Are you dreaming of buying the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or a feature-packed OnePlus but are held back by your current budget? Don’t worry — you don’t need to pay the full amount upfront to own the mobile of your dreams. With installment purchase options, you can easily split the cost and manage your finances better.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a mobile on EMI — even with a low budget.
🔍 What Does Buying a Mobile on Installments Mean?
Buying a mobile on installment (EMI – Equated Monthly Installment) means:
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You don’t have to pay the full price at once
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Instead, the total amount is split into monthly payments over a fixed period (3, 6, 9, 12 months or more)
💡 Why It Makes Sense in a Low Budget
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 💳 Budget Friendly | Spread the cost over several months |
| 📦 Instant Ownership | Get your phone now, pay later |
| 🔄 Flexible Tenure Options | Choose EMIs as per your repayment capacity |
| 💰 No Cost EMI Available | Pay only the price of the phone, no extra fees |
| 🧾 Build Credit Score | Paying EMIs on time helps build a positive credit history |
🛒 Where Can You Buy a Mobile on EMI?
1. Online Platforms
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Amazon
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Flipkart
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Croma
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Tata Neu
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Samsung/Apple official websites
✅ Pros:
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Wide selection
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No Cost EMI options
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Easy comparison
2. Retail Stores
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Reliance Digital
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Vijay Sales
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Local mobile showrooms
✅ Pros:
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Physical inspection
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Immediate delivery
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In-store finance options
🏦 Types of EMI Options
A. Credit Card EMI
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Available on most major cards (HDFC, ICICI, SBI, Axis, etc.)
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Fast approval, flexible tenures
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No Cost EMI on select models
B. Debit Card EMI
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Supported by select banks like HDFC, Axis, ICICI
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No credit score required
C. Consumer Finance (Bajaj Finserv, ZestMoney, etc.)
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Instant approval with PAN and Aadhaar
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Even available to new users with no credit history
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Zero or low down payment
📋 Documents Required (If No Credit Card)
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Aadhaar Card
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PAN Card
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Bank Statement (last 3–6 months)
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Address Proof
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Recent Photograph
💸 Examples of Installment Plans for Popular Phones (2025)
| Phone | Price | No Cost EMI (12 months) | EMI Per Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 | ₹75,000 | ✅ Yes | ₹6,250 |
| Samsung S24 Ultra | ₹1,20,000 | ✅ Yes | ₹10,000 |
| OnePlus 12 | ₹60,000 | ✅ Yes | ₹5,000 |
| Redmi Note 13 Pro+ | ₹28,000 | ✅ Yes | ₹2,333 |
| Realme Narzo 70 | ₹12,000 | ✅ Yes | ₹1,000 |
💡 Tips to Get the Best Deal on EMI
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Compare prices across websites and stores
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Look for “No Cost EMI” + Exchange Offers
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Use bank offers during festivals (Diwali, Independence Day, etc.)
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Avoid plans with high processing fees or hidden interest
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Read the EMI terms & cancellation policy
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s Bad |
|---|---|
| Ignoring hidden charges | Can increase the cost significantly |
| Defaulting on EMI | Can damage your credit score |
| Not checking EMI duration | Longer durations mean you pay for longer |
| Skipping warranty details | May affect post-sale service |
✅ Final Thoughts
Buying a mobile on installment is now easier than ever — even if you’re on a tight budget. With flexible EMI plans and zero-cost EMI schemes, you can enjoy your dream phone without financial stress. Just make sure to check the terms, eligibility, and total payable amount before you hit “Buy Now.”
