Xiaomi Pocophone F3

The POCO F3, also known in some markets as the Xiaomi Poco F3, is a significant release in the mid-range segment, continuing the brand’s tradition of offering high-end specifications at an aggressive price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the POCO F3:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the POCO F3 is a part of POCO’s efforts to establish itself as an independent brand, separate from Xiaomi, though still sharing some resources. The F3 is often referred to as the “flagship killer” due to its impressive specs that challenge many premium devices but at a fraction of the cost.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11 with MIUI 12 for POCO on top.
2. Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support.
3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8250-AC Snapdragon 870 5G.
4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128/256 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
6. Battery: 4520 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, 5G connectivity, and LiquidCool Technology 1.0 Plus for better thermal management.

Pros:

1. Performance: The Snapdragon 870, being a top-tier chipset, ensures blazing-fast performance, handling everything from daily tasks to intensive gaming.
2. Display: The 120Hz AMOLED display provides a smooth and vibrant viewing experience, making it stand out in its price segment.
3. Value for Money: Given its features and performance, the device offers exceptional value for its price.
4. Audio Experience: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support offer a rich audio experience, which is rare in this price bracket.
5. Fast Charging: The 33W fast charging can quickly juice up the battery, providing a decent screen-on time.

Cons:

1. No Expandable Storage: The device lacks a microSD card slot, which means users are stuck with the onboard storage.
2. Camera Performance: While the camera setup is versatile, it might not be the best in its class, especially under challenging lighting conditions.
3. MIUI for POCO: While feature-rich, some users might find bloatware and ads in the UI, which can be a bit intrusive.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the POCO F3 faced competition from:

• OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz AMOLED display, OxygenOS experience, and a more versatile camera setup.
• Samsung Galaxy A52: Known for its Super AMOLED display, IP67 dust/water resistance, and One UI software experience.
• Realme X7 Pro: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 1000+ chipset, and 65W fast charging.

Launch Date:

The POCO F3 was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional stutters or lags in the MIUI, especially with ads and bloatware.
2. Build Quality: While the device has a premium feel, the use of certain materials, like the plastic frame, might not be as durable as metal.
3. Camera Inconsistencies: Some users found the camera software processing to be inconsistent, especially in low-light scenarios.

Conclusion:

The POCO F3 is a testament to POCO’s commitment to delivering high-end specifications at a budget-friendly price. It offers features that are often reserved for more expensive devices, such as a 120Hz AMOLED display and a top-tier chipset. While there are areas of improvement, especially in the camera and software departments, the overall package is compelling for those seeking flagship-like performance without the flagship price tag.