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Realme 16x vs Poco M8 Power: Which Phone Gives More for $300?

Realme 16x and Poco M8 Power take different approaches to the budget 5G segment. Realme focuses on durability, a fast 144Hz display and gaming-friendly features, while Poco pushes a larger battery, AMOLED screen and richer hardware. Here’s how the two compare on display, performance, cameras, battery and value.

Major Features:

CategoryRealme 16xPoco M8 PowerWinner
Display6.81-inch 144Hz IPS LCD, 1200 nits6.99-inch 120Hz AMOLED, 1800 nitsPoco — AMOLED and sharper resolution
BuildIP65, MIL-STD-810H, drop resistanceIP65Realme — stronger durability features
PerformanceDimensity 6300, up to 6GB RAMSnapdragon 4 Gen 4, up to 8GB RAMPoco — better chipset and RAM options
StorageUp to 256GB, shared microSD slotUp to 128GB, dedicated microSD slotRealme — higher maximum storage
Rear Camera50MP AF, 1080p up to 60fps50MP PDAF, 1080p 30fpsRealme — better video capability
Selfie Camera8MP, 1080p 30fps8MP, 1080p 30fpsTie — similar specifications
SpeakersSingle loudspeakerStereo speakersPoco — better multimedia audio
Battery7000mAh8000mAhPoco — larger capacity
Charging45W, 7W reverse, bypass charging45W, 22.5W reversePoco — stronger reverse charging
ConnectivityWi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, no NFCWi-Fi 6, NFC, IR blasterPoco — broader connectivity
Software SupportAndroid 16, up to 2 major updatesAndroid 16, up to 4 major updatesPoco — longer software support
Price / ValuePriced around $300 / ₹26,000Priced around $250 / ₹25,000Poco — more features for less
OverallRugged design and 144Hz displayAMOLED, bigger battery and richer featuresPoco — stronger all-round package
Disclaimer: Specs are based on available data. Actual performance may vary. Verify details from official sources before buying.

1. Design and Display

Build and Feel

The Realme 16x combines a glass front with a plastic frame and back, plus IP65 protection, MIL-STD-810H compliance, drop resistance and an RGB notification light. The Poco M8 Power also carries IP65 protection and adds stereo speakers with an under-display fingerprint sensor. Realme feels more rugged and practical, while Poco has a more premium multimedia-oriented character.

Display Quality

The Realme 16x uses an IPS LCD with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 1200 nits HBM brightness. Poco takes a significant step ahead with an AMOLED panel, 120Hz refresh rate, 1080p resolution, Gorilla Glass 7i and up to 1800 nits peak brightness. Realme’s higher refresh rate helps scrolling, but Poco’s AMOLED panel delivers deeper blacks, stronger contrast and sharper visuals.

Verdict

Poco wins the display category with its AMOLED technology, higher resolution, stronger brightness and Gorilla Glass 7i. Realme’s 144Hz panel is smooth, but Poco feels considerably more premium for entertainment and everyday viewing.

2. Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The Realme 16x uses the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 with up to 6GB RAM, while the Poco M8 Power uses the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 with up to 8GB RAM. Both offer UFS 2.2 storage, but Poco has a dedicated microSD slot. The Snapdragon platform and additional RAM make Poco better suited to multitasking and sustained everyday use.

Battery and Charging

Realme packs a 7000mAh battery with 45W wired charging, 7W reverse wired charging and bypass charging. Poco goes further with an 8000mAh battery, 45W charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging. Charging speeds are identical, but Poco’s larger battery and stronger reverse charging make it more attractive for heavy users who prioritize endurance.

Verdict

Poco wins on overall specifications with more RAM, a larger battery, stronger reverse charging and dedicated storage expansion. Realme’s bypass charging is useful for gaming, but Poco offers the broader hardware package.

3. Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

Both smartphones feature 50MP primary rear cameras with autofocus, but Poco specifies a 26mm equivalent lens, a 1/2.76-inch sensor and PDAF. Realme supports 1080p recording at up to 60fps, giving it an advantage for video flexibility. Poco is limited to 1080p at 30fps, although its PDAF system should help with focusing during everyday photography.

Selfie Camera

Both phones use an 8MP f/2.0 front camera capable of 1080p video at 30fps. Neither offers a higher-resolution selfie sensor or additional front-facing lens. For video calls, basic portraits and social-media selfies, the two should provide broadly similar capabilities, with neither establishing a major hardware advantage.

Verdict

Realme wins narrowly because its main camera supports 1080p recording at 60fps. Poco offers PDAF and more detailed sensor specifications, but Realme provides greater video flexibility.

4. Pricing

The Realme 16x is priced around $300, or approximately ₹26,000, while the Poco M8 Power is priced around $250, or approximately ₹25,000. Poco therefore undercuts Realme on price while offering a larger battery, an AMOLED display, more RAM, and several additional hardware features.

Is the Price Justified?

Realme’s higher price can be justified by its 144Hz refresh rate, ruggedness features, bypass charging and 60fps rear video recording. However, Poco offers considerably more display technology and battery capacity while also adding stereo speakers, NFC and an infrared port. Its hardware package feels stronger for buyers prioritizing features per rupee.

Verdict

Poco offers better value for money because its lower stated price comes with an AMOLED display, larger battery, more RAM, stereo speakers and broader connectivity. Realme makes more sense for buyers prioritizing ruggedness and bypass charging.

Disclaimer:
Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, launch timing, and applicable taxes. Always check whether the listed price is for a China unit or a global/international variant when purchasing.

5. Conclusion

The Realme 16x differentiates itself with a 144Hz display, MIL-STD-810H compliance, drop resistance, RGB notification light, bypass charging and 60fps rear video recording. The Poco M8 Power counters with AMOLED technology, Gorilla Glass 7i, stereo speakers, NFC, an IR port, dedicated microSD expansion and substantially stronger reverse charging.

Verdict

Poco M8 Power is the stronger overall choice for most buyers, combining a better display, larger battery, more RAM and richer features at a lower stated price. Realme 16x remains appealing for ruggedness, 144Hz smoothness and bypass charging.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.


FAQs

1. Which phone is better for gaming, Realme 16x or Poco M8 Power?
Poco M8 Power is better for gaming, thanks to its Snapdragon chipset, higher RAM options and larger battery.

2. Does Realme 16x take better photos than Poco M8 Power?
Realme 16x has an advantage for video recording, supporting 1080p at 60fps compared with Poco’s 30fps limit.

3. Which phone has better battery life?
Poco M8 Power should last longer between charges because its 8000mAh battery exceeds Realme 16x’s 7000mAh capacity.

4. Which phone offers better value for money?
Poco M8 Power offers stronger overall value with its AMOLED display, larger battery, stereo speakers and higher RAM options.

5. Should you buy Realme 16x or Poco M8 Power?
Choose Poco M8 Power for overall hardware value; Realme 16x suits buyers prioritizing durability and bypass charging.

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Nokia 300 Charge launches with a big 3700mAh battery for a feature phone

HMD has launched the Nokia 300 Charge feature phone globally. There’s nothing fancy about it. No smart assistant, no big camera, no touchscreen tricks. What you get instead is a phone built to last as long as possible.

The Nokia 300 Charge packs a 3,700mAh battery, a huge number for a feature phone, with a USB-C port for charging. HMD says the device offers up to 40 days of standby time and 37 hours of continuous talk time. 

Nokia 300 Charge COlors

There’s a neat trick tied to that big battery, too. The phone has a dedicated “Out” button on the side. Press it, and the Nokia 300 Charge switches on 10W reverse charging, so you can top up other compatible devices. 

It’s a similar idea to what HMD tried with the Nokia 123 Shield, another rugged, no-frills phone HMD launched with a focus on battery life over features.

🔌 You’ll NeedWith a 3,700mAh cell and USB-C charging, a proper wall charger gets you back to full much faster than a basic brick. Check Nokia USB-C fast charger price on Amazon →

Nokia 300 Charge Specifications

On the spec sheet, the Nokia 300 Charge measures 136.6 x 55 x 14.94mm and weighs 138g. It has a 2.4-inch LCD screen running at 320 x 240 resolution, a Unisoc SC6531E chip, and the S30+ operating system, the same chip and software combo found on the Nokia 123 Shield. Meanwhile, RAM and storage sit at just 4MB each. 

