Honor X9b vs. the Rest: A Comparative Review

Introduction:

Honor has made waves with its X series, and the Honor X9b continues this tradition by offering an impressive set of features at an affordable price. Launched on January 8, 2024, the X9b is designed to provide a compelling smartphone experience without breaking the bank. In this honest review, we'll take a closer look at its key aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build:

The Honor X9b follows a modern design language with a punch-hole display and a toughened body that combines glass on the front and a choice of plastic or eco-leather on the back. The device feels sturdy in hand, with dimensions of 163.6 x 75.5 x 8 millimeters and a weight of 185 grams. However, it lacks water resistance, so caution is advised around liquids.

Display:

Featuring a spacious 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution (1220 x 2652 pixels), the X9b offers vibrant colors and a crisp viewing experience. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth interactions, and the 1200 nits peak brightness makes the screen readable even in bright sunlight. The 360° whole-device protection adds an extra layer of durability to the display.

Camera System:

The triple-camera setup on the back, with a 108 MP main lens, delivers good performance for its price range. The inclusion of features like PDAF, ultrawide, macro, and HDR provides versatility in various shooting conditions. However, video stabilization is notably absent. The 16 MP front camera captures decent selfies and supports Full HD video recording.

Battery Life:

A standout feature of the Honor X9b is its massive 5800 mAh non-removable battery. Combined with the efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset and 12 GB of RAM, the device offers commendable battery life. The 35W fast charging ensures quick top-ups, and the inclusion of reverse charging adds a useful layer of versatility.

Performance:

Powered by Android 13 with Magic UI 7.2, the X9b offers a smooth and customizable user experience. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, coupled with 12 GB of RAM, provides satisfactory performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. The Adreno 710 GPU handles graphics reasonably well, making the device suitable for casual gaming.

Storage and Connectivity:

With 256 GB of internal storage (UFS 2.2), the X9b offers ample space for apps, media, and files. While the absence of a microSD slot may be a drawback for some users, the generous internal storage should accommodate most needs. Connectivity options include 5G support, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v5.1, and NFC (market dependent).

Security and Biometrics:

The X9b incorporates in-display (optical) fingerprint recognition and facial recognition for biometric security. Both methods are responsive and provide convenient options for unlocking the device.

Audio and Additional Features:

While the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack may disappoint traditionalists, the loudspeaker and noise-canceling microphone deliver satisfactory audio quality. The inclusion of Honor's additional features, such as the suite of sensors and various connectivity options, enhances the overall user experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Honor X9b offers a compelling package for users seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with a robust set of features. Its standout aspects include the massive battery, impressive display, and a capable camera system. While it may lack certain premium features, the X9b's affordability makes it an attractive option for users who prioritize functionality without breaking the bank. If you're in the market for a reliable device that balances performance and cost-effectiveness, the Honor X9b deserves serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Honor X9b:

**1. When was the Honor X9b announced and released?**

- The Honor X9b was announced on October 18, 2023, and it was first released in October 2023. The BD (Bangladesh) release occurred on January 8, 2024.

**2. What are the available color options for the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b is available in Sunrise Orange, Midnight Black, and Emerald Green colors.

**3. Does the Honor X9b support 5G connectivity?**

- Yes, the Honor X9b supports 5G connectivity, providing faster data speeds and improved network performance.

**4. What is the display size and resolution of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution of 1220 x 2652 pixels and a pixel density of 431 ppi.

**5. What is the material used in the construction of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b has a toughened body with a glass front and a choice of a plastic or eco-leather back.

**6. Is the Honor X9b water-resistant?**

- No, the Honor X9b does not have water resistance. Users are advised to exercise caution around liquids.

**7. What is the battery capacity of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b is equipped with a non-removable Lithium-polymer 5800 mAh battery.

**8. Does the Honor X9b support fast charging?**

- Yes, the Honor X9b supports 35W fast charging, allowing for quick charging of the device.

**9. Is wireless charging available on the Honor X9b?**

- No, the Honor X9b does not support wireless charging. However, it features reverse charging, allowing the device to charge other compatible devices.

**10. What is the operating system of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b runs on Android 13 with the Magic UI 7.2 user interface.

**11. What is the chipset, RAM, and internal storage of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, has 12 GB of RAM, and comes with 256 GB of internal storage (UFS 2.2).

**12. Does the Honor X9b have a microSD card slot for expandable storage?**

- No, the Honor X9b does not have a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

**13. What are the camera specifications of the Honor X9b?**

- The Honor X9b features a triple rear camera setup with a 108 MP main lens, 5 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. The front camera is 16 MP.

**14. Is there a 3.5mm headphone jack on the Honor X9b?**

- No, the Honor X9b does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack. Users can use USB Type-C or Bluetooth for audio connectivity.

**15. What biometric security features does the Honor X9b offer?**

- The Honor X9b includes in-display (optical) fingerprint recognition and facial recognition for biometric security.