Reviewing the best mid-range smartphones as we hit 2022, for a budget price under £400 UK, boasting dependable camera tech, top gaming performance and premium specs. My favourite affordable phones include Samsung's Galaxy A52s 5G, the OnePlus Nord 2, Pixel 5a and 4a, Xiaomi's 11 Lite 5G NE, the Poco F3, and the Realme GT Neo 2 and I've tested them all for Tech Spurt.
Unboxings and reviews of the year's best smartphones include a closer look at the software, camera tech, battery life and other bits. Also, stay tuned for my Motorola Moto G200 coverage!
We start with Google's Pixel 4a, which is still one of my favourite phones as we hit 2022 for a price under £400. That camera tech is among the best at any cost, offering good looking photos even in tough conditions, plus stock Android is great. Of course, US viewers can grab the fresher Pixel 5a instead.
If you'd prefer, the fresh OnePlus Nord 2 boosts performance thanks to the Dimensity 1200-AI chipset - with a Pac Man Edition now also available! Or if your budget is tighter, check out the cheaper Core Edition (Nord CE 5G).
Xiaomi boasts some of the best mid-range smartphones for gaming on Genshin and PubG, thanks to the Poco F3's Snapdragon 870 platform. I also like the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE, which offers a lot for a respectable asking price.
Last up, Samsung's Galaxy A52s 5G will please anyone after that One UI experience, a gorgeous OLED screen and respectable performance. It's proper mint, in more ways than one.
Best Smartphones of 2021 Under £400 Chapters:
0:00 - Bald Man Yapping
0:56 - Google Pixel 5a and 4a
2:18 - OnePlus Nord 2
3:29 - Nord 2 Pac Man Edition
3:51 - OnePlus Nord CE 5G
4:53 - Oppo Find X3 Lite
6:30 - Xiaomi Poco F3
8:18 - Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE
9:21 - Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G
11:38 - Realme GT Neo 2
12:40 - Byeeeeee
