Category: Hardware

Vivo X60 Pro

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The Vivo X60 Pro is part of Vivo’s X-series lineup, which is known for offering premium features, especially in the camera department. Here’s an in-depth review of the Vivo X60 Pro:

Overview:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Vivo X60 Pro was introduced with a focus on camera capabilities, particularly its collaboration with ZEISS, a renowned name in the world of optics. The device aimed to provide users with top-tier photography capabilities combined with a sleek design and solid performance.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 11.1 on top.
  2. Display: 6.56-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2376 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Exynos 1080 (for the global variant).
  4. Memory: 12 GB RAM with 256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup co-engineered with ZEISS – 48 MP primary sensor with gimbal stabilization, 13 MP portrait lens, and 13 MP ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4200 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, and Gorilla Glass 6 protection.

Pros:

  1. Camera Capabilities: The collaboration with ZEISS and the inclusion of gimbal stabilization ensures top-notch photography and videography capabilities.
  2. Display: The 120Hz AMOLED display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth user experience.
  3. Performance: The Exynos 1080 chipset provides robust performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  4. Design: The device boasts a sleek and premium design, making it stand out in its segment.
  5. Fast Charging: The 33W fast charging ensures a quick battery top-up.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: With a 4200 mAh battery and a 120Hz display, the battery life might not be on par with some competitors in the segment.
  2. Funtouch OS: While it offers a plethora of features, Funtouch OS might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock or near-stock Android experience.
  3. No Expandable Storage: The device does not support microSD cards, which means users are limited to the built-in storage options.
  4. 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 Vivo X60 Pro faced competition from:

  • OnePlus 9: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a Hasselblad-branded camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Featuring a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • Xiaomi Mi 11: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a 108 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Vivo X60 Pro was announced in December 2020 and released in January 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in Funtouch OS, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Battery Life: Given the high-refresh-rate display and the relatively smaller battery, some users found the battery life to be average, especially during heavy usage.

Conclusion:

The Vivo X60 Pro is a compelling offering in the premium segment, especially for users who prioritize camera capabilities. With its ZEISS-branded camera setup, gimbal stabilization, and high-refresh-rate display, it provides a premium smartphone experience. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the battery capacity and software experience, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want top-tier camera features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Vivo X60 Pro is a strong contender.

Xiaomi Mi 11

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The Xiaomi Mi 11 is a flagship offering from Xiaomi, known for delivering high-end specifications at a relatively more affordable price point compared to some other flagship devices. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mi 11:

Overview:

Launched at the end of 2020, the Xiaomi Mi 11 was one of the first smartphones to be powered by the Snapdragon 888 chipset. It aimed to provide users with top-tier performance, camera capabilities, and a premium design.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12.5 on top.
  2. Display: 6.81-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 108 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4600 mAh non-removable battery with 55W fast wired charging, 50W fast wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers with sound by Harman Kardon, 5G connectivity, and Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

Pros:

  1. Display: The QHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers a vibrant and smooth viewing experience.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888, the device handles everything from daily tasks to intensive gaming with ease.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The 108 MP primary camera captures detailed shots, and the overall camera setup offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  4. Charging: The device supports both fast wired and wireless charging, ensuring quick battery top-ups.
  5. Sound: Stereo speakers tuned by Harman Kardon deliver a rich audio experience.

Cons:

  1. MIUI Experience: While MIUI offers a plethora of features, it might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock Android experience. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional ads in the UI.
  2. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.
  3. No Expandable Storage: The device does not support microSD cards, which means users are limited to the built-in storage options.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Xiaomi Mi 11 faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Offering a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • OnePlus 9: Featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a Hasselblad-branded camera setup.
  • Vivo X60 Pro: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870, and a ZEISS-branded camera setup with gimbal stabilization.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mi 11 was announced in December 2020 and released in January 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in MIUI, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Battery Life: Given the QHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, some users found the battery life to be average, especially during heavy usage.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mi 11 is a compelling flagship offering, especially for users who prioritize display quality, camera capabilities, and performance. With its high-resolution AMOLED display, top-tier chipset, and impressive camera setup, it provides a premium smartphone experience. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the software experience and lack of an IP rating, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want flagship features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Xiaomi Mi 11 is a strong contender.

