1. Is it worth buying a 1GB RAM smartphone at present?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is a crucial spec determining a device's smoothness and multitasking capabilities. Currently, new smartphone models are in a race to increase RAM for powerful and seamless operation. Phones with 3GB or 4GB RAM are quite common, and it's predicted that smartphones with over 10GB RAM will soon dominate. At this point, 1GB might seem insufficient and raise concerns for many. However, it's not necessarily so. While smartphones with 2GB RAM around $60 are sufficient for playing offline games, 1GB devices meet basic needs. If you only need to communicate, browse news, Facebook, etc., then affordable 1GB RAM phones can perform well. With their attractive prices, these phones are suitable choices for users with low demands like seniors, children, students, etc.
2. Reviewing the top 10 smartphones with 1GB RAM under $40 for basic needs
2.1. Vsmart Bee - 1GB RAM Smartphone
Vsmart Bee: Your Go-To Smartphone from Vietnamese Brand Vsmart. Undoubtedly, Vsmart Bee stands out as a top recommendation in the current market. It's the most budget-friendly gem from Vsmart, yet its specs are akin to a mid-range device with a 5.45-inch HD+ display, 16GB internal memory, and a 2,500 mAh battery. Notably, its main 8MP camera and 5MP selfie camera leave a lasting impression. Moreover, when you purchase a Vsmart product like Vsmart Bee, you not only support a Vietnamese brand but also gain easy access to warranty and repair services at VinMart outlets nationwide.

2.2. Masstel X1: Authentic Android Phone with 1GB RAM and 8GB ROM
Authentic Masstel X1 Smartphone comes at a super attractive price of just 945,000 VND. It boasts a large 4.95-inch screen, stable configuration, smooth performance with basic features, and full access to essential apps running on the popular Android operating system.
2.3. Budget-Friendly 1GB RAM Apple iPhone 6
One peculiar aspect of Apple is its reluctance to follow the trend of increasing RAM. In reality, while RAM is important, it doesn't solely determine a device's smooth performance. The iPhone lineup with its myriad of superior features and specifications doesn't necessarily require massive RAM to run smoothly. Although the iPhone 6 is now considered old, it still serves basic needs excellently, remains durable, and sports an attractive, compact design.

2.4. Telego Wise 2: 1GB RAM, 8GB Memory
This smartphone features dual SIM slots, making it very convenient for many to use as a secondary phone for work. The screen stretches up to 5 inches with sharp display and vibrant colors. Telego Wise 2 imported isn't just a 1GB RAM phone under 2 million VND but is even listed under 1 million VND with a reference price of 990,000 VND.
2.5. Itel A32F: Affordable Option with 1GB RAM and 8GB Storage
Affordable Itel A32F Phone 1GB/8GB comes at a competitive price similar to the suggestions mentioned above: 1,050,000 VND. Running on Android Go OS – a perfect solution tailored for budget phones, Itel A32F smoothly operates on all familiar apps. Originating from China, it's no surprise that this product is equipped with powerful technological features, with the most impressive being the fingerprint sensor.

2.6. Wiko Sunny 3 Plus 1GB/8GB
This is also a prominent name in the list of phones under 1.5 million VND with 1GB RAM. Running on Android 8.1 Oreo Go Edition, fairly new and supporting dual SIM. With the Mediatek MT6580 Quad-Core chipset, the user experience will always be smooth and stable. To own a smartphone with such complete features, you only need to spend 1,120,000 VND.
2.7. Asus Zenfone Live L1
Asus Zenfone Live L1 is priced slightly higher than the other options, around 1,560,000 VND. Hence, the device is also highly regarded with a 5-inch HD+ display, 16GB internal memory, a 13MP resolution camera, and integrated PDAF smart focusing technology.

2.8. ArbutuS Max 7S 16GB
ArbutuS is a brand specializing in affordable phones from China. The ArbutuS Max 7S phone from the brand is quite perfect in every aspect when considering among the cheap 1GB RAM Android phones in the same segment. The device boasts a wide 6-inch HD screen, equipped with an 8-core processor, clocking at 1.3 GHz so it can handle even 3D games. Moreover, Max 7S features UltraPixel camera technology, smart touch support, dual SIM, and a 3800 mAh battery. All these fantastic specs come in a phone priced at just 1,599,000 VND.
2.9. Nokia 2.1 1GB/8GB
Despite losing its status as the industry giant, Nokia's products still attract a loyal customer base thanks to their durability and longevity that few can match. The genuine Nokia 2.1 1GB/8GB currently has a reference price of 1,990,000 VND, just enough to be included in the list of phones with 1GB RAM under 2 million VND. The device features a suitable 5-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. Display quality, performance, and camera capabilities are all decent and stable within this segment. And of course, we can't ignore Nokia's top highlight, the battery. The phone boasts a powerful 4000 mAh battery, capable of continuous use for two days before needing a recharge.

2.10. Masstel X3 1GB/8GB
The final recommendation on the list for you is Masstel X3 1GB/8GB phone from China. Right from the exterior, the phone impresses with its simple yet elegant all-aluminum design, sturdy and clean. The 5.45-inch screen with an 18:9 full view ratio is quite distinctive, along with the 2.5D curved glass. Both the front and rear cameras of the phone have the same 5MP resolution. The suggested selling price of the product is 1,115,000 VND.
Of course, these aren't all the good 1GB RAM phones under 2 million VND that you should buy. You can explore more products on Mytour as well as other reputable technology retail channels. With technology advancing every day, manufacturers are constantly introducing higher-feature products at lower prices. Finding a cheap phone that runs well and smoothly is entirely within reach!