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Looking back at the best budget smartphones from 2023 means comparing older models with very different strengths. The Redmi Note 12, Samsung Galaxy A34 5G, vivo Y36, POCO X5 5G and OPPO A78 all offered useful features at lower prices, but their names can hide important 4G and 5G differences.
This is a specification-based comparison of those 2023 phones. If you are buying one now, check its exact model, battery condition, current price and remaining security support before paying.
The Redmi Note 12 series includes different 4G and 5G models. The table identifies the 4G model separately.
Quick comparison of five budget phones from 2023
| Phone compared | Display | Mobile network | Rated wired charging | Main feature to compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12, global 4G model | 6.67-inch AMOLED, up to 120Hz | 4G | 33W | A smooth AMOLED screen for everyday use |
| Samsung Galaxy A34 5G | 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, up to 120Hz | 5G | 25W | A stabilized main camera and Samsung’s stated update plan |
| vivo Y36, global 4G model | 6.64-inch LCD | 4G | 44W | Everyday use and faster wired charging |
| POCO X5 5G | 6.67-inch AMOLED, up to 120Hz | 5G | 33W | AMOLED plus 5G in one model |
| OPPO A78, 4G CPH2565 | 6.43-inch AMOLED, up to 90Hz | 4G | 67W SUPERVOOC | Faster rated charging with a compatible setup |
These are manufacturer specifications, not measured test results. Charging rates are maximum ratings, and actual speed depends on the charger, cable, temperature and battery. Regional versions can differ.
Redmi Note 12: check 4G versus 5G first
The global Redmi Note 12 4G uses a Snapdragon 685 chip, a 120Hz AMOLED display and 33W charging. It can make sense as a basic older phone for calls, messaging and video when its condition and price are right.
The Redmi Note 12 5G is a different model, with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chip and 5G support. Do not assume that a seller’s “Redmi Note 12” listing includes 5G. Compare the exact model with Xiaomi‘s 4G specifications and 5G specifications.
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G: screen, camera and update plan
The Galaxy A34 5G has a 120Hz Super AMOLED display and a main camera with optical image stabilization. Samsung also advertised up to four generations of operating-system upgrades and five years of security updates for this model.
That was a promise tied to the phone’s release period; buying a used unit does not start a new five-year support period. Check the current update status for the exact regional model. Samsung’s A34 launch details explain the original features and support commitment.
vivo Y36: an LCD phone with 44W charging
The global 4G vivo Y36 uses a Snapdragon 680 chip, an LCD screen and a typical 5,000mAh battery with 44W charging. Its display is not AMOLED.
There are regional and network variants, so match the seller’s product code with the official Y36 specification sheet. A large storage figure or “extended RAM” label should not be confused with faster hardware or extra physical RAM.
POCO X5 5G: a clear 5G option in this group
The POCO X5 5G combines a Snapdragon 695 chip, a 120Hz AMOLED display and 33W charging. It is worth comparing with the Redmi Note 12 when the listing prices are close, especially if 5G matters to you.
Check local network bands, condition and software support rather than choosing on the 5G label alone. POCO’s official specifications identify the processor, display and connectivity.
OPPO A78: avoid mixing the 4G and 5G specifications
The OPPO A78 CPH2565 is the 4G version. It has a Snapdragon 680 chip, a 90Hz AMOLED display and 67W SUPERVOOC charging.
The A78 5G is a separate phone. An advert that combines the 4G model’s AMOLED screen and 67W charging with a 5G claim needs checking. Use OPPO’s CPH2565 specification page to confirm which version you are viewing.
What to check before buying an older budget phone
Confirm the box contents as well as the charging speed. Our guide to phones sold without a charger explains how to check the exact bundle and whether an adapter you already own is suitable.
- Current price: compare the full cost with newer entry-level phones and refurbished offers. Old launch prices and old shop discounts are not current offers.
- Security support: check the manufacturer’s current policy for that exact model and region.
- Battery and charging: test charging and check for unexpected shutdowns or excessive heat. Our phone-overheating guide explains what to check.
- Account locks: make sure the previous owner’s account has been removed and the phone can be set up normally.
- Condition and returns: check the screen, cameras, speakers, SIM connection and the seller’s return terms.
- Network compatibility: an imported 5G phone may not support the bands used by your carrier.
If you already own one and it still meets your needs, our ideas for using an old phone as a secondary device may be more useful than replacing it immediately.
Common questions
Are these still the best budget smartphones to buy today?
The year in this comparison matters. These are five older 2023 models, and their value today depends on the actual price, condition, support and alternatives available to you.
Are all five phones under €200?
No fixed price applies to every country or seller. The Galaxy A34 also sat above some entry-level models. Check a current local offer instead of relying on an old discount.
Which of these models has 5G?
The Galaxy A34 5G and POCO X5 5G do. The Redmi Note 12 also has a separate 5G version. The specific Redmi, vivo and OPPO 4G models in the table do not gain 5G through a software update.