Lava Storm Play 5G: The Lava Storm Play 5G has arrived as an impressive budget smartphone that proves Indian manufacturers can deliver flagship-like features at incredibly affordable prices. Launched in June 2025, this device combines smooth performance, solid build quality, and essential features to create a shandar package for budget-conscious buyers. Here’s why this homegrown smartphone deserves serious consideration in the competitive budget segment.
Design and Display: Large Screen with Smooth Performance
The Storm Play 5G sports a generous 6.75-inch HD+ IPS LCD display with 720 x 1600 pixel resolution that provides adequate sharpness for daily use. What truly impresses is the smooth 120Hz refresh rate that makes scrolling through apps, social media, and gaming feel incredibly responsive – a premium feature rarely seen at this price point. Peak brightness reaches 750 nits under High Brightness Mode, ensuring decent outdoor visibility even under harsh sunlight.
The design emphasizes durability with IP64 dust and water resistance certification, making it suitable for everyday use without worry about accidental splashes or dust ingress. Measuring 168.75 x 78.1 x 8.3mm and weighing 196 grams, the phone feels substantial yet comfortable for extended usage. Available in attractive Frosty Blue and Dune Titanium color options, the device maintains an elegant appearance that belies its budget positioning.
Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 7060 Delivers Power
Under the hood, the Storm Play 5G runs on the capable MediaTek Dimensity 7060 chipset built on a 6nm process. This octa-core processor features two high-performance Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.6GHz and six efficiency Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0GHz, paired with the IMG BXM-8-256 GPU. This combination delivers impressive performance that can handle moderate gaming, multitasking, and everyday applications with ease.
Available in two configurations – 6GB RAM with 128GB storage at ₹9,999 and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage at ₹12,999 – the device offers flexibility for different user requirements. Both variants support virtual RAM expansion up to 6GB and 8GB respectively, effectively doubling the available memory. Storage utilizes fast UFS 3.1 technology for quick app launches and file transfers, with microSD expansion support up to 1TB.
Camera System: Sony Sensor Excellence
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the dual rear camera setup featuring a 50MP Sony IMX752 primary sensor with f/1.8 aperture and PDAF autofocus. This capable sensor captures detailed photos with good color reproduction and adequate low-light performance for the price segment. The secondary 2MP sensor assists with depth sensing for portrait photography.
Camera features include Night Mode, HDR, Portrait, Beauty, Document Correction, Pro Mode, Panorama, Slow Motion, and Time Lapse, providing creative options for various shooting scenarios. Video recording supports up to 2K at 30fps with electronic image stabilization. The 8MP front-facing camera handles selfies and video calls well, with screen flash for better low-light performance.
Battery and Charging: All-Day Endurance
The substantial 5000mAh Li-Polymer battery provides excellent endurance, easily lasting through heavy usage including gaming, streaming, and multitasking. Lava claims up to 31 hours of talk time and 471 hours of standby time under optimal conditions. Supporting 18W fast charging, the phone can reach 50% charge in approximately 45 minutes, with full charging taking around 2 hours.
Software and Connectivity: Clean Android Experience
The Storm Play 5G runs Android 15 with assured upgrade to Android 16, providing a near-stock experience with minimal bloatware. The clean interface ensures smooth performance while maintaining access to Google services and Play Store applications. Lava promises one year of major OS updates and two years of security patches.
Connectivity includes comprehensive 5G band support, dual SIM functionality, Wi-Fi ac, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS with multiple satellite support, and USB Type-C with OTG. The retention of a 3.5mm headphone jack appeals to users preferring wired audio accessories.
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Lava Storm Play 5G Pricing and Verdict: Dhakad Value Champion
Starting at ₹9,999, the Lava Storm Play 5G offers exceptional value in the budget 5G segment. Its combination of smooth 120Hz display, capable Dimensity 7060 processor, decent cameras, and reliable battery life makes it a shandar choice for users seeking dependable performance without premium pricing.
The Lava Storm Play 5G successfully demonstrates that budget smartphones can deliver premium experiences. Its focus on essential features, build quality, and user experience makes it an attractive option for first-time smartphone buyers and budget-conscious users seeking reliable daily performance.