11 best 5G smartphones in 2023
The development of technology and the emergence of more and more “smart” devices require a powerful system capable of servicing them. With 5G, more information is transmitted over the network at faster speeds than with 4G LTE. That is, the fifth generation communication standard can simultaneously serve billions of gadgets connected to the Internet, thereby solving the problem of slow connections or freezing.
5G technology allows devices to switch to a low-power mode when not using a mobile connection. This will save energy and keep your gadget’s battery charged longer.
A device that supports the fifth generation communication standard will allow you to perform current tasks faster and add comfort to your life. The article contains the best models of smartphones with 5G according to the editors of the “Experts’ Choice” project. The material is advisory in nature and is not a guide to purchase.
Xiaomi 12T Pro
The Xiaomi 12T Pro smartphone is equipped with an 8-core Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor and 8 GB RAM, which will allow you to quickly open heavy applications and download large files. A 256 GB ROM will provide space for storing information, but it will not be possible to increase this resource; the model does not support microSD. The 5,000 mAh battery provides up to 13.5 hours of battery life with the screen on, and a full charge takes just 20 minutes.
With three cameras with a resolution of 200, 8 and 2 MP, you will feel like a professional photographer. A powerful camera sensor in combination with AI algorithms will allow you to take high-quality pictures of moving objects, contrast photos taken in the dark, and perform burst shooting (up to 30 frames per second). It should be noted that the camera only provides 2x zoom.
Dual speakers with Harman Kardon and Hi-Res Audio provide surround sound for movies, games and music. Authentication is provided by a facial recognition sensor and a fingerprint scanner, which works even with wet or dirty hands.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 12 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.67″ (2712×1220), 2K QHD, AMOLED |
| Main camera resolution | 200 MP |
| Number of main cameras | 3 |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 205 g |
Rating of the top 5 best inexpensive smartphones with 5G
Infinix NOTE 30i
Infinix NOTE 30i runs on the octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 smoothly and without any lag. The battery holds a charge for up to eight hours in gaming mode and up to 16 hours in video shooting. With the reverse charging feature, the smartphone shares energy with other devices. Memory resource with expandable RAM up to 16 GB and ROM up to 1 TB will allow you to quickly open applications and store the necessary information on your phone.
The 6.66” AMOLED screen is protected from fingerprints with a grease-repellent coating. The Infinix NOTE 30i’s anti-glare display has an automatic brightness adjustment mode, but there is a slight oversaturation of the displayed colors.
The 64 MP main camera takes clear photos at any time of the day, and when shooting with the front lens, the background turns out to be insufficiently detailed, although selfie miniatures come out great. The audio system was developed with the support of the JBL brand – stereo speakers provide surround sound without distortion.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 13 |
| CPU | MediaTek Helio G85 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.66″ (2400×1080), Full HD, AMOLED |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 200 g |
TECNO CAMON 20 Pro
The Tecno Camon 20 Pro model with an eco-leather back cover and a metallic side frame looks very presentable. The smartphone runs on an 8-core Mediatek Dimensity 8050 processor, which allows you to run the necessary programs without freezing. The memory resource can be increased: RAM up to 16 GB, internal memory up to 512 GB, which will expand the possibilities for downloading and storing information.
The 64 MP camera with ring flash allows you to take high-quality photos even in low light. However, at maximum zoom (x10), the detail of objects decreases. The 32 MP selfie lens uses AI algorithms to take perfect portrait shots with beauty elements. Shooting can be done simultaneously with the rear and front cameras.
Tecno Camon 20 Pro features a 6.67” AMOLED display with automatic brightness control. The screen refresh rate adjusts to user actions from 60 Hz during standard tasks and up to 120 Hz during games, ensuring smoothness in dynamic scenes.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 13 |
| CPU | Mediatek Dimensity 8050 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.67″ (2400×1080), 2K QHD, AMOLED |
| Screen refresh rate | 120 Hz |
| Main camera resolution | 64 MP |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 194 g |
Realme 9
The Realme 9 smartphone with a body with a three-dimensional wavy structure looks stylish and presentable. The device is light (178 g) and thin, making it comfortable to hold in your hand. The eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor and memory (6 GB RAM and 128 GB ROM + 128 GB with microSD) make the smartphone work quickly and smoothly and allow you to store a large amount of content.
