Plan to upgrade your phone to one of the best Smartphones in Malaysia 2020?
Smartphones have come a long way in terms of multi-tasking capabilities, screen resolution, cameras, etc. Even some of the best budget Smartphones in Malaysia are worth looking into!
So whether you want a premium, mid-range or budget Smartphone, you’ll find a selection of solid options here!
How To Choose The Best Smartphone
1. Operating System: Android Or Iphone
A phone’s operating system is the built-in software that drives and manages the functions of the phone.
There are 2 main operating systems that dominate the market, iPhone and Android.
What is the difference between these 2 operating systems?
iPhone (aka iOS):
- Arguably more intuitive and thus, easier to use
- Better security
- Work well with other Apple devices
- Regular software updates
Android:
- Can be much cheaper than an iPhone
- Customize-able
- Meant to integrate with Google services
So if you already have many Apple devices, it makes sense to go with an iPhone.
While an Android would be best if you frequently use Google services and Microsoft Office.
And if you have wireless earphones, you should check which operating system works better with them!
2. App Support
Don’t forget to list down the apps you use often! Chances are, there will be a similar version available regardless if you choose iPhone or Android!
Take a peek at the respective app stores to see if they have the apps you use!
- Android – playstore
- iPhone – appstore
3. Screen Size
Firstly, screen size is measured from corner to corner. Rather than from top to bottom.
If you’d like to carry your phone around in your pocket, a smaller screen size (<5.5 inches) will do. And you will be able to use it comfortably with one hand.
4K resolution is overrated:
And you can always connect to a Smart TV or use a TV box if you want a bigger screen than what’s available in the Smartphone market!
4. Built-In Storage Space
Go for a Smartphone that has a minimum of 32GB of storage. To keep apps, music, photos and videos.
Something to note:
With iPhone, there’s no option to increase the built-in memory (i.e. they don’t have microSD slots). Models with bigger memory storage cost more.
5. Cameras
There is a saying that the best camera is the one that you have in your hand! And Smartphones are definitely more portable than conventional cameras.
Look for wide aperture for better low light performance, night mode, noise reduction and optical image stabilization.
iPhones have particularly great cameras compared to other Smartphones!
6. Battery Life
Apps (especially games), phone calls, etc can use up battery fast!
As a rule of thumb, do not accept a Smartphone that only lasts for less than 10 hours on full charge.
The average battery life of Smartphones is between 8 to 18 hours. Which is plenty to use anywhere! Including on the best treadmill or when you’re outside!
Quick charge is a handy feature to have! So you don’t have to wait long to use your phone again!
7. Budget
Everyone knows that iPhones are the most expensive! Followed by Samsung!
And at the other end of the spectrum, there is Huawei, Realme and Xiaomi with their more affordable phones. Although Huawei has high range phones too!
8. Other Features To Consider
- Fingerprint or face scanning (for security)
- Personal assistant
- Cloud support (external memory backup)
- Availability of third-party apps
- NFC (Near Field Communication) – New technology where compatible devices can exchange data, photos, etc just by being next to each other
Best Premium Smartphone Malaysia 2020
1. Apple iPhone 12
Meant to support upcoming 5G networks:
The 6.1-inch Apple iPhone 12 includes the newest A14 chip. Along with a better dual-lens cameras and the new Super Retina XDR OLED display!
It’s also packaged in a smaller 5.4-inch frame (Apple iPhone 12 Mini) than its predecessor, iPhone 11!
Though both iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini phones are virtually the same. Aside from screen size and battery capacity.
And if you’re familiar with the iPad Pro, these phones now have similar flat edges rather than rounded.
- Apple will no longer provide a charger or headphones together with the phone (applicable for all iphone models); the cable will be a USB-C to Lightning cable
- The Pro version of this phone has even better camera performance
- Display: 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED (1,170 x 2,532)
- Weight: 164g
- Dimensions: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm
- OS: iOS 14
- CPU & RAM: Apple A14 Bionic; 4GB
- Storage: 64 / 128 / 256GB (Not Expandable)
- Battery: 2,815 mAh
- Rear Camera: 12MP (ƒ/2.4) + 12MP (ƒ/1.6)
- Front Camera: 12MP (ƒ/2.2)
- IP Rating: IP68
- SIM Card: Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM)
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: From RM3,899 – RM4,599
Pros:
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Better display compared to its predecessor
- HD 1080p FaceTime calls
- Construction is premium (e.g. glass back)
- Very light
- 4x better drop performance (Ceramic Shield)
- Improved IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 6m for 30 minutes)
- Wireless charging up to 15W
- Compatible with MagSafe charger (sold separately)
Cons:
- No 3.5mm jack
- Fast charging is only up to 20W
- 64GB built-in storage (base model)
2. Apple iPhone 11
While not an incredible leap from the previous and already impressive, iPhone XR:
Apple’s iPhone 11 firmly secures Apple on the top of best Smartphone lists around. Its price makes it undeniably tempting to anyone considering the more costly iPhone 11 Pro!
