The best Chinese smartphones in 2023
Premium smartphone models are not affordable for everyone, and it doesn’t always make sense to spend money on them. The same or almost the same functionality and quality can be obtained for a much lower amount. What should you pay attention to first?
Previously, buyers associated Chinese products with something low-quality and disposable, but now the situation is completely different. The editors of Komsomolskaya Pravda have compiled their own rating of the best smartphones from China in 2023, based on expert recommendations.
It is worth noting that when we talk about the battery life of a smartphone without recharging, we mean “standard use mode”. This means using instant messenger, surfing the Internet, and keeping the phone in the background.
Editor’s Choice
Xiaomi Redmi 9C 2/32GB (NFC)
The smartphone is suitable for users for whom the performance of the device and a good battery are important parameters. Despite the low price, the device is equipped with a powerful 5000 mAh battery. In active use mode it will last more than a day. The functionality of the smartphone includes contactless payment.
Despite its considerable size and weight, the device fits comfortably in the hand. Factory settings partially compensate for the 13 MP rear camera, so the user can take high-quality amateur photos.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch, |
| Weight | 196 g |
| Dimensions | 77.07×164.9×9 mm |
| Diagonal | 6.53 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 2 |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 2 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
Top 15 best Chinese smartphones in 2023 according to KP
Chinese smartphones with good cameras
Vivo Y31
The rugged 6.58-inch smartphone features blue light suppression so you can use it for long periods of time without causing eye fatigue. In addition to a powerful camera that provides high-quality shooting even in the dark, the device has excellent batteries. There are practically no fingerprints on the matte body of the phone. Users will appreciate the light weight and comfortable fit in the hand. Access to information is protected by password or fingerprint locking, which works without freezing.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch, |
| Diagonal | 6.58 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 8 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 4 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
The modern smartphone Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S combines an excellent camera and a capacious battery that provides long-lasting battery life up to 48 hours in standard use. The phone has 4 cameras – a main camera, a macro camera, an ultra-wide-angle camera and a camera with a depth sensor. The main camera is equipped with a 64 MP module, thanks to which the photos are rich, clear and bright. The lens is also capable of shooting video in 4K and Full HD resolution, and a special feature is the built-in shooting function in Slow Mo mode (slow motion video mode).
The body and screen of the phone are protected by a reliable Gorilla Glass 5 coating. The diagonal of the AMOLED display is 6.43 inches – you can comfortably play and watch videos on the smartphone, and stereo speakers with a wide sound range will ensure complete immersion in the world of movies and games.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | AMOLED, FULL HD, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.43 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Front-camera | yes, 13 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64/128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 6 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
Blackview BV9900E
Users choose the Blackview BV9900E not only for a good camera and reliability, but also for functionality that other devices in the same price segment do not have. The waterproof case reduces the risk of damage to the phone when exposed to rain. The stereo headphones that come with your smartphone will allow you to listen to music wherever you are. The smartphone is sold with a case and protective film included. The device has a strong call signal and a good speaker. Four rear cameras will provide excellent quality pictures.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, 16.78 million colors, touch |
| Diagonal | 5.84 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Front-camera | yes, 16 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 6 GB |
| Memory card slot | yes, up to 128 GB, combined with a SIM card |
| Battery capacity | 4380 mAh |
Infinix HOT 12 PRO
Infinix’s HOT 12 PRO is an affordable smartphone for gaming. The 8-core Unisoc Tiger T616 processor is responsible for the work; it copes well with games, not to mention everyday tasks.
RAM – 8 GB, you can expand the RAM by another 5 GB by using part of the permanent memory. The permanent storage capacity is 128 GB, the smartphone also supports memory cards up to 512 GB.
The 5000 mAh battery is rated for 12 hours of gaming, 41 hours of talk time and 45 days of standby time. Included is 18W fast charging. The display is 6.6 inches with a refresh rate of 90 Hz and a sampling rate of 180 Hz. The manufacturer claims the presence of special “intelligent” technologies that adjust the image and sound to certain playing conditions.
In reviews, users complain about the low photo quality (although the camera resolution is 50 MP) and weak sound from the standard speaker.
