. To simplify things, we chose a price range that simply sits between our other lists for best budget, midrange, and premium smartphones.

Here they are in no particular order:

Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro (around US$575)

This is our 2020 best value smartphone for simply because of its price-to-feature ratio. You’re getting so much flagship-level specs for about half the price of most flagships these days. The Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro is the embodiment of Xiaomi’s commitment to bringing great value for money smartphones and is easily the best recommendation in this category.

WATCH: Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro Unboxing and Review

Pixel 4a 5G (US$ 499)

This feels more like it should have been a Pixel 5 Lite than a 4a 5G. Weird naming aside, it shares plenty of characteristics with the Pixel 5. Chief among them are the Snapdragon 765G SoC and support for 5G. What this is, really, is a sort of future-proofed Pixel who’s pricing is a tier under premium.

WATCH: 2020 Google Pixel Buyer’s Guide

OnePlus Nord (EUR 499 / US$ 570)

The OnePlus Nord launched with plenty of fanfare from OnePlus fans. After a few phones that veered away from providing flagship-level phones for less, OnePlus is back in that game. What we have is almost all the necessities you can want from any really capable phone.

REVIEW: OnePlus Nord

POCO F2 Pro [6GB/128GB] (EUR 499/ US$ 560)

It feels premature adding this here but if the previous POCO phone was any indication, we probably have another worthy option at this price point. Worth noting though that the higher configuration (8GB/256GB) breached premium space — which is uncharted territory for the POCO brand.

LAUNCH: POCO F2 Pro

Samsung Galaxy A71 5G (US$ 599)

Awesome screen, awesome camera, long-lasting battery life — that’s the LSS-inducing theme of the Galaxy A71 as it was being teased. Lo and behold, Samsung wasn’t lying. The phone certainly lives up to the hype and while specs-wise there may be cheaper options out there, the package that Samsung has put together is quite enticing. And in the US, it’s the most affordable phone with support for 5G.

REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy A71

realme X3 SuperZoom (US$ 509)

The realme X3 SuperZoom is equipped with late 2019 flagship specs — Snapdragon 855+, 64MP main camera, 120Hz screen refresh rate — while being priced at just a little over half the price of phones with comparable specs. realme is playing in that flagship killer territory and certainly deserves more attention.

REVIEW: realme X3 SuperZoom

 

Best Smartphones

2023 GadgetMatch Approved Smartphones

2023 smartphones that deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

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It’s the time of the year again!

ICYMI, we haven’t reviewed all smartphones released this year. Despite that, there are still 23 smartphones from 2023 (not intentional, btw) that were able to make the cut and bagged GadgetMatch’s very own Seal of Approval.

Reviewed by different members of the team with varying preferences and personalities, smartphones in this list weren’t limited to the premium line as it also tackles the budget and midrange segment, as well as foldables and flippables.

This list is in descending order from most recently published.

OPPO Find N3 / OnePlus Open

OPPO Find N3

“Some things are meant to be, but perhaps they aren’t meant to last. That’s how I view my time with the OPPO Find N3 – fleeting but filled to the brim with moments that will stick with me. It happened. It was great. But then, it was over.

I’ll likely find myself staring into empty space just reliving all of it every now and then. If I’d be given a chance to experience it all over again, I would say yes in a heartbeat.”Rodneil

READ MORE: Parting with the OPPO Find N3 felt like a break-up

“Well the reviews are in, and overwhelmingly the consensus is clear — the OnePlus Open is the best foldable in the market today.

