Honor X9c is a feature-packed mid-range smartphone launched in December 2024. It boasts a large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset and offering up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage, it ensures efficient multitasking and ample space.
The 108 MP primary camera captures stunning photos, while the 6600 mAh battery with 66W fast charging ensures long-lasting performance. With its IP65 rating for water and dust resistance, the X9c is built to withstand everyday challenges, offering great value for money.
Detailed Build and Durability
The Honor X9c’s build quality deserves applause. Measuring 162.8 x 75.5 x 8 mm and weighing 189 g, it strikes the right balance between being lightweight and sturdy. Unlike many competitors, Honor has taken durability seriously, offering an IP65 water and dust resistance rating and drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 2 meters. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value longevity.
Real-World Durability Test
While Honor advertises resistance to harsh conditions, it’s worth noting that real-world usage often pushes these claims to the limit. Users who frequently travel or work in challenging environments will appreciate the extra protection.
Display Brilliance for Multimedia Lovers
Honor X9c’s 6.78-inch AMOLED panel delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. With 1 billion color support and a 120Hz refresh rate, scrolling and animations feel buttery smooth. Its 4000 nits peak brightness ensures unparalleled visibility even under harsh sunlight, making it a treat for outdoor usage.
Gaming and Streaming Performance
For gamers and binge-watchers, the display truly shines. Titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile look vivid, and streaming content in HDR on platforms like Netflix takes full advantage of the AMOLED’s deep contrast.
Performance Deep Dive
Equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, the Honor X9c is no slouch in the performance department. It’s built for multitasking, casual gaming, and handling day-to-day apps effortlessly.
Benchmark Insights
On synthetic benchmarks, this chipset scores decently, surpassing competitors like MediaTek Dimensity 920 but falling short compared to Snapdragon 7 Gen 2. The Adreno 710 GPU provides solid graphical output, though it may show limitations in demanding AAA mobile titles.
RAM and Storage Variants
With storage options up to 512GB paired with 12GB of RAM, users can expect seamless performance and plenty of space for media, apps, and files. However, the absence of a microSD card slot limits expansion for heavy users.
Camera: The Good, The Bad, and the Practical
The 108 MP primary camera stands out as the star of the show. With OIS (optical image stabilization) and a large sensor, it captures sharp and vibrant images even in low-light settings.
Ultrawide and Selfie Camera
While the 5 MP ultrawide camera offers decent shots for landscapes, its resolution feels underwhelming compared to the competition. The 16 MP front camera, although not groundbreaking, gets the job done for social media-worthy selfies.
Videography Potential
The Honor X9c’s ability to shoot 4K at 30fps on the rear camera adds versatility, but its lack of advanced stabilization may deter content creators seeking professional-grade results.
Battery: More Juice for the Road
The 6600 mAh battery is one of the highlights, ensuring all-day usage for most users. Whether it’s heavy gaming or prolonged streaming, the device holds up admirably.
Charging Speed
With 66W fast charging, the phone can go from 0 to 70% in just about 30 minutes. This is particularly beneficial for busy users who need quick top-ups.
Competitor Comparison
Here’s how the Honor X9c stacks up against its peers:
| Feature | Honor X9c | Samsung Galaxy A54 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.78″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.4″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.67″ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | Exynos 1380 | Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 |
| Main Camera | 108 MP + 5 MP | 50 MP + 12 MP + 5 MP | 200 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP |
| Battery | 6600 mAh, 66W | 5000 mAh, 25W | 5100 mAh, 67W |
| Price (Global Avg.) | $320 | $350 | $350 |
Who Should Buy the Honor X9c?
- Frequent Travelers: Thanks to its rugged build and long battery life.
- Content Viewers: The AMOLED display and stereo speakers enhance the experience.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Offers flagship-like features at a mid-range price.
Who Should Skip It?
- Pro Photographers: The camera setup, while capable, isn’t industry-leading.
- Expandable Storage Seekers: Lack of microSD support could be a dealbreaker.
Honor X9c Pricing Across Regions
| Country | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| United States | ~$320 |
| United Kingdom | ~£260 |
| India | ~₹26,500 |
| Nigeria | ~₦235,000 |
| Europe | ~€300 |
Full specification for the Honor X9c:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Network Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch | Announced: November 2024, Available: November 2024 |
| Body | Dimensions: 162.8 x 75.5 x 8 mm, Weight: 189 g |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), IP65M (Water/Dust Resistant), Drop-to-concrete resistance up to 2m |
| Display | 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 4000 nits (peak), 1224 x 2700 pixels (~437 ppi density) |
| OS | Android 14, Magic OS 8 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (4×2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Adreno 710 |
| RAM | 8GB, 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB |
| Card Slot | No |
| Main Camera | Triple: 108 MP (f/1.8, wide), 5 MP (f/2.2, ultrawide) |
| Camera Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie Camera | 16 MP (f/2.5, wide) |
| Selfie Video | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound | Stereo speakers, No 3.5mm jack |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Infrared Port | Yes |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| Sensors | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery | 6600 mAh, non-removable |
| Charging | 66W wired, Reverse wired |
| Colors | Titanium Purple, Titanium Black, Jade Cyan |
| Price | Around 300 EUR |
Final Verdict
The Honor X9c is a well-rounded smartphone that blends performance, durability, and affordability. It may not be the best in every category, but its unique combination of features makes it a compelling option for anyone looking for a reliable daily driver. Whether you’re a casual user or someone who values ruggedness and display quality, the X9c delivers excellent value.
