Top Five Midrange Smartphones to Consider in 2023

In today's fast-paced world, smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives. With countless options available, choosing the right device can be a daunting task. The mid-range smartphone segment, in particular, has exploded with choices, making it necessary to categorize devices into sub-segments like mid-range and upper mid-range. This article highlights five mid-range smartphones that stand out and deserve your attention.

First on our list is the CMF by Nothing, a sub-brand that offers an affordable entry into the Nothing ecosystem. This smartphone features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a robust 5000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging. It is powered by Mediatek’s Dimensity 7300 chipset, which provides 5G connectivity and reliable performance for everyday tasks. Storage options include a 128GB variant with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, as well as a 256GB option with 8GB RAM. Additionally, users can expand storage with an SD card. The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor paired with a 2MP depth sensor, allowing for 4K video recording. Running on Nothing OS based on Android 14, this device promises two major Android updates. The standout feature is its modularity; users can swap the back of the phone and utilize an ‘Accessory Point’ for various attachments, such as a kickstand or lanyard.

Next up is the Nothing Phone 2a, which boasts a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with a peak brightness of around 1300 nits and Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It is powered by Mediatek’s Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset, offering 5G capabilities. Storage options range from 128GB with 8GB RAM to 256GB with either 8GB or 12GB RAM. The Phone 2a also features a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging and runs on Nothing OS 2.6 based on Android 14, promising three major Android updates. The dual 50MP wide and ultrawide camera setup can record 4K video, while the 32MP selfie camera can shoot 1080p video. A unique aspect of this phone is the Glyph interface, which allows users to customize LED notifications for various functions.

Continuing our list is the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion, part of the renowned Motorola Edge series. This device is powered by a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and features a 5000mAh battery with 68W fast charging. The 6.7-inch P-OLED display supports a 144Hz refresh rate and has a peak brightness of around 1600 nits, protected by Gorilla Glass 5. Motorola has committed to providing quicker software updates with the Edge 50 series, offering up to three major Android updates. The camera system includes a 50MP main camera with OIS and 4K video capabilities, along with a 13MP ultrawide camera. The front camera is a 32MP shooter, also capable of 4K video. Storage options include 128GB with 8GB RAM, as well as 256GB and 512GB variants with up to 12GB RAM.

Google's Pixel series has always been a favorite among smartphone enthusiasts, and the Pixel 8a is no exception. This device offers a unique Android experience, with up to seven major updates promised. It features a 6.1-inch OLED HDR 120Hz display with a peak brightness of 2000 nits. The camera setup includes a 64MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide camera, and a 13MP front-facing camera, all capable of 4K video recording. However, the Pixel 8a has a smaller 4492mAh battery with 18W charging and supports 7.5W wireless charging. Its compact design enhances one-handed usability, and it also comes with IP67 protection.

Finally, we have the Samsung Galaxy A55, which stands out for its sleek design and premium build quality. It is the only device on this list that features Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection and an IP67 rating. The A55 sports a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1480 chipset. The camera system includes a 50MP main shooter with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 5MP macro lens, all capable of shooting 4K video. The front camera is a 32MP shooter, also capable of 4K video. The device runs on OneUI 6.1 based on Android 14 and promises up to four major Android updates. The 5000mAh battery supports 25W charging but does not offer wireless charging.

The mid-range smartphone market is brimming with options that cater to various needs and preferences. Each of the devices mentioned above brings unique features and capabilities to the table, making them worthy contenders for anyone in the market for a new smartphone. Whether you prioritize camera quality, battery life, or software updates, there is a device on this list that will meet your requirements. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential to stay informed and choose a smartphone that not only fits your budget but also enhances your daily life.