If you’re looking for the best smartphones under ₹50,000 in India, you can expect powerful processors, fluid gaming experiences, solid camera setups, and long-term software support. Whether you’re a power user, mobile gamer, or camera enthusiast, this is the sweet spot where value meets performance.

However, not all phones in this price bracket are created equal. After reviewing the latest launches and user feedback, we’ve selected the top 5 phones under ₹50,000 in India that offer the best bang for your buck.

It’s worth noting that while these smartphones perform exceptionally well, their more expensive siblings—often branded as “Pro” or “Ultra” variants—might come with extras like higher refresh rate displays, flagship-grade camera sensors, or larger batteries. But rest assured, the models we’ve picked are no slouches and easily stand out in terms of everyday performance and overall value.

Ready to upgrade? Here are the best flagship smartphones under ₹50,000 you can buy in India right now, complete with expert insights and user reviews to help you choose the right one. Also, don’t forget to check our list of the best premium phones under Rs 30,000 should you decide to alter your budget.

OnePlus 13R

• 6.78 inch 120Hz, LTPO 4.1 AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1600 nits (HBM), 4500 nits (peak)
• Android 15, up to 4 major Android upgrades, Nothing OS 3.1
• Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• 512GB UFS 4.0 16GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide) + 50 MP, f/2.0, 47mm (telephoto) + 8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm
• 16 MP, f/2.4, 26mm (wide) selfie camera
• 6,000mAh battery with 80W wired charging
• Model year – Jan 2025

The OnePlus 13R is one of those rare phones that feels like a flagship without demanding flagship money. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it’s clearly aimed at users who want top-tier performance—whether for gaming, multitasking, or long-term use—but aren’t chasing brand clout or spending unnecessarily.

The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display is bright, fluid, and versatile, thanks to adaptive 120Hz refresh and HDR10+ support. The LTPO tech ensures smooth transitions and power efficiency, giving it an edge in both visual experience and battery conservation. The panel is sharp and vibrant, though peak brightness isn’t class-leading.

Design-wise, it’s minimalist and refined. The flat sides, matte rear, and subtle camera bump give it a clean aesthetic. It also sports an IP65 rating, which adds peace of mind for daily durability, even if it falls short of full waterproofing.

Battery life is excellent. The 6,000mAh cell comfortably delivers a day and a half of moderate to heavy use, and 80W fast charging fills it up in about 45 minutes. Wireless charging is absent, which is a bummer at this price, but forgivable considering everything else on offer.

On the camera front, the triple-lens setup includes a capable 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 2x 50MP telephoto, and an 8MP ultra-wide. Daytime photos are sharp and color-accurate, while portraits from the telephoto lens come out surprisingly well. However, the ultra-wide camera and low-light performance feel like holdovers from a cheaper device. This isn’t a phone for photography enthusiasts, but it’ll serve most users just fine.

OxygenOS 15, based on Android 15, is lean, responsive, and free from bloat. OnePlus has also committed to 4 years of major Android updates and 5 years of security patches, which is now table stakes for long-term value.

Samsung Galaxy S24

• • 6.2 inch, LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2600 nits (peak)
  • Android 15, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 7
  • Exynos 2400 (4 nm)
  • 256GB UFS 4.0 8GB RAM
  • 50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide) + 10 MP, f/2.4 + 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ (ultrawide)
  • 12 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide) selfie camera
  • 4,000mAh battery with 25W wired charging
  • Model year – Jan 2024

The Galaxy S24, now over a year old, was one of Samsung’s most refined flagships when it launched, and in many ways, it still holds up. It delivers a compact, premium experience with a flat design, solid build, and a display that’s still among the best in its size class. However, the competition has moved on, and what once felt cutting-edge now comes with some caveats.

Samsung’s 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display remains a strength. It’s sharp, color-accurate, and smooth with its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. While not as flashy in specs as newer rivals with 1.5K or 6,000-nit panels, it’s reliable and pleasant for most users.

Performance-wise, it runs on the Exynos 2400. While still capable, but in 2025, it’s no longer the fastest chips around. You’ll notice this mainly if you’re gaming at high settings or doing heavy multitasking—the 8 Gen 3 still handles daily tasks with ease, but newer mid-premium devices now offer comparable or better sustained performance.

Battery life, a weakness in older S-series phones, saw improvement in the S24 thanks to a slightly larger 4,000mAh battery and software tuning. While it doesn’t last as long as newer 5,000mAh-plus phones, it’s dependable for a full day of regular use. Fast charging remains at 25W wired, which is beginning to feel outdated given how many mid-rangers now offer 80W or more.

Camera quality remains solid. Especially, the 50MP main shooter and 10MP 3x telephoto, which still deliver sharp, color-rich photos in good lighting. But in low light or when compared to newer phones with AI-enhanced sensors and faster night modes, the S24’s results feel a step behind.

Samsung’s software remains a key strength. One UI 7.0 based on Android 15 is snappy and packed with features, and the S24 is part of Samsung’s seven-year update promise. That makes it a safer long-term bet than many newer phones with just 2–3 years of support.

Motorola Edge 50 Ultra

• 6.7 inch P-OLED, 144Hz, HDR10+, 2500 nits (peak)
• Android 14, upgradable to Android 15, up to 3 major Android upgrades
• Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4 nm)
• 512GB UFS 4.0, 12GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.6, 23mm (wide) + 64 MP, f/2.4, 72mm (periscope telephoto) + 50 MP, f/2.0, 12mm, 122˚ (ultrawide)
• 50 MP, f/1.9, 21mm (wide) selfie camera
• 4,500mAh battery with 125W wired charging
• Model year – April 2024

TThe Edge 50 Ultra was Motorola’s most ambitious flagship in years, and it showed. With its standout design, powerful internals, and capable camera setup, it turned heads when it launched. Nearly a year later, it’s still a well-rounded device—but one that now sits in a more crowded premium space.

Design remains a clear highlight. The Edge 50 Ultra has a sleek, premium aesthetic with options like wood and vegan leather finishes that help it stand out. It’s IP68-rated, curved in-hand, and refreshingly different from the glass-slab sameness seen elsewhere.

The 6.7-inch pOLED display is punchy and smooth with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution. While it doesn’t match the 2,600+ nit brightness of today’s newest flagships, it’s still vibrant, color-rich (Pantone validated), and great for media consumption or outdoor use.

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 holds up fairly well, though it’s now a step behind the newer 8 Gen 3 and 8 Gen 4 chipsets in raw power and efficiency. For most users, especially those not gaming heavily, the phone still feels snappy and fluid. With 12GB or 16GB RAM variants and up to 1TB storage, it’s still stacked on paper.

Battery life from the 4,500mAh cell is decent, if not chart-topping. The 125W wired and 50W wireless charging remain standouts even in 2025—very few phones offer that combo. You can go from 0 to full in under 30 minutes, which helps offset the average endurance.

The camera system is solid but not perfect. The 50MP main camera, 64MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP ultrawide give you flexibility, and Motorola’s color science has noticeably improved. Still, it falls short of the low-light and processing prowess of newer AI-heavy flagships. The selfie camera is decent but can be hit-or-miss in dynamic lighting.

MyUX remains clean and lightweight, with useful additions like Moto Gestures and minimal bloat. However, Motorola only promises three years of OS updates, which feels underwhelming today compared to Samsung and Google’s seven-year pledges.

Google Pixel 9a

• 6.3 inch P-OLED, HDR, 120Hz, 1800 nits (HBM), 2700 nits (peak)
• Android 15, up to 7 major Android upgrades
• Google Tensor G4 (4 nm)
• 256GB UFS 3.1, 8GB RAM
• 48 MP, f/1.7, 25mm (wide) + 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide)
• 13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide) selfie camera
• 5,100mAh battery with 23W wired charging
• Model year – March 2025

Google’s Pixel 9a continues the “A-series” tradition of bringing Pixel smarts to a more affordable price point. And in 2025, it’s one of the most balanced sub-premium Android phones out there.