And after one month of having this phone in my pocket and in my bag, I can wholeheartedly say that I agree. It deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” — Michael Josh

OPPO Find N3 Flip

“A flip smartphone like the Find N3 Flip has a certain allure that you can only imagine. It’s time to flip your life around and open yourself to an array of experiences. There’s something special about it, and I can’t help but gush over a smartphone worthy of being in my pocket.” MJ

READ MORE: OPPO Find N3 review: Fits my life perfectly

vivo V29 5G

vivo V29 5G

“Overall, the vivo V29 5G is a great gadget for those who love content creation, and those with the habit of using multiple apps in a single time. It’s a great choice as well for people who loves using their phone as accessory to match their OOTD.” Martynne

READ MORE: vivo V29 5G review: Aesthetic phone with aura light to match

Apple iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max

“Seriously, there is a lot to love with the new iPhone 15 series. That new Titanium build is sexy — it’s light and it’s definitely what I’ve been waiting for. That Action Button I believe is going to be a game-changer — and soon they’re opening it up to third-party app developers also. That USB-C port is going to open it up to a whole bunch of possibilities as well as compatibility.

And that new camera has set the bar for everybody else to beat. Plus, if you’re a Pro user, if you’re a content creator, a professional video creator, then you’re definitely going to want to leverage all of its new features as well. There’s no beating around the bush, the iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max is the best smartphone that you can get today.” — Michael Josh

Xiaomi 13T Pro

Xiaomi 13T Pro

“The main draw of the Xiaomi 13T Pro, without a doubt, is how it lets you experience a Leica camera without it costing you an arm and a leg.

Elsewhere, the Xiaomi 13T Pro is also a winner. The silky smooth display catches your attention immediately, and its general size and overall build makes you feel secure. You just have this peace of mind that what you’re holding is made with care and won’t break easily. There’s also something about it that’s hard to describe or quantify. You just know, you’re using a device that’s better than most.” Rodneil

READ MORE: Leica virgin? Try the Xiaomi 13T Pro

OPPO A98 5G

“The OPPO A98 5G has certainly made a mark in the midrange smartphone segment. With its eye-catching design, impressive display, and powerful battery life, it offers a well-rounded experience for a lot of users.

The device’s ability to deliver smooth performance and handle gaming well are really worth considering. And with its competitive pricing, I can say that the OPPO A98 5G is a strong contender in its category, earning an A+ for its overall offering and total upgrade from its predecessor.” Tom

READ MORE: OPPO A98 5G review: A+ for all-around experience

realme 11 Pro+ 5G

“It certainly has one of the best smartphones in its bracket. If dazzling cameras, design, and really quick charging are all you’re up for, the realme 11 Pro+ 5G is definitely your GadgetMatch. Having a flagship-like experience trumps all the imperfections and flaws you’ll encounter with this smartphone, especially the lack of IP rating.” MJ

READ MORE: realme 11 Pro+ 5G review: Flagship-like?

Nothing Phone (2)

“On its second iteration, has managed to build something special. A well-priced phone that delivers on all the right things.

Nothing says that their goal is to build something “fun”. And while I’m not sure if this phone is “fun” enough, I think it’s a great phone that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval” — Michael Josh

motorola razr+

“At just under a $1000, which is a fair price for a foldable, I definitely consider the motorola razr+.” — Michael Josh

TECNO Camon 20 Pro

“The TECNO Camon 20 Pro retails for PhP 9,999. A 5G version sells for PhP 12,999. Based on those prices, the series is a great example of getting a bit more than what you pay for. It’s not the best smartphone in the market in its price range.

However, if you’re shopping for a decent daily driver with a limited budget, the Camon 20 Pro deserves some attention.” Luigi

READ MORE: TECNO Camon 20 Pro review

ROG Phone 7 Ultimate

“If your smartphone priorities align with that of the ROG Phone, then it is an excellent product. It’s certainly a mobile gamer’s GadgetMatch. Is it newsworthy? In the general sense, not really. Not anymore. But is it a goddamn good product? Hell yeah it is. One that deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.” Rodneil

READ MORE: Is the ROG Phone kind of boring now?

Xiaomi 13 Pro

“The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a great smartphone meant for photographers, casual shooters, and aspirers alike. It’s a smartphone that isn’t gimmicky and actually offers the real deal compared to other smartphone photography contenders.

