Top Upper Mid-Range Smartphones: The upper mid-range smartphone market offers devices like the Vivo V30 Pro, highlighted for its Zeiss co-engineered camera system and slim design, and the iQOO high-end series, known for high performance and gaming focus. The Motorola Edge 50 features a clean Android experience and a 144Hz pOLED display, while the Nothing Phone 3A is noted for its unique Glyph Interface design and clean software.
The upper mid-range smartphone market continues to heat up, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of performance and features at a competitive price point. Devices in this category are designed for consumers who demand high-end specifications like powerful processors, excellent camera systems, and premium aesthetics without the flagship price tag. Here is a closer look at some of the leading contenders in this segment, as highlighted by recent market trends and reviews.
Vivo V30 Pro
The Vivo V30 Pro sets itself apart with a professional-grade camera system co-engineered with Zeiss, featuring a trio of 50MP lenses. Its slim and elegant design exudes a premium feel, making it comfortable to hold and use. The phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 processor and a 5000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging, allowing for quick power-ups. Its 120Hz AMOLED display ensures vibrant and fluid visuals, although some reviews have noted it isn’t the most colour-accurate in its class.
Motorola Edge 50
Motorola’s Edge 50 is a strong option for users who appreciate a clean, near-stock Android experience with the brand’s “Hello UI”. The device features a vibrant 144Hz pOLED display, offering excellent visual quality for media and games. In terms of power, it supports 68W wired charging and even offers wireless charging, a feature not always found at this price point. The camera system, anchored by a 50MP main sensor with OIS, delivers reliable performance, while its premium vegan leather design and IP68 rating provide both style and durability.
iQOO (High-End Series)
The higher-end models in the iQOO lineup, such as the iQOO 12 or iQOO Neo 10R, are heavily focused on high performance and gaming. These phones typically feature flagship-level processors from Qualcomm or MediaTek, combined with advanced cooling systems and high touch sampling rates to provide a superior gaming experience. With up to a 144Hz AMOLED display and fast charging technology, iQOO devices are built for speed and endurance, making them a top choice for mobile gamers and power users.
Nothing Phone 3A
The Nothing Phone 3A stands out with its unique transparent design and signature Glyph Interface on the back, offering a truly distinctive look. Beyond the aesthetics, the phone provides a clean and bloatware-free software experience with Nothing OS. A capable Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, a 120Hz AMOLED display, and a 5000mAh battery with 50W charging ensure a smooth and efficient user experience. The device includes a capable camera setup, although it is not a dedicated camera phone like the Vivo V30 Pro.
Vivo T3 Pro
The Vivo T3 Pro offers a great combination of performance and attractive design. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, which handles daily tasks and demanding games with ease. Its 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display provides a vibrant and smooth 120Hz visual experience, though the curved edges can sometimes lead to accidental touches. The phone also features a solid camera system and an IP64 rating for some level of water resistance, adding to its overall appeal.