The design is minimalist but clean, now slimmer and lighter than before. The OLED display is vibrant, with a much-needed 120Hz refresh rate that helps the phone feel fluid in daily use. While it doesn’t match the brightest or most color-rich panels in the segment, it’s reliable and gets the job done outdoors.

Performance is handled by the Tensor G3 chip, which does well for typical usage but still isn’t a gaming powerhouse. Thermal throttling and battery drain during sustained tasks were noted by reviewers, though for everyday use and Pixel’s AI features, it performs consistently.

Camera is where the Pixel 9a justifies its name. The 64MP main sensor (with the same software smarts as the flagship) delivers photos that punch above the phone’s price class—particularly in daylight and portrait modes. Video is solid too, though not class-leading.

Battery life is acceptable but not exceptional. Expect a full day on light to moderate use, but power users may need to top up. Charging speeds are still behind the curve at just 18W wired with no wireless option, which feels dated in this price bracket.

The 9a shines in software: clean Android 14 with Pixel-exclusive AI features, long-term updates, and solid security. It’s ideal for users who want a smooth, clutter-free phone that just works.

Overall, the Pixel 9a isn’t trying to win spec wars. Instead, it focuses on consistency, camera quality, and clean software—all of which it delivers confidently. It’s not for gamers or power users, but for most Android buyers in 2025, it’s a dependable pick.

The post Top Smartphones Under ₹50,000 in India [May 2025] – Reviews & Comparisons appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

We’ve done the homework and picked out a handful of phones that are genuinely worth considering, keeping all these factors in mind. This isn’t going to be an endless list that includes every phone available in this price range. Instead, it’s a focused selection of what we believe are the best options. Even within that list, we’ve highlighted our top recommendations based on different user priorities. So whether you’re looking for the best camera, the longest battery life, great all-round performance, or just the best value, we’ve tried to make the decision a little easier for you.

So here’s our pick of top five phones under Rs 30,000 for May 2025 with reviews. Or, if you decide to go for some flagship phone instead, check our list of hottest phones under Rs 50,000.

Nothing Phone 3A

• 6.77 inch 120Hz, HDR10+, 800 nits (typ), 1300 nits (HBM) AMOLED display
• Android 15, up to 3 major Android upgrades, Nothing OS 3.1
• Qualcomm SM7635 Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
• 256GB 8GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.9, 24mm (wide) + 50 MP, f/2.0, 50mm (telephoto) + 8 MP, f/2.2, 15mm, 120˚ (ultrawide) camera
• 32 MP, f/2.2, 22mm (wide) selfie camera
• 5,000mAh battery with 50W wired charging
• Model year – March 2025

The Nothing Phone (3a) is the brand’s most accessible device yet, but it doesn’t let go of what makes a Nothing phone feel different. With a transparent back, customizable Glyph lights, and clean design, the 3a keeps the brand’s signature aesthetic alive, even at a lower price.

The phone feels premium in hand thanks to flat edges and a sturdy build, even though the frame is plastic. The 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is bright, punchy, and surprisingly good at this price. It lacks LTPO, so you won’t get dynamic refresh rate switching, but unless you’re a hardcore user, you probably won’t miss it.

Performance is where the 3a makes its biggest trade-off. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is serviceable for everyday use and casual gaming, but it’s not built for high-intensity tasks or long-term performance headroom. That said, it is smooth in daily use and the polished Nothing OS 2.5 helps the phone feel more responsive than the chip suggests.

The dual rear cameras are another area of give and take. The main sensor (50MP) delivers solid shots in daylight with good dynamic range. The lack of a dedicated ultrawide or telephoto sensor limits versatility, and low-light photos can be hit or miss. Still, for social media or general use, it gets the job done.

Battery life is impressive. The 5,000mAh cell easily lasts a full day, and the 50W fast charging is appreciated. Although, there’s no wireless charging, and you’ll need to bring your own charger.

Ultimately, the Nothing Phone 3a succeeds by knowing its limits. It’s not a spec beast, but it nails the experience where it counts. Clean software, standout design, good display, and all-day battery make it one of the most thoughtful mid-range phones this year.

OnePlus Nord 4

• 6.74 inch 120Hz, HDR10+ 2150 nits (peak) AMOLED display
• Android 14, up to 4 major Android upgrades, OxygenOS 15
• Qualcomm SM7675 Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3
• 256GB UFS 4.0, 8GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.8, 25mm (wide) + 8 MP, f/2.2, 112˚ (ultrawide)
• 16 MP, f/2.4, 24mm selfie camera
• 5,500mAh battery with 100W wired charging
• Model year – July 2024

OnePlus has taken a confident swing at the mid-range with the Nord 4, a phone that brings back an all-metal unibody build something we haven’t seen in a while. It looks and feels premium in hand, with a clean, minimalist design and a slim profile that makes it easy to use one-handed.

The display is a 6.74-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s sharp, vibrant, and smooth to use, whether you’re scrolling through social media or watching videos. There’s no LTPO support though. The performance holds up impressively well thanks to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor. Apps open quickly, multitasking is seamless, and even gaming doesn’t push the phone too hard. It ships with OxygenOS 14.1, which is fast, fluid, and mostly clean, though there are a few minor bugs that could use ironing out.

Battery life is a highlight at 5,500mAh, the phone easily lasts a full day and more. When you do need to charge, the 100W fast charging gets you back up and running in under half an hour. That’s hard to beat in this segment.

The camera setup is functional but nothing groundbreaking. The 50MP main sensor captures detailed shots in daylight, and the 8MP ultra-wide is usable, but the absence of a telephoto lens is noticeable if you’re into zoom photography. Low-light results are average.

The Nord 4 is a great choice if you’re after a solid, premium-feeling phone without going into flagship territory. The design, performance, and battery life are standout features. If camera flexibility or absolutely polished software is a dealbreaker, you might want to look elsewhere—but otherwise, this one’s easy to recommend.

Motorola Edge 60 Pro

• 6.7 inch 120Hz, HDR10+ 4500 nits (peak) P-OLED display
• Android 15
• Mediatek Dimensity 8350 Extreme
• 256GB UFS 4.0, 8GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide) + 10 MP, f2.0, 73mm (telephoto) + 50 MP, f/2.0, 120˚ (ultrawide)
• 50 MP, f/2.0, (wide) selfie camera
• 6,000mAh battery with 90W wired charging
• Model year – April 2025

The Motorola Edge 60 Pro enters the mid-range arena with a blend of premium features and some notable compromises. Its standout 6.7-inch pOLED display boasts a 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 4,500 nits peak brightness, delivering vibrant visuals with HDR10+ support. The quad-curved design and Pantone-certified colors like Dazzling Blue and Sparkling Grape enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Performance-wise, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Extreme chipset, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. The processor is comparable to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen3, albeit, being slightly behind on benchmarks. The 6,000mAh battery offers extended usage, complemented by 90W wired and 15W wireless charging capabilities.

The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. While daytime photography is commendable, low-light performance and skin tone accuracy could see improvements.
Smartprix

Running on Android 15 with Motorola’s Hello UI, the software experience is generally clean, though some bloatware and ads are present. The device also boasts IP68/IP69 ratings and MIL-STD-810H certification, ensuring durability.

iQOO Neo 10R

• 6.78 inch 144Hz, HDR10+ 4500 nits (peak) AMOLED display
• Android 15, up to 3 major Android upgrades, Funtouch 15
• Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3
• 256GB UFS 4.1, 8GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide) + 8 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide)
• 32 MP, f/2.5 selfie camera
• 6,400mAh battery with 80W wired charging
• Model year – March 2025

The iQOO Neo 10R presents itself as a performance-centric smartphone in the mid-range segment, offering a blend of robust specifications and features tailored for gaming enthusiasts and power users.

At its core, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage. This configuration ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance across demanding applications.

The smartphone boasts a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and fluid animations. With a peak brightness of 4,500 nits and support for HDR10+, the screen offers excellent clarity even under direct sunlight.