The Xiaomi 13 Pro (or any existing 1-inch-equipped smartphones around) can’t and won’t “replace” any professional cameras anytime soon. However, I can confidently say that the Xiaomi 13 Pro lives up to its professional photography promises.” Vincenz

READ MORE: Xiaomi 13 Pro: Frustrated Photographer’s review

POCO F5 Pro

“The POCO F5 Pro does a lot of things right. Though the smartphone doesn’t offer one thing for users to exclusively focus on, it shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.” Luigi

READ MORE: POCO F5 Pro review

Redmi Note 12

“It’s a cheap phone that’s good but it also comes with its drawbacks. Yet, despite the sometimes inconsistent camera performance and inevitable bloatware, the Redmi Note 12 still impressed enough.

It’s a good smartphone, whether you’re trying to save up on a couple of bucks, or you’re just about to purchase your first device. It’s a good First Dance to have; a smartphone you’d be proud to call your GadgetMatch.” Karlo

READ MORE: Redmi Note 12 review: Note-worthy as your First Dance?

HONOR Magic5 Pro

“The HONOR Magic5 Pro is easily one of the Top 5 standard slate flagship smartphones of 2023. The specs, design, and overall feel of the phone is undeniably flagship.” Rodneil

READ MORE: HONOR Magic5 Pro Review

Samsung Galaxy A34

“If you’re someone who doesn’t have any special needs with their smartphone usage and you simply want an all-around smartphone that you can trust, then the Galaxy A34 is for you.

This phone won’t be a purchase of betrayal for you. This is something that can feel like family; a mid-range smartphone you can trust.” Karlo

READ MORE: Samsung Galaxy A34 review: Awesome, trustworthy all-rounder

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G

“The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G is an upper midrange smartphone that can keep up and live up to its promises. It is a very recommendable midrange smartphone considering it has a less heavy price tag despite being heavy with features.

You’ll get that rich audiovisual experience, a not-so-typical Redmi design and premium-like build quality, satisfying performance, more than sufficient battery life, rapid charging speeds, and cameras that are enough for your needs day and night.” Vincenz

READ MORE: Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G review: Midrange Madness?

OPPO Find N2 Flip

“The OPPO Find N2 Flip is certainly my GadgetMatch, and it could be yours, too. It has flagship experience, exceptional imaging capabilities, flexibility in use cases, and versatility as a travel camera.

There’s something remarkable about this smartphone that will make you want to have it. For me, it has an appeal that only you would experience if you have your hands on it. That certain allure can keep you hooked, just like how I can’t keep it off my hands.” MJ

READ MORE: Find N2 Flip: Quintessential travel companion

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

“The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a fantastic device. But there are certain things about it that may not be your cup of tea. The devil, after all, is in the details. It has a fantastic set of cameras. Easily one of the best today.” Rodneil

READ MORE: Buyer’s Guide: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

WATCH: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Review: One Week Later

HONOR Magic Vs

“What HONOR has with the Magic Vs is a challenger-in-the-making. They only need to stay the course and work out the software issues in order to truly stand against the reigning champion of foldables.” Rodneil

READ MORE: HONOR Magic Vs review: Galactic outside, Harmonious inside

realme 10 Pro 5G

realme 10 Pro 5G

“It’s safe to say that realme has one-upped themselves yet again. Even if their number series phones are technically mid-rangers, they thrive in the perception of being realme’s de facto “flagships”.

With the realme 10 Pro 5G, users will get an ultra-reliable phone with numerous enhancements for shelling out just a little extra.”GadgetMatch

READ MORE: realme 10 Pro 5G review: Putting ‘boundless’ in mid-range smartphones

POCO X5 Pro 5G

POCO X5 Pro 5G

“At first glance it won’t impress, but its value as a smartphone is all about what’s under the hood. It’s a powerful device that gets the job done. The POCO X5 Pro 5G is a great choice to have if you’re looking for a weapon that will bring you victory in whatever battles you’ll face.”Karlo

READ MORE: POCO X5 Pro 5G review: Must have mid-ranger?

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Best Smartphones

Best Smartphones of 2023

Which one is your GadgetMatch?

