Huawei Ascend Y320

Budget basics are the whole point here. The Mediatek MT6572 dual-core chip and 512 MB RAM handle calls, texts and light apps, but this isn't a phone for multitasking or heavy games. Storage is a modest 4 GB, though a microSD card up to 32 GB gives you room for photos and music. The 4.0-inch TFT screen runs at 480 x 800 pixels, fine for basic browsing but noticeably low-res by today's standards.

Camera-wise, you get a single 2 MP rear shooter and no front camera at all, so selfies and video calls are off the table. The 1350 mAh battery is small too, meaning you'll likely charge daily with regular use. Huawei Ascend Y320 price in Malaysia starts from RM239, positioning it as a strict entry-level option.

It still covers the essentials: Wi-Fi, GPS with A-GPS, FM radio and 3G data via HSDPA/HSUPA. Running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, it's dated software-wise, but for a simple backup phone or first device, the fundamentals are there.