The iQOO Z9x 5G has made waves in India’s budget smartphone market with its compelling features, sleek design, and competitive pricing. Launched on May 16, 2024, this device promises robust performance, a massive battery, and a host of segment-first features. If you’re searching for a value-for-money 5G smartphone, this iQOO Z9x 5G review will dive deep into its specifications, price in India, performance, and whether it’s worth your investment. Let’s explore why this phone stands out in the crowded sub-Rs. 15,000 segment.
iQOO Z9x 5G: A Budget Powerhouse Unveiled
The iQOO Z9x 5G, a successor to the iQOO Z9 5G, brings a refined package tailored for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, it delivers impressive performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. With a massive 6,000mAh battery, a vibrant 6.72-inch 120Hz display, and an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, this phone is designed to impress.
Available in Tornado Green and Storm Grey, it combines aesthetics with durability, making it a strong contender against rivals like the Vivo T3x 5G and Realme P3 5G. For those interested in other iQOO models, check out the iQOO Neo 9 Pro price, specifications, and features for a higher-end alternative.
This article covers the iQOO Z9x 5G specifications, price in India, performance benchmarks like its AnTuTu score, and a detailed analysis of its features. We’ll also address common queries like “Is the iQOO Z9x 5G worth buying?” and “What is the processor of Z9x?” to help you make an informed decision.
iQOO Z9x 5G Specifications: What’s Under the Hood?
The iQOO Z9x 5G is packed with features that cater to both casual users and tech enthusiasts. Its 4nm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor ensures smooth performance, while the 6,000mAh battery promises exceptional endurance. The phone runs on Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14, offering a clean and customizable user experience. Here’s a closer look at its key specifications.
Processor and Performance
The heart of the iQOO Z9x 5G is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, a 4nm processor clocked at 2.2 GHz. This SoC delivers a balanced performance for multitasking, social media, video streaming, and casual gaming. In benchmark tests, the 8GB + 128GB variant achieved an impressive AnTuTu score of over 560,000, making it one of the fastest phones in its segment. The device supports up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM with an additional 8GB of virtual RAM expansion, ensuring fluid app switching and responsiveness.
For storage, it offers 128GB of UFS 2.2, expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card, providing ample space for apps, media, and files. If you’re curious about other Snapdragon-powered iQOO devices, explore the iQOO Neo 10 specifications and price.
The phone handles popular games like BGMI and Asphalt 9 smoothly, with minimal lag during extended sessions. Its “50-Month Smooth Experience” claim, backed by iQOO’s lab testing, highlights optimized software and hardware integration, though real-world performance may vary based on usage and network conditions.
Display and Design
The iQOO Z9x 5G features a 6.72-inch full-HD+ LCD display with a resolution of 1,080×2,408 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. With a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, the screen remains legible even in direct sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor use. The adaptive refresh rate (up to 120Hz) ensures smooth scrolling and animations while optimizing battery life. The display also incorporates eye-care technology to reduce strain during prolonged use.
In terms of design, the iQOO Z9x 5G is remarkably slim at 7.99mm, despite housing a massive 6,000mAh battery. Its plastic rear panel and frame, available in Tornado Green and Storm Grey, resist smudges and fingerprints effectively. The phone’s IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance is a segment-first, offering protection against accidental spills and light rain. A 3.5mm headphone jack, USB Type-C port, and side-mounted fingerprint scanner add to its practicality.
Battery and Charging
One of the standout features of the iQOO Z9x 5G is its 6,000mAh battery, which iQOO claims can last up to two days on a single charge with moderate usage. In real-world tests, the phone easily handles a full day of heavy tasks like gaming, streaming, and browsing. The 44W FlashCharge support allows the device to charge from 20% to 100% in approximately 61 minutes, with a 30-minute charge providing up to 10 hours of video playback. The battery retains at least 80% capacity after 1,600 charge cycles, equivalent to about four years of daily use, ensuring long-term reliability.
Camera Capabilities
The iQOO Z9x 5G sports a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor (f/1.8) and a 2MP bokeh sensor (f/2.4). The AI-backed camera delivers sharp and vibrant images in daylight, with good color reproduction. However, HDR mode may occasionally overexpose shots, and low-light performance is decent but not exceptional. The 8MP front camera (f/2.0) is adequate for selfies and video calls but tends to smoothen details in low light. While the camera system is functional, it lags behind competitors like the Realme P1 5G in terms of versatility and low-light quality. For a comparison with a gaming-focused iQOO model, check out the iQOO Neo 10R gaming phone under ₹27,000.
Software and Updates
Running on Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14, the iQOO Z9x 5G offers a smooth and customizable interface. iQOO promises two years of major Android updates and three years of security patches, ensuring the device stays relevant. The OS includes features like App Retainer for quick app restoration and minimal bloatware, which can be disabled for a cleaner experience. The 120Hz-optimized UI enhances responsiveness, making navigation seamless.
iQOO Z9x 5G Price in India: Value for Money?
