NFC has become one of the most searched smartphone features in the budget segment because it makes daily payments and e-money balance checks much easier. On Xiaomi phones, this convenience is now available even in the entry-level range, with several Redmi and POCO models priced from around $80 to $220 offering tap-to-check and tap-to-pay support.
For users who want a cheap phone that still handles digital transactions, Xiaomi’s current lineup gives several practical options. The appeal is simple: no need for an extra card reader or complicated setup, just place the phone near an electronic money card and the balance appears on screen.
Why NFC matters on affordable Xiaomi phones
NFC, or Near Field Communication, helps users check e-money balances, make contactless payments, and transfer small amounts of data over short distances. In Indonesia, the feature has become especially relevant for transport access, toll roads, and retail payments that increasingly rely on tap-based systems.
That is why many buyers now treat NFC as a must-have feature, even when shopping in the lowest price brackets. Xiaomi has responded by putting NFC into several of its most affordable devices, giving users more freedom to choose based on screen size, battery life, and camera needs.
7 cheapest Xiaomi NFC phones worth considering
- Redmi 14C
This model is one of Xiaomi’s lowest-priced phones with NFC support, starting at around $80. It offers a 6.6-inch display, HyperOS, and a 5,160 mAh battery for extended daily use.
The phone also carries a 13 MP front camera with HDR, night, and portrait modes. For users who mainly need NFC, messaging, and basic entertainment, it delivers a practical mix at a very low entry cost.
- Redmi 13C
Redmi 13C comes with a larger 6.74-inch screen and storage options of up to 256 GB. Xiaomi also offers RAM variants up to 8 GB, which helps the device stay usable for light multitasking.
Its 50 MP main camera and 5,000 mAh battery make it a balanced choice for everyday tasks. With pricing starting at roughly $85, it remains one of the most accessible NFC phones in the Xiaomi family.
- POCO C75
POCO C75 targets users who want a big display without moving far from the entry-level price range. The phone uses a 6.88-inch screen and includes NFC at a cost of around $85.
It also comes with a 50 MP rear camera, a 13 MP front camera, and a 5,160 mAh battery. That combination makes it attractive for users who spend more time watching content and less time on heavy gaming.
- Redmi 13C NFC variant with larger memory
For buyers who expect longer use and more room for apps, the larger-memory Redmi 13C variant stays relevant. The device is still affordable, while its NFC support and 5,000 mAh battery help it handle routine daily use with less charging anxiety.
This version is especially useful for chatting, browsing, social media, and other light multitasking. In the $80 to $100 range, it remains one of the most flexible Xiaomi options for budget-conscious buyers.
More mature Xiaomi NFC choices in the $130 to $220 range
- Redmi Note 11
Redmi Note 11 sits in a higher but still affordable price class, at around $130. It has a 6.43-inch display, up to 6 GB RAM, and a 50 MP main camera that keeps it competitive for everyday photography.
Its 5,000 mAh battery supports full-day use, while the more compact design may appeal to users who prefer easier one-hand handling. For buyers who want NFC plus a more polished package, this model still makes sense.
- Redmi Note 12
Redmi Note 12 delivers a more modern experience with a 6.67-inch screen and an octa-core processor reaching up to 2.8 GHz. Xiaomi also includes an Adreno 610 GPU, which helps the phone run smoother in routine multitasking.
The phone keeps a 50 MP main camera and 5,000 mAh battery, while features such as IR Blaster add extra utility. At about $160, it offers a stronger balance between price, display quality, and daily performance.
- Redmi Note 14 5G
Redmi Note 14 5G is the newest and most advanced option in this group, starting at around $180. It uses a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, which produces smoother scrolling and a better visual experience.
Inside, it carries the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra and a 108 MP main camera, backed by a battery of about 5,110 mAh with fast charging. For users willing to spend a little more, this model adds 5G support and stronger long-term value.
Quick comparison of Xiaomi NFC phones
| Model | Starting price | Key highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi 14C | ~$80 | 6.6-inch display, 5,160 mAh battery |
| Redmi 13C | ~$85 | 50 MP camera, up to 256 GB storage |
| POCO C75 | ~$85 | 6.88-inch display, 5,160 mAh battery |
| Redmi Note 11 | ~$130 | Compact design, 50 MP camera |
| Redmi Note 12 | ~$160 | 6.67-inch display, up to 2.8 GHz processor |
| Redmi Note 14 5G | ~$180 | AMOLED 120 Hz, 108 MP camera |
| POCO X5 5G | ~$210 | Snapdragon 695 5G, AMOLED 120 Hz |
How to choose the right Xiaomi NFC phone
- Pick Redmi 14C, Redmi 13C, or POCO C75 if the goal is the lowest possible price.
- Choose Redmi Note 11 or Redmi Note 12 if display comfort and overall balance matter more.
- Go for Redmi Note 14 5G if 5G support and a sharper camera are important.
- Consider POCO X5 5G if smoother performance and a premium-feeling AMOLED screen are the priority.
Xiaomi’s NFC lineup shows that budget buyers no longer need to sacrifice practical features just to keep spending low. From simple e-money checks to contactless payments, these phones cover daily needs while staying within the affordable $80 to $220 range.