Vivo X60

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The Vivo X60 is part of Vivo’s X-series lineup, which is known for its focus on camera capabilities and design. Here’s an in-depth review of the Vivo X60:

Overview:

Launched in early 2021, the Vivo X60 is positioned as a premium mid-range to flagship device within Vivo’s lineup, aiming to provide users with top-tier camera capabilities, performance, and design aesthetics.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 11.1 on top.
  2. Display: 6.56-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2376 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Exynos 1080 (5 nm) for the global variant.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup co-engineered with ZEISS – 48 MP primary sensor with gimbal stabilization, 13 MP portrait lens, and 13 MP ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4300 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, USB Type-C port, and stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Camera Capabilities: The collaboration with ZEISS and the inclusion of gimbal stabilization ensures top-notch photography, especially in low-light conditions.
  2. Display: The 120Hz AMOLED display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth user experience.
  3. Performance: The Exynos 1080 chipset provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  4. Design: The device boasts a sleek and premium design, making it visually appealing.
  5. Fast Charging: The 33W fast charging ensures a quick top-up of the battery.

Cons:

  1. Funtouch OS: While Funtouch OS has improved over the years, some users might prefer a cleaner software experience.
  2. Battery Life: The 4300 mAh battery might not be sufficient for heavy users, especially with the 120Hz refresh rate turned on.
  3. Lack of Wireless Charging: The device does not support wireless charging, which some users might expect in this price range.
  4. 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 Vivo X60 faced competition from:

  • OnePlus 9: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a Hasselblad-branded camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Featuring a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2100 (global) or Snapdragon 888 (USA), and a versatile camera setup.
  • Xiaomi Mi 11: With its 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and a 108 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Vivo X60 was announced in December 2020 and released in January 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in the Funtouch OS, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is top-notch, 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 Vivo X60 is a commendable offering in the premium segment, especially for users who prioritize camera capabilities. With its ZEISS collaboration, gimbal stabilization, and high-refresh-rate AMOLED display, it provides a premium smartphone experience. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the software experience and battery life, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who prioritize photography and display quality, the Vivo X60 is a strong contender in the premium market.

Samsung Galaxy S21

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Samsung Galaxy S21
Samsung Galaxy S21

The Samsung Galaxy S21 is part of Samsung’s flagship S series and represents the company’s early 2021 offering. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy S21:

Overview:

Launched in early 2021, the Samsung Galaxy S21 was introduced alongside its bigger siblings, the S21+ and the S21 Ultra. The S21 aimed to offer flagship features at a slightly more accessible price point compared to the Ultra variant.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, overlaid with Samsung’s One UI 3.1.
  2. Display: 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: International models used the Exynos 2100, while the USA versions featured the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: 8 GB RAM with options of 128 GB or 256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor, 64 MP telephoto lens, and 12 MP ultrawide sensor. A 10 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging support.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, IP68 water and dust resistance, 5G connectivity, and stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Compact Design: For users looking for a more manageable phone size without compromising on flagship features, the S21 fit the bill.
  2. Display: The 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display offered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth animations.
  3. Performance: Both the Exynos 2100 and Snapdragon 888 provided top-tier performance, handling everything from daily tasks to intensive gaming.
  4. Camera Capabilities: The versatile camera setup allowed for a range of photography options, from ultrawide shots to 3x hybrid optical zoom.
  5. Software: One UI 3.1 offered a plethora of features, customization options, and a more streamlined Android experience.

Cons:

  1. Plastic Back: Unlike its predecessors and its more expensive siblings, the S21 featured a plastic (or “glasstic”) back, which felt less premium.
  2. No Expandable Storage: The S21 did away with the microSD card slot, a feature that had long been a staple of Samsung flagships.
  3. Lower Resolution: The S21’s display resolution was reduced to Full HD+ from the Quad HD+ found in the S20, though this was less noticeable given the screen size.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2021, the Galaxy S21 faced competition from various flagship devices:

  • iPhone 12: Apple’s offering with its A14 Bionic chip, OLED display, and iOS ecosystem.
  • OnePlus 9: Known for its performance, OxygenOS, and partnership with Hasselblad for camera improvements.
  • Google Pixel 5: Google’s more modest 2020 flagship known for its clean software and camera capabilities.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 was announced in January 2021 and released later that month.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Exynos vs. Snapdragon: As with previous Samsung flagships, there was debate and comparison between the performance and efficiency of the Exynos and Snapdragon variants. Some users felt the Exynos model lagged slightly behind in terms of battery life and heat management.
  2. Battery Life: While the battery life was generally decent, the combination of 5G and the 120Hz display could lead to faster drain under heavy use.
  3. Camera Software: Some users noted that, in certain conditions, the post-processing on photos could be aggressive, leading to over-sharpened images.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 represented a slight shift in Samsung’s strategy, offering a more affordable flagship without some of the ultra-premium materials and features of its bigger siblings. For many users, the S21 struck a good balance between price, features, and performance. While it had its compromises, it remained a compelling option for those in the market for a high-end smartphone experience without the highest-end price.