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Best non-Chinese smartphones: Top 10 mobile phones to consider before purchase

Last Published on Mar 29, 2023 12:30 IST

Summary:

Non-Chinese smartphones from brands like Samsung, Apple, Lava, and Nokia offer diverse choices, ensuring quality, innovation, and reliability for consumers worldwide.


Non-Chinese smartphones, produced by renowned brands like Samsung, Apple, Lava, and Nokia, offer consumers a wide array of choices beyond the dominant Chinese market. These devices provide a compelling alternative for users who prioritize quality, innovation, and reliability.

Samsung, a South Korean tech giant, stands as one of the leading manufacturers of smartphones globally. With its Galaxy series, Samsung offers a range of devices catering to different budgets and preferences. From flagship models like the Galaxy S series to mid-range offerings like the Galaxy A series, Samsung smartphones feature cutting-edge technology, vibrant displays, powerful cameras, and sleek designs, appealing to a diverse audience.

Apple, an American multinational company, revolutionized the smartphone industry with its iPhone lineup. Renowned for its premium build quality, seamless user experience, and integration with the iOS ecosystem, iPhones are highly coveted devices worldwide. With each new iteration, Apple introduces innovative features, advancements in camera technology, and performance enhancements, setting new standards for smartphones.

Lava, an Indian smartphone manufacturer, has been making significant strides in the industry. With a focus on delivering affordable yet feature-rich devices, Lava caters to budget-conscious consumers in emerging markets. Its smartphones offer competitive specifications, stylish designs, and reliable performance, making them popular choices among a vast demographic.

Nokia, a Finnish company, has a storied history in the mobile phone industry. While it faced challenges in the smartphone era, Nokia has made a comeback with its Android-powered devices. Known for their durability, clean software experience, and commitment to timely updates, Nokia smartphones offer a compelling option for users seeking reliability and longevity.

Non-Chinese smartphones offer several advantages, including robust build quality, stringent quality control standards, and a diverse range of options across various price points. Moreover, they provide consumers with an alternative ecosystem outside of Chinese dominance, ensuring greater diversity and competition in the smartphone market.

In conclusion, non-Chinese smartphones from brands like Samsung, Apple, Lava, and Nokia offer consumers a compelling choice, combining cutting-edge technology, reliability, and innovation to meet the diverse needs of users worldwide.

1. Nokia G21 Android Smartphone

This Nokia G21 Android Smartphone is a proud made-in-India and made-for-India product. It supports all the fundamental and necessary software programmes used for day-to-day activities. It boasts a great 50MP triple-lens back and front camera with cutting-edge AI imaging. It has a large screen with a refresh rate of 90 Hz for seamless scrolling and watching. Also, it has a battery capacity of up to three days and supports 18 Watts of quick charging. You will also be happy to learn that it offers 2 years of Android OS upgrades and 3 years of security updates. It has 6 GB RAM with an in-built storage of 128 GB.

Specifications of Nokia G21 Android Smartphone:

Brand: Nokia

Model Name: NOKIA G21

OS: Android 11.0

Product Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.5 x 0.8 cm

Pros

Cons

A 3-day long battery backup.

The camera quality could be better.

The screen quality is worth the money.

 

2. Lava Blaze 5G Smartphone

This Lava Blaze 5G Smartphone made in India supports all India 5G bands. It contains a 5000mAh Lithium-Polymer battery. It has an anonymous call-recording feature. This feature records all incoming and outgoing phone calls without notifying the caller that they are being recorded. It has a display resolution of 720*1600 and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. It has a rear camera of 50 MP front camera of 8 MP with a screen flash. It offers HD Video recording along with other latest camera features. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 and has Type C USB connectivity.

Specifications of Lava Blaze 5G Smartphone:

Brand: Lava

Model Name: Lava Blaze 5G

OS: Android 12.0

Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.6 x 0.9 cm

Pros

Cons

It is an Indian brand.

It does not have gorilla glass.

The performance of this product is worth the money.

 

3. Nokia G42 5G

Introducing the Nokia G42 5G in So Pink, a blend of style and performance. Equipped with the Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, it ensures swift connectivity and smooth operation. Capture life's moments in stunning detail with its 50MP Triple AI Camera system. With a generous 11GB RAM (6GB RAM + 5GB Virtual RAM) and 128GB storage, multitasking and storing content are effortless. Power through your day with the robust 5000mAh battery, and enjoy the convenience of 2 years of Android upgrades. Additionally, the inclusion of a 20W charger ensures speedy recharging, keeping you connected for longer.

Specifications of Nokia G42 5G:

Brand: Nokia

Model Name: Nokia G42 5G

OS: Android 13.0

Cellular Technology: 2G,3G,4G,LTE,VOLTE,5G

Pros

Cons

Powerful performance with Snapdragon® 480+ 5G chipset and 11GB RAM.