Main characteristics
| Screen | 6.6″ IPS90 Hz1612*720 |
| CPU | Unisoc Tiger T616 |
| Main camera | 50 MP module and LED flash with 2 diodes |
| Front-camera | 8 MP with LED flash |
| Video shooting | 1080p 30FPS |
| ROM/RAM | 128+8 GB |
| Battery | 5000 mAh |
| Charger | 18 W |
realme C21Y
A budget smartphone with good performance, a bright display and a functional camera. The camera consists of three modules – a main one with a resolution of 13 MP and two two-megapixel auxiliary ones, which are responsible for the depth of pictures in portrait mode and macro photography. Photos during the day turn out spectacular and rich, but it is worth noting that in night shooting mode, the pictures lose clarity, and small details become barely noticeable.
The smartphone is equipped with an IPS screen with HD+ resolution. Thanks to these characteristics, the display has a good reserve of brightness – it remains readable even in bright sunny weather. The processor provides good performance when watching videos or surfing the Internet, but it cannot cope with heavy games. The phone also does not have an unread notification indicator – a blinking LED located at the top of the screen.
The device is powered by a 5000 mAh battery, which provides battery life up to 20 hours with standard use (background mode, visiting web pages).
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | color IPS, HD+, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.50 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32/64 GB |
| RAM capacity | 3/4 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
OPPO Reno 5 Lite
The junior model of the Oppo Reno 5 line with the Lite prefix is equipped with 30 W fast charging, which allows you to charge your smartphone to 100% in just 28 minutes. The user also has a quad camera, an NFC module and a fingerprint scanner.
The camera consists of four blocks: a main 48 MP, a wide-angle with a viewing angle of 119 degrees, as well as a macro camera and a depth of field sensor, responsible for high-quality shooting in portrait mode. The lens is also capable of shooting video in 4K and FullHD resolution, and a special feature is simultaneous video recording on the front and main cameras. The model received a 6.43-inch AMOLED display with excellent color rendition.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | AMOLED, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.43 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Front-camera | yes, 32 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 8 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4310 mAh |
Chinese smartphones with good battery
OPPO A54 4/64GB
Equipped with an excellent battery, the OPPO A54 smartphone has rich stereo sound, exquisite design and decent functionality. The battery capacity is enough for a long period of active use. The device holds a charge well, and smart technologies for its use allow the user to always stay connected. Fast charging replenishes the charge in the shortest possible time. The 6.5-inch screen diagonal is ideal for reading books, watching movies and editing images. The smartphone’s small internal memory can easily be expanded by up to 256 GB by installing a card.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.5 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 8 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64 GB |
| RAM capacity | 4 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
Realme 8 6/128GB
The device combines an excellent battery, a good camera and a convenient user interface. When the charge level drops to critical, the smartphone offers one of two energy saving modes and predicts the time until complete discharge, which is very convenient. The functionality provided by the OS keeps financial applications under special control and cuts off attempts of unauthorized access to them.
An additional advantage of the device is the ability to use it as a USB drive. The bright screen allows you to see images clearly even on a sunny day. A memory capacity of 128 GB is enough to store the user’s personal information, and 6 GB of RAM will provide quick access to it and applications.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Contactless payment | There is |
| Screen type | color Super AMOLED, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.4 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 6 GB |
OUKITEL K15 Plus
The reliable OUKITEL smartphone is distinguished by its robust body and high-capacity battery. The model is truly autonomous; the manufacturer claims that the phone can work for up to three days even with active use. But it is worth noting that the phone does not have fast charging, so it takes about 5 hours to charge the battery to 100%.
The device is equipped with a large 6.52-inch display with a good margin of brightness and saturation. In addition, the device supports three convenient ways to unlock the screen: a fingerprint scanner on the back of the case, a graphic pin code and Face ID.
The advantages of the smartphone also include a shockproof case that is resistant to any external influences, support for navigation systems and a built-in NFC module.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.52 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 3 GB |
| Battery capacity | 10,000 mAh |
Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G
Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G is equipped with three cameras, powerful hardware and a capacious 5000 mAh battery. The manufacturer assures that the smartphone can work for up to two days without recharging when simply surfing the Internet, using instant messengers and listening to music, and the powerful processor will allow you to continuously play heavy games for up to 5 hours in a row.
