Author: Into Droid

OnePlus 9R

Into Droid 2 Comments

The OnePlus 9R is part of OnePlus’s lineup, which is known for offering high-quality smartphones with a focus on performance and user experience. The OnePlus 9R is positioned as a more affordable alternative within the OnePlus 9 series. Here’s an in-depth review of the OnePlus 9R:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the OnePlus 9R aims to provide users with a combination of solid performance, camera capabilities, and design aesthetics at a more competitive price point compared to the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with OnePlus’s OxygenOS on top.
  2. Display: 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 16 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro camera, and a 2 MP monochrome sensor. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 65W fast charging (Warp Charge 65T).
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, USB Type-C port, and stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Display: The 120Hz Fluid AMOLED ensures a smooth user experience, making scrolling and animations feel fluid, combined with vibrant colors and deep blacks.
  2. Performance: The Snapdragon 870 chipset provides flagship-level performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  3. Fast Charging: The 65W Warp Charge can charge the device from 0 to 100% in just about 40 minutes.
  4. OxygenOS: Known for its clean and user-friendly interface, OxygenOS offers a near-stock Android experience with added features and customizations.
  5. Value for Money: Given its specifications, the device offers excellent value, especially when compared to other phones in the OnePlus 9 series.

Cons:

  1. Camera: While the camera setup is decent, it doesn’t match the performance of the more premium OnePlus 9 or 9 Pro.
  2. Lack of Wireless Charging: Unlike the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro, the 9R doesn’t support wireless charging.
  3. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the OnePlus 9R faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Vivo X60: Featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and a Zeiss-branded camera setup.
  • Mi 11X: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and a 48 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The OnePlus 9R was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Updates: Some users reported delays in receiving software updates compared to other OnePlus devices.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is decent, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Heating Issues: Some users reported the device getting warm during extended gaming sessions or while using the camera for prolonged periods.

Conclusion:

The OnePlus 9R is a commendable offering in the premium mid-range segment, especially for users who prioritize performance and display quality. With its 120Hz AMOLED display, flagship-level performance, and fast charging, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the camera performance and lack of wireless charging, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want a OnePlus experience without the flagship price tag, the OnePlus 9R is a strong contender.

Realme GT

Into Droid 1 Comment

The Realme GT is a significant release from Realme, aiming to offer flagship-level specifications at a more affordable price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Realme GT:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Realme GT is often referred to as the brand’s “flagship killer.” It combines high-end performance with a competitive price, making it a compelling option for those seeking top-tier specs without breaking the bank.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Realme UI 2.0 on top.
  2. Display: 6.43-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 65W fast charging, promising a 0 to 100% charge in just 35 minutes.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 5G connectivity, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

  1. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888, the device offers top-notch performance, handling everything from multitasking to intensive gaming with ease.
  2. Fast Charging: The 65W fast charging is one of its standout features, ensuring rapid battery top-ups.
  3. Display: The 120Hz Super AMOLED display ensures a smooth and vibrant viewing experience.
  4. Value for Money: Given its flagship-level specs, the device offers excellent value for its price.
  5. Software: Realme UI 2.0 offers a plethora of customization options and features while maintaining a clean and user-friendly interface.

Cons:

  1. Camera Performance: While the camera setup is versatile, it might not be the best in its class, especially when compared to more premium flagships.
  2. Build Quality: The device uses a combination of glass and plastic, which, while looking premium, might not feel as robust as some all-metal or glass competitors.
  3. No Wireless Charging: Despite its flagship positioning, the device lacks wireless charging.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Realme GT faced competition from:

  • POCO F3: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and MIUI for POCO experience.
  • OnePlus 9R: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and OxygenOS experience.
  • Asus ROG Phone 5: Targeted towards gamers with its 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and gaming-centric features.

Launch Date:

The Realme GT was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches or inconsistencies within Realme UI, though many were addressed in subsequent updates.
  2. Thermal Management: While the device generally managed heat well, extended gaming or high-performance tasks could lead to noticeable warmth.
  3. Camera Software Processing: Some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Conclusion:

The Realme GT is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-end specifications at a more accessible price point. It offers a combination of features and performance that challenges many premium devices in the market. While there are areas that could be improved, especially in the camera department, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a flagship experience without the traditionally high-end price tag.

Xiaomi Pocophone F3

Into Droid 2 Comments

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.

Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro

Into Droid 1 Comment

The Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro is a part of Nubia’s Red Magic lineup, which is specifically tailored for gaming enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro is a gaming-centric smartphone that aims to deliver top-tier performance and features that cater to the needs of mobile gamers. It boasts a high-refresh-rate display, a dedicated gaming mode, and an advanced cooling system.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Redmagic 4.0 UI on top.
  2. Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and an impressive 165Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: Options ranging from 12/16 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and 2 MP macro sensor. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 120W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Built-in shoulder triggers for gaming, RGB lighting, a dedicated gaming mode switch, and a multi-layer cooling system.

Pros:

  1. Gaming Features: The built-in shoulder triggers, dedicated gaming mode, and RGB lighting enhance the gaming experience.
  2. Performance: With the Snapdragon 888, the device delivers stellar performance, handling demanding games with ease.
  3. Display: The 165Hz AMOLED display ensures ultra-smooth visuals, a boon for gaming and general usage.
  4. Fast Charging: The 120W fast charging can rapidly charge the phone, reducing waiting times.
  5. Cooling System: The advanced cooling system helps in maintaining optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.

Cons:

  1. Camera Performance: While decent, the camera setup might not be on par with other flagship devices in the same price range.
  2. Software Experience: Redmagic UI, while offering gaming-centric features, might not be to everyone’s liking, especially those used to more mainstream UIs.
  3. Bulk and Weight: The phone is relatively bulky, which might not be ideal for everyday non-gaming use.
  4. Battery Life: The high-refresh-rate display and gaming-centric features can drain the battery faster under heavy usage.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro faced competition from:

  • ASUS ROG Phone 5: Another gaming-centric phone with a 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and AirTriggers.
  • Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2: Featuring a 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and physical pop-up gaming triggers.
  • Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro: With its 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and physical pop-up shoulder buttons.

Launch Date:

The Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software bugs and glitches in Redmagic UI.
  2. Overheating: Despite the advanced cooling system, some users mentioned overheating issues during extended gaming sessions.
  3. Lack of Global Availability: The phone was initially limited to certain markets, making it less accessible for global users.

Conclusion:

The Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro is a formidable gaming smartphone, offering features and design choices that cater specifically to gamers. While it excels in its gaming capabilities, it might not be the best choice for users looking for a more balanced smartphone experience. Its gaming-centric features and design make it stand out, but also limit its appeal to a broader audience. For mobile gaming enthusiasts, the Red Magic 6 Pro is a top contender, but for the average user, there might be more balanced options available in the market.