- Display: 6.1″ IPS LCD (828 x 1,792)
- Weight: 194g
- Dimensions: 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm
- OS: iOS 13
- CPU & RAM: Apple A13 Bionic; 4GB
- Storage: 64 / 128 / 256GB (Not Expandable)
- Battery: 3,110 mAh
- Rear Camera: 12MP (ƒ/2.4) + 12MP (ƒ/1.8)
- Front Camera: 12MP (ƒ/2.2)
- IP Rating: IP68
- SIM Card: Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM)
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price:
RM3,399RM2,899
Pros:
- Ultra wide camera
- Great night mode (doesn’t work at ultra wide)
- Excellent as a video camera
- Comparable performance to the iPhone 11 Pro
- Pairs with the best Smartwatch in Malaysia!
- Comes in new colors
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Not worth upgrading from iPhone XR
- Does not come with a fast charger or headphone dongle!
- Still expensive
- No USB-C
- Not an OLED display
3. OnePlus 8 Pro
It may not surprise you that the best android phone 2020 Malaysia is OnePlus 8 Pro! Since the former OnePlus models have all proved themselves to be worthy.
But this time, at a much steeper price! As the OnePlus steps into the premium Android Smartphone scene!
While still being cheaper than Samsung’s S20+!
- Display: 6.78″ AMOLED (1,440 x 3,168)
- Weight: 199g
- Dimensions: 165.3 x 74.4 x 8.5 mm
- OS: OxygenOS 10.5 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865; 8GB / 12GB
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB (Not Expandable)
- Battery: 4,510mAh
- Rear Camera: 48MP (f/1.78) + 48MP (f/2.2) + 8MP (f/2.44) + 5MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.45)
- IP Rating: IP68
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Price: RM3,699
Pros:
- Fast wireless charging (30W)
- Fully waterproof (IP68)
- Primary camera sensor
- Excellent 120Hz display
- Lasting battery
- Great camera performance (wide-angle too) with reliable auto-focus
- OxygenOS
- 5G support
Cons:
- Has some bugs to work out still
- Rear camera sticks out noticeably
- Slow reverse wireless charging
Want a smaller storage (128GB)? – Check Price
Want a smaller version? Check out OnePlus 8.
- 8GB RAM & 128GB ROM – Check Price
- 12GB RAM & 256GB ROM – Check Price
4. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
Make no mistake, Samsung’s latest 5G model, Galaxy S20 FE 5G prioritizes on its 120Hz display and fast performance! Compromising on things like the build, battery and RAM (6Gb) instead.
In doing so, this model is cheaper than the Galaxy S20. Which buyers can definitely appreciate! As it’s still a very powerful phone (Snapdragon 865 processor)!
- Display: 6.5″ Super AMOLED HDR10+ (1,080 x 2,400)
- Weight: 190g
- Dimensions: 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm
- OS: One UI 2.5 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Snapdragon 865; 8GB
- Storage: 256GB (Expandable via MicroSD Up to 1TB)
- Battery Life: 4,500 mAh
- Rear Camera: 12MP (f/1.8) + 8MP (f/2.4) + 12MP (f/2.2)
- Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.2)
- IP Rating: IP68
- SIM Card: Nano-SIM 1 + Hybrid (SIM or MicroSD)
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM3,399
Pros:
- 6 colors to choose from
- Fast charging up to 25W
- Impressive telephoto zoom
- IP68 rated
- Reverse wireless charging 4.5W
- USB Power Delivery 3.0
- Large storage (Expandable to 1TB with microSD)
- Great for selfies
Cons:
- Fast charger costs more
- Plastic back
- Bulkier than Galaxy S20
- Optical sensor instead of ultrasonic sensor (i.e. less accurate)
- Average camera performance
- OneUI not that great to use
5. Samsung Galaxy S20
Samsung still reigns as one of the top Smartphone brands in Malaysia!
And the Samsung Galaxy S20 does not disappoint! With noticeable improvements over the S10 when it comes to its versatile camera!