The device is equipped with a 6.5-inch display with excellent picture detail. The amount of RAM and internal memory is available in two configurations to choose from: 4/6 GB of RAM and 64/128 built-in. The case is made of plastic, which does not have an oleophobic coating – the back cover is very easily soiled and fingerprints remain on it. The phone has an NFC module for contactless payment.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color Full HD, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.5 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 8 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64/128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 4/6 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
TECNO Pova 2
The model from TECNO can be called a gaming one thanks to its powerful processor and 7000 mAh battery. The smartphone demonstrates good battery life – with average activity, the device lasts up to two days without recharging. Another advantage is the powerful Helio G85 processor, thanks to which you can play even the most demanding modern games.
The device is equipped with a large 6.9-inch display with a good brightness reserve, which will allow you to comfortably use the phone in any weather conditions. In addition, the device supports two practical ways to unlock the screen: a side-mounted fingerprint scanner built into the power button and Face ID.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.9 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Front-camera | yes, 8 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64/128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 4 GB |
| Battery capacity | 7000 mAh |
Cheap Chinese smartphones
ZTE Blade L8 1/32GB
The ZTE Blade L8 smartphone confidently holds a charge and provides the user with high-quality communication. Due to the absence of pre-installed applications, the device’s 32 GB memory is enough to install the required number of programs. Smart battery management system unloads open inactive applications from memory, which allows you to efficiently use the small battery capacity. However, this smartphone only works with 3G communication format – it is enough for instant messengers and checking mail, but it will not be enough for entertainment.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Weight | 143 g |
| Dimensions | 67.5×137.3×10.5 mm |
| Diagonal | 5 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 1 |
| Main (rear) camera | 8 MP F/2.80 |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 4 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 1 GB |
| Memory card slot | yes, up to 128 GB, separate |
| Battery capacity | 2050 mAh |
Huawei Y5p
An affordable budget smartphone with an ergonomic design and a processor whose performance covers only the simplest and lightest tasks. The main camera is equipped with an 8 MP module, thanks to which high-quality images are obtained in daylight. The device has 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 512 GB using a memory card.
The device is equipped with a bright 5.45-inch display with a good resolution of 1440×720 and face unlock. The body is made entirely of plastic, which makes the device lightweight. It is worth noting that the smartphone does not support Google services, but many applications are available in its own AppGallery market. The battery life of the device is on average 13 hours in normal use.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 5.45 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 1 |
| Main (rear) camera | 8 MP |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 2 GB |
| Memory card slot | Yes, up to 512 GB |
| Battery capacity | 3020 mAh |
Itel Vision 1 PRO 2/32
The Itel Vision 1 PRO smartphone is equipped with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of total memory for installing applications. Photos and personal information of the user will be placed on a memory card with a capacity of up to 128 GB. Applications do not freeze and even with intensive use, the battery charge lasts more than a day. The built-in anti-virus protection program cuts out suspicious actions and notifies the user. The device will be appreciated by users who value a large screen, speed and reliability.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.5 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Main (rear) camera | 8 MP |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 4 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 2 GB |
| Memory card slot | Yes, up to 128 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4000 mAh |
Realme Narzo 50i
A budget smartphone from Realme with a nice design will satisfy the needs of users for whom long-term battery life is an important parameter. The manufacturer claims that a capacious 5000 mAh battery will allow you to continuously watch videos for up to 23 hours at average screen brightness.
The device is equipped with a bright and large 6.5-inch display with good color reproduction and face unlocking. The main camera has an 8 MP module and a minimum set of software capabilities – portrait photography, autofocus and automatic HDR (high-sharpness photography). The internal memory capacity is available in two versions – 32 GB and 64 GB with the ability to use memory cards up to 256 GB.
The body is made entirely of textured plastic in soft, pleasant colors.
Main characteristics
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.5 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 1 |
| Main (rear) camera | 8 MP |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32/64 GB |
| RAM capacity | 2/4 GB |
| Memory card slot | yes, up to 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
Vivo Y1s
The affordable Vivo Y1s smartphone with a modest set of functions is suitable for undemanding users. The device has 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 256 GB. The device is equipped with a large 6.22-inch display with the ability to unlock the screen by face; the “Eye Protection” function is also available, which reduces eye strain in the dark.
The main camera is equipped with a 13 MP module, thanks to which high-quality images are obtained, but only in good lighting. The body is completely made of textured plastic with a matte finish, thanks to which there are no fingerprints, scratches or marks on the surface. The battery life of the device is on average 15 hours in normal use.
