Poco M8x 5G vs Oppo A6c vs Samsung Galaxy M17 5G: Best Phone Under ₹20,000

The sub ₹20,000 smartphone segment has plenty of competition, and buyers now expect more than just a decent processor. Battery capacity, camera quality, display technology and software experience have all become important when choosing a new phone.

Three models that stand out in this price range are Poco M8x 5G, Oppo A6c and Samsung Galaxy M17 5G. While the Poco model focuses heavily on battery capacity and performance, Oppo takes a more affordable approach. Samsung, meanwhile, brings an AMOLED display and a more versatile camera setup.

Here is how the three phones compare.

Price And Storage

Poco M8x 5G starts at ₹18,999.

Oppo A6c is priced at ₹16,999 for the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage model, while the 4GB RAM and 128GB version costs ₹18,999.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G costs ₹17,999 for the 4GB RAM and 128GB variant. Its 6GB RAM and 128GB model is priced at ₹20,999.

Display Comparison

The Poco M8x 5G features a 6.9 inch HD Plus display with a 720 by 1600 pixel resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

Oppo A6c gets a slightly smaller 6.75 inch HD Plus LCD screen. It offers a 720 by 1570 pixel resolution, 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of up to 900 nits.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G takes a different route with a 6.7 inch Full HD Plus Super AMOLED display. It has a 1080 by 2340 pixel resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.

Battery Is Poco M8x 5G Biggest Advantage

Battery life is where the Poco phone has a clear edge. The Poco M8x 5G packs a massive 7900mAh battery with support for 45W fast charging and 22.5W reverse charging.

Oppo A6c comes with a 7000mAh battery but supports 15W wired charging. Samsung Galaxy M17 5G has a smaller 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging.

For users who spend long hours streaming videos, gaming or travelling, Poco has the most attractive battery specification among the three.

Processor And Software

Poco M8x 5G runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset and comes with Android 16 based HyperOS.

Oppo A6c uses the octa core Unisoc T7250 processor and runs Android 15 based ColorOS 15.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1330 processor and runs Android 15 based One UI 7.

Camera Features

The camera hardware varies considerably between the three smartphones.

Poco M8x 5G features a 50MP AI dual rear camera setup and an 8MP front camera with 2x in sensor zoom support.

Oppo A6c has a 13MP primary rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture, along with a 5MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G offers the most versatile rear setup of the three. It includes a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 5MP ultra wide camera and a 2MP macro sensor. A 13MP front camera handles selfies and video calls.

Which One Should You Choose

The Poco M8x 5G looks appealing for buyers who put battery life, faster charging and newer software at the top of their list.

Oppo A6c makes more sense for shoppers looking for a lower starting price and a large battery without stretching the budget.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G is a stronger choice for users who prefer a higher resolution AMOLED display and a more flexible camera system.

Overall, there is no single winner for everyone. The Poco model stands out for battery capacity, Oppo for its entry price and Samsung for its display and camera combination.