Category: Hardware

Huawei Mate X2

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The Huawei Mate X2 represents Huawei’s evolution in the foldable smartphone segment, refining upon its previous designs and incorporating new innovations. Here’s an in-depth review of the Huawei Mate X2:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Huawei Mate X2 is a premium foldable smartphone that showcases Huawei’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology in the mobile industry.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with EMUI 11.0 based on Android 10, but without Google services due to the US trade ban.
  2. Display: When unfolded, it features an 8-inch OLED main display with a resolution of 2200 x 2480 pixels. There’s also an external 6.45-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1160 x 2700 pixels.
  3. Processor: Kirin 9000 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 8 GB RAM with 256/512 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 50 MP primary sensor, 12 MP periscope telephoto lens, 8 MP telephoto lens, and a 16 MP ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 55W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and a unique inward-folding design.

Pros:

  1. Innovative Design: The Mate X2 offers a large tablet-like display when unfolded, providing a vast canvas for multimedia consumption and productivity. The inward-folding design protects the main display.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Kirin 9000 5G chipset, the device offers top-tier performance suitable for all tasks and applications.
  3. Camera Capabilities: Huawei is known for its camera prowess, and the Mate X2 is no exception. The quad-camera setup offers versatility and high-quality image capture.
  4. Build Quality: The device feels premium with its combination of metal and glass, and the hinge mechanism is robust.
  5. Fast Charging: The 55W fast charging ensures rapid battery top-ups.

Cons:

  1. Lack of Google Services: Due to the US trade ban, the Mate X2 doesn’t come with Google services, which might be a deal-breaker for many users outside of China.
  2. Price: Being a premium foldable device, the Mate X2 comes with a high price tag.
  3. Weight and Size: The device is relatively heavy and might be cumbersome for some users.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In the foldable market, the Huawei Mate X2 faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2: Samsung’s second iteration of its foldable device, offering a refined design, larger external display, and top-tier specifications.
  • Xiaomi Mix Fold: Xiaomi’s entry into the foldable market with a large 8.01-inch internal display and a unique liquid lens in its camera setup.
  • Oppo Find N: Oppo’s take on the foldable design with a slightly different form factor and display size.

Launch Date:

The Huawei Mate X2 was announced in February 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Ecosystem: The lack of Google services means users have to rely on Huawei’s AppGallery or third-party app stores, which might not have all the apps that users are accustomed to.
  2. Durability Concerns: As with all foldable devices, there are concerns about the long-term durability of the hinge and the main display.
  3. Availability and Service: Given the trade restrictions and Huawei’s position in various markets, the device might not be readily available everywhere, and after-sales service could be a concern in certain regions.

Conclusion:

The Huawei Mate X2 is a testament to Huawei’s innovation and capabilities in the smartphone market. With its impressive display, top-tier performance, and standout camera features, it offers a compelling package for those interested in the foldable experience. While there are challenges, primarily due to the lack of Google services and the premium price point, the Mate X2 stands as a showcase of what’s possible in the realm of smartphone design. For those who prioritize innovation, a large display, and a unique user experience, and can navigate the software ecosystem challenges, the Mate X2 is a strong contender in the foldable market.

Xiaomi Mix Fold

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The Xiaomi Mix Fold is Xiaomi’s first entry into the foldable smartphone market, aiming to compete with other foldable devices from brands like Samsung and Huawei. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mix Fold:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Xiaomi Mix Fold is positioned as a premium device, showcasing Xiaomi’s innovation and design capabilities in the rapidly evolving foldable smartphone segment.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12 on top.
  2. Display: When unfolded, it features an 8.01-inch AMOLED main display with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels. There’s also an external 6.52-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 840 x 2520 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: Options of 12/16 GB RAM with 256/512 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 108 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and an 8 MP telephoto/macro lens with a unique liquid lens technology. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5020 mAh non-removable battery with 67W fast wired and wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and a unique hinge design for the foldable mechanism.

Pros:

  1. Innovative Design: The Mix Fold offers a large tablet-like display when unfolded, providing a vast canvas for multimedia consumption and productivity.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888, the device offers top-tier performance suitable for all tasks and applications.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The camera setup, especially with the unique liquid lens technology, offers versatility and high-quality image capture.
  4. Battery and Charging: The 5020 mAh battery ensures extended usage, and the 67W fast charging (both wired and wireless) ensures rapid top-ups.
  5. External Display: The external display is fully functional and allows users to use the device without unfolding it for quick tasks.

Cons:

  1. Durability Concerns: As with all foldable devices, there are concerns about the long-term durability of the hinge and the main display.
  2. Weight and Size: The device is relatively heavy and bulky, which might not be comfortable for everyone, especially for prolonged use.
  3. Price: Being a premium foldable device, the Mix Fold comes with a high price tag.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In the foldable market, the Xiaomi Mix Fold faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2: Samsung’s second iteration of its foldable device, offering a refined design, larger external display, and top-tier specifications.
  • Huawei Mate X2: Huawei’s inward-folding design with high-end specifications and a unique camera setup.
  • Oppo Find N: Oppo’s take on the foldable design with a slightly different form factor and display size.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mix Fold was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Optimization: Given the relatively new foldable form factor, some users might encounter software glitches or inconsistencies, especially with third-party apps not optimized for foldables.
  2. Weight and Bulk: Some users found the device to be too heavy or bulky for regular one-handed use or pocketability.
  3. Availability: As a niche product, the Mix Fold might not be readily available in all regions or markets.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mix Fold is a testament to Xiaomi’s innovation and design capabilities in the smartphone market. With its large foldable display, top-tier performance, and unique camera features, it offers a compelling package for those interested in the foldable experience. While there are challenges inherent to the foldable form factor, such as durability concerns and software optimization, the Mix Fold stands as a showcase of what’s possible in the realm of smartphone design. For those who prioritize innovation, a large display, and a unique user experience, the Mix Fold is a strong contender in the foldable market.

Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro

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Xiaomi Black Shark 4
Xiaomi Black Shark 4

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro is a high-end gaming smartphone from Xiaomi’s gaming subsidiary, Black Shark. It’s designed to cater to the needs of mobile gaming enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Black Shark 4 Pro is part of Xiaomi’s dedicated gaming smartphone lineup. It builds upon the foundation set by its predecessors, focusing on enhanced gaming performance, tactile physical pop-up shoulder buttons, and a unique design language.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with JoyUI 12.5 on top.
  2. Display: 6.67-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting a 144Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12/16 GB RAM with 256/512 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 120W fast charging, promising a 0 to 100% charge in just around 15 minutes.
  7. Other Features: Magnetic pop-up shoulder buttons, under-display fingerprint scanner, RGB lighting, and a host of gaming-centric features and accessories.

Pros:

  1. Gaming Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 888 and coupled with ample RAM, the device offers top-tier gaming performance.
  2. Display: The 144Hz Super AMOLED display ensures ultra-smooth visuals, which is crucial for gaming.
  3. Fast Charging: The 120W fast charging is one of its standout features, ensuring rapid battery top-ups.
  4. Physical Pop-Up Shoulder Buttons: These provide tactile feedback, enhancing the gaming experience compared to on-screen controls.
  5. Gaming-Centric Features: The device offers a range of features tailored for gamers, from its cooling system to its customizable RGB lighting.

Cons:

  1. Design: The aggressive gaming aesthetics might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more understated design.
  2. Camera Performance: While the camera is decent, it might not be on par with other non-gaming flagships in the same price range.
  3. Battery Life: Despite the fast charging, a 4500 mAh battery might not be sufficient for extended gaming sessions, especially when compared to some competitors with larger batteries.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket and category, the Black Shark 4 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 a unique side-mounted pop-up camera for streamers.
  • Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro: With its 165Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and built-in shoulder triggers.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users found JoyUI to be a bit cluttered and not as refined as other custom Android skins.
  2. Thermal Management: While the device generally managed heat well, extended gaming or high-performance tasks could lead to noticeable warmth, despite its cooling mechanisms.
  3. Durability: The mechanical pop-up shoulder buttons, while innovative, might raise concerns about long-term durability.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro is a formidable gaming smartphone, offering a suite of features tailored for gaming enthusiasts. From its high-refresh-rate screen to its physical pop-up shoulder buttons, it’s evident that the device is designed with gamers in mind. While it might have certain shortcomings, especially in areas like camera performance and battery life, it excels in its niche. For those who prioritize gaming and want a device that stands out, the Black Shark 4 Pro is a compelling choice.

Nubia Red Magic 6

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Nubia Red Magic 6
Nubia Red Magic 6

The Nubia Red Magic 6 is a part of Nubia’s dedicated gaming smartphone lineup, designed to cater to the needs of mobile gaming enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nubia Red Magic 6:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Nubia Red Magic 6 continues the brand’s tradition of offering high-performance gaming smartphones with distinctive design elements and gaming-centric features.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with Redmagic 4.0 on top.
  2. Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting an impressive 165Hz 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 an 8 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5050 mAh non-removable battery with 66W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Built-in shoulder triggers, RGB lighting, a dedicated turbofan for cooling, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

  1. Gaming Performance: With the Snapdragon 888 and ample RAM, the device offers top-tier gaming performance.
  2. Display: The 165Hz AMOLED display, one of the highest refresh rates available, ensures ultra-smooth visuals.
  3. Cooling System: The dedicated turbofan and other cooling mechanisms help maintain optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.
  4. Shoulder Triggers: These provide tactile feedback and can be customized for different games, enhancing the gaming experience.
  5. Battery and Charging: The 5050 mAh battery ensures extended gaming sessions, and the 66W fast charging ensures rapid top-ups.

Cons:

  1. Design: The aggressive gaming aesthetics might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more understated design.
  2. Camera Performance: While decent for casual shots, the camera setup isn’t on par with other non-gaming flagships in the same price range.
  3. Software Experience: Redmagic OS, while feature-rich, might not be as refined or intuitive as other custom Android skins.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket and category, the Nubia Red Magic 6 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 a unique side-mounted pop-up camera for streamers.
  • Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro: With its 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and magnetic pop-up shoulder buttons.

Launch Date:

The Nubia Red Magic 6 was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches or inconsistencies within Redmagic OS, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Thermal Management: While the device generally managed heat well, extended gaming or high-performance tasks could lead to noticeable warmth, even with its dedicated cooling mechanisms.
  3. Build Quality: Some users raised concerns about the device’s long-term durability, especially with its moving parts like the turbofan.

Conclusion:

The Nubia Red Magic 6 is a compelling offering in the gaming smartphone market. With its high-refresh-rate screen, top-tier performance, and dedicated gaming features, it’s evident that the device is designed with gamers in mind. While it might have certain shortcomings, especially in areas like camera performance and software, it excels in its niche. For those who prioritize gaming and want a device that stands out, the Red Magic 6 is a strong contender.