Lava has expanded its Yuva series with the launch of the Lava Yuva Star 3 in India. Priced at ₹7,499, the smartphone is designed especially for first-time users and those looking for a dependable daily driver without spending too much. As the successor to the Yuva Star 2, the new model focuses on offering a large display, practical performance, and long battery life at a very competitive price point.
With entry-level smartphones becoming increasingly feature-rich, Lava aims to stand out by combining useful specifications with thoughtful additions like IP64 protection and free home service. The device will be available across retail stores in India starting March 2026 and comes in two color options: Indus Black and Siachen White.
What Is the Lava Yuva Star 3 Offering in Terms of Display and Design?
The Lava Yuva Star 3 features a 6.75-inch HD+ LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. One of the key highlights at this price is the 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling smoother and improves the overall user experience compared to standard 60Hz screens. Whether browsing social media or navigating through apps, the display feels more fluid than typical entry-level phones.
In terms of design, the phone has a clean and practical look. It measures 164.96 × 76.1 × 8.5mm and weighs 193.7 grams, making it comfortable to hold for extended use. The device carries an IP64 rating, which means it is protected against dust and minor water splashes. This added durability is a welcome feature in the budget segment, where such protection is not always common. A side-mounted fingerprint scanner ensures quick and secure unlocking.
Everyday Performance with Android 15 Go Edition
Powering the Lava Yuva Star 3 is the Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor clocked at 1.6GHz, paired with the IMG8322 GPU. While this chipset is not meant for heavy gaming, it is capable of handling daily tasks such as calling, messaging, browsing, video streaming, and light app usage without major issues.
The phone comes with 4GB of RAM and supports an additional 4GB of virtual RAM through memory expansion. This helps improve multitasking performance, especially when switching between apps. The device includes 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 512GB using a microSD card, giving users plenty of space for photos, videos, and apps.
Running on Android 15 Go Edition, the Yuva Star 3 is optimized for entry-level hardware. The Go Edition ensures lighter apps, smoother performance, and efficient storage usage, making the smartphone suitable for new users who want a simple and responsive interface.
Camera Setup for Basic Photography Needs
For photography, the Lava Yuva Star 3 features a 13MP rear camera with LED flash. The camera is capable of capturing clear photos in good lighting conditions and is suitable for everyday moments. It may not compete with higher-end devices, but it delivers decent results for social media sharing and casual photography.
On the front, the device houses a 5MP camera designed for selfies and video calls. It serves basic needs effectively, especially for users who primarily use their phones for communication and light social media usage.
5000mAh Battery for All-Day Usage
Battery life is one of the strongest aspects of the Yuva Star 3. The smartphone packs a 5000mAh battery, which can comfortably last a full day on moderate usage. From browsing and calling to watching videos, the large battery ensures fewer charging breaks.
The device supports 10W charging via a USB Type-C port. While the charging speed is modest, the inclusion of a Type-C port in this price range is a positive addition, making connectivity more convenient and modern.
Connectivity and Extra Features
The Lava Yuva Star 3 supports dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS. It also retains practical features such as a 3.5mm headphone jack and FM Radio, which many users in this segment still prefer. The dual SIM setup allows users to manage personal and work numbers easily, with a dedicated slot for microSD expansion.
Lava is also offering a one-year warranty along with free home service, which adds peace of mind for buyers, particularly those new to smartphones.
Final Verdict
The Lava Yuva Star 3 is a sensible and affordable choice for first-time smartphone users or anyone seeking a reliable device under ₹8,000. With its large 6.75-inch 90Hz display, 5000mAh battery, IP64 rating, Android 15 Go Edition, and expandable storage, it covers all the essentials for everyday use. While it is not built for heavy gaming or advanced photography, it delivers strong value for its price. For budget-conscious buyers who want durability, smooth performance, and dependable battery life, the Yuva Star 3 stands out as a practical option in the entry-level segment.