Nokia 300 Charge Launch Specs Price

As for connectivity, the phone only supports 900MHz and 1800MHz bands on 2G networks. That puts it in the same bracket as older Nokia feature phones, though HMD has been steadily adding USB-C ports across the lineup, following the shift it made with the Nokia 6310, 5310, and 230 a couple of years back.

HMD is selling the Nokia 300 Charge in three colors: sandstone, green, and black. Pricing is set at 2,190 Philippine pesos, which works out to roughly $38. 

There’s no word yet on when the phone will reach markets beyond the Philippines, but the company already lists the device on its global site, so the wait shouldn’t be long. 

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Poco F9 series finally has a global launch date

Poco has officially shared the global launch date for its new Poco F9 series. The phone that has been leaking for months will now launch globally on September 1.

The lineup reportedly includes two models: the Poco F9 Pro and the Poco F9 Ultra. Like its predecessor, the company is not releasing a standard model this time either.

Poco F9 series global launch date

The two phones are rebranded versions of the Redmi K100 Pro and Redmi K100 Pro Max, which already launched in China. Both are expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, including the gaming-focused V-series variant that debuted on the Chinese models.  

Luckily for us, a previous report has already revealed the specs of both phones along with the price.

Poco F9 Pro / F9 Ultra Specifications

The Poco F9 Pro is expected to feature a 6.59-inch QHD+ Plastic OLED display with a 185Hz refresh rate, while the F9 Ultra could get a larger 6.85-inch 2608 × 1200 panel. Both displays are reportedly developed with TCL CSOT, with Xiaomi contributing to the design and materials.

Both phones are tipped to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. The F9 Pro could pack a 6,330mAh battery, while the F9 Ultra may get an 8,050mAh cell. Both are expected to support 100W wired charging and USB PD.

Poco F9 series
Poco F9 series

For cameras, the F9 Pro may feature a 50MP main camera with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide and a 50MP 3x telephoto with OIS. The F9 Ultra could add a 50MP ultrawide and 50MP 5x telephoto. Both phones are expected to have 32MP selfie cameras and 8K video recording.

Other rumored features include Bose-tuned speakers, IP69 certification, and metal frames. The F9 Ultra could also have an LED notification ring around the camera module. 

The F9 Pro could start at €799 (~$920) for 12GB+256GB, while the F9 Ultra may start at €999 (~$1,150) for 16GB+512GB.

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Xiaomi announces AI Cube mini-PC with XRING O3, O100, and D100 to run LLMs locally

If you’ve been following the AI space closely, you likely know about Xiaomi’s growing suite of text, code, and voice LLMs. Now, the company has announced an in-house device to run these models, the Xiaomi AI Cube. 

It’s a prototype mini-PC built on three proprietary chips. Unveiled at today’s XRING Chip Technology Communication Conference, the device is powered by Xiaomi’s newly introduced XRING O3, XRING O100, and XRING D100 chips

Xiaomi AI Cube Announcement

Xiaomi AI Cube is powered by XRING SoCs

The XRING O3 is the main AI SoC inside the Cube. It has a 10-core all-big-core CPU layout, a 16-core G2-Ultra NX GPU, and a 200 TOPS low-power NPU. 

The XRING O100 is a high-bandwidth AI acceleration chip, built on 6nm 3D wafer-level stacking. It has 28,672 effective data lines and supports near-memory computing bandwidth of up to 1.22TB/s. 

Xiaomi AI Cube chips
Image: Machine Translated (XRING replaced by Genkai / Xuanjie in translation)

The XRING D100 is a 3nm chip meant for intelligent driving workloads, with a 20-core high-performance CPU, a 16-core high-performance NPU, and support for up to 160GB of memory.

On the outside, the AI Cube uses an aerospace-grade aluminum unibody casing with 33,874 CNC precision cutouts, and it can sustain up to 150W of continuous power.

The point of the hardware is local deployment of large models, ranging from 3B up to 120B parameters, with a toggle to switch between fast and slow system modes depending on the task. That puts it in similar territory to the Tiiny AI Pocket Lab, which also runs 120B-parameter models locally in a small form factor, though Xiaomi is using its own chips instead of third-party silicon.

This is still a prototype. Xiaomi hasn’t given a release date or price, so it’s unclear whether the AI Cube becomes an actual product or stays a technical demonstration.

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Redmi K100 Pro Max vs iQOO Neo 11 Ultra: Which Flagship Is Better?

Redmi K100 Pro Max and iQOO Neo 11 Ultra take different approaches to the flagship smartphone formula. Redmi focuses on an all-round premium experience with a 200MP camera, 5x periscope zoom and wireless charging, while iQOO targets performance enthusiasts with a powerful Dimensity chipset and a lower price. Here’s how the two compare across design, performance, cameras, battery and value.

Major Features:

CategoryRedmi K100 Pro MaxiQOO Neo 11 UltraWinner
BuildGlass front, aluminum frame, IP68/IP69Glass front, aluminum frame, IP68/IP69Tie — Both offer premium, durable builds
Display6.9-inch AMOLED, 185Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 4500 nits peak6.83-inch AMOLED, 144Hz, 1440p, 4500 nits peakRedmi — Higher refresh rate and broader HDR support
PerformanceSnapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, up to 16GB RAM, UFS 4.1Dimensity 9500M, up to 16GB RAM, UFS 4.1Redmi — Strong flagship performance and optimisation
StorageUp to 512GBUp to 512GBTie — Same maximum storage
Main Camera200MP wide with OIS50MP wide with OISRedmi — Higher-resolution primary camera
Telephoto50MP periscope, 5x optical zoom, OISNo dedicated telephotoRedmi — Much more versatile zoom capability
Ultrawide50MP, 102°8MPRedmi — Significantly stronger ultrawide
Selfie Camera32MP, 4K video16MP, 1080p videoRedmi — Higher resolution and 4K recording
Battery9070mAh9100mAhiQOO — Slightly larger capacity
Wired Charging100W100WTie — Same charging speed
Wireless Charging50WNot specifiedRedmi — Adds fast wireless charging
AudioBose-tuned 2.1 stereo, Dolby AtmosStereo speakersRedmi — More advanced audio system
ConnectivityWi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, IRWi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, IRRedmi — Newer Bluetooth standard
PricePriced around $700 / ₹63,000Priced around $500 / ₹50,000iQOO — Much lower price
Overall ValueMore features at a premiumFlagship hardware at a lower priceiQOO — Better value for performance-focused buyers
Disclaimer: Specs are based on available data. Actual performance may vary. Verify details from official sources before buying.

1. Design and Display

Build and Feel

The Redmi K100 Pro Max and iQOO Neo 11 Ultra both combine glass fronts with aluminum frames and offer IP68/IP69 protection, giving them a reassuring premium and durable character. Redmi adds Bose-tuned stereo audio, Dolby Atmos and a more elaborate 2.1 speaker system, making its multimedia experience particularly appealing. Both also feature ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanners.

Display Quality

Redmi uses an AMOLED panel with 68 billion colors, a 185Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, HDR Vivid, HDR10+ and BT.2020 support. iQOO counters with a sharper 1440p AMOLED display, 1 billion colors, 2160Hz PWM dimming and similarly impressive peak brightness. The Redmi display feels more feature-rich for gaming and HDR content, while iQOO’s higher resolution makes text and fine details look cleaner.

Verdict

Redmi wins for its faster refresh rate, broader HDR features and superior speaker setup. iQOO offers higher resolution, but Redmi delivers the more complete entertainment-focused display package.

2. Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The Redmi K100 Pro Max is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, paired with UFS 4.1 storage and up to 16GB RAM. iQOO uses the Dimensity 9500M with the same UFS 4.1 storage and RAM ceiling. Both are flagship-grade platforms, but Redmi’s Snapdragon chip gives it a particularly strong appeal for demanding gaming, sustained performance and broad software optimisation.

Battery and Charging

Battery capacity is almost identical, with Redmi offering 9070mAh and iQOO 9100mAh. Both support 100W wired charging, but Redmi goes further with 50W wireless charging, 27W reverse wired charging and 22.5W reverse wireless charging. That makes Redmi considerably more flexible for users who rely on multiple charging methods and accessories.

