For a long time, Poco has been associated with value-first smartphones—devices that make calculated compromises to deliver strong performance at aggressive prices. That identity hasn’t disappeared, but it has clearly evolved. Over the past few years, Poco has been steadily moving beyond just “budget killers” and into a space where it challenges flagship devices, albeit with a different set of priorities.
The Poco X8 Pro Max feels like the clearest example of that shift so far. Instead of trying to be a perfectly balanced all-rounder, it leans heavily into performance and battery life. After using it as my daily driver, it’s evident that this focus works—but it also comes with some noticeable trade-offs.
1Design and usability: Solid, practical, slightly bulky
The design is clean and modern without being particularly distinctive. The flat frame and curved corners give it a familiar feel, and the overall finish is understated. The RGB lighting around the camera module adds a bit of personality, though in day-to-day use, it feels more like a novelty than a functional feature.
What stands out more is the build quality. The combination of a metal frame and Gorilla Glass gives the phone a sturdy, well-constructed feel. The added IP68/IP69K ratings also bring a level of durability that isn’t always guaranteed in this segment.
That said, the size and weight are hard to ignore. This is a large and relatively heavy phone, and while I got used to it after a few days, one-handed use is not comfortable. It’s clearly designed for users who prioritize screen size and battery capacity over compactness.
The ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor is one of the better implementations I’ve used recently. It’s quick, accurate, and works reliably even with slightly wet fingers—something optical sensors often struggle with.
