iQOO Z9x 5G Review
The iQOO Z9x 5G is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a lot of bang for your buck. It boasts impressive performance, a long-lasting battery, and a smooth display, making it a great option for everyday users and gamers alike. However, there are some trade-offs to be made, particularly in the camera department.
Display
- Large 6.72-inch LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.
- Bezels are minimal, maximizing screen real estate.
- Offers good brightness for outdoor use.
Operating System
- Runs the latest Android 14 with Funtouch OS 14 on top.
- Funtouch OS can feel bloated with pre-installed apps, but most can be uninstalled.
- Overall, the software is smooth and optimized.
Performance
- Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, which delivers capable performance for daily tasks and even some gaming.
- 8GB of RAM with 8GB of virtual RAM expansion ensures smooth multitasking.
- Not the most powerful chip on the market, but it holds its own in this price range.
Camera
- Triple-lens rear camera system with a 50MP main sensor, but image quality is average.
- Low-light performance is weak.
- 8MP front-facing camera is decent for selfies and video calls.
Design and Form Factor
- Made of plastic, which keeps the weight down but feels less premium than glass.
- Available in a Storm Grey color option.
- Flat sides and a rear panel with a camera module design reminiscent of the iQoo Neo 9 Pro.
- IP64 rating for dust and water resistance is a plus for a budget phone.
Battery
- Massive 6,000mAh battery delivers excellent battery life, lasting a full day on a single charge for most users.
- 44W fast wired charging is included, which is a welcome feature.
Connectivity
- Supports 5G connectivity for future-proof data speeds.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and a 3.5mm headphone jack are also included.
Special Features
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking.
User Experience
- The large display and smooth performance make it a great choice for watching videos and browsing the web.
- The battery life is excellent, so you won’t have to worry about running out of power throughout the day.
- The camera system is decent, but not great.
Brand and Ecosystem
- iQOO is a sub-brand of Vivo, a reputable smartphone manufacturer.
- Funtouch OS may not be for everyone, but it offers a good level of customization.
Potential Comparators
| Feature | iQOO Z9x 5G | Redmi Note 13C 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.72-inch, 120Hz LCD | 6.67-inch, 120Hz LCD |
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 |
| RAM | 8GB + 8GB Virtual RAM | 6GB/8GB |
| Rear Camera | 50MP main | 50MP main |
| Battery | 6,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Starting Price | Around Rs. 13,000 | Around Rs. 15,000 |
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.72-inch, 120Hz LCD |
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 |
| RAM | 8GB + 8GB Virtual RAM |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB |
| Rear Camera | 50MP main, ultrawide, depth |
| Front Camera | 8MP |
| Battery | 6,000mAh |
| Charging | 44W wired |
| Operating System | Android 14 with Funtouch OS 14 |
Verdict
The iQOO Z9x 5G is a solid option for budget-minded users who prioritize performance and battery life. It offers a large display, smooth performance, and excellent battery life, all at an attractive price point. However, the camera system is just average, and the software may not be for everyone. If you’re looking for the best camera in this price range, you might want to consider other options. But if you prioritize performance and battery life, the iQOO Z9x