Verdict

Redmi takes this round with a stronger overall performance proposition and significantly more versatile charging. iQOO has excellent endurance, but Redmi offers a more complete flagship hardware package.

3. Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

Redmi has a major advantage in camera hardware, featuring a 200MP primary sensor with OIS alongside a 50MP periscope telephoto offering 5x optical zoom and OIS. Its 50MP ultrawide also provides substantially more flexibility than iQOO’s 8MP ultrawide. iQOO instead uses a 50MP main camera with OIS and a basic 8MP ultrawide, with no dedicated telephoto lens.

Selfie Camera

The difference continues on the front. Redmi’s 32MP selfie camera supports 4K video recording, while iQOO’s 16MP front camera is limited to 1080p at 30fps. Redmi is therefore better equipped for detailed selfies, video calls and creator-focused front-camera recording. iQOO’s simpler setup should still handle everyday photography, but it is clearly less ambitious.

Verdict

Redmi is the clear winner thanks to its 200MP main camera, dedicated 5x periscope telephoto, stronger ultrawide and higher-resolution 4K selfie camera. iQOO’s camera system feels notably less versatile.

4. Pricing

The Redmi K100 Pro Max is priced around $700 or ₹63,000, while the iQOO Neo 11 Ultra is priced around $500 or ₹50,000. That creates a sizeable price gap, with iQOO positioned as the more aggressive value-focused flagship. Redmi’s premium is easier to justify for buyers who specifically want advanced cameras, wireless charging and its broader multimedia package.

Is the Price Justified?

At around ₹50,000, the iQOO Neo 11 Ultra offers excellent value, particularly for users prioritising flagship-level performance, a high-resolution display and a large battery. Redmi demands considerably more, but the additional cost brings a much more capable camera system, wireless charging, better audio hardware and broader connectivity features.

Verdict

iQOO wins on pure value because its lower price delivers flagship performance and excellent battery life. Redmi is worth the premium for buyers who want stronger cameras and a more complete feature set.

Disclaimer:
Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, launch timing, and applicable taxes. Always check whether the listed price is for a China unit or a global/international variant when purchasing.

5. Conclusion

The Redmi K100 Pro Max stands out with its 200MP camera, 5x periscope telephoto, 50W wireless charging, Bose-tuned 2.1 stereo audio and exceptionally fast 185Hz AMOLED display. iQOO’s strengths are different: its sharper 1440p panel, 9100mAh battery and flagship Dimensity platform make it particularly attractive to performance-focused users. Both also provide IP68/IP69 protection and ultrasonic fingerprint scanners.

Verdict

Redmi is the more complete flagship, offering substantially stronger cameras, charging versatility and multimedia features. iQOO is the smarter value choice, delivering powerful hardware at a much lower price without major compromises in core performance.


FAQs

1. Which phone is better for gaming?
The Redmi K100 Pro Max has a slight edge with its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and 185Hz display.

2. Which has better camera zoom?
The Redmi K100 Pro Max is better, offering a dedicated 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom.

3. Which phone has better battery life?
Both offer excellent endurance with around 9,000mAh batteries, making either suitable for heavy daily use.

4. Which offers better value for money?
The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra offers stronger value because it delivers flagship performance at a significantly lower price.

5. Which phone should you buy?
Choose Redmi for cameras and features; choose iQOO if lower cost and flagship performance matter most.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.

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Xring O3 launches with 5.22M AnTuTu score and LPDDR6, Xiaomi 18 Fold preorders go live

Xiaomi has unveiled three new in-house chipsets for different parts of its technology ecosystem. The lineup includes the flagship Xring O3, AI-focused Xring O100, and intelligent-driving Xring D100. The Xring O3 stands out with a claimed AnTuTu score of 5.22 million, making it the first mobile SoC to cross the 5-million mark.

Xring O3 brings a major performance boost

Xiaomi 18 Fold confirmed
Xiaomi 18 Fold confirmed to launch in September

Built on a 3nm process, the Xring O3 features a 10-core CPU that delivers up to a 60% performance improvement. It also introduces the 16-core G2-Ultra NX GPU, with graphics performance claimed to be up to 85% higher and power efficiency improved by 64%. Xiaomi says the chipset scored 5.22 million points on AnTuTu, making it the first mobile SoC to cross the 5-million mark.

The Xring O3 is also Xiaomi’s first mobile chip with LPDDR6 memory support, offering bandwidth of up to 113.8GB/s. For AI workloads, it delivers 200 TOPS of tensor performance and 3.13 TFLOPS of vector performance, while NPU performance has increased by 45%. AI acceleration is distributed across the CPU, GPU, ISP, DPU, and ADSP, with static latency rated at 82ns. Xiaomi says development took 459 days.

XIaomi 18 Fold preorders
XIaomi 18 Fold preorders go live in China

Xiaomi has also confirmed that the Xring O3 will power the Xiaomi 18 Fold and Pad 9 Pro Max, both of which are scheduled to launch in September in China. Readers can visit this post to know more about these devices. Ahead of the launch, the company has already started receiving pre-orders of the 18 Fold, which will sport a wide foldable design.

Xring O100 and D100 target AI and cars

Xiaomi Xring series
Xiaomi Xring series

The Xring O100 is built on a 6nm process and uses a near-memory AI architecture designed to reduce memory bottlenecks. It combines vertical chip and memory stacking with millions of high-speed vertical channels to provide bandwidth of up to 1.22Tbps. Xiaomi expects the chipset to be used for on-device AI across phones, cars, and robots.

The Xring D100 focuses on intelligent driving. It is Xiaomi’s first domestic 3nm intelligent-driving AI chip, featuring a 20-core CPU and 16-core NPU. It supports up to 160GB of unified memory and can run AI models with up to 200 billion parameters locally. Development is complete, with commercial availability planned for 2027.

What do you think about Xiaomi’s new chip lineup, especially the Xring O3’s claimed performance?

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5 Best Mid-Range Phones of 2026

This is a script we write every year — listing the best mid-range smartphones you can buy. And there’s a reason we come back to it every year. Mid-range has always been the segment where brands trickle down flagship features, performance, and design choices into something that covers what most people actually need day to day, without a hefty price tag. 

This year, though, the story’s a little different. Our usual pattern is to find out the phones that are aggressively priced and offer the best bang for the buck. But 2026 threw a wrench into that formula. 

Best Mid-Range Smartphones

The global memory chip shortage, driven largely by AI data centers hoovering up DRAM and NAND supply, has pushed component costs up across the board, and mid-range devices have taken a real hit. Samsung reportedly pushed for as much as a 100% price hike on LPDDR5X memory, and brands everywhere from India to Europe have quietly raised prices on phones that used to sit comfortably under $500. 

So this year, mid-range stretches a bit further up the price ladder than it used to, and some of the phones below cost more than you might expect for the category. What hasn’t changed, fortunately, is the value proposition. You can still expect bright OLED screens, big batteries, and reliable cameras. 

Here are the five best mid-range phones you can get in 2026.  

1. Google Pixel 10a

Google-Pixel-10a-launch-specs-price

You know the Pixel formula by now, and Google didn’t mess with it much this year. The Pixel 10a starts at $499 and offers a 6.3-inch OLED display running at 120Hz with a Tensor G4 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a 5,100mAh battery. 

The camera setup keeps the same 48MP main sensor and 13MP ultrawide from last year’s model, and you also get a loyal seven years of OS and security update promise. The brand also launched the Pixel 10a with recycled cobalt, copper, gold, and tungsten making up more than a third of the phone’s weight.

Nothing here will wow you in a spec sheet comparison, and the design is basically a repeat of the 9a. But if you want a phone you can buy once and stop thinking about for years, this is it.

2. Nothing Phone (4a) Pro

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro

Nothing has never been shy about wanting its phones to look different, and the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is no exception. It swaps the brand’s usual plastic build for an aluminum unibody frame, adds a 6.83-inch AMOLED display that hits 144Hz, and carries over the circular Glyph Matrix from the pricier Phone (3), scaled down to 137 individually addressable LEDs on the back. 

Under the hood, it is powered by a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chip with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Nothing is asking $499 for all this. 

The camera experience isn’t as consistently impressive as what you get from Google’s Pixel lineup, and battery life isn’t its strongest point either. Still, if you care about having a phone that feels a little less generic, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is an easy one to recommend.