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Year after year, it gets tougher and tougher to make Best Smartphones lists. The smartphones keep getting better with only a few differences here and there. And the deciding factor being one’s own preference – making it your ‘match’. 

But we still tried. Here’s our Best Smartphones 2023 picks, with quotes lifted from the content we produced on the smartphones we had the privilege of using throughout the year. 

Best Overall — iPhone 15 Pro

Michael Josh on the iPhone 15 Pro/ Pro Max

If you own an iPhone 13, iPhone 14, no matter what you want to hear, I’m here to tell you, you do not need one. Is the iPhone 15 Pro worth it? Sure, yes it is. 

But at the same time, I know a lot of you have already made up your mind and are coming here to get validation. Sure. Go ahead. If you have the money, upgrade. If you’re an iPhone forever plan, why not. Upgrade. 

But seriously, there is a lot to love about the new iPhone 15 Pro Series. That new titanium build is sexy, it’s light and it’s definitely what I’ve been waiting for. 

That action button, I believe, is going to be a game changer. Soon they’re going to open it up to third-party app developers also. That USB-C port is gonna open it up to a bunch of new possibilities as well as compatibility. And that new camera has set the bar for everybody else to try to beat.

Plus, if you’re a Pro user, if you’re a content creator, a professional video creator, then you’re definitely going to want to leverage all of its new features as well. 

There’s no beating around the bush, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the best smartphone you can get today. I highly recommend that you go out and get it. 

Honorable mention: Pixel 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, OnePlus Open/OPPO Find N3

Best Foldable — OnePlus Open/OPPO Find N3

Rodneil on the OPPO Find N3

The connection I had with the Find N3 went beyond my sense of touch. The way its software worked almost as seamlessly as the Galaxy Z Fold5 did, tickled my other senses. 

I can go from folded to unfolded without missing a beat. Opening two apps in a split screen is a two-finger swipe down gesture. 

It is, by all intents and purposes, the exact kind of device I once dreamt of using when I was much, much younger, imagining myself attending to online work while staying present in my immediate vicinity.

My wish of having the Galaxy Z Fold5’s software running in a better smartphone-to-mini-tablet form factor appears to have been granted. The OPPO Find N3’s software and hardware combo is a lot closer to the sweet spot I personally prefer

Every second I spent with the Find N3 was pure bliss.

Honorable mentions: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, HONOR Magic Vs/V2

Best Flip — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the Find N3 Flip

The OPPO Find N3 Flip is an excellent flagship smartphone. Everything good about its predecessor was retained, and the rest were made better. It’s not just an accessory to make a statement anymore; it’s a functional device that can keep up with whatever lifestyle you have.

If you’re open to trying a new form factor and you’re ready to jump, I’d say take the leap of faith and see where the affair will take you. A flip smartphone like the Find N3 Flip has a certain allure that you can only imagine. It’s time to flip your life around and open yourself to an array of experiences.

Did I find my GadgetMatch for the year? Highly likely, it’s a yes. After all, the OPPO Find N3 Flip earns the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval. There’s something special about it, and I can’t help but gush over a smartphone worthy of being in my pocket.

Honorable mentions: motorola razr+, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 

Best Design — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the Find N3 Flip

The Find N3 Flip felt like the partner I’ve been looking for. It fits my palm, it’s compact enough to be tucked inside my pocket, and more importantly, it can keep up with my active and busy lifestyle.

I was able to take the Find N3 Flip to the great outdoors. It was robust enough, despite having a glass body. As someone fond of extreme activities, I’d admit that a flip smartphone looks delicate as a daily driver.

But somehow, it felt sturdy enough to accompany me. Perhaps, thanks to its aircraft-grade stainless steel core.

The IPX4 rating, although a bit low, allowed me to continually use the Find N3 Flip even when it’s drizzling.

Honorable mentions: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Best for Overall Photography — OPPO Find X6 Pro

Michael Josh on the Find X6 Pro

You know how if a smartphone has like 3 cameras. You can expect the main camera to be super good. And the rest to be…not as good?  Well OPPO hopes to change that with the Find X6 Pro.