The iQOO Z9x 5G is competitively priced to appeal to budget buyers. Here’s a breakdown of its pricing across variants:
| Variant | Price in India (as of May 26, 2025) | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 4GB RAM + 128GB | ₹11,355 – ₹12,999 | Amazon, Flipkart, iQOO eStore |
| 6GB RAM + 128GB | ₹14,499 | Amazon, Flipkart, iQOO eStore |
| 8GB RAM + 128GB | ₹15,999 – ₹17,895 | Amazon, Flipkart, iQOO eStore |
Prices may vary due to discounts, with offers like ₹1,000 off on ICICI Bank credit cards and ₹600 off on select variants available on Amazon and iQOO’s eStore. The lowest price recorded was ₹10,499 on Amazon with coupons, making it a steal for budget buyers.
Pros and Cons of iQOO Z9x 5G
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Massive 6,000mAh battery with 44W charging | Average camera performance in low light |
| Segment-first IP64 dust and water resistance | LCD display instead of AMOLED |
| Smooth 120Hz display with 1,000 nits brightness | Plastic build may feel less premium |
| Powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset | Limited RAM/storage configurations |
| Expandable storage up to 1TB | Bloatware in Funtouch OS (can be disabled) |
Comparison with Competitors
The iQOO Z9x 5G competes with devices like the Vivo T3x 5G, Realme P3 5G, and Moto G64 5G. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Feature | iQOO Z9x 5G | Vivo T3x 5G | Realme P3 5G | Moto G64 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | MediaTek Dimensity 6300 | MediaTek Dimensity 7025 |
| Display | 6.72″ LCD, 120Hz | 6.72″ LCD, 120Hz | 6.67″ LCD, 120Hz | 6.5″ LCD, 120Hz |
| Battery | 6,000mAh, 44W | 6,000mAh, 44W | 5,000mAh, 45W | 6,000mAh, 33W |
| Camera | 50MP + 2MP / 8MP | 50MP + 2MP / 8MP | 50MP + 2MP / 8MP | 50MP + 8MP / 16MP |
| Price (Starting) | ₹11,355 | ₹12,999 | ₹15,983 | ₹13,999 |
| IP Rating | IP64 | IP64 | None | IP52 |
The iQOO Z9x 5G offers a slight edge with its lower starting price and IP64 rating, but the Moto G64 5G provides a better selfie camera, and the Realme P3 5G has a slightly faster processor for gaming. For more on iQOO’s latest releases, read about the iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro launch date and specifications.
Is the iQOO Z9x 5G Worth Buying?
The iQOO Z9x 5G is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable 5G smartphone. Its massive battery, smooth display, and robust performance make it ideal for students, professionals, and casual gamers. The IP64 rating and expandable storage add significant value, especially at its price point. However, if camera quality is a priority, you might want to consider alternatives like the Realme P1 5G, which offers better low-light performance.
For those wondering, “Which country made iQOO Z9x 5G?”—iQOO is a sub-brand of Vivo, a Chinese company, but the phone is assembled in India to cater to local demand. The device’s value proposition is further enhanced by consistent software updates and a durable build, making it a future-proof option in the budget segment. For more details on iQOO’s premium offerings, explore the iQOO Neo 10 launch in India.
iQOO Z9x 5G AnTuTu Score and Gaming Performance
The iQOO Z9x 5G’s AnTuTu score of over 560,000 (tested on the 8GB + 128GB variant) places it among the top performers in its price range. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, paired with a 2.2 GHz clock speed, handles demanding tasks efficiently. In CPU tests, it scored 936 (single-core) and 2,812 (multi-core), with a GPU score of 1,343, indicating solid gaming capabilities. Casual gamers will appreciate the smooth frame rates in titles like Call of Duty Mobile, while the 120Hz display enhances the overall experience.
Accessories: iQOO Z9x 5G Cover Options
To protect your iQOO Z9x 5G, consider investing in a quality cover. Options like the CEDO Acrylic Crystal Clear Case (available on Amazon) offer 360-degree protection with a transparent design, while rugged cases provide extra durability for outdoor use. These covers ensure the phone’s slim profile and IP64 rating remain intact while safeguarding against drops and scratches.
Outbound Link for More Insights
For a deeper dive into budget smartphones, check out 91mobiles’ guide to the best camera phones under Rs. 15,000, which compares the iQOO Z9x 5G with other top contenders in the segment.
Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Budget Buyers
The iQOO Z9x 5G delivers exceptional value with its powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, long-lasting 6,000mAh battery, and segment-first IP64 rating. Priced starting at ₹11,355, it’s a compelling option for those seeking a feature-packed 5G smartphone without breaking the bank. While its camera performance could be better, the overall package—complete with a vibrant display, expandable storage, and reliable software updates—makes it a worthy contender in India’s budget market. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a casual user, the iQOO Z9x 5G is a phone that punches above its weight.
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