3. Samsung Galaxy A57 5G

Samsung-Galaxy-A57-5G

Samsung’s Galaxy A series has quietly become one of the strongest choices in the mid-range segment, and the Galaxy A57 continues that trend.

The A57 stands out because it feels more expensive than it actually is. Samsung has given it a slim design and a premium-looking glass-and-metal build, while also improving the hardware over the previous-generation A56.

It has a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display at 120Hz, a 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging, IP68 water and dust resistance, and a 50MP main camera backed by a 12MP ultrawide and 5MP macro lens. 

It is a particularly good choice if you already use Samsung devices. One UI makes you right at home, Samsung’s ecosystem is easy to work with, and the company is offering six years of OS upgrades and security patches. A recent teardown even scored the Galaxy A57 highly for repairability.

The downside is that it isn’t the most exciting phone for gaming. If raw performance is your priority, there are better options in this list.

4. Motorola Edge 70 Fusion

Motorola Edge 70 Fusion
Motorola Edge 70 Fusion

Motorola’s Edge Fusion lineup has always been about finding the sweet spot between price and features, and the Edge 70 Fusion is just that. It gives you enough hardware that you won’t feel like you’re settling.

The phone packs a 6.7-inch pOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, 5200 nits peak brightness, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chip, and a large 5,200mAh battery with 68W fast charging. The camera setup is led by a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, joined by a 13MP ultrawide camera.

Motorola also keeps the Edge 70 Fusion relatively slim and light, and it also has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Its main weakness is software support. 

Motorola has improved in this area, but it still doesn’t match Google’s seven-year commitment or Samsung’s six years of updates. Still, it’s an option you can consider if you want a good screen and battery life for entertainment. 

5. OnePlus Nord 6

OnePlus Nord 6 5G
OnePlus Nord 6

If the Pixel 10a is the sensible choice and the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is the one you buy with your heart, the OnePlus Nord 6 is the phone for people who just want things to be fast.

It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, paired with up to 12GB of RAM, giving it considerably more performance headroom than most phones in this price range. 

The phone also has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, while its 9000mAh battery gives it plenty of endurance. OnePlus supports that battery with 80W fast charging, so even when you do run it down, you don’t have to leave it plugged in for long.

The camera system isn’t the main reason to buy the Nord 6, and its design isn’t as distinctive as Nothing’s either. But that’s fine. OnePlus wants you to spend the money on performance and battery with the Nord 6.

The biggest catch with buying a OnePlus phone in 2026 comes down to availability. Since OnePlus has pulled out of almost every international market except India, the Nord 6 is really only a practical choice if you live there.

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Vivo V80 Lite 5G launches with 120Hz curved display, 7,050mAh battery, 50MP dual cameras

The Vivo V80 Lite 5G has gone official in Pakistan. It combines a curved display, large battery with a mid-range chipset, a 50-megapixel dual camera setup, and an attractive appeal. Continue reading ahead to learn more in detail about the V80 Lite.

Vivo V80 Lite 5G specifications and features

Vivo V80 LIte 5G
Vivo V80 LIte 5G

The Vivo V80 Lite 5G has an attractive design as it flaunts a curved AMOLED display on the front and a horizontal rear camera bar. It carries a 50-megapixel Sony IMX852 main camera, 2-megapixel bokeh camera, and a ring LED flash. On the front, it has a 32-megapixel front camera.

Vivo V80 Lite 5G
Vivo V80 Lite 5G

The phone has a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 449ppi density and up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness. It runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 and includes symmetrical stereo speakers and an in-display fingerprint sensor.

Power comes from the 4nm MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo. The phone gets 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM with 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, plus up to 8GB of extended RAM.

Vivo V80 Lite 5G
Vivo V80 Lite 5G

A 7,050mAh battery powers the phone with 44W charging. The handset also packs other features, such as bypass charging, Bluetooth 5.4, dual-band Wi-Fi, and USB 2.0 Type-C. Durability features include IP68 and IP69 ratings, five MIL-STD-810H certifications and drop testing across seven surfaces.

Vivo V80 Lite 5G price and availability

In Pakistan, the 8GB+128GB version costs PKR124,999 (~$450), while the 8GB+256GB model is priced at PKR145,999 (~$525). Buyers can choose from color variants, such as Sapphire Blue and Silk White.

VIvo V80 Lite 5G launch date
VIvo V80 Lite 5G launch date

Readers should note that the Vivo V80 Lite 5G is essentially a rebranded Vivo S2 sold in India. Vivo also has a separate V80 Lite 5G with a 10,000mAh battery for Southeast Asian markets such as Malaysia, while Bhutan is expected to get the S2-based V80 Lite soon.

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Xiaomi’s new fish tank with LCD display now up for crowdfunding

The Mijia Smart Fish Tank 2 Pro from Xiaomi is now up for crowdfunding, following the pre-order rollout Xiaomi kicked off last week. The campaign runs till August 31 on Xiaomi Youpin, with a crowdfunding price of 599 yuan (~ $90).

The tank’s water circulation system is the main upgrade here. According to Xiaomi, water passes through several layers of filter media in a set order, so impurities get caught step by step instead of slipping through from backflow or dead spots in the flow. 

The bio-filter cartridge uses a U-shaped water path to make the water travel farther through the filter. This gives beneficial bacteria more time to interact with the water, improving purification. It also has a separate layered filter box that first catches fish waste and leftover food, while several layers of filter cotton trap smaller particles and help drain the collected debris.

Above that sits a multi-functional water inlet chamber, which uses a multi-stage flow guide to push water evenly through the filters. The chamber also has a 5W waterproof expansion port, so you can pull the chamber out and slot in accessories like a UV lamp or heating rod without rearranging anything else.

The pump runs on an all-copper four-pole brushless motor with low-magnetic-loss circular silicon steel plates, giving it more power and a stronger flow rate. Xiaomi widened the inlet grille, impeller channel, and pump chamber clearance to keep debris from clogging things up, and paired a low-resistance ceramic shaft with sound-insulating cotton and a fully sealed motor to cut down on noise.

A built-in display and smarter controls

On the front, you get a 1.47-inch color LCD that shows water temperature, equipment status, and any alerts, so you don’t need to open the app just to check on things. The tank also ships with an automatic feeder that works in manual or smart mode. And if anything goes wrong, the Xiao Home app sends a notification right away.

Mijia Smart Fish Tank 2 Pro Display

Through the app, you can feed your fish remotely, adjust the water pump, monitor temperature, and set the tank to shut off automatically when the lid opens. Xiao Ai voice control also lets you turn the lights on and off with a single command. 

Based on how long the tank has been running, plus the fish species and headcount you enter, the system automatically tunes lighting, filtration, and overall operation to match. It’s a step up from the original Mijia Smart Fish Tank, which launched with a simpler filtration setup and no LCD readout.

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(Source)

Official: Vivo X500 series confirmed for September with cinema-grade video capabilities

Vivo has officially confirmed that the X500 series will arrive in September in China, with three models in the lineup: the X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. This also confirms that Vivo is skipping the X400 branding and moving directly from the X300 generation to X500. The number four is commonly avoided in parts of East Asia, including China, because its pronunciation is associated with death, a practice known as tetraphobia.

The company is positioning the upcoming generation around major camera and video upgrades, with a particular focus on bringing cinema-grade video capabilities to its flagship lineup.

Vivo X500 series focuses on cinema-grade video

Vivo X500 series first details confirmed
Vivo X500 series’ first details confirmed

Vivo Product Manager Han Boxiao revealed that the X500 series is being developed as a major imaging upgrade, with video receiving particular attention. The company says the Pro models will feature a Zeiss Super Dynamic main camera, jointly defined by Vivo’s BluePrint imaging team and Sony. The camera uses the new BluePrint Guangyu 900 sensor, which is a 50-megapixel 1/1.28-inch unit designed around high dynamic range.

The sensor can deliver up to 17EV of dynamic range, which Vivo describes as the highest in the industry. This capability is also being brought to video, allowing each frame to retain a wider range of highlights and shadows, particularly in challenging backlit scenes. The X500 Pro series will also support 4K 240fps slow-motion recording and 4K 120fps HDR video with direct HDR output.