ProLight technology makes it possible to take bright and clear photos with the 108 MP main camera. The front 16-megapixel lens uses AI beauty algorithms for high-quality selfie shots.
Realme 9 features a 6.4″ Super AMOLED display with automatic brightness control. The screen refresh rate adapts to different application interfaces and increases to a maximum of 90 Hz, which ensures a smooth and realistic picture. Among the disadvantages, buyers highlight a long reboot, as well as not very good battery life.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 12 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 |
| RAM | 6 GB |
| Built-in memory | 128 GB, with microSD – 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.4″ (2400×1080), Full HD, Super AMOLED |
| Front camera resolution | 16 MP |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 178 g |
OnePlus Nord N20
The OnePlus Nord N20 smartphone is equipped with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset and has a RAM resource of 6 GB. This allows you to play online games and watch movies in high quality. The 128 GB internal storage (expandable to 512 GB with microSD) makes it possible to store large applications, games, photo and video files.
The 4,500 mAh battery holds a charge for 13 hours while surfing the web and 17 hours when watching videos. It will take a little over an hour to restore your energy reserves. The 6.43” AMOLED screen displays more than 16 million colors, providing realistic images in movies or games.
The OnePlus Nord N20 model is equipped with a 64 MP main camera and a 16 MP front camera. With their help you can take bright photos with high detail. However, in low light conditions the image seems insufficiently clear and slightly blurry. The smartphone has a mono speaker, which does not give the sound the desired volume.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 11 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 |
| RAM | 6 GB |
| Built-in memory | 128 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4,500 mAh |
| Display | 6.43″ (2400×1080), Full HD, AMOLED |
| Communication standards | 5G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 173 g |
Samsung Galaxy A22s
The Samsung Galaxy A22s has a velvety texture that is pleasant and comfortable to hold in your hand, and soft pastel colors will suit any look. MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor provides fast and smooth performance for any task. Under high loads, the smartphone consumes more power and may become warmer as a result. The internal memory capacity of 128 GB (expands to 1 TB with microSD) allows you to store a large amount of content on the phone.
The Samsung Galaxy A22s camera system lets you take vivid, detailed photos, capture large spaces, and capture subjects up close. To avoid blur when shooting in the dark, the manufacturer advises choosing a 12 MP resolution, so the picture will be clearer. In sunny weather, on the contrary, it is better to set the maximum resolution to 48 MP. You can view your photos in Full HD+ quality on a 6.6” screen with a PLS (Plane To Line Switching) matrix, which provides soft, natural color reproduction.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 11 |
| CPU | MediaTek Dimensity 700 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Built-in memory | 128 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.6″ (2408×1080), Full HD, TFT |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 203 g |
Rating of the top 5 best smartphones with 5G and a good camera
DOOGEE V30
DOOGEE V30 in a shock-resistant case, covered with eco-leather on the back, has a degree of dust and moisture protection IP68 and is not afraid of dirt and water. The phone supports the installation of four eSIMs. The MediaTek Dimensity 900 chipset and memory resource (with the ability to expand RAM/ROM up to 15 GB and 2 TB, respectively) allow you to download and run heavy applications. The display with IPS matrix, adaptive refresh rate 60-120 Hz and HDR 10 support provides a smooth, realistic picture.
A powerful 10,800 mAh battery holds a charge for three days with active use of the phone. In half an hour, the device will replenish up to 55% of energy. Supports wireless and reverse charging. The battery capacity affected the dimensions, dimensions and weight (315 g) of the entire device.
The smartphone is equipped with a camera system: main 108 MP, wide-angle 16 MP, night vision 20 MP and front 32 MP. Even in the dark, photos come out bright and with a high degree of detail. Among the shortcomings is incomplete Russification; in the menu you can find some items in English.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 12 |
| CPU | MediaTek Dimensity 900 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 10,800 mAh |
| Display | 6.58″ (2408×1080) |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Degree of protection | IP 68 |
| Weight | 315 g |
Land Rover Power Armor 18T
The Land Rover Power Armor 18T smartphone in a shock-resistant polycarbonate case looks brutal and has an impressive size and weight (409 g). The 9,600 mAh battery holds a charge for 2-3 days with active use of the phone, and replenishes 52℅ of energy in half an hour. The smartphone is capable of acting as a Power Bank – the device can receive and share energy via a cable or without it.
