Launched in March 2024, the Poco C61 caters to the budget-conscious user seeking a reliable and functional smartphone. It prioritizes affordability without skimping entirely on features, making it a strong contender in the entry-level market. Let’s delve into what the Poco C61 offers.
Display and Design
The Poco C61 boasts a large 6.71-inch HD+ (720×1650 pixels) display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. This translates to a visually immersive experience, especially for everyday tasks like browsing and watching videos. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures a noticeably smoother scrolling experience compared to traditional 60Hz displays. Corning Gorilla Glass 3 provides a layer of protection against scratches and minor bumps.
The phone comes in three attractive colors: Diamond Dust Black, Ethereal Blue, and Mythical Green. The back features a “Radiant Ring Design” that Poco claims enhances the phone’s aesthetics. While subjective, this design element adds a touch of personality compared to a plain back panel.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Poco C61 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G36 processor. This chipset is well-suited for everyday tasks and light gaming. It is paired with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking. Storage options include 64GB or 128GB, expandable via a microSD card for additional storage needs.
The phone runs the latest Android 14 out of the box, offering a clean and up-to-date user experience. Stock Android or a lightly customized version is likely, minimizing bloatware and ensuring a smooth experience.
Cameras
The camera system on the Poco C61 is basic. The rear setup features an 8-megapixel primary sensor accompanied by a secondary 0.08-megapixel sensor, likely for depth effects. While it won’t capture award-winning photos, it should suffice for casual picture taking. The front-facing camera is 5 megapixels, suitable for video calls and basic selfies.
Battery and Connectivity
The Poco C61 packs a massive 5000mAh battery, a significant strength for this price range. This ensures long-lasting usage on a single charge, eliminating the need for frequent top-ups. However, the charging speed is limited to 18W, which is somewhat slow compared to some competitors.
Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v5.40, GPS, and a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. The phone lacks NFC (Near Field Communication) for contactless payments, which might be a drawback for some users.
Price and Conclusion
The Poco C61 starts at ₹6,999 (approx. $85) in India for the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant. This makes it a highly affordable option for those seeking a basic smartphone with a large display, long battery life, and a smooth user experience.
Who Should Consider the Poco C61?
- Budget-conscious users looking for a reliable daily driver
- Users who prioritize battery life and a large display
- Gamers on a tight budget for casual gaming