Main characteristics:
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.22 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 1 |
| Main (rear) camera | 13 MP |
| Front-camera | yes, 5 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 32 GB |
| RAM capacity | 2 GB |
| Memory card slot | yes, up to 256 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4030 mAh |
Leaders of past years
HONOR 9X Premium 6/128GB
The stylish smartphone is equipped with three cameras, thanks to which the user can take excellent shots. High-quality photos are obtained due to the factory-preset automatic focus settings. The kit includes a silicone case and a protective film, which reduces the risk of chips and scratches. The retractable camera is reliably protected from accidental damage. The large diagonal allows you to view videos in a convenient format.
Main characteristics:
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, 16.78 million colors, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.59 inches |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 3 |
| Main (rear) cameras | 48 MP F/1.80, 8 MP, 2 MP |
| Front-camera | yes, 16 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 128 GB |
| RAM capacity | 6 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4000 mAh |
Vsmart Joy 4 3/64GB
Vsmart Joy 4 will satisfy the needs of users for whom a large diagonal and a good battery are important parameters in a smartphone. Music lovers will especially appreciate the battery capabilities, because it allows you to listen to music for 166 hours continuously. The ultra-wide-angle camera, despite its small number of megapixels, allows you to take high-quality photographs of landscapes.
Main characteristics:
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, 16.70 million colors, touch |
| Diagonal | 6.53 inch |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Front-camera | yes, 13 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64 GB |
| RAM capacity | 3 GB |
| Memory card slot | yes, up to 256 GB, separate |
| Battery capacity | 5000 mAh |
OUKITEL C21
An inexpensive smartphone will pleasantly surprise you with its range of functions. The performance of the device is ensured by the MediaTek Helio P60 processor. Switching between applications occurs without freezing. Thanks to the active cooling system, the device does not overheat. High-quality selfies are obtained thanks to the powerful 20 MP front camera. Three rear cameras with factory presets will help you take photos, ensuring good shooting. The 6.4-inch diagonal ensures that the smartphone fits comfortably in your hand.
Main characteristics:
| Number of SIM cards | 2 |
| Screen type | color IPS, touch, |
| Diagonal | 6.4 inch |
| Image Size | 2310×1080 pixels |
| Number of main (rear) cameras | 4 |
| Front-camera | yes, 20 MP |
| Number of processor cores | 8 |
| Built-in memory capacity | 64 GB |
| RAM capacity | 4 GB |
| Battery capacity | 4000 mAh |
How to choose a Chinese smartphone
The choice of products on today’s market is huge. Although Chinese smartphones are cheaper than products from companies from other countries, few people like throwing money away. First of all, you need to pay attention to the brand , firmware features and originality of the product.
Brand
Today, dozens of Chinese companies produce smartphones. Some of them are quite functional and are not inferior to flagship models from well-known manufacturers. Others are cheaper, but no less high quality. The most popular products on the Russian market today are products from companies such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Infinix, etc. Slightly less popular smartphones include Newman, Doogee, UMI, vkWorld and Oukitel.
Firmware features
Some Chinese phones do not have Russian localization, so there may be problems with the settings. This happens especially often with Xiaomi smartphones. For example, the MIUI operating system installed on them exists in two implementations – China (with exclusively Chinese and English languages) and Global (with dozens of languages present). It is better to immediately choose a smartphone with Global firmware, otherwise you will have to reinstall the system.
In addition, some Chinese smartphones have a problem with the lack of Google services. Even devices from more reliable manufacturers (Xiaomi, Huawei and Meizu) often come without a pre-installed Google Play app store, as well as a contact synchronization provider and other useful services. In some devices you can install them yourself, in others you cannot.
Beware of fakes!
When ordering phones directly from Chinese sites, you need to read the description very carefully. Sometimes a suspiciously low price is a signal that the product may be a fake. Moreover, visually it will not be distinguishable from the original. The device is equipped with a large amount of RAM and a powerful processor, but during operation it slows down and quickly “dies” – the device is not balanced.
It is impossible to guarantee that when ordering online, the user will not receive a counterfeit product. But if a model costs an order of magnitude cheaper than its usual market price, it is probably a replica.
Popular questions and answers
Komsomolskaya Pravda asked expert Evgeny Kharitonov, editor-in-chief of the gadget publication Ferra.ru, to answer the most popular questions from users .
![[2023] 10 recommended cheap tablets Introducing popular models that can be purchased for less than 20,000 yen](https://freemegatech.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/01-13.jpg)