In terms of design, the Neo 10R features a polycarbonate frame and back panel, contributing to its lightweight build. While the materials used may not exude a premium feel, the device maintains a sleek profile and is comfortable to hold.

Photography is handled by a dual-camera setup, comprising a 50MP primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. Daylight shots are commendable, though low-light performance sees a dip in quality. The 32MP front-facing camera caters well to selfie enthusiasts.

The device is equipped with a substantial 6,400mAh battery, supporting 80W fast charging. This ensures prolonged usage and quick top-ups, catering to users with intensive daily routines.

Running on Android 15 with Funtouch OS 15, the software experience is fluid, albeit with some pre-installed applications that may not appeal to all users. The company promises three years of software updates and four years of security patches, ensuring longevity.

However, some users have reported concerns regarding the absence of a physical proximity sensor, which is replaced by a motion-based alternative.

realme GT 6T

• 6.78 inch 120Hz, HDR10 1000 nits (typ), 1600 nits (HBM), 6000 nits (peak) LTPO AMOLED display
• Android 14
• Qualcomm SM7675 Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3
• 256GB UFS 4.0, 8GB RAM
• 50 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide) + 8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 112˚ (ultrawide)
• 32 MP, f/2.5, 21mm (wide) selfie camera
• 5,500mAh battery with 120W wired charging
• Model year – May 2024

Realme’s GT 6T makes a strong case for being a value-packed phones in the sub-₹30K segment. From headline-grabbing numbers like 6,000 nits peak brightness to 120W charging, it reads like a flagship on paper—but not everything lands perfectly.

Design-wise, it’s got a striking dual-tone finish that stands out, though the plastic back doesn’t scream premium. It is IP65-rated, which adds a nice layer of durability for this price. At 191g, the phone feels substantial without being bulky, and the in-hand feel is surprisingly comfortable despite the large display.

The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display is a clear standout. Colors are punchy, viewing angles are great, and it’s easily visible outdoors—even in direct sunlight. The 120Hz refresh rate feels smooth across the UI and in supported games. The use of LTPO means the refresh rate can dynamically scale to save battery, which is rare at this price.

The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 pulls its weight and then some—this phone flies through daily tasks, multitasking, and demanding games. Thermals are handled reasonably well, and you rarely see any frame drops unless you’re pushing it in sustained gaming sessions. The software, Realme UI 5.0 (based on Android 14), runs smoothly but comes with bloatware that takes the shine off an otherwise clean experience.

Battery life is reliable thanks to the 5,500mAh cell, easily lasting a day and then some. The 120W fast charging is more than a gimmick—real-world top-ups from 0 to 100% in under 30 minutes hold up, though some might miss wireless charging at this price.

The camera setup is where the GT 6T treads safe ground. The 50MP main sensor (Sony LYT-600) is competent in daylight with good detail and dynamic range. The 8MP ultra-wide is serviceable, but low-light performance is average and video recording isn’t its strong suit. There’s no telephoto either, and digital zoom quality is just okay.

The post Top 5 Smartphones Under ₹30,000 in India [May 2025] – Reviews & Comparisons appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

But is the Exynos on the Samsung S24 really that bad? We’ll try to explore that using the information that some early adopters are reporting and compare how worlds apart are the two versions. But before we delve into that, let’s have a brief history lesson.

Time for a history lesson

When you look at the other major Android smartphone makers such as Xiaomi, and OnePlus, or champions from long-forgotten eras, such as HTC or LG, none of them have been as successful as Samsung. Samsung has been so successful at making smartphones that they have control over several parts of the value chain from displays, to batteries, to camera modules. In this vertically integrated approach, Samsung has heavily invested in semiconductor manufacturing, competing with companies like TSMC, which produces CPUs (or System on Chip – SoC, as they’re commonly known) for Qualcomm. Qualcomm, as you may know, is the company behind the Snapdragon series of SoC that you see on almost every other phone, right from budget-friendly offerings, to top-of-the-line flagship products.

Samsung has been making Exynos since the launch of its flagship Galaxy S series in 2010. Back then, the original Galaxy S was launched with a humble  Exynos 3 Single. Over time, the Exynos has featured on multiple flagships from not just Samsung but even other phones like the Google Nexus.

Back around 2014-2015, the Samsung Exynos was even beating the Qualcomm counterparts left and right and making the name worthy of a flagship.

By 2019, Qualcomm had started comfortably beating the Exynos brand. The Snapdragon 855 was comfortably ahead of the Exynos 9820 on most parameters of performance and efficiency.

In 2021, the gap was bridged and the Exynos 2100 touting Samsung S21 Ultra was pretty close to the Snapdragon 888 variant.

To simplify development, Samsung decided to skip Exynos altogether on the 2023 flagship, the S23 Ultra. This one came only with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor globally and the world thought that Samsung was maybe done with its playing catch up to Qualcomm for good.  But it was not to be.

Let’s talk about the Samsung S24

Come 2024 and the S24 again comes in two variants – Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) for the  USA/Canada/China markets and Exynos 2400 (4 nm) for the rest of the world. This has led to such a huge uproar on the internet that several users are recommending getting the S23 instead. But is the uproar justified?

A user on Reddit that goes by the handle of u/vsshal7 posted AnTuTu scores for both the S24 and S24 Ultra. The S24 comes with the Exynos 2400 and the Ultra touts the Qualcomm processor instead.

The run makes it quite evident that the Qualcomm variant outperforms the Exynos. There is, of course, the difference between the two models since the S24 Ultra is the more premium variant and perhaps might have better internal thermal management.

Another user also noted that the Exynos was about 29°C at the start while the S24 Ultra was about 32°C at the start, which is around a 3°C difference. In the end, the Exynos variant reached about 43°C, while the Snapdragon variant stayed at 39°C. The overall temperature rise in the Exynos variant is almost double at  14°C, as compared to about 7°C in the other variant. This is more worrisome since poor heat management can result in throttling and degraded performance over time.

Another Geekbench 6 report was released over the weekend which shows that the two processors are really close in performance and Samsung seems to have closed the gap significantly.  Exynos 2400 scored 2046 in the single-core test and 6,687 in the multi-core test. Meanwhile, the version with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 scored a bit higher at 2,228 in the single-core test and 6,858 in the multi-core test.

When tested on the CPU throttling test, the Exynos 2400 was seen getting throttled to 72% of its maximum performance. On the other hand, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 throttled to 82% of its maximum performance. This again indicates better heat management on the Snapdragon version which might impact performance when used for prolonged duration of time.

Conclusion

In terms of performance, there seems to be some gap but not enough to warrant a complete boycott of the Exynos variant. Yes, the Snapdragon version seems to be better but the difference seems to be not out of the world.  Our opinion would be to still get the S24 even in its Exynos avatar for seven years of upgrades and the free generative AI feature (at least till the end of 2025). If that doesn’t mean much to you, getting last year’s S23 Ultra isn’t a bad proposition either. Although it will be slower than the new Exynos, you get an extra camera or two, a better battery, and a larger phone (literally). You can also pick the North American variant of the phone if you want and settle the debate for good.

The post Is the Exynos Samsung S24 Really Bad Compared to the Snapdragon variant? appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

For the ultimate immersive experience, we recommend getting either an OLED or a QLED panel. The deep contrast, true-to-life picture quality, and rich and accurate colors are leagues ahead of an LED television.  These also come with the latest technologies to support gaming on the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X, making them next-gen ready.

That said, there are a few things you should be well versed in before you take that plunge. We’ve made a short guide to help you find the best premium  TV under 1 lakh.

PREREAD

Panel type: It is easy to get confused between QLED and OLED given the similar name and price tag. But, on the contrary, these are quite different technologies. QLED, short for Quantum LED, is a type of LED that was popularized by Samsung and can be seen on a bunch of different TV models from manufacturers like Samsung, TCL, and Vizio.

