Lava International has made a bold statement with the launch of its latest flagship smartphone, the Lava AGNI 3, priced at ₹19,999 for its base model. But is it worth the investment?
Design and Display: The AGNI 3’s dual AMOLED displays are a standout feature. The primary 6.78-inch 1.5K 3D Curved AMOLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and high brightness of 1200 nits, making it a top contender in terms of visuals. The secondary 1.74-inch 2D AMOLED display on the back is innovative, letting users take selfies with the rear camera and offering a novel way to manage notifications, music, and fitness tracking.
Performance and Gaming: Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X, the AGNI 3 offers strong performance for the price. Gamers will appreciate the 2900mm² vapor chamber cooling technology and flagship-level X-axis linear motor for enhanced haptics, which ensure smooth gameplay and responsive feedback. For users seeking efficiency and multitasking, the 4nm process chip handles most demanding apps without breaking a sweat.
Camera System: The 50MP main camera with OIS and 8MP telephoto with 3X optical zoom offer flexibility for photography. The Super Night and Portrait AI software enhance low-light shots, giving you decent value for a mid-range phone. Though it may not compete with flagship cameras from other brands, the triple-camera setup does the job well in most scenarios.
Battery and Charging: The 5000mAh battery with 66W fast charging is a definite plus, giving you hours of heavy usage and a quick charge turnaround (50 percent in less than 19 minutes). For users focused on uninterrupted performance, this can be a key reason to consider the AGNI 3.
Build and Durability: A premium glass design with 3D curved edges makes the device feel sleek and luxurious, but the IP-64 rating for dust and water resistance adds practicality, ensuring the phone can withstand minor exposure to the elements.
Software and Support: Lava’s commitment to three major Android updates and four years of security maintenance is reassuring, as is the introduction of AGNI Mitra, a service that offers doorstep support and free hardware replacements within the warranty period. This level of after-sales support is rare in this price range, adding extra value to the device.
Pricing and Variants:
8GB+128GB (without charger) at ₹19,999 after a bank offer is competitive, especially for users who don’t need the charger.
8GB+128GB (with charger) at ₹20,999 and 8GB+256GB (with charger) at ₹22,999 provide larger storage and charging options for a slightly higher price.
Some smartphones under Rs 20,000
Samsung Galaxy M35 5G, witch features such as (Thunder Grey, 8GB RAM, 256GB Storage)| Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+| AnTuTu Score 595K+ | Vapour Cooling Chamber | 6000mAh Battery, is available online for Rs 19,499.
OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G, with features such as (Super Silver, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage), is priced at Rs 19,999.
POCO X6 5G, with features such as (Mirror Black, 12 GB RAM 512 GB Storage), is available for Rs 18,999.
Motorola G64 5G, with features such as (Ice Lilac, 12GB RAM, 256GB Storage) | Expandable Upto 2TB | Upto 24GB RAM with RAM Boost | 50MP (OIS) + 8MP | 16MP Front Camera | MediaTek Dimensity 7025, is available for Rs 16,620.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, with features such as (Chromatic Gray, 8GB RAM, 256GB Storage), is available for Rs 19,290.
Realme NARZO 70 Pro 5G, with features such as (Glass Green, 8GB RAM,256GB Storage) Dimensity 7050 5G Chipset | Horizon Glass Design | Segment 1st Flagship Sony IMX890 OIS Camera for Rs 18,998.
iQOO Z9 5G, with features such as (Brushed Green, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | Dimensity 7200 5G Processor | Sony IMX882 OIS Camera | 120Hz AMOLED with 1800 nits Local Peak Brightness | 44W Charger, is available for Rs 18,499.
Redmi Note 13 5G, with features such as (Arctic White, 6GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | 5G Ready | 120Hz Bezel-Less AMOLED | 7.mm Slimmest Note Ever | 108MP Pro-Grade Camera, is available for Rs 15,999.
CMF BY NOTHING Phone 1 5G, with features such as (128 GB) (6 GB RAM) (Black), is available for Rs 15,690.
Verdict:
The Lava AGNI 3 packs a punch with its dual AMOLED displays, solid performance, capable cameras, and extended after-sales support. Its introductory pricing makes it a strong competitor in the sub-₹22,000 category. For users who want a feature-rich smartphone without spending flagship money, the AGNI 3 offers excellent value for the price.