iQOO Z9 5G Review: A Strong Contender in the Sub-₹20,000 Smartphone Segment
The iQOO Z9 5G has emerged as a serious contender in the budget-friendly smartphone market, particularly for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability. Priced at ₹19,999 in India, let’s delve into what the iQOO Z9 5G offers and how it stacks up against the competition.
Powerhouse Performance
The iQOO Z9 5G boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chipset, placing it among the best performers in its price range. Benchmark tests translate to smooth performance in everyday tasks, multitasking, and even handling graphically demanding games. This processing power is further complemented by ample RAM options, ensuring a lag-free user experience.
Visually Appealing Display
The phone features a bright and attractive 6.58-inch IPS LCD display. While some competitors might offer AMOLED displays, the iQOO Z9 5G’s screen delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, perfectly suitable for watching videos or browsing the web.
Solid Battery Life
The iQOO Z9 5G packs a 5000mAh battery, which is more than enough to power you through a full day of moderate use. While heavy gamers might require a top-up in the evening, the battery life is dependable for most users. However, the 18W fast charging feels outdated compared to some competitors offering faster charging solutions.
Capable Camera System
The camera system on the iQOO Z9 5G is decent but not outstanding. The 50MP primary sensor captures good quality images in daylight conditions, but low-light performance could be better. The inclusion of just two additional 2MP sensors for macro and depth effects feels like a missed opportunity, as some competitors offer ultrawide lenses for more versatility.
Aesthetics and Build Quality
The design of the iQOO Z9 5G leans towards the functional side. While sturdy and well-built, it might not be the most eye-catching phone on the market.
Software Considerations
The phone runs on iQOO’s custom user interface based on Android. While it offers some additional features, it also comes pre-loaded with bloatware. Thankfully, most of these apps can be uninstalled. Software update support is a concern, with iQOO only promising two years of updates.
Verdict: A Compelling Option for Budget-Minded Performance Seekers
The iQOO Z9 5G stands out for its exceptional processing power in the sub-₹20,000 segment. It delivers a smooth user experience, a vibrant display, and dependable battery life. However, the camera system lacks versatility, and the fast charging tech feels outdated.
If you prioritize raw performance for everyday tasks and gaming, the iQOO Z9 5G is an excellent choice. But if a feature-packed camera or the latest software updates are dealbreakers, you might want to consider competitors offering those aspects.