As an avid tech enthusiast, I'm thrilled to dive into the realm of iQOO's latest offerings: the iQOO Z8 5G and the iQOO Z8x 5G. These two mid-range 5G phones, introduced by iQOO, a sub-brand of Vivo, are generating quite a buzz in the mobile market. In this comprehensive review, we'll unpack the standout features of the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G, compare them head-to-head, and even stack them up against other mid-range 5G contenders.
iQOO Z8 5G & iQOO Z8x 5G Specs Comparison
| Feature | iQOO Z8 5G | iQOO Z8x 5G |
|---|---|---|
| 🚀 Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC |
| 💾 Storage | Up to 12GB LPDDR5 RAM, Up to 512GB UFS 3.1 | Up to 12GB LPDDR4X RAM, Up to 256GB UFS 2.2 |
| 📷 Camera | 64MP + 2MP Dual Rear, 16MP Front | 50MP + 2MP Dual Rear, 8MP Front |
| ⚡ Charging | 120W Fast Charging | 44W Fast Charging |
| 📱 Display | 6.64" FHD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz Refresh Rate | 6.64" FHD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz Refresh Rate |
| 🌐 Connectivity | Dual-Mode 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.x | Dual-Mode 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.x |
| 🎮 GPU | Mali-G77 MC6 | Adreno-710 |
| 📦 Color Options | Black, Blue, White | Black, Blue, White |
| 🔄 Aspect Ratio | 19.9:9 | 19.9:9 |
| 📦 Dimensions & Weight | 164.58mm×75.80mm×8.79mm, 200g | 164.63mm×75.80mm×9.10mm, 199.6g |
| 📸 Camera Features | Night Mode, Portrait Mode, AI Scene Recognition | Night Mode, Portrait Mode, AI Scene Recognition |
| 📅 Availability | Released in China | Released in China |
Price and Availability: Affordable Luxury
Released on August 31, 2023, in China, the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G come at competitive price points that offer incredible value. The iQOO Z8 5G starts at RMB 1,699 for the 8GB + 256GB variant, reaching up to RMB 1,999 for the 12GB + 512GB model. On the other hand, the iQOO Z8x 5G starts at RMB 1,299 for the 8GB + 128GB model, peaking at RMB 1,499 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. Three sleek color choices – Black, Blue, and White – allow for personalization.
For eager customers outside of China, the wait for the iQOO Z8 series continues, with an anticipated launch date of September 7th in the Chinese market. While details regarding an India launch remain under wraps, whispers suggest that the series might grace Indian shores come September or October. An Indian audience was recently treated to the iQOO Z7 Pro 5G on August 31st, boasting the formidable MediaTek Dimensity-8200 SoC and a triple-camera setup led by a 64MP main camera.
Design and Display: A Feast for the Eyes
Elegantly designed, both the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G flaunt a similar aesthetic. Their punch-hole selfie camera cutout is centrally placed, while a rectangular camera module resides on the rear along with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The color palette consists of Black, Blue, and White variants. With dimensions of 164.58mm×75.80mm×8.79mm and a weight of 200 grams, the iQOO Z8 5G maintains a slender profile. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z8x 5G measures 164.63mm×75.80mm×9.10mm and weighs in at 199.6 grams.
Both phones are graced with a 6.64-inch FHD+ IPS LCD display, boasting an impressive 2388 × 1080 pixel resolution and a 19.9:9 aspect ratio. The cherry on top? A buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate that elevates user interaction to new heights. Accompanied by HDR10+ support, the display's vibrancy and contrast ensure a delightful visual experience.
Performance and Software: The Powerhouse Within
Fueling these devices are two distinct powerhouses from the leading processor manufacturers. The iQOO Z8 5G harnesses the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC – an octa-core marvel featuring four Cortex-A78 cores clocked up to 2.6GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores clocked up to 2GHz. Its graphical prowess is bolstered by the Mali-G77 MC6 GPU. Conversely, the iQOO Z8x 5G relies on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, boasting eight cores with four Kryo-680 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and four Kryo-680 cores ticking at 1.8GHz, accompanied by the Adreno-710 GPU.
Both devices embrace the world of 5G with dual-mode connectivity that supports both SA (standalone) and NSA (non-standalone) networks. A wealth of connectivity options, from Wi-Fi 7 to Bluetooth 5.x and NFC, cater to modern connectivity needs.
Storage and RAM variants vary, with the iQOO Z8 5G offering up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z8x 5G presents up to 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage. The inclusion of a microSD card slot offers further expansion for storage enthusiasts.
Operating on the Android 13-based OriginOS 13, a tailored Vivo skin, both phones deliver a polished user interface laden with features. With tweaks like Huarong Grid layout, Super Card pack, Atomic Notification, and Multi-Turbo 6.x optimization, a smooth and engaging experience is guaranteed.
