Best Phones for First-Time Smartphone Users di Malaysia (2025 Edition)
Introduction
If you’re switching to your first smartphone di Malaysia, you’ll want something that’s easy to use, reliable, and within budget. A starter-friendly phone should cover calls, WhatsApp, social media and basic apps without complication — many good ones start under RM1,000. Here are the best phones for first-time smartphone users di Malaysia (2025).
Why These Phones Are Ideal for First-Time Users
For someone new to smartphones, the right device should provide:
- ✅ Simple, clear user interface and large familiar icons
- ✅ Good battery life and reliable performance (so you’re not constantly troubleshooting)
- ✅ Affordable pricing with local warranty/support
- ❌ Trade-offs: You may not get ultra-premium specs like top cameras or super-high refresh displays, but that’s fine for first-time use.
Top Picks for First-Time Smartphone Users
- Samsung Galaxy A17 5G: A trusted brand, good support, 5G ready.
Pros: Reliable, good brand warranty in Malaysia.
Cons: May cost slightly more than ultra-budget models.
Estimated Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM): ~ RM 899. - OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G: Clean UI, good value, future-proof.
Pros: Great value for performance, clean software.
Cons: Less service coverage vs bigger brands.
Estimated Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM): ~ RM 1,099 (may find deals <RM1,000). - Xiaomi Redmi 15 5G: Budget friendly and sturdy.
Pros: Affordable, 5G support.
Cons: Some UI bloat, lower tier build materials.
Estimated Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM): ~ RM 699-RM 799. - realme Note 60X: Ultra-budget alternative for entry smart phone users.
Pros: Very low cost, good specs for basics.
Cons: Fewer premium features, possibly less software support.
Estimated Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM): ~ RM 399-RM 499. - (Optional) If you want a backup or light use model: some ultra-budget models below RM400 suffice just for calls/whatsapp.
Comparison Table — First-Time Smartphone User Friendly Models
| Model | Display | Processor | RAM/Storage | Camera | Battery | Harga di Malaysia (RM) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A17 5G | 6.5″ FHD+ | Mid-range 5G chip | 8GB / 256GB | 50MP main | ~5000mAh | ~RM 899 | Trusted brand, good warranty | Slightly higher cost |
| OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G | 6.67″ 120Hz | Snapdragon 695 | 8GB / 128GB | 50MP | ~5000mAh | ~RM 1,099 | Clean UI, future-proof | Service network smaller |
| Xiaomi Redmi 15 5G | 6.74″ HD+ | Dimensity 6100 | 6GB / 128GB | 50MP | 5000mAh | ~RM 699-799 | Very affordable, 5G | UI bloat, basic build |
| realme Note 60X | 6.5″ HD+ | Entry-level 4G chip | 4GB / 128GB | 48MP | ~5000mAh | ~RM 399-499 | Ultra-budget, good value | Lower specs, fewer updates |
| [Ultra-budget backup choice] | ~6.5″ | Entry chip | 4GB / 64GB | 13-50MP | ~4000-5000mAh | ~RM 300-400 | Cheapest way into smartphone | Basic features only |
Malaysia-Specific Buying Tips
- Always check that the phone is an “Official Malaysia Set” with Malaysian warranty and support.
- For first-time users, consider installing user-friendly apps, enabling bigger icons & text size for easier usage.
- Compare telco bundle plans (e.g., with Maxis, CelcomDigi) — sometimes you can get the phone cheaper with installment and data plan.
- Make sure storage is sufficient (at least 64GB) and battery is big so the new user doesn’t feel frustrated.
- If the user is older or prefers simplicity, pick a phone with a simple launcher or set up “easy mode” to reduce complexity.
Final Recommendation
If I were recommending one phone as the best all-round first smartphone, I’d pick the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G — trusted brand, balanced specs and good value. If budget is very tight, then the realme Note 60X offers good enough features to cover all basics without breaking the bank.
Semak Harga Terkini di Shopee Malaysia hari ini! Grab first-time user deals and accessories (case + screen protector) too.