QLED panels still use the backlight technology seen in regular LEDs with an extra film of tiny phosphorescent crystals that glow when hit with light. This allows to create accurate colors on the screen, unlike traditional LCDs. However, similar to traditional LEDs, QLED struggles with producing deep blacks. To counter that, manufacturers build dimming zones within the panel that can have varied brightness depending on the content being displayed. This helps overcome the challenge of producing deep blacks to some extent.

QLED can be classified in largely two categories – edge-lit and array backlighting. The former is usually better at avoiding issues like bleeding, poor contrasts, and inconsistent blacks. Within array backlighting, the higher number of dimming zones, the better.

OLED, on the other hand, is a different technology altogether. Each pixel on an OLED panel can produce its own light and color, meaning, it doesn’t require any backlight. Not only does this produce excellent colors, but it also allows individual pixels to shut down when creating blacks, thus offering much deeper blacks and much higher contrast.

That said, OLED panels are susceptible to screen burn-in. Burn-in happens when a static image (such as a channel logo) is displayed on the screen for a long period of time. This usually leaves an etching of the static part on the screen permanently. While modern TVs use a number of technologies to overcome this challenge, it hasn’t been addressed completely. So if you tend to watch the same channel for hours, an OLED panel runs the risk of a burn-in.

In short, OLED televisions are better than QLED at contrast and producing blacks. They also excel in other areas such as response time and refresh rate. QLEDs beat OLEDs as far as peak brightness is concerned. Also, QLED TVs are much cheaper.

Then, there’s also what Samsung called Neo QLED – which uses mini-backlighting compared to traditional backlighting. This allows for more dimming zones in the TV which results in better contrast and deeper blacks. Of course, it still doesn’t match up to the blacks on an OLED but improves upon general QLED technology.

On the other hand, LG’s QNED is again a mini LED technology that relies on an IPS panel compared to Samsung’s Vertically Aligned LCD. While the former has better-viewing angles, the latter has better contrast. In the grand scheme of things, QNED and Neo QLED are similar.

Refresh rate: Most of these televisions support a 60Hz refresh rate at 4K and that should be enough for movie and TV viewing experience. However, gamers might want to push that further and there are some models that can push 4K at 120FPS. That requires HDMI 2.1 standard which is essential for 120fps 4K gaming.

There’s also a variable refresh rate (VRR)  that allows the television to replicate the refresh rate pumped out by the PC or the console. Most TVs these days tend to support it.

Most OLEDs are built the same but QLEDs aren’t: The thing with OLED panels is that they are pretty much consistent. You won’t find two OLED models with a lot of differences in the quality of panels. Whatever difference that may exist would instead be driven by the processing power of the chip inside.

That’s not true for QLED panels though. Since QLED are essentially LCD panels, there’s a significant difference in quality as the price goes up. Things like the number of dimming areas behind the screen, backlit system, viewing angle, and screen reflectivity change as the price of the TV increases.

So now that you’ve had a basic brief on the technology, let us look at some of the best models in this budget below.

Xiaomi 55 Inch O55M7-Z2IN

• 55 inch 4k OLED display with 60Hz refresh rate
• Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
• 30w 8 speakers setup with Dolby Atmos
• Android 11
• HDMI 2.1*3 (HDMI 1 with eARC)
• 3GB RAM, 32GB storage
• 17.0kg
• Model year – 2022

OLEDs aren’t easy and not everyone has been able to do them. Nonetheless, Mi has taken a shot at offering a budget-friendly OLED for the masses that has been built with quality in mind.

The design has been well thought and the TV looks sleek and well-built.  At its thinnest, it’s just 5mm thin, which makes it fragile but beautiful.  The bezels are barely noticeable and add to the immersion while the ports are tucked behind carefully.

The TV comes with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. There’s a ton to offer in terms of features such as the three HDMI 2.1 ready ports, WiFi6, and AirPlay 2 support. The TV flaunts 8 speakers in total (four active and four passive) to create immersive Dolby Atmos enriched sounds, which adds to the immersion.

It is an OLED so of course the picture quality is great. The panel has a good contrast and covers 98.5% DCI-P3 wide color gamut. In layman’s terms, this means better color reproduction and popping visuals. Unfortunately, not a lot of info was available on the peak brightness but given it’s an OLED panel, we aren’t too optimistic.

Unfortunately, being a 60Hz panel limits the gaming potential of this TV.  While it won’t make much of a difference if you’re playing your regular games on consoles on the TV, it might feel inadequate for competitive gaming.

Ultimately, we feel like the Mi OLED is a compelling proposition for the asking price. Being an OLED works strongly in its favor and it has arguably better looks and audio compared to the LG A3.

LG A3 OLED 55 inch

• 55 inch 4k OLED display with 60Hz refresh rate
• Peak brightness – N/A but expected to be around 560 nits
• Dolby Vision, HDR10 Pro, HLG
• 20w 2.0 channel speakers
• WebOS 23
• HDMI 2.0b*3 with eARC
• 14.3kg
• Model year – 2023

The LG A3 OLED TV is the successor to 2022’s A2 and boasts remarkable technical capabilities, delivering a high-quality viewing experience. With its outstanding picture quality, solid sound performance, and user-friendly interface, it stands out as a competitive option in the OLED TV market.

The TV’s α7 Gen6 AI Processor 4K enhances the appearance of content, particularly in handling SDR and HDR material. While it may not match the brightness levels of higher-end models, the A3 still offers captivating visuals, capturing a wide color gamut and delivering impressive black levels, characteristic of OLED technology.

The A3 performs well in terms of audio, with its 20W downward-firing speakers providing clear and detailed sound. While bass may be limited, this is a common trait in slim TV designs. The TV excels in managing dialogue, action sounds, and music even in complex scenes.

Gaming potential is somewhat constrained due to the TV’s 60 Hz refresh rate. Nevertheless, its input lag performance is commendable, offering a responsive gaming experience. The inclusion of LG’s Game Optimizer Mode allows for game-specific adjustments, enhancing the gaming visuals and experience.

The webOS interface is intuitive and well-organized, making navigation and access to various features seamless. The TV supports popular HDR formats like HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, further enhancing the visual quality and ensuring compatibility with a wide range of content.

In conclusion, the LG A3 OLED TV is technically impressive, offering exceptional picture quality, sound performance, and user-friendly features. While it may lack certain advanced gaming features and the absolute highest brightness levels, it presents a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality OLED TV experience without focusing solely on the price point. Don’t confuse it with the much better C3

Samsung Frame LS03B 55 inch

• 55 inch 4k QLED display with 100Hz refresh rate and VRR support
• Around 500 nits peak brightness, no local dimming zones
• HDR10+ Certified, HDR10, HLG
• 40w 2.0.2 channel speakers
• Tizen OS
• HDMI*4 (HDMI 4 for 2.1, HDMI 3 for eARC)
• 16.9kg
• Model year – 2022

Samsung’s The Frame (2022) TV masterfully merges artistic flair with technical prowess, catering to connoisseurs of design and performance. The TV’s svelte 24.9mm depth and flat rear panel harmonize seamlessly with wall-mounted setups, bolstered by the ingenious One Connect box that streamlines cable management. The ability to personalize bezels adds an extra layer of customization.

The matte display is a standout feature, adept at mitigating glare in well-lit environments. Despite intermittent sluggishness, the Tizen interface provides an extensive array of streaming apps and gaming functionalities. Equipped with HDMI 2.1 inputs, the TV accommodates 4K/120Hz gaming, while its Art Mode impeccably showcases curated artwork.

The TV excels in picture quality, offering vibrant colors and commendable peak brightness. However, its performance in handling black depth, particularly in HDR content, is somewhat constrained. The OTS audio system yields impressive sound quality, delivering remarkable spaciousness and clarity.

Samsung’s The Frame (2022) TV exemplifies a harmonious amalgamation of artistic expression and technical finesse. While its pricing might deter some, its distinctive blend of aesthetics and performance makes it a compelling option for those seeking a television that transcends conventional boundaries.

