While smartphones keep getting better, not every release meets expectations. Some models fell short this year due to poor performance, heating issues, or subpar features. Here’s a list of the worst phones in 2025 you should think twice about before buying.
1. Vivo V30e and V30e Pro
Vivo’s latest V30 series promised innovation but failed to deliver. The V30e and V30e Pro suffer from sluggish performance, average cameras, and disappointing battery life.
Vivo V30 Pro
- Bloatware Apps: This comes preloaded with unnecessary apps and takes up valuable storage.
- No Stereo Speakers: The audio experience is underwhelming due to the lack of stereo speakers.
- Slightly Fewer Software Updates: Receives fewer updates compared to expectations.
- Only IP54 Rating: Limited water and dust resistance.
- Costlier Than Predecessor: The V30 Pro is more expensive without significant upgrades.
Vivo V30e
- Bloatware: This software comes with pre-installed apps that reduce the amount of storage available.
- Low-Light Photography: Camera performance in low-light conditions is below expectations.
- No Stereo Speakers: Lacks stereo sound, producing a subpar audio experience.
2. HMD Fusion
The HMD Fusion comes with outdated software and lackluster hardware. Despite being a budget-friendly phone, its frequent crashes and slow user interface make it hard to recommend.
HMD’s promise of longevity falls flat in how the phone is supported. HMD only supports the Fusion with two major Android updates. So, if the device comes with Android 14, it will only be upgraded to Android 15 in the next few months. The device won’t be eligible for Android 17.
3. Samsung Galaxy M55
Samsung’s Galaxy M55 is plagued with heating issues that make it uncomfortable to use for extended periods. Despite decent specs on paper, its performance lags behind competitors in the same price range.
- Heating Issues: The phone heats up while charging, and even more during photography or video recording.
- Below-Average Camera: The rear camera quality is compromised, with budget Samsung models offering better cameras. Video quality is inferior, worse than older Samsung Galaxy models.
- Overheating During Video Recording: The phone overheats and lags during video recording, often stopping after 8 minutes.
- Storage Management Issues: Users report poor storage optimization, leading to frequent delays.
- No 4K Video Recording: This camera lacks a 4K recording feature, which is a basic expectation for its price point.
- Unjustified Brand Value: Despite boasting a 100-megapixel camera with a Samsung sensor, the camera quality is severely lacking and does not justify the brand’s reputation.
4. OnePlus Nord CE Lite
OnePlus, known for its high-quality devices, stumbled with the Nord CE Lite. Its cheap build quality, inconsistent performance, and mediocre camera make it one of the weaker options this year.
5. Redmi A4 5G
Redmi’s A4 5G may be affordable, but it comes with significant compromises.
- Display Quality: Subpar display with low brightness levels, making it difficult to use outdoors.
- Camera Sharpness: Cameras lack sharpness and underperform in low-light conditions.
- Performance Issues: Struggles with the Snapdragon chipset, leading to sluggish performance.
- UI and Bloatware: The user interface feels slow and bloated with unnecessary apps.
- Speaker Quality: Unsatisfactory speaker quality hampers media consumption.
6. Oppo F27 Pro+ 5G
The Oppo F27 Pro+ 5G looks good on the outside but underwhelms inside. Its bloated software, poor battery optimization, and heating issues make it a frustrating device.
7. Redmi Note 14 Plus
The Redmi Note 14 Plus could not meet expectations with its below-average performance and frequent lags. Users are disappointed with its low-quality cameras and poorly optimized software.
Choosing a smartphone is a significant investment, and the worst phone choice can lead to frustration. Before purchasing, make sure to check detailed reviews and user feedback. Avoiding the phones on this list can save you from many headaches.
Read More- Redmi Note 14 Launch Date in India – Features, Specs & Pric
Read More- Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus- Best or FLOP ?