They’re saying, this phone has 3 main cameras. Instead of just one. And while that doesn’t mean they all have the same sensor and specs.Compared to its competitors. This phone is way closer to that.

All 3 main cameras whether that be wide, ultra wide or telephoto are all 50MP shooters. All have large sensors. And all have wide apertures. 

Earlier this month I took a photo trip in Malaga and Granada in the south of Spain to test out this camera phone. But before I show you my favorite photos from that trip let’s take a look at comparisons to see why the idea behind 3 main cameras makes a difference.

Honorable Mentions: Huawei P60 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro

Best for Overall Videography — iPhone 15 Pro Max

From our iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max Review

When it comes to the iPhone 15 Pro Series’ Cameras there’s a lot more to cover. Like being able to record videos in LOG and being able to apply your own Lutz, external recording to an SSD, or being able to use the a USB-3.2 cable to shoot and immediately transfer 48MP ProRes RAW files to a Mac using Capture One — just like they do in pro photography studios. 

Cinematic Mode also gets an update and while filming you can now zoom in. So here’s a quick video montage that we shot all with Cinematic Mode. 

Honorable Mentions: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best for Selfie Photos — OPPO Find N3 Flip

MJ on the OPPO Find N3 Flip 

What I loved the most about the Find N3 Flip is how it fits everything together. The best-in-class cameras work hand-in-hand with various form factors that you can do while shooting and recording.

You can put it up like a tent, let it stand like a tripod, take photos like the usual slate phones, or fold it and use the cover screen.

Let the rear cameras do their magic. After all, it uses a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 sensor for its main shooter; a 48-megapixel Sony IMX581 ultra-wide camera; and a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto lens.

Inside, you can find a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 selfie shooter. While I will never be fond of its selfies due to padded beautification even if you turn it off, the Find N3 Flip takes gorgeous selfies if you’d like to look fresh even when you just woke up.

Honorable Mentions: HONOR 90

Best for Selfie Videos — Infinix Zero 30 5G

MJ on the Infinix Zero 30 5G

Not a lot of smartphones prioritize their front cameras. All eyes are on its rear cameras capable of up to 100x zoom or something like that. While they’re nice to have when you’re traveling and out and about, I appreciate the efforts Infinix put into the ZERO 30 5G.

It’s equipped with a 50-megapixel front camera that’s capable of recording 4K videos at 30 or 60fps, and 1080p at 30fps.

Having that camera system allowed me to film my fitness journey, especially at a time when I was hitting almost rock bottom and I was only living life between home and the gym.

Here’s a reel stitched from 4K videos, all taken using the Infinix ZERO 30 5G.

Best Zoom Photo — Huawei P60 Pro

Rodneil on the Huawei P60 Pro

The Huawei P60 Pro does a great job of capturing multiple types of scenes. The main camera is great for capturing general scenes and quick snaps. 

My personal favorite is the telephoto lens. Something about it just adds character to the shots you take. It’s great for closing in on your subject, whether that’s architecture or food. 

Our member Vincenz even took it to a K-Pop super group TWICE’s concert and came out with stunning photos.

Honorable Mentions: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 

Best Zoom Video — Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Rodneil on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra might not be king when it comes to overall video. But it’s undisputed in Zoom Videos.

Here are a few samples, not just of zoom, but also of its overall video shooting prowess. 

@gadgetmatch

29Rooms is an experiential funhouse and it was an absolute blast to experience. Here’s a quick look #ShotOnGalaxy S23 Ultra. More info on 29rooms.sg #artinstallation #art #galaxys23ultra #samsunggalaxy #galaxys23ultra #galaxys23

♬ original sound – GadgetMatch – GadgetMatch

 

 

 

Best Portrait Shooter — iPhone 15 Pro Max

Michael Josh on the iPhone 15 Pro Max

The other big change that I think is going to be a game changer is called Next Gen Portraits.