The camera system (main 108 MP, 8 MP for night photography, 5 MP macro lens) allows you to take pictures with high detail and natural color reproduction. The Land Rover Power Armor 18T features a thermal imager and a microscope with 30x or 60x magnification.
The 6.58” screen with an IPS matrix and a refresh rate of 120 Hz produces a natural picture, comfortable for viewing in any lighting. Gamers and movie buffs will appreciate the smoothness and lack of stuttering. But they will not receive surround sound; the device is not equipped with stereo speakers.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 12 |
| CPU | MediaTek Dimensity 900 |
| RAM | 12 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 9,600 mAh |
| Display | 6.58″ (2408×1080), Full HD |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Degree of protection | IP 68 |
| Weight | 409 g |
Motorola Edge 20 Pro
The Motorola Edge 20 Pro smartphone runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 and has 12 GB of RAM, which allows you to maintain high speed in performing any tasks. 256GB internal memory provides space to store content. There is no provision for increasing the resource in this model. The 6.7″ OLED display, HDR10+ support and a 144 Hz refresh rate displays more than a billion colors, delivering a natural and smooth picture.
The camera system (main 108 MP, wide-angle 16 MP and telescopic lens 8 MP with 5x zoom) uses AI algorithms to create photo and video content with many effects. The 32 MP front camera can work simultaneously with the rear one. With the Audio Zoom function, the microphone will record only those sounds that are needed, but playback will not be satisfactory due to the lack of a stereo speaker.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 11 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 |
| RAM | 12 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4,500 mAh |
| Display | 6.7″ (2400×1080), Full HD, OLED |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 190 g |
Honor 90
The elegant Honor 90 comes in three colors with a shimmering body and a camera block that follows the contours of the waxing moon. Snapdragon 7 Gen1 chipset and 16GB RAM ensure fast and smooth performance. ROM 256 GB makes it possible to store a large amount of data, however, this resource cannot be increased; the smartphone does not support microSD.
The model was equipped with a 200 MP camera, an ultra-wide-angle lens with a 12 MP macro function and a 2 MP depth sensor. The 50 MP front camera allows you to take group selfies. With HDR mode, you can shoot even when the light source is behind the subject.
The 6.7” AMOLED screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate and automatic brightness adjustment ensures high-quality viewing of content in any lighting conditions. The flicker-free screen will further protect your eyesight. Some apps use an option to enhance voice when playing videos, but the smartphone does not have a stereo speaker, so the sound will not be surround.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 13 |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen1 |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Built-in memory | 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.7″ (2664×1200), Full HD, AMOLED |
| Communication standards | 5G, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE |
| Weight | 183 g |
OPPO Reno8 T
The OPPO Reno8T smartphone with a back panel made of abrasion-resistant eco-leather will be appreciated for its tactile sensations and functionality. Performance is ensured by the gaming-grade MediaTek Helio G99 chipset and 8 GB of RAM, which can be expanded with built-in memory. The camera system (main 100 MP, black and white sensor 2 MP and microscope 2 MP) with the help of AI algorithms allows you to create clear photos using many modes. Users are not pleased with the lack of a wide-angle lens.
The 6.43” AMOLED screen displays more than 16 million colors. With intelligent brightness control and a 90Hz refresh rate, you’ll get a bright, natural picture. Surround clear sound will be provided by dual stereo speakers. Reno8 T is equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery, the charge of which lasts for a day and a half in intensive use mode. According to user reviews, the smartphone often glitches and takes a long time to open applications.
Main characteristics
| operating system | Android 13 |
| CPU | MediaTek Helio G99 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Built-in memory | 128 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Display | 6.43″ (2400×1080), AMOLED |
| Weight | 183 g |
How to choose a smartphone with 5G
5G networks are not used everywhere, both in our country and in the world. And the presence of a corresponding module in a smartphone does not mean that it will work. To experience the benefits of high-speed Internet, check the coverage area of the fifth generation network in the region where you plan to use the gadget. For devices purchased abroad, look at the 5G substandard supported by the smartphone, as some may be occupied by the government or have no prospects of launching in our country. Otherwise, when choosing a device, pay attention to the following characteristics:
CPU
The performance of a smartphone depends on the chipset. The higher the clock speed and generation of the processor, the faster and more powerful the device will be. The most popular manufacturers: MediaTek, Exynos and Qualcomm Snapdragon.