The main camera supports 3° OIS with gimbal-level stabilization, while CIPA 7.0 professional stabilization is also part of the setup. Vivo is targeting steadier footage without requiring a dedicated gimbal, with the 3° OIS system specifically highlighted for the Pro Max.

Tipster Digital Chat Station has added more details about the camera hardware. According to the leak, the X500 series carries the internal codename “Thanos 500” and will retain a strong focus on both photography and video. The lineup is also expected to inherit the 200-megapixel “Thanos” telephoto camera from the Vivo X300 Ultra, using a custom large-format 200MP HP0 sensor and periscope lens.

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Exynos 2700’s Geekbench AI listing shows much higher CPU clock speeds than last time

Samsung’s next-generation flagship chipset has shown up in a Geekbench AI test, and the most interesting bit is the clock speeds. The numbers are much higher, and more believable, than the previous Geekbench CPU listing. The engineering sample still uses the same 1+4+1+4 quad-cluster setup we saw before, but every cluster is now running faster.

Back in April the clocks were capped between 2.30 and 2.88 GHz across all four clusters. This latest result is the first solid data point that gets close to the 4.3–4.6 GHz range currently occupied by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8-series peak clocks, with the prime core hitting 4.24 GHz.

The CPU identifier string (implementer 65, part 3478) matches the earlier low-clock run, so it looks like the same test platform. That part number (0xD96 in hex) lines up with Arm’s still-unannounced “Canyon” core, which is widely believed to be the C2-Ultra, the follow-up to the C1-Ultra used in the Exynos 2600.

Just like the previous Geekbench 6 leak, the new entry carries the S5E9975 ERD tag, shows about 10.67 GB of usable RAM, and is running an Android 17 build. All of that points to the same engineering reference device simply running at unlocked frequencies rather than a new hardware revision. Because Geekbench AI is focused on on-device machine-learning performance, we don’t get the usual single-core or multi-core CPU scores, but the device info panel still shows the full CPU layout and clock speeds.

The Exynos 2700 is expected to be built on Samsung’s second-generation 2 nm process (SF2P) and is tipped for the Galaxy S27 series, which is still about half a year away. As with any engineering sample, the clocks and other numbers we see here might not be final retail silicon.

Arm hasn’t officially confirmed the core name yet, and the identification is based on the part-number match rather than any formal announcement. We’ll need more listings closer to mass production before we get a clearer idea of how the chip will actually perform in finished phones.

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(Source: Geekbench)

Timex launches two new affordable Weekender watches with classic dials and quartz movement

Timex has released a scaled-down version of its Weekender New England watch in the US, reducing the case size to 34mm. The new models are available now directly through the company’s website, offering a straightforward quartz option for buyers who prefer a more compact fit on the wrist.

Timex Weekender New England watches

Pricing

There are two specific variants included in this launch. The first is the TW2Y86500, which features a silver-tone case paired with a green leather strap, priced at $139. The second model, the TW2Y86600, comes with a gold-tone case and a black leather strap for a slightly higher price of $149.

Design Details

Aside from the color differences, both watches share the exact same dimensions: a 34mm case diameter, a 39.5mm lug-to-lug distance, and a 9mm thickness. The cases are constructed from low-lead brass and feature a mixed brushed and polished finish.

Visually, Timex is keeping the design highly functional. Both models have a cream-colored dial marked with standard, full Arabic numerals. To help with visibility in the dark, these models feature luminescent in-fill on the hands. The dial itself is covered by a standard mineral crystal, which provides basic scratch and heat resistance for everyday wear.

The Weekender line is generally known for its easily swappable straps, and these new New England models maintain that with an 18mm slip-thru design. This format allows users to pull the strap out and slide a new one in without needing a spring bar tool.

The included double-layered straps are made from what Timex describes as sustainable eco-friendly leather. The bands are sized to fit wrist circumferences ranging from 5.3 to 7.5 inches (135 to 190mm).

🔌 You’ll NeedThe 18mm slip-thru strap is swappable without tools, so a spare leather band is an easy upgrade. Check quick release leather watch strap price on Amazon →

Internally, the watches run on a standard quartz analog movement powered by an SR626SW battery. Water resistance is rated at 50 meters. In practical terms, this means the watch can handle light splashes or brief swimming, but Timex explicitly says it is not built for snorkeling or poolside diving.

In related news, Timex has recently launched two Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches with Miyota movements and sapphire crystals, while Casio has launched a new G-Shock watch in the US with heart rate tracking, solar charging, and tide forecasts.

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(Timex 1,2)

Leaked Xperia 10 VIII promo image reveals rear design ahead of launch

A first promotional image of Sony’s next mid-range Xperia phone has popped up just days before it’s expected to be unveiled.

After Sony announced a launch event for Tuesday, a design leak spotted by Android Headlines gives us an early look at what seems to be the Xperia 10 VIII. The image shows the back of the phone in a promotional setting.

Sony last refreshed the camera module on the Xperia 10 series with the seventh-generation model last September, and not much appears to have changed this time around. From the rear, the Xperia 10 VIII looks very similar to its predecessor. The horizontal camera island with dual sensors and the Sony logo is still there. The main difference is a small color tweak: last year’s pure white has been swapped for a slightly greenish-shimmering white.

Apart from the design, details are still pretty thin. A recent Geekbench listing points to the same Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor and 8GB of RAM that powered the Xperia 10 VII. So far there haven’t been any solid leaks about the cameras, display, battery, or other specs. Early signs suggest this might be a fairly conservative update focused more on refining things than making big hardware jumps.

For reference, the Xperia 10 VII came with a 50MP main camera (1/1.56″), a 13MP ultrawide (1/3.0″), and a modest 8MP selfie camera. Battery capacity was also on the modest side at 5,000mAh. On the plus side, the phone stayed nice and compact: its 6.1-inch 19.5:9 FHD+ display is smaller than the standard Galaxy S26’s 6.3″ screen, and it weighed just 168g.

Sony’s event on Tuesday should give us the full picture: complete specs, pricing, and availability. Until then, the leaked image and the Geekbench listing are the clearest look we’ve got at the next Xperia 10 phone. The familiar design and mid-range chipset suggest Sony is sticking with continuity for this year’s mid-tier offering.

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(Source)

Timex launches two Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches with Miyota movement & sapphire crystal

Timex has released the Expedition Pioneer Automatic in the US, shifting its long-running outdoor watch series into a slightly higher hardware tier. While the Expedition line is typically known for its budget-friendly, battery-powered quartz models, this new release opts for a mechanical automatic movement and upgraded case materials.

Timex Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches

Design Details

The new Expedition Pioneer Automatic is built around a 41mm stainless steel case with brushed and polished finishes. It measures 14mm thick with a 48mm lug-to-lug distance, which gives it a standard, substantial fit on most wrists. 

Inside, Timex is using the Miyota 8215, a reliable Japanese automatic movement that winds itself using the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. The internal mechanics are visible through an exhibition window on the case back, which is made of sapphire crystal.

Timex Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches

On the front, the dial is protected by another sapphire crystal, this time treated with an anti-glare coating. This is a step up from the mineral glass or acrylic often found on standard Timex models, offering much better scratch resistance.

Timex Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches

The watch is rated for 200 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and recreational scuba diving. It also features a rotating top ring for measuring elapsed time, a date window at 3 o’clock, and luminous hands and hour markers for improved visibility in low-light conditions.

Timex Expedition Pioneer Automatic watches

Pricing and Availability

Timex is offering the watch in two distinct configurations. The first, priced at $429, pairs a blue dial with a matching blue bezel. It comes with a 20mm brown natural leather strap and quick-release spring bars, allowing for tool-free strap changes.

The second configuration costs $459 and features a black dial with a black bezel. Instead of leather, it comes with a matching stainless-steel bracelet secured by a deployant clasp.

🔌 You’ll NeedThe Miyota 8215 automatic movement stops within 40 hours if left unworn — a watch winder keeps it running. Check single watch winder automatic price on Amazon →

Both models are available to purchase now from the Timex US website.

In related news, Casio has recently launched a new Pro Trek watch in the US with a glowing dial, solar charging, and a carabiner attachment, alongside a new G-Shock model with heart rate tracking, solar charging, and tide forecasts.