Potentially large size and weight due to the inclusion of a 5000mAh battery.

High-resolution 50MP Triple AI Camera for detailed photography.

Limited availability of the "So Pink" color variant may not appeal to all consumers.

4. Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Smartphone

This product has a 6.4-inch AMOLED 2x display with a good camera. Even when using this smartphone in dimly lit areas, the eye-comforting cover and light prevent eye fatigue. Whether you're playing games or doing a live video stream, it delivers high-performance quality. You may take clear, in-depth photographs and videos with the 50 MP camera. Thanks to its improved AI, you can also take high-quality films and photographs at night.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Smartphone:

Brand: Samsung

Model Name: Galaxy S23

Operating System: Android 13.0

Cellular Technology: 5G

Pros

Cons

It focuses on the planet’s safety.

It heats up sometimes.

It supports 5G technology.

 

5. Samsung Galaxy M33 5G Smartphone

This non-Chinese smartphone is a Mystique Green model with a quad camera and 128GB storage capacity. It provides you with a refresh rate of 120 Hz. It has the latest features such as Intelligent Voice Focus, Power Cool Technology and Auto Data Switching. The latter indicates if the primary SIM or Wi-Fi connection is unstable, your smartphone will automatically transition from Wi-Fi to mobile data. Even in noisy environments, Intelligent Voice Focus enables you to hear every detail of a phone call. Even when using the phone for extended periods to complete demanding tasks, it maintains top performance without overheating.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy M33 5G Smartphone:

Brand: Samsung

Model Name: Samsung Galaxy M33 5G

OS: Android 12.0

Dimensions: 0.9 x 16.5 x 7.7 cm

Pros

Cons

It has a high-resolution camera.

The battery life could be better.

It has a Full HD display.

 

6. Lava Storm 5G (Thunder Black, 8GB RAM, 128GB ROM), Premium Glass Back Design

The Lava Storm 5G in Thunder Black offers a blend of style and performance. Its premium glass back design exudes sophistication, while the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor ensures smooth and efficient operation. Capture stunning moments with precision using the 50MP+8MP ultrawide dual camera setup, while the 16MP front camera takes flawless selfies. With 8GB RAM and 128GB ROM, multitasking and storage are seamless. Enjoy the convenience of 33W fast charging, ensuring you stay powered up throughout the day. Experience the simplicity of clean Android, enhancing your user experience further.

Specifications of Lava Storm 5G:

Brand: Lava

Model Name: Lava Storm 5G

OS: Android 13.0

Cellular Technology: 5G

Pros

Cons

High-performance MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor and generous 8GB RAM.

Limited availability and potentially less recognized brand compared to major competitors.

Impressive camera capabilities with a 50MP+8MP ultrawide dual camera setup and a 16MP front camera.

Lack of additional features or standout innovations compared to other smartphones in the same price range.

7. Apple iPhone 15 (256 GB) - Blue

The Apple iPhone 15 (256GB) in Blue embodies elegance and innovation. Its sleek design and stunning blue colour add a touch of sophistication to your tech arsenal. With 256GB of storage, you'll have ample space for your photos, videos, and apps. Powered by the latest A-series chip, it delivers lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking. The iPhone 15's advanced camera system captures moments with remarkable clarity and depth. Its vibrant OLED display brings content to life with vivid colors and sharp details. Elevate your mobile experience with the iPhone 15 in Blue.

Specifications of Apple iPhone 15 (256 GB) - Blue:

Brand: Apple

Model Name: iPhone 15

OS: iOS

Cellular Technology: 5G

Pros

Cons

Stunning and elegant Blue colour variant.

Potential high price point compared to lower storage options.

Ample 256GB storage capacity.

Limited availability or potential supply constraints upon release.

8. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G Smartphone

This non-Chinese smartphone has an armoured metal frame and is water- and dust-resistant. It is built of eco-friendly materials and has a beautiful symmetrical appearance. It has an in-built S pen that makes making sketches and taking notes simple. Its professional camera captures brighter images and video, no matter how dark or bright the lighting is. With Nightography, the advanced pixel sensor adjusts to dim lighting, and the lens reduces glare for sharper shots. It provides a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 that is quite outstanding. This smartphone will enable you to perform faster and use less power.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G Smartphone:

Brand: Samsung

Model Name: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

OS: Android 13.0

Product Dimensions: 0.9 x 7.5 x 16.5 cm

Pros

Cons

It has an in-built storage of 256 GB.

It is pricey.

It comes with an S pen writing tool.