- Display: 6.2″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (3,200 x 1,440 )
- Weight: 163g
- Dimensions: 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9 mm
- OS: One UI 2 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Octa-Core Exynos 990; 8GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via MicroSD Up to 1TB)
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Rear Camera: 12MP (f/1.8) + 64MP (f/2.0) + 12MP (f/2.2)
- Front Camera: 10MP (f/2.2)
IP Rating: IP68 - SIM Card: Nano-SIM 1 + Hybrid (SIM or MicroSD)
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM3,299
Pros:
- Stunning display (120Hz, OLED)
- 4G/ 5G support
- Battery lasts the whole day
- Comfortable size
- Performs well
- IP68 water and dust protection
- Includes accessories like a wireless charger, earphones, phone charger, etc
Cons:
- Expensive
- Appearance remains the same as other older models
- Display drains battery fast
- Fingerprint scanner is inconsistent
- No headphone jack
Want bigger screen? And even better camera specs? Check out the S20 Plus (Samsung Galaxy S20+) – Check Price
Best Smartphone Malaysia Below RM2,000
6. Apple iPhone SE (2020)
Apple iPhone SE is a great deal considering it’s an iPhone with a decent camera and power. But for less than RM2,000 (64GB)!
With just a few things to compromise on!
- Display: 4.7″ IPS LCD (750 x 1,334)
- Weight: 148g
- Dimensions: 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm
- OS: iOS 13
- CPU & RAM: Apple A13 Bionic; 3GB
- Storage: 64 / 128 / 256GB (Not Expandable)
- Battery: 1,821 mAh
- Rear Camera: 12MP (ƒ/1.8)
- Front Camera: 7 MP (f/2.2)
- IP Rating: IP67
- SIM Card: Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM)
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: From RM1,999
Pros:
- Lightweight but quality build
- Cheap for an iPhone
- Great performance (i.e. powerful processor)
- Capable of 4K videos
- Waterproof (IP67)
- Good size
Cons:
- Camera has no night mode
- No headphone jack
- Bezel takes up a lot of the screen
- Older screen technology
7. Huawei P30
For the same price, you can get Huawei’s P30.
It still has access to Google services and apps (e.g. YouTube, Google Maps, Google Assistant, etc) .
Which the newer P40 Series will not have! An unfortunate result of a US trade ban!
- Display: 6.1″ OLED (1,080 x 2,340)
- Weight: 165g
- Dimensions: 149.1 x 71.36 x 7.57 mm
- OS: EMUI 9.1 / Android 9.0
- CPU & RAM: HUAWEI Kirin 980 Octa-Core; 8GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via Nano Memory Card)
- Battery: 3,450mAh
- Rear Camera: 40MP (f/1.8) + 16MP (f/2.2) + 8MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: IP53
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM1,999
Pros:
- Terrific cameras (3 of them Leica)
- Optical zoom and a night mode
- Looks good
- Powerful
- Has a headphone jack (3.5mm)
Cons:
- No wireless charging capability
- Waterproof and dust proof only at IP53
8. Samsung Galaxy A71
It doesn’t look its price (i.e. looks cheap) but the Samsung Galaxy A71 has an adaptable camera, a vibrant OLED display (and a large one, at that) and long battery life!
- Display: 6.7″ Super AMOLED Plus (1,080 x 2,400)
- Weight: 179g
- Dimensions: 163.6 x 76 x 7.7 mm
- OS: One UI 2 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Qualcomm SDM730 Snapdragon 730 Octa-Core; 8GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via MicroSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 4,500 mAh
- Rear Camera: 64MP (f/1.8) + 12MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.2)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM1,599
Pros:
- Supports NFC
- Fast charging 25W
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- No wireless charging capacity
Best Smartphone Malaysia Below RM1,500
9. Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro
Stylish and functional, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro meets basic expectations at an attractive price tag!
Having great battery life does not hurt either!
- Display: 6.67″ IPS LCD (2,400 x 1,080)
- Weight: 209g
- Dimensions: 165.8 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm
- OS: MIUI 11 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G Octa-Core; 6GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via MicroSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 5,020 mAh
- Rear Camera: 64MP (f/1.89) + 8MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.4) + 2MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.48)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM1,099
Pros:
- Supports Google Pay
- Supports 30W wired fast charging
- Performs well
Cons:
- Camera does not deliver in dim light situations
10. Samsung Galaxy M31
At the RM1,000 price point, you get a brilliant AMOLED display with the Samsung Galaxy M31.
It can record videos in 4K. And the battery life is remarkable!
- Display: 6.4″ Super AMOLED (2,340 x 1,080)
- Weight: 191g
- Dimensions: 159.2 x 75.1 x 8.9 mm
- OS: One UI 2.0 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Exynos 9611 Octa-Core; 6GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via MicroSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 6,000 mAh
- Rear Camera: 64MP (f/1.8) + 8MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM1,099
Pros:
- Fast charging 15W
- Good camera performance (in good light)
- Fingerprint reader works
Cons:
- Cannot adjust shutter speed for the camera
- Pretty large bezels
- Not scratch proof
11. Huawei Nova 5T
Besides the P30 Series, Huawei Nova 5T is another of Huawei’s phones that can still benefit from partnership with Google.
All that use of glass gives it a premium feel! And its performance is sound in many aspects!