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(Timex 1,2)

SJCAM C400 Review: A Versatile 3-in-1 Action Camera for Everyday Creators

The SJCAM C400 takes a different approach to the action-camera market. Instead of simply shrinking down a conventional action camera, it combines a tiny detachable camera with a battery grip that doubles as a larger monitor and wireless controller. The result is a versatile setup aimed at casual vloggers, travelers, and everyday creators.

It records in 4K, features six-axis gyro stabilization, has a rotating touchscreen, and can deliver up to seven hours of claimed battery life with its grip. It also comes with a generous selection of mounting accessories. However, the C400 isn’t without compromises, particularly when you push it beyond casual shooting.

5Battery Life Is a Major Strength

SJCAM C400
SJCAM C400

Battery life is one of the C400’s strongest features.

The standalone camera is rated for up to 172 minutes of 4K/30fps recording, while the 3,000mAh battery grip increases the claimed runtime to 437 minutes, or more than seven hours.

That’s excellent for travel and day-long recording. Instead of carrying multiple batteries, you can simply attach the grip when you need additional runtime.

SJCAM also says the camera shouldn’t be charged with a fast charger. The USB-C port on the grip is designed for charging, while data transfer takes place through the camera’s USB-C port.

Casio launches new G-Shock watch in the US with heart rate tracking, solar charging & tide forecasts

Casio has introduced a new fitness-focused G-LIDE G-Shock to the US market, following its initial launch in Japan last month. The GBX-H5600KI-5, priced at $370, is the fourth signature watch designed with professional surfer Kanoa Igarashi. It is available now through the Casio US website and combines standard digital watch features with modern health tracking and surf-specific data.

Casio G-LIDE GBX-H5600KI-5 smartwatch

Design Details

In terms of design, the watch uses a brown, mixed-color bio-based resin for its bezel and band. Casio says the color is meant to resemble the coastal cliffs of Portugal, and because of the manufacturing process, the exact pattern on each watch varies. The display is a Memory in Pixel (MIP) LCD, which is standard for fitness watches that need to remain visible in direct sunlight and underwater.

The company also reduced the weight compared to its previous heart-rate model, the DWH5600. By using a carbon fiber-reinforced resin case back, this new model weighs 47 grams, about 18 grams lighter, which makes it a bit more practical for daily wear and workouts.

On the hardware side, the watch includes an optical sensor for heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, plus a three-axis accelerometer to track steps, distance, and speed. Casio is using Polar’s algorithms to process this data, providing metrics on cardio load, energy sources used during workouts, and sleep recovery stages.

For surfing, the watch provides tide graphs and moon phase data. You can store 50 preset locations directly on the device or use the companion Casio Watches smartphone app to select from roughly 3,300 global tide points.

The Bluetooth connection to a phone also handles automatic time syncing, activity log transfers, and basic notifications for calls, emails, and social media. Battery life depends heavily on how the watch is used, relying on a hybrid system of USB and solar charging.

If you leave the heart rate monitor running continuously during an activity, it lasts about 35 hours. In standard watch mode without heart rate tracking, it runs for about a month, and a power-saving mode can extend that to 11 months.

In related news, Casio has launched a new Pro Trek watch in the US with a glowing dial, solar charging, and a carabiner attachment, alongside new Baby-G watches with a removable module and glittery retro design.

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(Casio)

Galaxy S27 Ultra’s latest renders spark criticism over wild redesign

The Galaxy S27 Ultra has been widely rumored to include one less camera on the back. The 3x telephoto seems to be on the chopping block. A shift in the camera layout is also inevitable, and according to previous reports, that is one of the biggest reasons behind this change. Thanks to tipster Ice Universe, we finally have a clearer picture of the rear design.

He shared a line drawing, followed by a number of renders and realistic-looking AI-generated images to showcase what the Galaxy S27 Ultra could look like from the back.

We can see a large rectangular camera island, most of which is just empty space. The combination of the two circular cutouts and a vertical pill housed inside a large rectangular camera plateau also makes it look almost identical to the mid-range Honor Win Turbo from earlier this year.

The tipster even pointed out how little might have changed internally, causing this seemingly unwanted visual overhaul. Most of the cameras on the Galaxy S26 Ultra stay in their existing positions, with only the 5x telephoto moving to the side. This isn’t entirely surprising given Samsung’s track record of upgrades, but it still doesn’t fully justify the larger camera plateau.

The comment sections of the posts showing the latest design mostly reflect disappointment rather than excitement.

One of the ways Galaxy flagships have stood out in recent years is their minimal camera layout. Previous renders of the Galaxy S27 Ultra, showcasing a horizontal camera island similar to the Pixel devices, earned praise because of that minimalism. The latest rumors showcase something very different.

The Qi2 magnets, on top of that, don’t seem to be the problem either. The wireless charging coil could have been repositioned a few millimeters lower to make room for the magnets.

That said, nothing is confirming the existence of this large rectangular camera plateau on the current engineering machines. The public response might have been totally different without this design element.

The 5x telephoto, which packs a much larger sensor than the current 3x telephoto, will likely increase the protrusion of that smaller pill. Whether Samsung has prioritized minimalism or the protrusion of the smaller pill housing the 5x telephoto will likely be revealed ahead of the official launch in Q1 2027.

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Source: Ice Universe (1), (2), (3)

Best Fitness Smartwatches for Tracking Workouts and Heart Rate in 2026

Smartwatches have improved significantly over the years. They now do far more than count steps and display phone notifications. Modern models can track heart rate throughout the day, record detailed workout data, measure sleep quality, monitor stress, and provide GPS navigation for outdoor activities. Many also include advanced tools such as ECG readings, blood-oxygen monitoring, recovery scores, personalized training plans, and emergency safety features.

The best option depends on the type of exercise you do, the health data you want to monitor, and how often you are willing to charge the device. Some watches focus on detailed training and recovery insights, while others prioritize smartwatch features, comfort, durability, or multi-day battery life.

If you are looking for a good smartwatch to track your fitness, workouts, heart rate, and overall health, these are the best smartwatches you can buy in 2026.

1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is the easy recommendation for Android users who want a conventional smartwatch without treating workouts as an afterthought. Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, it is slim, lightweight, and far less imposing than the company’s rugged Ultra-tier watch.

Its strengths are familiar: continuous heart-rate tracking, sleep monitoring, workout recording, GPS, stress data, blood-oxygen readings, and Samsung’s BioActive sensor platform. But Samsung is leaning harder into interpretation, not just measurement. Features such as Heart Health Score, Daily Cardio Load, Fitness Index, Vitals monitoring, and sleep-based health baselines attempt to turn a sprawling dashboard of numbers into something actionable.

The Watch 9 also offers a bright Super AMOLED display that can reach 3,000 nits, dual-frequency GPS, LTE options, NFC, and up to 32GB of storage. It runs Wear OS 7 with One UI 9 Watch, so it remains useful as an actual smartwatch rather than a fitness tracker with notification spam attached.

Its biggest weakness is battery life. The 44mm model has a 445mAh battery, while the 40mm uses a 390mAh cell, fine for a day or perhaps more, but not Garmin territory. Still, for general workouts, heart-rate tracking, sleep insights, and daily Android life, it is one of the most complete options.

2. Apple Watch Series 11

Apple Watch Series 11

The Apple Watch Series 11 remains the default choice for iPhone users, and for good reason. It is not the longest-lasting watch here, nor the most rugged, but Apple’s health and safety software remains unusually polished.

This generation adds hypertension notifications, which use long-term optical heart-rate sensor data to look for consistent signs associated with chronic high blood pressure. It also introduces a Sleep Score, combining sleep duration, schedule consistency, awakenings, and sleep stages into one digestible rating. Neither feature replaces medical testing or a clinician, but both could be useful prompts to pay closer attention.

The rest of the package is classic Apple Watch: ECG, irregular-rhythm notifications, blood oxygen tools where available, cycle tracking, noise monitoring, crash detection, fall detection, depth and water-temperature sensors, and a deep catalog of workout modes.

The Series 11 is available in 42mm and 46mm cases, with aluminum and titanium finishes. The aluminum model gets tougher Ion-X glass with a ceramic coating, while the titanium version uses sapphire crystal. Apple rates the battery for up to 24 hours of normal use and up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode. Fast charging can reach up to 80% in around 30 minutes.