 

9. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G is a feature-packed smartphone offering a seamless 5G experience powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Octa-Core processor. With 8GB RAM and 128GB internal storage (expandable up to 1TB), it ensures smooth performance and ample space for files and data. The device flaunts a versatile triple rear camera setup with impressive features like 30X Space Zoom, Single Take, and Night Mode. The 6.5-inch Infinity-O Super AMOLED Display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides stunning visuals. The 4500 mAh battery supports Super Fast Charging and Fast Wireless Charging for convenience. Its IP68 rating ensures water and dust resistance, and the fingerprint sensor enhances security.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G: 

Brand: Samsung

Model Name: Galaxy S20 FE 5G

OS: Android 11

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Octa-Core

Pros

Cons

Impressive 5G capabilities with Snapdragon 865 processor

Non-removable battery

Large and vibrant Super AMOLED display with a high refresh rate

 

10. Apple iPhone 12 (256GB) - (Product) RED

The Apple iPhone 12 (256GB) in (Product) RED edition seamlessly combines style and substance. With its vibrant red hue, it makes a bold statement while also contributing to a noble cause, supporting the Global Fund's efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. Boasting a generous 256GB of storage capacity, it provides ample space for all your photos, videos, and apps. The iPhone 12's powerful A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance, while its stunning Super Retina XDR display brings your content to life with vibrant colors and crisp details. It's not just a phone; it's a symbol of innovation and social responsibility.

Specifications of Apple iPhone 12 (256GB) - (Product) RED:

Brand: Apple

Model Name: iPhone 12

OS: iOS 14

Cellular Technology: 5G

Pros

Cons

Stylish and vibrant (Product) RED colour variant.

High price point compared to other variants.

Generous 256GB storage capacity.

Limited availability in certain regions.

Top 3 features for you

ProductFeature 1Feature 2Feature 3
Nokia G21 Android SmartphoneThe screen is smooth to the touch.The battery life is good.The design of the product is good.
Lava Blaze 5G SmartphoneThe quality of the product is good.The camera quality is good.It has a good battery backup.
Nokia G42 5G5000mAh Battery50MP Triple AI CameraAndroid 13.0
Samsung Galaxy S23 5G SmartphoneIt has a sleek look.The display quality is remarkable.The stereo is good.
Samsung Galaxy M33 5G SmartphoneThe display screen is smooth.The Bluetooth connectivity is good.The RAM is good.
Lava Storm 5GPremium glass back design33W Fast ChargingClean Android
Apple iPhone 15 (256 GB) - BlueDynamic Island bubbles up alerts and Live ActivitiesIts ceramic shield front is tougher than any smartphone glass.Capture portraits with dramatically more detail and colour.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G SmartphoneThe speaker quality is good.The software support is good.The camera is remarkable.
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5GImpressive 5G capabilities with Snapdragon 865 processorLarge and vibrant Super AMOLED display with a high refresh rateConvenient features like Super Fast Charging and Fast Wireless Charging
Apple iPhone 12 (256GB) - (Product) REDCeramic Shield, tougher than any smartphone glass.A14 Bionic chip, the fastest chipIndustry-leading IP68 water resistance

Best overall product

The Apple iPhone 15 (256 GB) in Blue emerges as the best overall product among the options. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and advanced camera system, it offers a superior user experience. The combination of premium features such as a high-resolution display, efficient processor, and ample storage makes it a top choice for those seeking cutting-edge technology. Additionally, its seamless integration with the iOS ecosystem and reputation for reliability further solidify its position as the standout product in this lineup.

Best value for money

The Nokia G42 5G stands out as the best value for money product. With its Snapdragon 480+ 5G processor, 50MP Triple AI Camera, and generous 11GB RAM (6GB RAM + 5GB Virtual RAM), it offers exceptional performance. Additionally, its 128GB storage, 5000mAh battery, 2 years of Android upgrades, and included 20W charger make it a comprehensive package. Available in the stylish So Pink color variant, it combines affordability with premium features, making it a top choice for budget-conscious consumers.

How to find the perfect smartphone?

When buying the perfect smartphone, look for water-resistant, dust-resistant, supports the latest android version, and has good RAM. Moreover, pay particular emphasis on the phone's display, gorilla glass, good storage capacity, battery life and charging speed, camera quality, and the latest software and design support.

Top Non-Chinese Smartphones

You should choose 6GB or 8GB RAM for smartphones because the required RAM depends on the applications you use.

Ideally, a phone with a 2.2GHz processor will enable effective multitasking.

MediaTek offers cheaper choices with higher battery efficiency, whereas Snapdragon is generally considered superior for advanced devices and games.

A stronger processor will be helpful for activities like streaming or managing several programmes. Multitasking will be facilitated by having lots of RAM, which will help improve performance in demanding software and procedures.

The latest android version is 13.0.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so ... we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority. Read more

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