Memory
RAM is required for applications to run. The higher this indicator, the faster “heavy” programs will open. For standard tasks (for example, surfing the Internet and instant messengers), a resource of 6 GB is enough. For more intensive tasks, you need to choose smartphones with RAM of 8 GB and above.
Internal memory is needed to store information (photos, videos, applications). To avoid having to think about redistributing content to other devices, it is better to buy a gadget with a ROM capacity of 128 GB or more. Those who actively take photos and videos should pay attention to the phone’s support for a memory card.
Cameras
Modern smartphones are equipped with a rear lens system and a front camera for selfies:
- The main camera has the highest resolution. It is used most often and is equipped with various functions (image stabilization, flash, autofocus);
- A wide-angle lens is used for panoramic photography;
- The macro camera allows you to photograph small objects with a high degree of detail;
- A telephoto lens brings distant objects closer;
- The portrait lens is used for selfies and portraits with background blur.
Display
A big screen will no longer surprise anyone. Typically, smartphones have a display larger than six inches. Much more important is the quality of the picture, which depends on other parameters.
The brightness and clarity of the image is determined by the type of matrix. 5G smartphones use advanced sensors. IPS produces clear images with natural color reproduction. OLED, AMOLED, Super AMOLED – matrices based on organic diodes are characterized by a high degree of contrast and deep colors.
The screen resolution determines how smooth and clear the image will be. The higher it is, the better the quality of the picture. The screen refresh rate affects the smoothness of dynamic scenes. For everyday tasks, 60 Hz is sufficient. It will be more comfortable to watch movies or play games with a refresh rate of 90–120 Hz.
Battery
The larger the battery capacity, the longer the smartphone will work without recharging. But the final result depends on the intensity of use of the gadget and running programs.
Degree of protection
This parameter is important for people leading an active lifestyle. Marked with the letters IP and two numbers. The first (from 0 to 6) indicates the degree of protection against small particles, the second (from 0 to 9) – from water.
Extra options
Practical users should pay attention to the case material and scratch-resistant glass. A fingerprint scanner will allow you to unlock the device with one touch, and the NFC module will allow you to pay for purchases without plastic cards. Many gadgets are equipped with a compass, pedometer, support for gesture control and other options that add comfort to using a smartphone.
Expert review of 5G smartphones
Evgeniy Rybkin , product marketing manager for the TECNO brand, shares his experience of personal use of a smartphone with 5G :
“Being the owner of a 5G smartphone, I had the opportunity to test the network in action. The download speed and connection stability are very impressive – they are much faster and better than what we are used to. It is predicted that the introduction of 5G will increase the penetration level of the “Internet of Things” (data transfer between devices; used, for example, in “smart” homes), that is, in addition to smartphones, even more innovations await us everywhere.
Is it worth buying a 5G smartphone? If you plan to use the 5G network, you should keep in mind that its capabilities in Russia are still limited. All major operators have pilot networks in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan and several other cities, but it will not be possible to completely switch to 5G even there.
The first large-scale tests in cities with a population of over a million are planned no earlier than 2025. However, you can look at the situation from a different angle. 5G is a modern advanced technology, and the manufacturer often strives to use as many of these innovations as possible in its smartphone. Simply put, a 5G-enabled smartphone will boast fast charging, a bright screen, a powerful processor, and better optimization. It’s definitely worth paying attention to such models.”
Popular questions and answers
Evgeniy Rybkin , product marketing manager for the TECNO brand, answers popular questions from readers about smartphones with 5G .
How can you save on buying a 5G smartphone?
Will the 4G network work stably on a 5G smartphone?
Will a 5G smartphone purchased abroad support the 5G network in Russia?
In Russia, this is complicated by the fact that some of the 5G standards are already occupied by the state – these frequencies are used, for example, by the army, and they are unlikely to be released for commercial purposes. Accordingly, if the smartphone was not assembled for sale on the Russian market, most likely it will not work with the 5G network in Russia.