I love portrait mode. That blurry background can really bring a subject into focus. But previously the quality hasn’t been as good as just using the main camera. That’s addressed this year. 

For the first time on an iPhone — Portrait Mode is now powered by the Photonic Engine.

So you get all the benefits of Deep Fusion and Smart HDR. Even better, you don’t even have to turn Portrait Mode on.

Honorable Mentions: Huawei P60 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Pro, HONOR Magic5 Pro

Best Travel Companion — Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

MJ on the Galaxy Z Flip5 

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is more than just a flip smartphone requiring delicate care. It’s already worthy of being a daily driver that can match any of your lifestyle — even if the one you chose is an extreme one. I’ve seen people carrying either a flip or a fold on a trail run, and it always amazes me how daring they are until I’ve experienced using one.

Best Gaming — ROG Phone 7

Rodneil on the ROG Phone 7

With the ROG Phone, you know what you’re getting: A gaming smartphone with gaming-specific features. There’s the distinctly gamer look with a bunch of lines that evoke a mech-vibe.

Literally no one else is doing it quite like the ROG Phone. From form to function, it’s THE undisputed gaming smartphone of choice. And the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate continues that tradition. It’s the best that the ROG Phone has ever been and that’s something we’ve come to expect year in and year out. 

Honorable Mention: iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max

Best Value-for-money — POCO F5 Pro 

Luigi on the POCO F5 Pro

The POCO F5 Pro does a lot of things right. Though the smartphone doesn’t offer one thing for users to exclusively focus on, it shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.


Is your match not on the list? It’s likely we just didn’t get a chance to use it. Tell us what your GadgetMatch is!

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Best Smartphones

2022 GadgetMatch Approved Smartphones

Smartphones that deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

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GadgetMatch Approved

Admittedly, we haven’t reviewed all of the greatest and latest smartphones this 2022. That said, fifteen (15) of those smartphones were able to make the cut — particularly those with GadgetMatch’s Seal of Approval.

Reviewed by different members of the team with varying preferences and personalities, smartphones in this list weren’t limited to the premium line as it also tackles the budget and midrange segment.

This list is in descending order from most recently published.

iQOO 11

iQOO 11 5G

“The iQOO 11 5G is one of those phones that’s easy to recommend to just about anyone. It’s a borderline flagship smartphone. It looks sleek, it performs like a champ, and it captures photos you can be proud of sharing. Personally, I’m ready to crown this as the upper midrange king, usurping the OnePlus 10T for that title.” — Rodneil

READ MORE: iQOO 11 5G review: Better where it matters

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4

“The Galaxy Z Flip4 is a pure refinement of what was already a great piece of hardware. Being able to pack a lot of punch in such a compact and precisely-crafted piece of engineering marvel makes this phone stand out from the crowd.” — Vincenz

READ MORE: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Review: 3 months of love and commitment

HONOR Magic4 Pro

“No doubt, the HONOR Magic4 Pro is one among 2022’s best all-rounder smartphones around. It offers the quintessential triple set of rear cameras that other “flagships” fail to deliver.” — Vincenz

“The HONOR Magic4 Pro and its accompanying devices are just tiny steps forward in what is an early phase to complete independence. As they are now, these are devices worthy of your attention.” — Rodneil

READ MORE:

HONOR Magic4 Pro: My Best Concert Companion

GadgetSnaps: HONOR Magic4 Pro in Boracay

Bringing Back HONOR with Magic

realme 10

realme 10

“The realme 10 is solid. It’s certainly a 10 given the price to performance ratio. You’re getting a package that may not be stacked, but is undeniably solid. The realme 10 is a head turner, a good performer, and a decent moment capturer. It’ll take care of your needs with no problems whatsoever.”

READ MORE: realme 10 review: It’s a 10!

