Poco X7 Pro Review: So Near, Yet So Far
In the fast-paced world of smartphones, standing out amidst fierce competition is no easy feat. The Poco X7 Pro, a Xiaomi sub-brand offering, aims to make a mark with its blend of affordability and features. Let’s delve into what sets it apart and where it falls short.
Design & Build
The Poco X7 Pro sports a plastic build, but with a twist – a textured “vegan leather” finish that enhances grip. Despite its 195g weight, the device feels well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and IP68 rating add durability, making it a practical choice.
Screen & Speakers
Featuring a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the X7 Pro offers crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The screen’s HDR10 support ensures excellent viewing experiences. Additionally, the device comes equipped with stereo speakers that deliver immersive sound for multimedia consumption.
Specs & Performance
Powered by a Mediatek Dimensity 8400 Ultra processor, paired with 8GB of RAM (expandable up to 12GB) and a minimum of 256GB storage, the X7 Pro offers seamless performance. It handles tasks ranging from heavy gaming to productivity with ease, showcasing impressive thermal management.
Cameras
The X7 Pro’s camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 20MP selfie camera. The main sensor delivers detailed photos with good color reproduction, though the ultrawide performance lags. Video recording at up to 4K/60fps ensures quality footage, making it a reliable choice for casual photography.
Battery Life & Charging
Boasting a massive 6000mAh battery and 90W fast charging, the X7 Pro excels in battery longevity. With impressive endurance and rapid recharge speeds, it caters to varying user needs. The device’s battery performance stands out as a notable feature for users on the go.
Software & Apps
Running on Android 15 with Xiaomi’s HyperOS skin, the X7 Pro offers a mixed software experience. While delivering a feature-rich interface, the software is marred by bloatware and ads, impacting the overall user experience. Customization enthusiasts might find the software limitations frustrating.
Price & Availability
The Poco X7 Pro is competitively priced, starting at £309 for the base model. It is available through official Mi Stores and online retailers like Amazon UK. While not officially sold in the US, unlocked models can be purchased for around $400. Comparatively, devices like the Motorola Moto Edge 50 Neo and Nothing Phone (3a) offer compelling alternatives in the same price range.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Poco X7 Pro impresses with its performance, camera capabilities, and battery life. However, its software experience leaves room for improvement, particularly in streamlining bloatware and ad integrations. For users seeking a reliable mid-range smartphone without extensive customization needs, the X7 Pro presents a compelling option.
Specs Overview
– Display: 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED, 120Hz
– Processor: Mediatek Dimensity 8400 Ultra
– RAM: 8/12GB
– Storage: 256GB/512GB
– Cameras: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 20MP selfie
– Battery: 6000mAh with 90W fast charging
– Software: Android 15 with Xiaomi HyperOS
– Additional Features: Stereo speakers, IP68 certification
Overall, the Poco X7 Pro offers a compelling package for users prioritizing performance and battery life, albeit with software quirks to consider. If you value functionality over extensive customization, this device could be a suitable choice in the competitive mid-range smartphone segment.