The post Best Premium TV (with reviews) under Rs One Lakhs in India – January 2024 appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

While not as expensive as their OLED counterparts, QLED TVs from most premium brands such as Samsung command a hefty premium over their LED offerings. But as technology has become more commoditized, the market has become flooded with more affordable alternatives from brands like TCL, Mi, and many others, offering the QLED experience almost at the cost of regular LED televisions. This raises a natural question: can these budget-friendly QLEDs truly compete with the premium offerings from industry giants like Samsung and LG?

Once you start using these more affordable QLEDs, that can start for as low as $300 (Rs 25,000) it becomes apparent that not all QLEDs are created equal. Brands such as TCL and Mi, though boasting QLED technology, often fall short of delivering on the promises associated with the acronym. Color reproduction issues, subpar black levels, and uniformity problems like bleeding become a part of the viewing experience. You will find the colors to be often washed and not as popping as you’d see on a more expensive QLED. These TVs often have poor contrast ratios as well, where true blacks are rarely achieved due to diminished dynamic range.

Uniformity, or the consistency of color and brightness across the entire display, is another area where budget QLEDs tend to falter. Bleeding issues, where light spills into adjacent areas of the screen, can be a common problem. This not only distracts from the viewing experience but also diminishes the perceived quality of the display.

But why is there such a huge difference between cheaper and more expensive QLEDs when the difference isn’t that great in OLEDs? There is no one answer. Usually, cheaper QLEDs come with edge-lit dimming compared to full array lighting on the more expensive models. Edge-lit QLEDs even from premium brands like Samsung (case in point, the Frame) are known to have uniformity issues, leading to light bleeding and a reduction in contrast levels. Also, the recent premium QLED  come with technologies like mini-LED, which ensures several hundred local dimming zones, thus, better contrast. The panel quality is also better on more premiemly priced televisions which results in better viewing angles.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that all QLEDs that aren’t Sony, Samsung, or LG are bad. A quick look at Rtings.com for QLEDs from TCL, HiSense, and other more affordable brands show that some of the more high-end offerings from these brands do score well. Conversely, not everything that Samsung or LG touches is gold either. I’ve had my Samsung Frame and the dirty screen effect on the TV makes me want to throw it in the trash bin.

What to do as a buyer?

For those considering a QLED TV, it is advisable to approach the decision with caution. Raising the budget to invest in a reputable brand like Samsung, LG, or even exploring more premium options such as OnePlus can significantly enhance the overall viewing experience. We don’t mean to say brands like TCL cannot offer compelling TVs. But we don’t think a lot of people would be willing to invest Rs 80,000 on a TCL. While cost may be a determining factor, the long-term satisfaction derived from a higher-quality QLED is likely to outweigh the initial savings offered by cheaper alternatives.

Conclusion

In the quest for the perfect television, it is crucial to recognize the distinctions within QLED technology. Cheaper QLEDs may fall short of delivering the promised visual prowess, leading to disappointment for unsuspecting consumers. While the allure of affordability may be tempting, investing in a trusted brand ensures a superior viewing experience that truly captures the essence of QLED technology. As the market continues to evolve, discerning consumers must be vigilant in distinguishing between the genuine QLED experience and the diluted imitations that threaten to diminish the technology’s reputation

The post Are affordable QLED TVs a match for LG and Samsung? appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

The whole point of this post is to share how I find OLED to be way superior even if that means settling for a TV with a smaller size. We will dissect the fundamental aspects that elevate OLED to the throne as the superior choice. We’ll scrutinize its remarkable black levels, exceptional HDR content performance, and unparalleled contrast abilities. While QLED does have its merits, we will uncover why OLED remains the gold standard for those who demand the finest viewing experiences.

True Blacks and Contrast Performance

To truly grasp the supremacy of OLED in the OLED vs. QLED showdown, it’s imperative to understand the inner workings of these technologies. At the heart of OLED’s brilliance lies its unique ability to achieve true black levels. This is accomplished by having each pixel emit its light, allowing for the complete extinguishing of individual pixels when necessary. On the flip side, QLED relies on LED backlighting, which lacks the granularity required to turn off specific pixels.

The significance of OLED’s capacity becomes evident when immersing yourself in low-light or dark scenes. OLED TVs excel in rendering shadows with precision, offering a depth and richness that QLED TVs struggle to replicate. In such scenarios, OLED’s pixel-level control stands out as its defining advantage and is able to deliver an immersive and lifelike viewing experience. This advantage is further magnified when consuming high-contrast scenes, where OLED’s ability to deactivate pixels on a per-pixel basis results in an unparalleled feast for the eyes.

HDR Content

High Dynamic Range (HDR) content promises a broader spectrum of colors and heightened brightness.  There are different standards like the HDR10 and the Dolby Vision. While QLED TVs do an admirable job of presenting vibrant and colorful HDR content, OLED takes it a step further. Thanks to its pixel-level control, OLED achieves brighter highlights and deeper shadows simultaneously, contributing to a more authentic and engrossing HDR experience. Imagine a scene like a moon in a black starry sky. The QLED will suffer with blooming, but the OLED will produce it nearly perfectly.

When basking in the glory of HDR content on an OLED TV such as the LG CX, one can’t help but notice the nuanced details in both the brightest and darkest corners of the screen. This enhances the authenticity of the content and underscores why OLED is the go-to choice if you are finicky about the picture quality.

QLED Lighting Technologies

Leading manufacturers like Samsung have invested substantially in improving the performance of QLED TVs through innovative lighting technologies. These advancements include edge lighting, full array lighting with local dimming, and the more recent Neo QLED technology. While these strides have undoubtedly enhanced the performance of QLED TVs, especially in well-lit rooms, they grapple with inherent challenges when it comes to delivering profound blacks and impeccable contrast.

For instance, edge-lit QLED TVs have been known to contend with uniformity issues, leading to light bleeding and a reduction in contrast levels. While full array lighting with local dimming mitigates some of these issues, it still falls short of OLED’s precision in controlling individual pixels.

Cost and Burn-In Considerations

An imperative factor in the OLED vs. QLED deliberation is cost. OLED TVs, particularly those in larger sizes, tend to carry a heftier price tag than their QLED counterparts. This cost differential often prompts consumers to scrutinize whether OLED’s enhanced picture quality justifies the steeper investment.

Additionally, it’s worth acknowledging that OLED TVs are susceptible to a phenomenon known as burn-in. This occurs when static images or logos are displayed for extended periods, potentially resulting in a lasting imprint on the screen and affecting long-term image quality. However, it’s crucial to note that recent OLED models have implemented preventive measures to minimize this risk, making it less of a concern for most users.

Size Matters: OLED for Smaller Screens

While OLED’s superiority in picture quality is undeniable, screen size plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process. OLED TVs tend to become considerably more expensive as screen sizes exceed the 65-inch mark. This pricing discrepancy underscores the significance of size when choosing between OLED and QLED. If you’re seeking a television under 65 inches, OLED remains an attractive choice, even if it entails a slight premium. However, for those in pursuit of massive screens, QLED might offer a more cost-effective solution.

Conclusion

In the ongoing contest between OLED and QLED technologies, OLED stands as the unequivocal champion for those who demand the zenith of picture quality. While QLED TVs possess their strengths, they simply cannot measure up to OLED’s depth, richness, and contrast performance. Whether you’re reveling in movies in a dimly lit room or immersing yourself in vibrant HDR content, OLED stands as the undisputed choice for a truly exceptional viewing experience. If you find yourself in the market for a new TV and prioritize picture quality above all else, the investment in an OLED TV is one that you won’t regret.

Having tried multiple QLED TVs, be it with full array lighting or edge lighting, the quality has always fallen short for me when compared to my rather old OLED. I even tried the newer Neo QLED at retail shops and felt that they were held back for the same reasons despite being comparable in price to OLED screens. In my experience, the difference in quality becomes even more noticeable in dark settings where the blacks on QLED don’t appear as dark as they do in the day. I’d say, if you usually watch TV during the day, or in a bright room, a QLED might be a more cost-effective proposition for you.