POCO M5

“For its price point, the new smartphone is a worthy purchase if you’re looking to game on a budget. And that’s without the additional frills you’re enjoying.” — Luigi

READ MORE: POCO M5 review: No need to break the bank

iQOO 9T

“The iQOO 9T provided more than what was expected in this price range: a flagship-grade mobile processor, fast and vibrant display, loud-enough stereo speakers, modest battery, fast AF charging, and even a decent set of cameras that other phone brands refuse to supply in their gaming smartphones.” — Vincenz

READ MORE: iQOO 9T review: The ultimate gaming phone killer?

POCO X4 GT

“MVP voting will continue to be contentious, especially in the world of mid-range smartphones. At the end of the day, you just need a candidate you won’t regret voting for. The POCO X4 GT is that kind of candidate, a smartphone you’d be very happy to be choose as your GadgetMatch from day one.” — Karlo

READ MORE: POCO X4 GT Review: Midrange MVP?!

OnePlus 10T

Starting at $649 it’s in a unique position because it offers top notch specs and backs it up with a well thought out design and great features. The OnePlus 10T is very competitive.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: OnePlus 10T Review: Lots to love, nothing to hate

READ MORE: OnePlus 10T 5G: 5 Best Things

Google Pixel 6a

Just like the phones that came before it the Pixel 6a still remains one of the best devices for folks who want an affordable Android smartphone. And it’s especially true this time around thanks to its high-end Tensor Chip from Google and more premium-looking design. Apart from that you’re also getting Pixel exclusive Android features, 3 years of guaranteed Android updates and 5 years of security updates.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: Google Pixel 6a Review: Best Android for Less?

vivo X80 Pro

“The updates on the X80 Pro aren’t flashy or gimmicky, but solid improvements across the board. And alongside the likes of Samsung and Google, I can confidently say that vivo is another major player in the Android space. And the X80 Pro deserves even more attention.” — Michael Josh

WATCH HERE: vivo X80 Pro Unboxing and Review: Totally Underrated

Samsung Galaxy S22+

“The Galaxy S22+ is a smooth amalgamation of many other standout phones. It has the breathtaking display of Samsung phones, an overall footprint that feels like an iPhone 12/13 Pro Max, cameras that rival those that partner with notable camera brands, and much, much more. All of that comes in this package that looks and feels well-built on a phone that is easily an all-rounder performer.” — Rodneil

READ MORE: Samsung Galaxy S22+ review: Love at first touch

realme 9 Pro+

“The creative options brought by the Street Mode, the detail the Sony IMX766 sensor captures and stellar night shots it can produce, the realme 9 Pro+ proves that you don’t need fancy equipment to take good photos. For the most part, this phone is a decent daily driver. But when talking about photography, the realme 9 Pro+ can surely unleash the photographer in you.” — Andre

READ MORE: realme 9 Pro+: Your next street photography buddy

realme 9 Pro

realme 9 pro

“If it still isn’t obvious, the realme 9 Pro is a great catch. It brings some flagship-level features in the midranger segment.

It also has outstanding cameras along with photography modes that lets you create visual content that you can straight up use on your social media feed. You can’t go wrong with its ultra smooth display, highly competent processor with 5G connectivity and sufficient battery life. Even more-so if you’re into photography or content creation.” — Apple

READ MORE: realme 9 Pro: A midrange camera powerhouse  

Redmi Note 11

Redmi Note 11

“The Redmi Note 11 is a champ. At its price range, you’d be hard pressed to find anything better. It performs a tier higher than what it’s pricing suggests. It might just be the best under PhP 10,000 (around US$ 200) phone you can buy today.” — Rodneil

READ MORE: Redmi Note 11 review: Budget king at its best

Huawei P50 Pro

“If you’re that eager to own a smartphone with a superior set of cameras, astounding display and speakers, slim and lightweight design, flagship-grade performance with an efficient battery life, the P50 Pro is no doubt the best option for you. For now, the Huawei P50 Pro has one of (if not the) best cameras in a smartphone today.” — Vincenz

READ MORE: Huawei P50 Pro review: 5 topnotch cameras, 5 drawbacks


SEE ALSO: 2022 GadgetMatch Approved Devices

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