Usually, low end phones are associated with the most basic functionalities like calling and SMS, but with evolving technology, basic phones have upgraded themselves by incorporating many new features and they are thus now known as feature phones.
These devices still offer very basic functionality but at the same time have features such as FM, MP3 players and even GPRS or WAP (Web Access through Phone).
While smartphones are becoming popular with each passing day, many users still prefer feature phones, especially for their music playback capabilities.
To help you out in this regard, here we have listed the top five budget music phones that range from Rs 1,400 to Rs 6,000.
Nokia 101 (Price Rs 1,445)
With its dual SIM capability, Nokia 101 makes it convenient for consumers to access calls and texts over two different networks. Additionally, consumers can stay entertained on the move with the integrated MP3 player and FM radio. With its 103 phon (a unit of sound measurement) loudspeaker, users can easily share their music with the people around them and can also carry their entire music collection with the 8 GB expandable memory.
Nokia 101 also features SIM manager functionality that allows users to select which SIM card to use to make a call or send a text message, while helping them manage costs as well. In addition, the SIM manager also allows users to store settings of up to five SIM cards on the phone, and to personalise them by assigning names and logos for each SIM setting.
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Samsung Hero Music (Price Rs 1,600)
Samsung Guru Music is a basic/feature phone with some serious music capabilities. This dual SIM phone supports two GSM SIM cards and has the ability to switch between the two to allow users to choose which number they want to be the primary connection and when. The phone weighs just 73 grams and has a 1000 mAh battery pack that promises up to 11 hours of talk and music playback time.
There is no camera on this device but at a price of just Rs 1,600 and wih the music capabilities, users will be more than happy to have it. The phone comes with a micro SD card slot supporting up to 4 GB of memory, good enough for a large number of songs in MP3 format. And that’s not all, because Samsung Guru Music also comes with Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity for wireless file transfers and wireless Bluetooth hands free connectivity. The onboard loudspeaker complements its music capabilities and performs well for hands free calling as well.
Micromax M2 (Price Rs 2,165)
Micromax M2 is a music centric, dual SIM mobile phone. The phone’s sound output is SRS certified and the box carries a certificate to prove this. The phone provides clear audio and high volume. Its sound output is balanced with clean bass (low frequency), mid (medium frequency) and hi (high frequency) sounds. This device also supports the most popular audio formats like MP3 and WMA.
It has a 2 inch display that is capable of reproducing vibrant images and has high Resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which is great for viewing videos. There is also a 2 Megapixel camera that does a pretty good job.
M2 comes with a big headset along with a stereo hands free kit. The Headphone is good in terms of quality and reproduces sounds well. Bluetooth and GPRS are there for wireless connectivity. A big drawback of the device is that there is no provision for expanding memory, though the phone comes with 2 GB built in, it might not be sufficient if you like carrying your entire music collection with you.
But you can always change the music using the fast USB connector and for the price, the sound quality that this device offers is certainly good.
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Sony Ericsson Mix Walkman (Rs 6,500)
Sony Ericsson is known for its world class music devices and the Mix Walkman is no exception. Sadly, the Walkman brand is no longer in production, but the devices are still available in the market, so grab one before they disappear.
The phone works on Sony Ericsson’s own operating system and has a 3.0 inch capacitive touchscreen display along with a 3.2 megapixel camera with video recording ability, WiFi, Bluetooth and 32 GB external memory support.
The Sony Ericsson Mix Walkman comes with a Zappin key to find music, a feature that is available on most Walkman devices. When pressed, the Zappin key opens a preview of the next track and lets you decide whether it is a favourite you want to listen to or not.
A karaoke function also enables the vocal track from any song to be lowered instantly so you can sing along with your favourite tune. Also, the look and feel of the phone can be personalised with different exchangeable colour bands that come with the phone.
LG GS 155 (Rs 1,400)
LG feature phones have been known to carry more features than competitor devices offer, allowing this player to stay in the game longer than most. The LG GS 155 is one of the most feature rich devices available. It has a camera, wireless FM, MP3 player and even USB connectivity for faster file transfer.
The device features a 950 mAh battery pack that can give it up to 15 hours of Talk time and similar playback time for music and FM as well. Its simple design and alpha numeric keypad offers maximum usability and functionality without any hindrances.