OLED’s capacity to generate true blacks, deliver outstanding HDR performance, and provide unrivaled contrast renders it the ultimate choice for home entertainment enthusiasts. While cost and the potential for burn-in are factors to weigh, OLED’s merits shine through, especially for screens under 65 inches in size. Ultimately, your choice between OLED and QLED should be informed by your unique requirements, viewing environment, and budget. OLED’s exceptional picture quality transforms it into an investment that elevates your entire television-watching experience, underscoring the fact that in the realm of television technology, not all screens are created equal.

The post After trying multiple QLED TVs, I can’t recommend them over OLEDs appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

But before you dismiss it as a luxury for the wealthy, think again. Creating a smart home in India is not only straightforward but also surprisingly budget-friendly. You can take it one step at a time, beginning with just one smart device – no need to splurge upfront!

Why should you consider a smart home?

Before delving into the details, let’s talk about why you should embrace the idea of turning your ordinary home into a smart one. It’s about more than just wowing your friends (although that’s a nice bonus). A smart home is all about convenience and efficiency. And, thankfully, most of the tech is easily available in India for cheap.

Imagine never groping for light switches again. Picture being able to control your home’s temperature and security from your smartphone, no matter where you are. And consider the energy savings by optimizing your home’s lighting and heating. All of this becomes possible with a smart home.

Starting small and embracing the tech

The best part is that you don’t need to dive headfirst into a world of smart gadgets or break the bank. Building a smart home in India can be done gradually, one gadget at a time. It’s like creating a tech wishlist and checking items off at your own pace.

You don’t need to throw your old gadgets into trash bins either. A lot of add-on devices can convert your existing gadgets into smart gadgets.

Let’s start with the basics, beginning with smart home gadgets available in India that won’t drain your wallet. These are user-friendly, even if your tech knowledge is limited.

Smart lighting

Welcome to the world of smart lighting! Smart bulbs are your gateway to a brighter, more energy-efficient home. These advanced bulbs and batons offer more than just brightness control – you can adjust their colors to suit your mood or the occasion. Want a cozy atmosphere? Choose warm, soft hues. Hosting a party? Go for vibrant and colorful lighting. What’s fantastic is their compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Just imagine sitting on your couch and saying, “Alexa, dim the lights,” and it happens! It’s like having your personal digital genie.

In India, where electricity bills can be a headache, smart lighting shines. You can schedule them to turn on and off at specific times or integrate them with sensors to light up only when someone’s in the room. This not only saves money but also contributes to a greener planet.

Whether it’s setting the perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner, creating a study-friendly workspace, or adding a touch of magic to your home, smart bulbs and batons have you covered. And the best part? You can start with just one or two and expand your collection over time, making it budget-friendly for all.

Most bulbs in the market start at around Rs 500, while batons start at around Rs 800. The more expensive ones can also be controlled with Bluetooth on your phone, allowing them to work even when your WiFi is down. Popular brands include Syska, Philips, Mi, Wipro, and others.

Smart Plugs & switches

These plugs may resemble traditional ones, but they’re intelligent, responsive, and incredibly user-friendly. Plug them in a 6A or 16A socket and you can convert any device into a smart one, be it a table fan, a geyser, a heater, or some other device.

These plugs can allow you to set a schedule, monitor your electricity usage, and turn on or off with a simple voice command. The new ones come with BlueTooth to ensure all-weather connectivity.

Similarly, smart switches can do a similar job. They can replace your existing switches (or switchboard) and make most of the connected appliances smart. There’s a whole variety of such switches, starting from a single switch, to a switchboard, to smart power strips, that even have surge protection features and USB A ports with decent power output.

Don’t fret if you’re not tech-savvy; most smart switches are designed for easy installation, even for beginners. It’s an affordable and practical way to embark on your smart home journey.

Lots of brands are available in the market, but we’ve highlighted a few tried and tested ones below.

Smart Curtain Closers

Smart curtain closers are your modern-day saviors, adding convenience and sophistication to this age-old task. These devices allow you to control your curtains remotely, enhancing comfort and style. In India, where the sun’s intensity can be extreme, especially in summer, managing curtains effectively is crucial. Smart curtain closers let you open and close curtains with a simple app on your smartphone or through voice commands. So, during a lazy Sunday afternoon movie marathon, you can block out the harsh sun without leaving your comfortable spot.

These devices offer automation options too, letting you schedule when curtains open and close. It’s like having a personal butler, maintaining your home at the perfect temperature and privacy level.

Moreover, smart curtain closers work with various curtain types, from traditional drapes to blinds and even sheer curtains. Designed for easy installation and use, they’re accessible to anyone seeking modernity and convenience in their home.

I have purchased Switchbot curtain closer and it does a decent job. While it can be frustrating to watch the little robot take over 60 seconds to close or open the curtains, most of the time, I don’t even notice it. Price starts from around Rs 7,000 for a single unit.

Smart Doorbell

Your home’s entrance is its first line of defense, and a smart doorbell acts as a digital sentry guarding your castle. These devices combine the function of a traditional doorbell with advanced features like a built-in camera and motion sensors, turning your front door into a high-tech gateway. Imagine this scenario: You’re at work, and your doorbell rings. With a smart doorbell, you receive a notification on your smartphone, complete with a live video feed showing who’s at your door. You can even talk to your visitor using the built-in microphone and speaker, all while sipping your coffee at the office.

This level of control and security is invaluable, particularly in India, where safety concerns loom large. Whether it’s a package delivery, a family member visiting, or an unexpected guest, you can always see and communicate with them, even when you’re away.

Another advantage is that smart doorbells record video footage, crucial for incidents or monitoring your home’s surroundings. Some models even offer cloud storage for these recordings, ensuring access when needed.

Installation is typically straightforward, and many smart doorbells can use your existing doorbell wiring. They integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, creating a robust and interconnected security system.

There are multiple brands available in the market right now, including the likes of Wipro and Qubo from Hero.

Smart Locks

Smart locks offer a more convenient and secure way to access your home. These futuristic devices replace traditional locks with digital technology, enabling you to lock and unlock your door via a smartphone app, PIN code, key fob, or even your fingerprint. In India, where security is paramount, smart locks provide an additional layer of protection for your home and loved ones. Traditional locks may be vulnerable to picking or lock bumping, but smart locks feature advanced encryption and authentication methods, bolstering resistance to unauthorized access.

A standout feature of smart locks is their ability to grant temporary access to guests or service providers. Imagine a plumber coming over while you’re at work; you can provide them with a temporary access code that expires after the job’s completion. Secure and convenient.

Moreover, smart locks integrate with other smart home devices. You can pair them with your smart doorbell, enabling you to see who’s at the door and remotely unlock it if needed. It’s like having a virtual doorman.

Installation varies by model, but many smart locks can retrofit your existing door, making it a DIY-friendly project. They often include backup keys for emergencies, ensuring you’re never locked out. Usually, the prices start around Rs 10,000.

Smart Remote (IR HUB)

If you’re tired of juggling multiple remotes to control your TV, set-top box, streaming devices, and other entertainment gadgets, it’s time to meet the superhero of your living room—the smart remote. Think of it as your universal remote on steroids. With a smart remote, you can consolidate control over all your entertainment devices into a single, user-friendly interface. No more searching for the right remote or struggling to remember which button does what.

Here’s how it works: You set up your smart remote to communicate with all your devices including televisions, ACs, set-top boxes, and basically anything that uses an IR remote. It’s like teaching it a universal language that your gadgets understand. Once everything syncs up, you can navigate through TV channels, adjust the volume, switch between streaming apps, and even power devices on or off—all from a single remote.

What sets smart remotes apart is their compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Simply speak your commands, and the remote executes them. It’s like having a personal assistant for your entertainment needs. You can do things like turn on the AC in your room 10 minutes prior and make sure it is cooled down to your desired temperature with a simple voice command. You can even pair it with a smart thermostat or thermometer to automate the room temperature.

