Introduction
The Honor X9c 5G positions itself as a robust midrange smartphone with a focus on durability, advanced AI features, and a balanced hardware package. After using it intensively for 15 days, here’s a detailed look at how it performs in real-world use, from its display quality to camera prowess, gaming performance, and day-to-day usability.
Unboxing & First Impressions
- Packaging: The device comes in sleek packaging. Opening the box, you get:
- The Honor X9c 5G smartphone
- A transparent silicone case and additional documentation
- 66W fast charging adapter
- Type A-to-Type C charging/data cable
Build Quality & Durability
- Durability Standout: Honor phones have always been known for their durability, and the X9c is no exception.
- Drop & Water Resistance:
- Survived a drop test with zero damage or screen cracks.
- Comes with IP65 certification, resisting 360° water splashes.
- Features Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology 2.0, protecting the phone from drops up to 2 meters.
Display Experience
- Size & Specs: 6.78” curved 3D AMOLED display
- Resolution & Smoothness:
- 1.5K resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth visuals
- Minimal bezels enhance the premium feel
- Brightness & Eye Protection:
- Peaks at 4000 nits, ensuring great visibility outdoors and indoors
- 3840Hz PWM dimming to reduce flicker and eye strain, particularly in low light
- Features & Support:
- Widevine L1: Supports high-definition content on Netflix, but no HDR support yet
- YouTube maxes out at 4K 60fps (no HDR)—potentially fixable with a future software update
OS, UI, and AI Features
- Operating System: Ships with Magic OS 9.0, based on Android 15
- UI Experience:
- Fluid and refined feel after uninstalling some preloaded bloatware (e.g., TikTok)
- AI Tools:
- AI Eraser in Camera: Remove unnecessary background objects seamlessly
- AI Out-Painting: Expands your images naturally with generated backgrounds
- Parallel Space: Separate private space for apps, protected by biometrics
- Magic Capsule: Dynamic Island-style notifications for managing apps and playback
- Circle & Knuckle to Search: Innovative gesture-based features for multitasking
- Direct Note-Saving: Highlight text in any app and save it straight to Magic Space
Performance & Gaming
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (slightly dated but capable)
- RAM & Storage:
- 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 256GB UFS 3.1 storage (1.8 Gbps read/write speeds)
- Benchmarks:
- AnTuTu score: 580,000+ (decent for the price)
- CPU throttling: Maintains 83% max performance consistently
- Gaming:
- BGMI: Runs smoothly at 60fps (Smooth + Extreme settings)
- Call of Duty Mobile: Achieves up to 90fps
- Game Mode: Boost CPU, customize settings, and use gyroscope for improved control
- No noticeable lag or heating issues during extended play sessions
Camera Review
- Rear Cameras:
- Main: 108MP with OIS
- Ultra Wide: 5MP
- Front Camera:
- 16MP for selfies and video
- Photography Results:
- Rear camera performs impressively with good dynamic range and crisp details
- Ultra wide shots acceptable for the price, though not extraordinary
- Portrait mode and indoor/outdoor selfies turn out well
- Video:
- Rear: 4K at 30fps—decent quality but stabilization is only moderate
- Front: 1080p at 30fps—wide frame and natural colors
- Sample Output:
- Some shaking in rear video footage despite OIS
- Audio from video recordings is clear and well-balanced
Battery Life & Charging
- Capacity: Huge 6600mAh battery—key highlight
- Charging: 66W fast charging support
- Endurance:
- Two days heavy use is realistic for most users
- Fast charging minimizes downtime
Connectivity & Additional Features
- Dual 5G SIM support
- NFC enabled
- Bluetooth 5.1 (rather than the more current 5.3/5.4)
- Reliable in-display fingerprint reader
- No memory expansion option in SIM slot
- Dual firing speakers: loud and clear
Pricing & Value
- At the time of review: Sold for ₹19,999 during sales, currently ₹21,999 on Amazon.
- Value for Money:
- AI features and build quality are standout pros
- Excellent display for the price segment
- Some feature compromises (no HDR, dated Bluetooth/proc)
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Outstanding durability & drop safety | No HDR on Netflix/YouTube |
| Vibrant, bright 120Hz AMOLED | Bluetooth version not the latest |
| Unique & useful AI camera features | Processor a generation behind rivals |
| Impressive battery life | No memory card expansion |
| Fluid OTA and UI feel | Moderate video stabilization |
Conclusion
The Honor X9c 5G is a compelling all-rounder for users prioritizing durability, display quality, and intelligent software features. While it may not offer the absolute latest hardware, its robust design, practical AI-enabled features, and long battery life make it a strong choice in its price category.
If you want a modern device that stands up to drops, supports creative AI tools in photography, and offers all-day battery life, the X9c is worth considering. However, those needing top-of-the-line performance or advanced multimedia capabilities may find certain limitations.G Review After 15 Days: In-Depth Blog