Cameras: Capturing Life's Moments
The camera setups on the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G differ, painting unique imaging landscapes. The iQOO Z8 5G boasts a dual rear camera configuration, led by a 64MP primary lens supported by LED flash and OIS (optical image stabilization). A 2MP secondary camera contributes depth-sensing capabilities. Video prowess extends to 4K resolution at 60fps or 1080p resolution at 240fps. The iQOO Z8x 5G mirrors this setup but steps down to a 50MP primary camera, maintaining the secondary 2MP depth sensor. Video capabilities max out at 4K resolution at 30fps or 1080p resolution at 120fps.
Front-facing cameras also follow suit, with the iQOO Z8 5G flaunting a 16MP selfie shooter and the iQOO Z8x 5G opting for an 8MP variant. Video recording at 1080p and 30fps ensures selfies are a delight.
Camera enthusiasts will revel in features like night mode, portrait mode, panorama mode, time-lapse mode, slow-motion mode, and AI scene recognition – allowing creativity to flourish.
Battery and Charging: Power for the Long Haul
Battery life won't be a concern with the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G. The former is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, while the latter boasts a hefty 6,000mAh capacity. Fast charging technology takes center stage, with the iQOO Z8 5G supporting astonishing 120W fast charging, replenishing the battery from 0% to 100% in a mere 15 minutes. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z8x 5G utilizes 44W fast charging, achieving a full charge in approximately 50 minutes.
Both devices sport USB Type-C ports for seamless charging and data transfer, and they also retain the cherished 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to audiophiles who value the analog audio experience.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Fit
In the grand showdown between the iQOO Z8 5G and the iQOO Z8x 5G, we find ourselves faced with an exquisite dilemma. Both phones encapsulate the essence of innovation, offering premium features within a mid-range package. The decision rests on a careful consideration of your priorities and budget.
For those craving peak performance, superior storage options, higher camera resolutions, and lightning-fast charging, the iQOO Z8 5G emerges as the frontrunner. Although priced a touch higher, the dividends of these elevated specs are undeniably appealing.
Alternatively, the iQOO Z8x 5G extends an invitation to budget-conscious consumers without compromising much in terms of value. While it may take a slight step back in terms of performance and camera capabilities, the savings generated might resonate more with practical users.
As the Indian market awaits the arrival of the iQOO Z8 series, enthusiasts can find solace in the recently unveiled iQOO Z7 Pro 5G – a testament to iQOO's commitment to delivering exceptional devices.
Conclusion
The iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G stand as shining examples of what the mid-range 5G realm can achieve. With compelling displays, potent processors, and innovative camera systems, they beckon users into a world of technological splendor. The choice is yours to make – tread the path of the iQOO Z8 5G for unparalleled performance, or embrace the iQOO Z8x 5G for a budget-friendly yet remarkable experience.
Keep your eyes peeled for the imminent launch of the iQOO Z8 series in India, as the brand continues to redefine our expectations of mobile technology. And as we look to the horizon, one thing is certain: iQOO's commitment to excellence will undoubtedly propel them to even greater heights in the competitive smartphone landscape.
FAQs for iQOO Z8 series
Q1: What are the main differences between the iQOO Z8 5G and the iQOO Z8x 5G?
A1: The primary differences include the processors, storage options, camera resolutions, and charging speeds. The iQOO Z8 5G offers better performance, more storage choices, higher camera resolutions, and faster charging speeds compared to the iQOO Z8x 5G.
Q2: What processors power the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G?
A2: The iQOO Z8 5G is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC, while the iQOO Z8x 5G features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC.
Q3: Do the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G support 5G connectivity?
A3: Yes, both phones support dual-mode 5G connectivity, compatible with both SA (standalone) and NSA (non-standalone) networks.
Q4: What are the storage options available for these phones?
A4: The iQOO Z8 5G offers up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage, while the iQOO Z8x 5G offers up to 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage.
Q5: How does the camera setup differ between the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G?
A5: Both phones have dual rear camera setups, but the iQOO Z8 5G has a 64MP primary camera and the iQOO Z8x 5G has a 50MP primary camera. The front cameras also vary, with the iQOO Z8 5G having a 16MP selfie camera and the iQOO Z8x 5G featuring an 8MP selfie camera.
Q6: Which phone offers faster charging?
A6: The iQOO Z8 5G boasts rapid 120W fast charging, which can fully charge the phone in just 15 minutes. The iQOO Z8x 5G supports 44W fast charging, providing a full charge in around 50 minutes.
Q7: Are the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G available in different colors?
A7: Yes, both phones come in three color options: Black, Blue, and White.
Q8: What display features do the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G offer?
A8: Both phones feature a 6.64-inch FHD+ IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a resolution of 2388 × 1080 pixels.
Q9: When will the iQOO Z8 series launch in India?
A9: While there's no official date, reports suggest that the iQOO Z8 series might launch in India around September or October.
Q10: How do the iQOO Z8 5G and iQOO Z8x 5G compare to other mid-range 5G phones?
A10: These phones stand out with their high refresh rate displays, powerful processors, ample storage, impressive camera capabilities, and fast charging. Their comparison with other mid-range 5G phones emphasizes their competitive edge and value for money.