Setup is usually straightforward, and most smart remotes offer intuitive user interfaces for easy configuration. They frequently receive updates to stay compatible with the latest devices and services, ensuring your home entertainment remains cutting-edge.

Fan controller

While some people can’t be made smarter, your dumb fans can, fortunately. All you need to do is retrofit a smart fan controller, and you can now control the fan, including the speed from your phone. It’s a cheap price to pay for the convenience and can be done on most of the brands available in India.

Now you might be wondering if all this automation is going to turn you into a couch potato. Fair to say, it might. Well, that’s the price you pay for convenience.

Google Home or Amazon Alexa

And while you can control all these gadgets using your phone, a much more easy way is to use a home assistant such as Google Hub or Amazon Alexa.  These devices are always on standby to take your verbal instructions and execute the command. It’s convenient because you don’t have to take out your phone every time you need to do something or juggle through umpteen different apps. It also ensures that your room can be controlled by your family members rather than only someone who has the relevant apps installed and has access on the phone.

Plus, you can do a lot more with these assistants like playing music or videos, listening to news, or learning new trivia.

Conclusion

Building a smart home in India isn’t reserved for tech enthusiasts or those with deep pockets. You can start small and gradually add smart devices to your home, making it more convenient, efficient, and secure. From smart bulbs that create the perfect ambiance to smart switches that simplify your daily routines, from smart curtain closers that manage your home’s lighting and privacy to smart doorbells and locks that enhance security, and finally, the smart remote that brings all your entertainment together, these technologies are designed to make your life easier.

So, why wait? Start your smart home journey today and experience the benefits of modern technology without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned enthusiast, these smart home devices are here to make your life more comfortable and enjoyable. Embrace the future of home living and take the first step towards a smarter, more connected home today. Your future self will thank you as you enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that come with a smart home in India.

The post Unlocking the Future: Building a Smart Home in India on a Budget appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

I saw it on my relative’s wall and thought it was a great deal compared to my LG CX that I got a couple of years ago. I have to say, I watched it during the day and it looked awesome. The colors were good, and the blacks were really black. Plus, the way it was perfectly flush with the wall got me excited. But my excitement turned into disappointment when I got the same TV at home and tried to watch a movie at night with the lights off.

So, what happened? Let the pictures below explain.

Looking at these photos, you’ll see the screen shouldn’t look like that. It’s not because the screen is dirty or because I live in a dusty place. And in case you haven’t seen a TV before, trust me, this is not how a good TV should look when it’s showing something dark.

If you compare the same scene on another type of TV called OLED in a similar situation, the problem doesn’t exist. Even my old cheap LED TV, which is 5 years old, doesn’t have this issue like my new Frame TV.

It took me a while to figure out what was going on. It’s called the “Dirty Screen Effect” or what Samsung calls the Mura effect. It’s because of how the light shines through the screen. Sometimes, parts of the screen are a little brighter or darker than they should be, even when they’re supposed to show the same color. This is most noticeable when the camera moves across a smooth background like a field or the sky. These uneven patches can be distracting and make the picture less smooth. Surprisingly, the issue is only visible during the night when the ambient light is minimal. In the daytime, it’s barely noticeable and the TV looks as good as an OLED.

This Dirty Screen Effect happens to different kinds of LED panels, whether it’s a regular LED, a QLED, or even a Neo QLED. That’s because they all use similar technology. The main reason for this effect is how the panels are made and the limits of the technology. Some pixels shine brighter than others, causing this problem, even on expensive TVs.

The bad thing is that not all TVs have this problem to the same degree. You might be lucky and get a TV with less of this issue. Or you might get a TV where this effect is really bad. And the worst part is, the warranty usually doesn’t cover it. So, if you can’t easily return the TV, you’re stuck with a TV that doesn’t look great even though you paid a lot for it.

But that’s not all the bad news. This Dirty Screen Effect can’t usually be fixed. Changing some settings or using software won’t make it go away completely. You might be able to make it a little less noticeable by adjusting the brightness, but it won’t completely disappear.

I’m frustrated with Samsung because the Frame TV, in particular, seems to have this problem. I found this out from reading posts on Reddit’s r/SamsungFrameTV community where many others are complaining about the same thing. I’ve tried to get Samsung to fix the TV, but they say it’s not a problem.

Luckily, it’s not very obvious during the day, so that’s a bit of a relief. But if I had the choice, I’d pick a different TV without a second thought.

Not reading about this issue beforehand led me to a bunch of Frame TV reviews. That’s when I realized that this TV isn’t great for picture quality even aside from this problem. Let’s talk about QLEDs and how to choose a good one if you’re considering it (especially because big OLED TVs are really expensive). Here are some tips:

How to pick a QLED TV

Know the different Kinds of Backlighting: Edge Lighting vs. Array Lighting

When LED TVs light up, they do it in two main ways: edge lighting and array lighting. These methods decide how the light behind the screen works, which affects how bright and colorful the picture looks.

Edge Lighting:

Imagine the TV screen is like a big canvas, and the light behind it is like a light bulb. With edge lighting, the lights are around the edges of the TV. They shine towards the middle. This makes TVs thin and light. But sometimes, the light doesn’t spread evenly, so parts of the screen can be brighter or darker.

Array Lighting (Full Array or Direct Backlighting):

Think of the screen like a grid with lots of little sections, each with its own light. Array lighting puts these lights in a grid behind the screen. They can be controlled separately, so they can be brighter or dimmer depending on what’s on the screen. This helps the TV show better colors and darker blacks. When there’s a mix of bright and dark parts in a scene, array lighting makes sure they look good.
In short, edge lighting has lights around the edges, and array lighting has lots of lights behind the whole screen in a grid. Array lighting is better for making the picture look great, especially with contrast and colors. But remember, array lighting might make the TV a bit thicker than edge lighting.

Local Dimming Zones: Making Things Darker

Imagine your TV has 100 zones behind it that can change the brightness and colors. If a scene has dark edges and a bright center (like the moon in a dark sky), using just 30 out of these 100 zones for the moon can make the dark parts even darker and create a better picture.

Local dimming is usually in TVs with array lighting. More zones usually mean better dark parts and better contrasts. There are some downsides, like the bright parts sometimes leaking into dark parts. But usually, local dimming is a good thing.

Now, there are new mini LED TVs with even more zones, like thousands of them. These are better than regular QLEDs and fix some of the problems. LG’s QNED is an example of this.

Which QLED to Choose: The Simple Version

If all of this is too much, here’s an easy way to think about it: if you can afford it, go for an OLED TV. They have the best picture quality. The blacks are true blacks and better than anything that a QLED or even Neo QLED or QNED produces. The downside is that OLEDs are the most expensive of the lot.

If OLED is too expensive (especially for bigger size TVs), then go for a mini LED QLED or a full array QLED with lots of zones. Only pick an edge-lit QLED if looks are the most important thing and you want a really thin TV, even if the picture quality isn’t perfect.

I hope this helps you choose a good TV next time you’re looking for one.

The post Getting a Samsung Frame taught me how to not buy a QLED TV. Dirty Screen Effect and more appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

It would be right to call the Infinia Metal Edition a minor upgrade to the existing Infinia card which it replaces in the credit card lineup.  HDFC has mainly addressed the plastic build with the previous card which may not have found favor with customers looking for a more premium-looking card that can stand out from your average credit card. That said, looks are subjective and the new design may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

The best part about the new card is that it retains all the features of the existing Infinia cards and adds more (which are also being released on the existing Infinia card. The existing features that make this card perhaps the best credit card in India include:

• Unlimited airport lounge access across the globe for Primary and Add-on members
• 5 reward points on a spend of Rs 150 with an accelerated reward point system to earn 10x points through HDFC Smartbuy portal on shopping across leading e-commerce brands and booking flights, hotels, and trains
• Unlimited Complimentary golf games at leading courses across India and select courses across the world
• Medical emergency cover of up to Rs 50 lakh against medical emergencies during travel abroad and accidental death cover (air travel) of Rs 3 crore

What made the original card really attractive was the ability to use your reward points at a 1:1 conversion ratio when booking flights or hotels using the HDFC Smartbuy portal. That continues with the Infinia Metal Edition. Additionally, you will now be able to buy Apple products and Tanishq vouchers at the same conversion ratio using your reward points. New features that have been also added include:

• Complimentary nights & weekend buffet at participating ITC hotels
• Complimentary Club Marriott membership for the first year

With these features, it’s hard not to recommend HDFC Infinia Metal Edition to anyone looking for a premium credit card. However, the eligibility criteria doesn’t seem to have been changed. You still need an annual income of over Rs 40 lakhs (ITR) to be eligible for this card if you’re a new customer. This policy may be at HDFC Bank’s discretion to relax in case you’re a high spend customer or have a number of high-value products (FDs, insurance policies, Demat) from HDFC Bank.

