In the dynamic world of smartphones, the POCO X4 Pro 5G has established itself as a compelling choice for consumers seeking premium features without a premium price tag. Launched in early 2022, the device continues to capture attention with its balance of performance, innovative design, and affordability – hallmarks of the POCO brand.
Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the POCO X4 Pro 5G a standout contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
Design: Sleek, Bold, and Unique
The POCO X4 Pro 5G departs from the utilitarian design of its predecessors, embracing a more refined and modern aesthetic.
- Premium Build:
- The phone features a glass back, which not only enhances its premium appeal but also adds durability.
- A unique light-reactive design mimics the effect of searchlights, creating a striking visual pattern that sets the X4 Pro apart from competitors.
- Dimensions and Weight:
- With dimensions of 164.19 x 76.1 x 8.12mm and a weight of 205g, the phone feels substantial without being unwieldy.
- Color Variants:
- Available in Laser Black, Laser Blue, and the iconic POCO Yellow, the X4 Pro offers options for every style preference.
The large camera module, spanning almost the entire width of the back, is a bold design choice. While opinions vary, it undeniably makes the phone recognizable and unique.
Display: An AMOLED Delight
The POCO X4 Pro 5G is equipped with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, one of its most impressive features.
- Resolution and Brightness:
- With a Full HD+ resolution (2400 x 1080 pixels) and a pixel density of 395 ppi, the display offers crisp visuals.
- The screen boasts a peak brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring legibility even under bright sunlight.
- Smooth Refresh Rates:
- A 120Hz refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling rate make for buttery-smooth scrolling and responsive touch input, ideal for gaming and multitasking.
- Durability:
- Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, the display is resistant to scratches and minor drops.
The only drawback is the implementation of the Always-On Display feature, which switches off after 10 seconds and requires a tap to reactivate. While this conserves battery, it might frustrate users accustomed to true always-on functionality.
Performance: Balanced and Efficient
Under the hood, the POCO X4 Pro 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, built on a 6nm process.
- Performance Highlights:
- The octa-core processor delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks.
- Paired with the Adreno 619 GPU, the X4 Pro handles casual gaming and media consumption effortlessly.
- Configurations:
- Two variants are available:
- 6GB RAM + 128GB storage
- 8GB RAM + 256GB storage
- Storage is expandable via a microSD card (up to 1TB), but users must forgo the second SIM slot for this option.
- Two variants are available:
- Gaming Performance:
- While the chipset is efficient, it may struggle with demanding games at high graphics settings. Casual gamers, however, will find the performance satisfactory.
Camera: 108MP Star Power with Room for Improvement
The camera is one of the main selling points of the POCO X4 Pro 5G, featuring a 108MP primary sensor alongside supporting lenses.
- Triple Camera Setup:
- 108MP Primary Sensor: Captures detailed images in good lighting, leveraging pixel binning to produce sharp 12MP photos.
- 8MP Ultra-Wide Lens: Expands the field of view but exhibits a drop in sharpness.
- 2MP Macro Camera: Offers decent close-ups but lacks versatility.
- Front Camera:
- A 16MP selfie shooter delivers clear self-portraits and handles video calls well.
- Video Recording:
- Due to chipset limitations, video recording is capped at 1080p at 30fps, which may disappoint users expecting 4K capabilities.
The camera excels in well-lit conditions but struggles slightly in low-light scenarios. Auto HDR performance is inconsistent, and users may need to switch to manual HDR for optimal results.
Battery and Charging: Long-Lasting and Fast
The 5000mAh battery is a standout feature of the POCO X4 Pro 5G, delivering impressive longevity.
- Battery Life:
- Thanks to the energy-efficient Snapdragon 695 and AMOLED display, most users can expect 1-2 days of battery life on moderate usage.
- Fast Charging:
- The phone supports 67W fast charging, with a compatible charger included in the box.
- It can charge from 0 to 50% in just 15 minutes and reach a full charge in approximately 45 minutes.
This combination of long battery life and fast charging makes the X4 Pro a reliable companion for users constantly on the go.
Software: MIUI with a POCO Twist
The POCO X4 Pro 5G runs MIUI 13, based on Android 11 (upgradable to Android 12).
- Customization and Features:
- MIUI offers a plethora of customization options, from themes to gesture controls.
- POCO’s version includes exclusive tweaks for a more personalized experience.
- Bloatware Concerns:
- Pre-installed apps are common, though many can be uninstalled. However, the presence of some non-removable apps may bother users preferring a cleaner interface.
Connectivity and Extras
The POCO X4 Pro 5G is well-equipped in terms of connectivity and additional features:
- 5G Ready: Supports multiple bands for future-proof connectivity.
- Stereo Speakers: Delivers clear, loud audio with decent bass.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: A rare and welcome addition for wired audio enthusiasts.
- IR Blaster: Lets the phone double as a remote for appliances.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Quick and responsive, doubling as a power button.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The POCO X4 Pro 5G offers excellent value in the mid-range segment, priced at:
- ₹16,999 for the base variant (6GB + 128GB).
- ₹18,999 for the higher variant (8GB + 256GB).
At this price point, the phone competes with the likes of the Realme 9 Pro+, Redmi Note 11 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy M32. Its combination of a stunning display, long battery life, and 108MP camera gives it a distinct edge.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Mid-Range Market
The POCO X4 Pro 5G strikes a fine balance between performance, design, and affordability.
- Pros:
- Gorgeous AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate.
- Impressive battery life with 67W fast charging.
- Reliable performance for everyday use.
- Cons:
- Camera performance is inconsistent in low light.
- Video recording limitations due to the processor.
- Pre-installed bloatware may annoy some users.
For budget-conscious consumers looking for a feature-rich smartphone, the POCO X4 Pro 5G is a solid choice. It successfully delivers a premium experience at a fraction of the cost, making it one of the most compelling options in its class.
Whether you prioritize style, functionality, or value for money, the POCO X4 Pro 5G ticks all the right boxes, reaffirming POCO’s position as a disruptor in the mid-range smartphone market.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
