Lava just launched its new budget gaming smartphone, the Play Ultra 5G, in India on August 20, 2025. This device targets gamers with strong performance, a smooth display, and solid features starting at a low price, making it a fresh option in the crowded mid-range market.
The launch comes at a time when affordable 5G phones are in high demand, especially among young users who want gaming power without breaking the bank. With rivals like Realme and Moto pushing similar models, Lava aims to stand out by focusing on clean software and long-term support.
Price and Availability Details
The Lava Play Ultra 5G comes in two variants to fit different budgets. The base model offers good value for entry-level gamers, while the higher one adds more RAM for smoother multitasking.
You can buy it starting August 25, 2025, on Amazon and Lava’s official site. Early buyers get a ₹1,000 discount with select bank cards, bringing the effective price even lower.
This timing aligns with the back-to-school season, when students look for reliable phones for gaming and studies. Sales data from recent launches show budget 5G phones often see quick uptake in online channels.
Lava also plans to expand availability to offline stores soon, helping reach users in smaller cities where online shopping is less common.
Key Specifications at a Glance
To make it easy to compare, here is a quick overview of the main specs in a table:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 7300 |
| RAM/Storage | 6GB or 8GB / 128GB UFS 3.1 |
| Camera | 64MP main + 5MP macro, 13MP front |
| Battery | 5,000mAh with 33W fast charging |
| OS | Android 15 with 2 updates |
These specs position the phone well against competitors like the Moto G64 or Realme Narzo series, which offer similar hardware but sometimes at higher prices.
The Dimensity 7300 chip, built on 4nm tech, promises up to 20 percent better frame rates in games, based on MediaTek’s claims from recent benchmarks.
Display and Design Features
The phone sports a 6.67-inch flat AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This setup ensures smooth scrolling and vibrant colors, ideal for gaming sessions or streaming videos.
Peak brightness hits 1,000 nits, which helps in bright outdoor use. The design includes IP64 dust and water resistance, adding durability for everyday handling.
Dual stereo speakers enhance the audio experience, making it great for mobile entertainment. Unlike some budget phones, it keeps a 3.5mm headphone jack, a nod to users who prefer wired audio.
In terms of build, the sleek frame comes in attractive colors, appealing to younger buyers. Recent trends show AMOLED screens are becoming standard in this price range, boosting user satisfaction.
Performance and Gaming Power
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, the Play Ultra 5G handles demanding games with ease. It pairs with a Mali-G615 GPU and uses HyperEngine tech for optimized performance.
RAM options are 6GB or 8GB LPDDR4X, with 128GB UFS 3.1 storage expandable up to 1TB via microSD. Virtual RAM can add another 8GB, helping with heavy multitasking.
Benchmarks suggest it scores well in AnTuTu, similar to other Dimensity-powered devices launched this year. For gamers, this means stable play in titles like BGMI or Call of Duty Mobile.
Lava claims the phone manages heat well during long sessions, a common issue in budget gaming phones. This launch follows Lava’s pattern of using MediaTek chips, as seen in models like the Blaze Curve 5G earlier in 2025.
The clean Android 15 interface without bloatware ensures a smooth user experience, with two major OS upgrades and three years of security patches promised.
Camera Capabilities Explored
The rear camera setup features a 64MP Sony IMX682 sensor with optical image stabilization for sharp photos. A 5MP macro lens adds versatility for close-up shots.
On the front, a 13MP camera handles selfies and video calls effectively. Modes like Night, HDR, Pro Video, and Slow Motion cater to creative users.
In real-world tests from similar devices, this sensor performs well in low light, a step up from older Lava models. It supports 4K video recording, appealing to content creators on a budget.
Compared to recent launches like the Google Pixel 9 series, it’s more affordable but focuses on essentials. Users can expect good results for social media sharing.
Battery life comes from a 5,000mAh unit with 33W fast charging, enough for a full day of use including gaming.
Why This Launch Matters Now
This phone enters a market where 5G adoption is booming in India, with over 100 million users as of mid-2025. Lava’s focus on gaming aligns with the rise of esports, where affordable devices lower the entry barrier.
It competes directly with brands offering similar specs under ₹20,000, potentially shaking up the segment. Experts note that clean software and updates could give it an edge over ad-heavy rivals.
For buyers, it solves the problem of finding a balanced phone for gaming, photography, and daily tasks without overspending.
What do you think of the Lava Play Ultra 5G? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word if this helps your phone search.