- Display: 6.26″ IPS LCD (2,340 x 1,080)
- Weight: 174g
- Dimensions: 154.3 x 74 x 7.8 mm
- OS: EMUI 9.1 / Android 9.0
- CPU & RAM: HUAWEI Kirin 980 Octa-Core; 8GB
- Storage: 128GB (Not Expandable)
- Battery: 3,750 mAh
- Rear Camera: 48MP (f/1.8) + 16MP (f/2.2) + 2MP (f/2.4) + 2MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Price: RM1,199
Pros:
- Supports NFC
- Supports 22.5W fast charging
- Camera has macro and wide-angle lens
- Big battery capacity
- Fast processor
- Single-hand size
Cons:
- Rear cameras stick out
- LCD screen (older tech)
- No USB 3.0 support
- Poor speakers
- So-so display
- No wireless charging or headphone jack
Best Budget Smartphone Malaysia Below RM1,000
12. Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S
Hard to ignore the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S with its appealing price! It doesn’t look cheap either!
Performance is fine enough for gaming as long as you don’t have too many apps open (i.e. multi-tasking)!
- Display: 6.67″ IPS LCD (2,400 x 1,080)
- Weight: 209g
- Dimensions: 165.8 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm
- OS: MIUI 11 / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G Octa-Core; 6GB / 4GB
- Storage: 64GB / 128GB (Expandable via microSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 5,020 mAh
- Rear Camera: 48MP (f/1.79) + 8MP (f/2.2) + 5MP (f/2.4) + 2MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.48)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM749
Pros:
- Supports 18W wired fast charging
- Large display
- Macro mode has great auto-focus
- Astounding battery capacity (up to 20 hours)
Cons:
- Bad image quality in low light
13. Realme 6 (4GB + 128GB)
It’s a wonder that the Realme 6 can cost less than a RM1,000 when it offers a 90Hz display, 4 rear cameras and battery that lasts!
- Display: 6.5″ IPS LCD (2,400 x 1,080)
- Weight: 191g
- Dimensions: 162.1 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm
- OS: Realme UI / Android 10
- CPU & RAM: MediaTek Helio G90T Octa-Core; 4GB / 6GB / 8GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via microSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 4,300 mAh
- Rear Camera: 64MP (f/1.8) + 8MP (f/2.3) + 2MP (f/2.4) + 2MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM999
Pros:
- 30W Flash Charge
- Supports NFC
- Build quality is not the best (i.e. plastic back)
Cons:
- Night mode is bad
14. Samsung Galaxy A30s (4GB + 128GB)
You can do a lot better than the entry-level Samsung Galaxy A30s (4GB + 128GB) but its price is definitely budget-friendly!
And it has a color-accurate AMOLED display!
- Display: 6.4″ Super AMOLED (720 x 1,560)
- Weight: 169g
- Dimensions: 158.5 x 74.7 x 7.8 mm
- OS: One UI 2.0 / Android 9.0
- CPU & RAM: Exynos 7904 Octa-Core; 4GB
- Storage: 64GB / 128GB (Expandable via microSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Rear Camera: 25MP (f/1.7) + 5MP (f/2.2) + 8MP (f/2.2)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM728
Pros:
- Supports NFC
- Handles daily tasks comfortably
Cons:
- Display only caters up to 720p
- Fingerprint sensor is not smooth
- WiFi performance can be slow
15. Honor 9X Lite
Sporting a clean design, the Honor 9X Lite has ample memory space (4GB RAM and 128GB internal storage).
And a borderless LCD display of maximum 1080p!
- Display: 6.5″ IPS LCD (1,080 x 2,340)
- Weight: 188g
- Dimensions: 160.4 x 76.6 x 7.8 mm
- OS: EMUI 9.1 / Android 9.0
- CPU & RAM: Kirin 710F Octa-Core; 4GB
- Storage: 128GB (Expandable via microSD up to 512GB)
- Battery: 3,750 mAh
- Rear Camera: 48MP (f/1.8) + 2MP (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 8MP (f/2.0)
- IP Rating: n/a
- SIM Card: Dual Nano SIMs
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: RM699
Pros:
- More than acceptable all-round performance
- Camera works (in good light)
- Supports Google services and apps
- Dual rear cameras
- Good entry-level Smartphone
Cons:
- MicroUSB charging port
- Bad sound quality
- Fingerprint magnet is at the back
- Limited colors
More choices of the best budget smartphones.
Conclusion
On a premium level (>RM3,000), the best Smartphones in Malaysia are by Apple, OnePlus and Samsung! You can even buy an iPhone for ~RM2,000 now!
While Xiaomi and Realme are great budget alternatives (~RM1,000 or less)! And some of Huawei’s older models still have a place on this list!
