Poco X6 Pro Review: Striking the Budget Balance

Mid-range Android smartphones Technology have witnessed remarkable improvements in recent years. While they may not outperform flagship devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or the Google Pixel 8 Pro, their exceptional value often makes them a compelling choice. Among the contenders in the mid-range segment, Xiaomi’s sub-brand, Poco, has consistently stood out for its blend of design and performance.

The Poco X6 Pro: A Closer Look At the start of this year, Poco unveiled the Poco X6 Pro, armed with impressive specifications. However, as history has shown, Poco phones tend to emphasize performance while leaving other aspects relatively untouched. Is the Poco X6 Pro any different? Let’s delve into the details.

Design and Display

The Poco X6 Pro boasts a stunning 6.67-inch 120Hz 1.5K AMOLED display. Although the claimed peak brightness of 1,800 nits during HDR content playback couldn’t be independently verified, the screen consistently delivered ample brightness even under direct sunlight. Streaming HDR or Dolby Vision content on the Poco X6 Pro was a visual delight, with vibrant colours and excellent saturation.

The phone’s super-slim bezels contribute to its premium feel, rivalling flagship Android devices. Switching between the Poco X6 Pro and the Pixel 8 Pro, it’s challenging to discern any significant differences in display quality. Notably, the Poco X6 Pro supports Android 14’s new Ultra HDR format (branded as “Pro HDR”), which can be manually enabled in the Gallery settings.

Performance and Connectivity

The Poco X6 Pro lives up to its lineage by delivering great performance. Its MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra SoC, coupled with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, ensures smooth multitasking and responsive app launches. The phone’s 5000mAh battery provides ample endurance, and the 67W fast charging capability keeps downtime minimal.

In terms of connectivity, the Poco X6 Pro excels. It offers mmWave and sub-6 5G support, outpacing the Pixel 8 Pro in mobile data speeds. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6 ensures robust wireless connectivity. Unlike the Pixel, the Poco X6 Pro remains cool even during heavy usage.

Camera and Software

While the X6 Pro’s cameras perform adequately, they don’t match the excellence of its display and performance. The 64MP primary camera with OIS, 8MP ultrawide lens, and 2MP macro lens capture decent photos, but there’s room for improvement. HyperOS, the phone’s Android 14-based unified OS, replaces MIUI and offers a streamlined experience.

Pricing and Availability

The X6 Pro hit the market in early 2024, with availability in parts of Europe, the UK, and Asia. Unfortunately, it’s not officially sold in the US. European pricing starts at €350, while the UK offers only the 12GB RAM/512GB storage variant for £369. Colour options include black, yellow, and grey.

Conclusion

The X6 Pro strikes a commendable balance between performance, display quality, and affordability. If you’re seeking a mid-range phone that doesn’t compromise on key features, the X6 Pro deserves your attention.