Old but still Gold: 5 older mid-range phones with excellent cameras in Malaysia

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, midrange devices have consistently offered a sweet spot between affordability and performance. So, it could be easy to overlook some of these older models. However, some older mid-range phones stood out for their exceptional camera capabilities, making them popular choices for photography enthusiasts on a budget.

That said, which one of these older mid-range phones tickle your fancy? Here’s a look at five of these old but still gold phones with excellent cameras.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro (2021) - The reliable pick

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro was a game-changer in the midrange segment, offering flagship-level camera performance at an affordable price. It featured a 108MP primary sensor, which was unprecedented in its price range at the time. The quad-camera setup also included an 8MP ultra-wide lens, a 5MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The phone excelled in daylight photography, capturing detailed and vibrant images. Its Night Mode also performed admirably in low-light conditions, making it a versatile choice for photographers.

Additionally, it could be difficult to find this phone in the market these days. However, if you don’t mind putting in the effort for the search, this phone could be yours for around RM1099. That’s good value for money for these features.

Key Camera Features:

• 108MP main camera
• 8MP ultra-wide lens
• Excellent Night Mode
• 4K video recording
  
  

Google Pixel 4a (2020) - The wildcard

The Google Pixel 4a may have had a modest single 12.2MP rear camera, but it proved that megapixels aren’t everything. Powered by Google’s industry-leading computational photography, the Pixel 4a delivered stunning photos with excellent dynamic range, accurate colours, and impressive low-light performance. Its Night Sight mode was particularly praised for turning dark scenes into well-lit, detailed images. The phone also featured an 8MP front camera, which was great for selfies and video calls.

Since this model has been discontinued, it could be challenging for you to get it now. So, you might have to explore a few alternatives like Lazada or independent sellers. That said, this phone should cost you around RM800 to RM1200 now. While it is a good cameraphone, due to the lack of updates you might want to keep your options open unless you only want to use it for taking photos.

Key Camera Features:

• 12.2MP main camera with computational photography
• Night Sight for low-light photography
• Portrait Mode with edge detection
• Compact and user-friendly design
  
  

Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G (2021) - The all-rounder

The Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G was a well-rounded midrange phone with a focus on camera quality. It boasted a 64MP main sensor, accompanied by a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 5MP macro lens, and a 5MP depth sensor. The phone’s camera system was versatile, offering excellent performance in various lighting conditions. Samsung’s software enhancements, such as Single Take and Fun Mode, added creativity to the photography experience. The 32MP front camera also delivered sharp and detailed selfies.

Unlike the Google Pixel 4a, looking for this model should be a bit forgiving. Thanks to Samsung’s popularity and reliability, you should be able to get this model from the nearest Samsung retailers. If you are interested, the phone should cost you around RM1300 to RM1500.

Key Camera Features:

• 64MP main camera
• 12MP ultra-wide lens
• 32MP front camera
• OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for steady shots
  
  

realme 8 Pro (2021) - The solid contender

The realme 8 Pro was another midrange contender that prioritised camera performance. It featured a 108MP main sensor, making it a direct competitor to the Redmi Note 10 Pro. The phone’s camera setup also included an 8MP ultra-wide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. realme’s software optimisations, such as Starry Mode and Tilt-Shift Mode, added unique features to the photography experience. The 16MP front camera was also capable of capturing high-quality selfies.

Furthermore, the realme 8 Pro was priced at RM1299 during launch. Now, you should be able to get it for around RM900 to RM1100. Availability-wise, it should be subject to your nearest realme retailers and stores. The search could be tricky, but it will be worth your time.

Key Camera Features:

• 108MP main camera
• Starry Mode for astrophotography
• Tilt-Shift Mode for creative shots
• 16MP front camera
  
  

OPPO Reno 6 (2021) - The stylish choice

The OPPO Reno 6 was a stylish midrange phone with a strong focus on camera performance, particularly for selfies and videos. It featured a 64MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The phone’s standout feature was its 32MP front camera, which offered excellent selfie capabilities with OPPO’s AI beautification features. The Reno 6 also introduced AI Highlight Video, which enhanced video quality in both low-light and backlit scenarios.

In addition, this phone's current price should be around RM1500 to RM1700. However, it could be challenging to get it in the current market. So, you might have to consider other platforms like Lazada, Ali Express, or independent sellers. That said, we believe the phone is still great value for money especially if you're into selfie photography.

Key Camera Features:

• 64MP main camera
• 32MP front camera with AI beautification
• AI Highlight Video for improved video quality
• Sleek and stylish design

Conclusion

These five midrange phones from 2020 to 2023 proved that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great camera experience. Whether it was the Redmi Note 10 Pro’s 108MP sensor, the Pixel 4a’s computational photography, or the OPPO Reno 6’s selfie prowess, each device offered something unique for photography enthusiasts. While newer models have since entered the market, these phones remain excellent choices for anyone looking for a budget-friendly device with capable cameras.

That said, our pick from the list will be the Samsung A52s 5G for its availability, great value for money and for being future-proof.

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