There is one significant change from the existing Infinia card though. The annual fee for this card has been increased to Rs 12,500 (plus GST) annually from Rs 10,000 (plus GST) on Infinia. To waive it off, you need to spend Rs 10 lakhs annually on the card. Again a bump up from Rs 8 lakhs on the Infinia card. This makes it rather difficult to recommend this card to existing Infinia customers who get to enjoy the same benefits (albeit with a plastic card) for a lower fee. But with the discontinuation of the Infinia credit card, this is the price to pay to get your hands on one of the most premium and elite credit cards in India. Given the benefits, it’s still a great deal.

The post HDFC Bank launches Infinia Metal Edition – its most elite credit card for premium customers appeared first on Gizmopolitan.

I wasn’t counting much on the TV speakers to blow my mind, honestly. While the LG CX supports Dolby Atmos through its 2.2 speaker setup, you know how TV speakers are. That said, I did have a Sony home theater supporting Dolby Digital 5.1 with me. So I did what any logical man would have done in my place. I plugged it into my television using HDMI ARC and had a 600W output ready with surround sound.

But then, here’s the thing. Once you have heard of something with the promise of more, it is hard to keep your thoughts away from it. The LG TV had introduced me to the concept of Dolby Atmos and it felt like everything that was missing from my existing configuration. After all, what good is Dolby Vision on my TV if it doesn’t have the perfect audio quality to match it, right?

Dolby Atmo..what now?

For those of you who haven’t spent hours watching videos and reading material online on Dolby Atmos, let me bring you up to speed. To put it simply, Dolby Atmos is the next logical evolution to surround sound or Dolby Digital. A 5.1 or a 7.1 setup can cover and replicate spatial sound well but has its limitations. Yes, seven speakers can cover a lot of spatial points but there will be gaps. And unless you have speakers on the roof, how do you even cover audio coming from the top?

Dolby Atmos setup can take care of these issues easily. By supporting overhead channels (either through roof-mounted speakers or upward-firing speakers), Dolby Atmos can cover a whole lot more audio points than a traditional surround sound setup. There can be multiple configurations in an Atmos setup. Some systems come with five speakers in the front, two in the back, and two upward-firing speakers in a 7.1.2 setup. Others offer three front speakers, two rear ones, and up to four upward-firing speakers in a 5.1.4 setup (or 9.1 as JBL misleadingly likes to call it).

The result is a much more immersive experience that can replicate a theater setup much better than surround sound alone. Club it with Dolby Vision (which is an HDR standard for videos by Dolby again) and you have the ultimate home theater setup.

Choosing the right DOLBY Atmos soundbar in my budget

Like I mentioned before, I had a Sony HT-RT40 Dolby Digital 5.1 channel home theater with me before. It isn’t the most expensive or the most sophisticated 5.1 setup you will find but has done a decent job so far. I wanted to replace it with something that looked as good and offered audio quality that justified the upgrade. Not having a lot of Atmos options in India, I narrowed my search to four options.

JBL 9.1

Essentially a 5.1.4 setup with two rear speakers and four upward-firing speakers. Also the cheapest among the decent options with a price tag of around US$1,150 in my country. What I loved about these was the fact that the rear speakers were truly wireless and work around 6-7 hours on battery. You can also plug in a micro-USB cable and never worry about having to charge them (at the cost of battery life in the long term). They also have a microphone that allows calibrating the whole setup once the speakers are in place.

Samsung HW-Q950T 

Initially, my heart was on this baby, given the good things I’ve read about this soundbar. If you get the rear speakers (sold separately), you have a 9.1.4 setup. Sounds pretty exciting, if you ask me. The sound quality has been lauded by most reviewers. Enough, in fact, to match the ones from Sonos.

That said, it’s not the cheapest offering in the market. The soundbar alone was close to ~US$1,800 with another couple of hundred dollars spend on the rear speakers. However, the biggest dealbreaker for me was the fact that it did not come with an automatic room calibration option. I had some doubts about doing it perfectly on my own (and, well, the price, of course).

Sony HT-ST5000

Another pricey option from Sony that I did not consider because the rep at the Sony showroom told me I had no way to add rear speakers to this setup. Enough said.

LG SN10YG

Another decent offering that I held back on shortlisting because the soundbar does not support eARC. As I understand, HDMI ARC can only support up to 5.1 channels so I wasn’t sure if I wanted to spend more time researching how this thing works.

After considering all these options, I chose the cheapest, yet a promising one. The JBL 9.1 (5.1.4 essentially) replaced my Dolby Digital 5.1 setup. It was pretty simple to install and setup. That said, JBL has a reputation for not making the most flawless products. Unfortunately, I got a firsthand taste of that. It took me a couple of tries to calibrate this thing. You can’t really get the Atmos effect until you’ve calibrated and I was getting an error repeatedly when trying to do it. I eventually did a factory reset and it worked.

Things work as they should, although there have been rare occasions where the audio from the TV drops for no reason and I have to turn the soundbar off and on again to get it back. Not the smoothest experience, but something I can live with.

So, how well does it work, Atmos and all?

But now to the main question for which I created this lengthy post. How does it feel compared to the Dolby Digital 5.1 setup? Honestly, for me, the biggest difference has been in the level of bass and treble that the new soundbar has brought. It has been a game-changer and, honestly, the biggest change that makes my setup feel like a proper home theater. That’s understandable though, given I wasn’t using the best 5.1 setup. Probably, a similar costing 5.1 setup would have replicated it too.

On the whole Atmos thing, it is definitely a better experience than what I had with 5.1.  But the difference doesn’t feel too much, to be honest. I have a decently high room and I haven’t yet felt the whole audio coming from the top thing to a great extent. I’m not saying it doesn’t exist, I just feel it isn’t as prominent as I was expecting it to be. But not taking any points away from the technology, content that supports Atmos (not everything is currently encoded to support Atmos) does feel different and rich overall. I can definitely feel audio coming from different points when watching a movie that is supported on Atmos. It’s just that my 5.1 also did some of these things to a lesser extent.

The other issue is there isn’t a whole lot of Atmos-ready content in the market right now. Once you have seen a handful of YouTube videos, it is only the most recent shows and movies on Netflix or Prime that offer Atmos audio. For the most part, my speakers run on 5.1. Of course, that would change in the future as more new content is built for Atmos and Dolby Vision.

So, is it Dolby Digital Or Dolby Atmos then?

All in all, I don’t have too many regrets about my purchase. Given I was coming from a relatively low-end Dolby Digital 5.1 setup, it feels like a good upgrade. However, if you have a decent 5.1 or 7.1 setup already, I would say you’re not missing out on too much. Yes, it is better and richer. But if you have to throw your existing setup out, I would suggest you save some money. Till at least there is enough content with Atmos support.

On the other hand, if you’re on the lookout for a new home theater system, you should definitely futureproof your purchase and get an Atmos-enabled soundbar.

The post I upgraded to Dolby Atmos from a Dolby Digital 5.1 for my home theater setup. I can answer if it was worth it appeared first on Gizmopolitan.