The POCO F4 5G is a mid-range smartphone offering a compelling blend of power, display quality, and fast charging at a competitive price point. Launched in June 2023, it sits as a successor to the popular POCO F3, aiming to deliver a well-rounded experience for everyday users and gamers alike.
Performance
At its core, the POCO F4 5G boasts the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor, a powerful chipset that was previously found in flagship devices. This translates to smooth performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even demanding games at moderate graphics settings. While the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processors offer superior performance, the 870 remains a capable option for users who prioritize value. The phone comes in two RAM configurations: 6GB and 8GB, paired with either 128GB or 256GB of storage, offering enough options for diverse user needs.
Display
The POCO F4 5G features a large 6.67-inch E4 AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This translates to vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth user experience, especially when scrolling through social media or playing games. The display also supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, enhancing the viewing experience for compatible content.
Camera
The rear camera system of the POCO F4 5G consists of a triple-lens setup: a 64MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 2MP macro sensor. While the camera system may not compete with the best flagships on the market, it delivers decent image quality in good lighting conditions. The OIS on the main sensor helps to reduce blur in low-light situations, while the ultrawide sensor offers a wider perspective for capturing landscapes or group photos. However, the macro sensor might not be very useful in most scenarios. The front-facing camera is a 20MP sensor, suitable for selfies and video calls.
Battery and Charging
The POCO F4 5G packs a 4500mAh battery, which is adequate for a day’s worth of moderate usage. However, heavy users might need to top up the phone during the day. Thankfully, the phone supports 67W fast charging, allowing you to quickly power up the battery in under an hour.
Design and Build Quality
The POCO F4 5G features a plastic back and a plastic frame, which helps to keep the weight down and the cost competitive. While some users might prefer a glass or metal build for a more premium feel, the plastic construction feels sturdy and comfortable to hold. The phone is available in three color options: Night Black, Nebula Green, and Moonlight Silver.
Software
The POCO F4 5G runs on MIUI 13 for POCO, based on Android 13. MIUI is a feature-rich custom skin that offers various customization options and additional features compared to stock Android. However, it also comes with pre-installed bloatware that some users might find annoying.
Who is the POCO F4 5G for?
The POCO F4 5G is a good option for users looking for a powerful and feature-rich mid-range smartphone at an attractive price point. Gamers who prioritize smooth performance and a high refresh rate display will find it appealing. However, those seeking the absolute best camera experience or a premium build quality might need to look elsewhere.
In conclusion, the POCO F4 5G delivers a compelling package with a powerful processor, a beautiful display, and fast charging. While it might not be the most premium phone on the market, it offers excellent value for the price, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone segment.