3. Google Pixel Watch 5

Google Pixel Watch 5

The Google Pixel Watch 5 is for Android users who want their smartwatch to be more proactive. It combines fitness tracking with Google’s expanding Gemini AI features, contextual information, and Fitbit-inspired health tools.

The watch comes in 41mm and 45mm sizes and uses a bright 3,000-nit domed AMOLED display. Its dual-frequency GPS is designed to improve route accuracy in dense cities, wooded trails, and other areas where satellite signals can struggle. For runners, cyclists, and hikers, that can matter more than another dozen sports modes.

Fitness features include recovery recommendations based on sleep and heart-rate variability, improved sleep-stage detection, Smart Wake alarms, strength-training guidance, and customized workout plans. Google is also expanding the watch’s role in safety with Breathing Emergency Detection, which uses heart-rate, movement, and barometric data to identify severe oxygen-related emergencies and potentially contact emergency services if the wearer is unresponsive.

Battery life is better than on previous Pixel Watches. The 41mm model is rated for up to 30 hours with the always-on display enabled, while the larger 45mm version can last up to 40 hours

4. Garmin Venu 4

The Garmin Venu 4 is one of the best choices for people who see fitness tracking as the main event rather than a smartwatch side feature. It is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes and delivers up to 12 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, making it dramatically easier to wear continuously for sleep, recovery, and workout tracking.

Garmin’s health suite is particularly strong. The Venu 4 tracks heart rate, heart-rate variability, Pulse Ox, skin temperature, sleep stages, Body Battery, stress, women’s health metrics, and ECG. The important difference is that Garmin is good at connecting those measurements to training readiness. If sleep quality is poor or recovery is low, Garmin Fitness Coach can adapt workout recommendations rather than simply pushing you to close another activity ring.

The Venu 4 also includes GPS, onboard music, Garmin Pay, Bluetooth calling, smart notifications, a built-in flashlight, and safety-tracking functions. Its software is not as app-heavy as Apple’s or Google’s platforms, but athletes may not care. This is a watch designed for someone who wants reliable heart-rate trends, recovery data, workout plans, and battery life that does not turn every evening into a charging session.

5. Amazfit Balance 3

Amazfit Balance 3

The Amazfit Balance 3 targets users who want advanced training metrics without paying flagship smartwatch prices. It features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, sapphire glass, dual-band GPS, offline maps, Bluetooth calling, 64GB of storage, and up to 21 days of battery life on the titanium version.

Amazfit uses its Hybrid Training System to combine fitness, recovery, and lifestyle data. The system includes BioCharge, LifeLoad, and Training Load metrics. BioCharge estimates current energy and recovery levels. LifeLoad measures daily lifestyle stress. Training Load tracks workout strain.

The Zepp app uses that data to show whether a user should train hard, recover, or adjust their schedule. Weekly Focus and Training Balance tools also help users understand how their workouts are distributed across endurance, strength, and recovery.

The Balance 3 supports more than 180 sports modes. It can recognize 25 strength exercises and eight standard activity movements. It also supports external heart-rate straps, cycling sensors, and running power meters.

Amazfit has added HYROX-specific features, including workout tracking, race simulations, training plans, virtual pacing, and post-race performance analysis. The Balance 3 is a strong choice for runners, gym users, and hybrid athletes who want deeper fitness data and long battery life.

6. Xiaomi Watch 5

Xiaomi Watch 5

The Xiaomi Watch 5 offers a large battery, Wear OS 6, and a complete set of health and fitness tools. It uses a dual-chip design with a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor and a BES2800 low-power chip. Xiaomi says the watch can last up to six days in regular smart mode and up to 18 days in power-saving mode.

The watch has a 930mAh silicon-carbon battery, a 1.54-inch AMOLED display, sapphire protection, dual-band GPS, NFC, ECG support, and continuous heart-rate and SpO2 monitoring. It also supports more than 150 sports modes and includes offline maps for outdoor training.

Google Gemini is available on the Xiaomi Watch 5, along with Google Wallet, Google Maps, Google Calendar, and the Google Play Store. The watch also supports Xiaomi HyperConnect for smart-home controls and connected-device features.

Xiaomi has also added gesture controls that use EMG, IMU, and PPG sensors. Users can pinch, rub, snap, shake, or rotate their wrist to control functions such as calls, alarms, workouts, camera controls, and media playback.

The Xiaomi Watch 5 is a good option for Android users who want Wear OS features without charging their smartwatch every day.

7. Amazfit Active 2

The Amazfit Active 2 delivers many key fitness features at a lower price than flagship smartwatches. It has a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, stainless-steel frame, GPS, Bluetooth calling, heart-rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, stress tracking, temperature sensing, and more than 160 workout modes.

The watch uses the BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor and includes Zepp Coach training guidance. It can recognize strength-training movements, track running performance, provide virtual pacing, and estimate race achievements.

The Active 2 also offers readiness scores, sleep data, smartphone notifications, music controls, camera controls, and up to 10 days of typical battery life. The premium model includes sapphire glass for added display protection.

The Amazfit Active 2 is a sensible pick for users who want workout tracking, GPS, and heart-rate data without paying for premium smartwatch features they may not use.

8. Honor Watch 6

Honor Watch 6

The Honor Watch 6 (full review) is built around an idea that many smartwatch owners will find refreshing: not charging every day. Its 980mAh silicon-carbon battery is rated for up to 35 days of use, making it one of the most endurance-focused watches in this group.

It includes over 120 workout modes, dual-band GPS, continuous heart-rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, stress measurements, sleep analysis, and body-energy estimates. Trail runners get climbing and route-deviation metrics through Honor’s AccuTrack GPS system, while sports such as badminton and football receive more specific performance data.

The 1.46-inch AMOLED display reaches up to 3,000 nits, which should make it easy to read stats during outdoor training. It also has IP69 water and dust resistance, 5ATM water resistance, Bluetooth calling, NFC support in select markets, and gesture controls for managing alarms, calls, and music.

The Honor Watch 6 is less focused on third-party apps than Apple, Google, or Samsung models. But if you prioritize a bright screen, fitness fundamentals, outdoor tracking, and exceptionally long battery life, it is a compelling alternative.

9. Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro

Huawei-Watch-Fit-4-Pro

The Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro (full review) focuses on outdoor training and health tracking in a slim, lightweight design. It has a large AMOLED display, built-in GPS, continuous heart-rate monitoring, sleep tracking, blood-oxygen measurements, wrist-temperature tracking, Bluetooth calling, and support for more than 100 workout modes.

Huawei adds several features for more serious activities. The Watch Fit 5 Pro supports trail-running navigation, golf-course maps, ECG alerts, and diving tracking to depths of 40 meters. These tools give it a broader fitness focus than a standard activity tracker, especially for users who run outdoors, play golf, or spend time in the water.

The watch also offers up to 10 days of battery life, which makes it easier to wear overnight for sleep tracking and for multi-day trips without packing a charger. The Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro is a strong choice for users who want a lighter alternative to a traditional round smartwatch but still need GPS, health tracking, and outdoor sports features.

10. Oppo Watch X3

Oppo Watch X3

The Oppo Watch X3 combines Wear OS 6 with a dual-engine system that moves background tasks to a low-power RTOS platform. Oppo says the approach delivers up to five days of battery life in Smart Mode and up to 16 days in Power Saver Mode.

The smartwatch includes ECG support, continuous heart-rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, HRV-based stress insights, sleep analysis, dual-band GPS, fall detection, Bluetooth calling, and more than 100 sports modes. It also supports Google apps and services through Wear OS, which gives users access to Google Wallet, Maps, notifications, and third-party apps.

Oppo uses a titanium case and sapphire display protection for a more premium design. The Watch X3 also carries IP69 protection and MIL-STD-810H durability certification. It is a strong option for Android users who want a full Wear OS smartwatch with detailed health tracking and better battery life than most mainstream rivals.

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iQOO Z11 vs Realme 16x 5G: Which Phone Offers Better Value?

iQOO Z11 and Realme 16x 5G take different approaches to the mid-range smartphone segment. While both offer 144Hz displays, large batteries and 5G connectivity, the iQOO Z11 pushes higher-end hardware with an AMOLED panel, Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, 90W charging and OIS. The Realme 16x 5G focuses more on affordability, durability and expandable storage. But with both targeting value-conscious buyers, which phone offers the more compelling overall package? 

