iQOO Z10R Review: A Game-Changer in the Budget Smartphone Segment

Chandra Shekar

The smartphone market has witnessed a rapid evolution in recent years, with manufacturers introducing feature-packed devices at budget-friendly prices. Among these manufacturers, iQOO has emerged as one of the key players, offering powerful smartphones with premium features. The iQOO Z10R is one such device that has caught the attention of tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

This article delves deep into the specifications, features, performance, and overall value of the iQOO Z10R, explaining why it is a game-changer in the budget segment and how it compares to other competitors in its class.

1. Introduction to iQOO Z10R

The iQOO Z10R is a mid-range smartphone designed to offer an optimal balance of performance, design, and price. Known for its remarkable features, such as a high refresh rate display, a powerful chipset, and a capable camera setup, it positions itself as an excellent option for users seeking value for money without compromising on essential smartphone functions.

In the competitive smartphone landscape, iQOO has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on performance, and the Z10R is no exception. With the rising demand for affordable yet feature-rich smartphones, this device offers everything users need at a reasonable price point.

2. iQOO Z10R Design and Display

One of the first things that stands out about the iQOO Z10R is its sleek and modern design. The device comes with a 6.58-inch Full HD+ display that offers vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for content consumption, including streaming, gaming, and browsing. The IPS LCD panel provides a crisp viewing experience, even under direct sunlight, with an impressive brightness level that ensures clarity.

The 90Hz refresh rate is another standout feature of the Z10R, which enhances the overall fluidity of the user interface. Whether scrolling through social media or playing games, the smoothness of the display is highly noticeable, offering a more responsive experience compared to traditional 60Hz displays.

Additionally, the Z10R comes with a plastic body, which is durable but lightweight, making it easy to handle for extended periods. The phone is available in multiple color options, giving users the freedom to pick a style that suits their preferences.

3. Performance and Software

Under the hood, the iQOO Z10R is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset. The 5G-ready processor offers a significant performance boost compared to its predecessors, enabling users to enjoy fast app launches, smooth multitasking, and lag-free gaming. The Adreno 619 GPU handles graphics-heavy tasks with ease, making the Z10R a solid option for casual gamers who want a reliable gaming experience on a budget.

The smartphone comes with 6GB/8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, providing ample space for apps, games, and media. Additionally, the device supports expandable storage via a microSD card, ensuring that users don’t run out of space for their growing app libraries and media files.

In terms of software, the iQOO Z10R runs on Funtouch OS, based on Android 12. The custom skin adds some unique features and customization options, making the device feel fresh and user-centric. It also comes with a few pre-installed apps and bloatware, but they are minimal and can be removed if desired.

4. Camera Setup and Photography

The camera setup on the iQOO Z10R is one of its standout features. It sports a 50MP primary camera that captures stunning photos with ample detail and vibrant colors. The f/1.8 aperture ensures that the camera performs well even in low-light conditions, allowing users to take sharp and clear images during the evening or in dimly lit environments.

In addition to the main sensor, the iQOO Z10R features a 2MP depth sensor that aids in capturing portrait shots with blurred backgrounds, providing a professional-looking bokeh effect. While the camera setup isn’t as advanced as premium flagships, it performs well in its class, making the Z10R a solid choice for users who prioritize camera performance on a budget.

On the front, the phone comes with an 8MP selfie camera, which takes clear and detailed selfies, perfect for social media sharing or video calls.

5. Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is an essential factor for any smartphone, and the iQOO Z10R delivers on this front with its 5,000mAh battery. This large battery ensures that users can easily get through a full day of moderate to heavy use, including gaming, streaming, and social media browsing.

The Z10R also supports 18W fast charging, which can charge the device from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes, making it convenient for users who are on the go. While other phones in its segment may offer higher charging speeds, the 18W charging rate is still commendable and gets the job done efficiently.

6. Connectivity and 5G Support

With 5G becoming increasingly important for mobile users, the iQOO Z10R ensures that users stay future-proof with 5G connectivity. The Snapdragon 695 chipset supports both Sub-6 GHz 5G bands, providing fast data speeds and improved network reliability.

In addition to 5G, the phone also supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and NFC, ensuring a seamless and fast connection for all your needs, whether you’re streaming content, gaming, or transferring files.

7. iQOO Z10R Pros and Cons

Pros:

Impressive 50MP camera with great performance in different lighting conditions
90Hz refresh rate for a smooth display experience
Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery with fast charging
5G support for future-proof connectivity
Solid performance thanks to Snapdragon 695 chipset

Cons:

Plastic body may not feel as premium as metal alternatives
No AMOLED display, which could have enhanced the visual experience
Limited fast charging speed compared to other devices in the segment

8. Comparison with Competitors

In the mid-range segment, the iQOO Z10R faces tough competition from brands like Realme, Xiaomi, and Samsung. To better understand its place in the market, let’s compare it with some popular alternatives:

a) Realme Narzo 50 5G

The Realme Narzo 50 5G features a 48MP camera and 90Hz refresh rate display, similar to the Z10R.
Both smartphones come with a 5,000mAh battery, but the Z10R’s Snapdragon 695 gives it an edge in terms of raw processing power and 5G support.

b) Redmi Note 11T 5G

The Redmi Note 11T 5G offers a 50MP camera and a 90Hz display.
However, the iQOO Z10R edges ahead with better overall performance due to its superior chipset, making it ideal for those who prioritize gaming and multi-tasking.

c) Samsung Galaxy M32

The Samsung Galaxy M32 is equipped with a 64MP camera and an AMOLED display, making it the best choice for users who want superior display quality.
The iQOO Z10R, on the other hand, offers better performance for gaming and multitasking.

Conclusion: Is the iQOO Z10R Worth It?

The iQOO Z10R is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who want a feature-packed smartphone without breaking the bank. With its 50MP camera, 90Hz display, 5G connectivity, and powerful Snapdragon 695 processor, the Z10R offers a solid all-around package. While it doesn’t have the premium feel of some rivals, the device delivers in terms of performance, design, and battery life.

For users who want a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks, casual gaming, and photography, the iQOO Z10R is a strong contender in the mid-range segment. Its price-to-performance ratio is one of the best in its class, making it a worthwhile investment.