Major Features:

CategoryiQOO Z11Realme 16x 5GWinner
Display6.83-inch AMOLED, 144Hz, HDR, up to 5000 nits6.81-inch IPS LCD, 144Hz, up to 1200 nitsiQOO — AMOLED and higher brightness
Build & DurabilityIP68/IP69 protectionIP65, MIL-STD-810H, drop resistanceiQOO — stronger water and dust protection
PerformanceSnapdragon 7s Gen 4, up to 12GB RAM, UFS 3.1Dimensity 6300, up to 6GB RAM, UFS 2.2iQOO — faster chipset and storage
Storage ExpansionNo microSDmicroSDXC supportRealme — expandable storage
Main Camera50MP with PDAF and OIS, 4K video50MP with AF, 1080p videoiQOO — OIS and 4K recording
Selfie Camera32MP, 4K video8MP, 1080p videoiQOO — higher resolution and video capability
AudioStereo speakers, Hi-Res audioSingle speakeriQOO — stereo sound
ConnectivityWi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFCWi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, no NFCiQOO — better connectivity package
Battery9020mAh, 90W charging7000mAh, 45W chargingiQOO — larger battery and faster charging
SoftwareAndroid 16, OriginOS 6Android 16, Realme UI 7iQOO — stronger hardware-software package
PricePriced around $300 / ₹31,000Priced around $300 / ₹26,000Realme — lower Indian price
OverallMore powerful and feature-richMore affordable and expandableiQOO — better overall package

1. Design and Display

Build and Feel

The iQOO Z11 and Realme 16x 5G both use a glass front with a plastic frame and back, but their durability approaches are different. The iQOO Z11 has a stronger IP68/IP69 rating, making it better suited to users who want more comprehensive protection against dust and water. The Realme 16x 5G counters with IP65 protection, MIL-STD-810H compliance and drop resistance, giving it a more rugged-oriented appeal. Its rear RGB notification light is also a distinctive design touch.

Display Quality

The iQOO Z11 is considerably more impressive for everyday viewing. Its AMOLED panel offers 1 billion colors, a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR support and much higher peak brightness. The Realme 16x 5G also reaches 144Hz, but its IPS LCD panel has a much lower resolution and lacks the richer contrast and deeper blacks of AMOLED. The iQOO therefore feels noticeably more premium for streaming, gaming and general use.

Verdict

iQOO Z11 wins comfortably for its superior AMOLED display and stronger water resistance.

2. Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The iQOO Z11 has a clear performance advantage with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, paired with up to 12GB RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. The Realme 16x 5G uses the Dimensity 6300 with up to 6GB RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. This gives the iQOO a stronger foundation for gaming, multitasking and demanding applications, while its faster storage should also make everyday operations feel more responsive. Realme’s microSD support is useful for users prioritising expandable storage.

Battery and Charging

Battery capacity is another major advantage for iQOO. Its 9020mAh battery is substantially larger than the Realme’s 7000mAh unit and supports faster 90W wired charging. Both phones support reverse wired charging and bypass charging, which adds flexibility for gaming and accessory use. Realme’s 45W charging is adequate, but the iQOO combination of a larger battery and faster charging feels considerably better suited to heavy users.

Verdict

iQOO Z11 is the stronger choice for performance, storage speed, battery capacity and charging.

3. Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

The iQOO Z11 has a 50MP main camera with a larger sensor, PDAF and OIS, while the Realme 16x 5G also uses a 50MP primary camera but relies on autofocus without optical stabilisation. The iQOO’s OIS gives it a practical advantage for handheld photography, particularly in lower light and when recording video. It also supports 4K video recording, whereas the Realme is limited to 1080p. Neither phone offers a particularly versatile multi-camera setup, so the primary sensor does most of the work.

Selfie Camera

The difference becomes even larger on the front. The iQOO Z11 features a 32MP selfie camera capable of 4K video, while the Realme 16x 5G has an 8MP front camera limited to 1080p recording. For selfies, video calls and creator-focused use, the iQOO offers substantially more detail and flexibility.

Verdict

iQOO Z11 is the clear camera winner, particularly because of OIS, 4K recording and its much stronger selfie camera.

4. Pricing

The iQOO Z11 is priced around $300 / ₹31,000, while the Realme 16x 5G is priced around $300 / ₹26,000. The difference in Indian pricing makes the Realme more affordable, especially for buyers working with a tighter budget. However, the iQOO offers considerably more hardware for the additional cost, including a better AMOLED display, faster chipset, faster storage, larger battery, quicker charging, NFC and a significantly more capable camera system.

Is the Price Justified?

The Realme 16x 5G makes sense as a value-focused option if expandable storage, rugged-oriented features and a lower purchase price matter most. However, the iQOO Z11 provides enough additional advantages to make its higher price easier to justify. Its display, performance and battery combination is particularly difficult to match at this level.

Verdict

iQOO Z11 offers better overall value despite costing more, while Realme wins on upfront affordability.

5. Conclusion

The iQOO Z11 stands out with its 9020mAh battery, 90W charging, Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, AMOLED display, OIS-equipped main camera, 32MP selfie camera, NFC and IP68/IP69 protection. It also includes stereo speakers, bypass charging and a high-refresh-rate display, creating a well-rounded package for demanding users. The Realme 16x 5G has its own useful advantages, particularly microSD expansion, MIL-STD-810H compliance, drop resistance and the rear RGB notification light. These features make it appealing to buyers who value practicality and durability over outright specifications.

Verdict

iQOO Z11 is the more complete smartphone and the stronger recommendation for users who want better performance, display quality, cameras, battery life and charging. The Realme 16x 5G remains a sensible alternative for buyers seeking a lower-priced device with expandable storage and rugged-oriented features, but the iQOO delivers a substantially stronger overall hardware package.


6. FAQs

1. Which phone has the better camera, iQOO Z11 or Realme 16x?
The iQOO Z11 offers the better camera setup, especially for low-light photography, video recording and higher-quality selfies.

2. Which smartphone is better for gaming?
The iQOO Z11 is better for gaming, thanks to its more capable chipset, faster storage and higher memory options.

3. Which phone offers better battery life?
The iQOO Z11 should deliver longer endurance, particularly for heavy users, because of its substantially larger battery.

4. Is the Realme 16x 5G worth buying?
Yes, especially for buyers wanting expandable storage, durable construction and essential 5G features at a lower price.

5. Which phone should you buy overall?
The iQOO Z11 is the stronger all-round choice for buyers prioritising performance, display quality, cameras and battery endurance.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.

Read More:

Xiaomi teases new Xring chip and burgundy-colored Xiaomi MIX Ultra

There have been reports that Xiaomi is gearing up to launch a new foldable phone. What’s special about this device is that it is said to have a wide, foldable design like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. It is also said to be the first device to feature Xiaomi’s next-generation Xring O3, which the brand has already started teasing. In the latest development, an official image showing Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun holding a new burgundy-colored foldable phone has emerged. This one appears to be the company’s rumored wide foldable phone.

Xiaomi MIX Ultra foldable phone teased

As can be seen above, Lei Jun is holding a foldable phone. None of Xiaomi’s released foldables have a burgundy shade, which suggests that this could be a forthcoming device. Unfortunately, the official name of the device remains under wraps. While reports have referred to it by different names, including Xiaomi Mix Fold 5, Xiaomi 17 Fold, and Xiaomi 18 Fold, newer leaks call it the Xiaomi MIX Ultra.

As far as the specs are concerned, reports have revealed that the Xiaomi MIX Ultra will arrive with a 7.5-inch or 7.6-inch inner foldable screen, a side-facing fingerprint sensor, a 200-megapixel main camera, a battery of around 6,000mAh with wireless charging support, and HyperOS 4-based Android 17.

Xring teaser
Xring teaser

One of the major highlights of the Xiaomi MIX Ultra will be its chipset, which the brand has already started teasing by rolling out the above teaser image. Most likely, the first-generation Xring O1 chip will be succeeded by the Xring O3, skipping the Xring O2 moniker, as per reports.

According to reports, the Xring O3, codenamed “Lhasa,” is expected to move to a three-cluster CPU architecture, potentially using a 1+3+4 or 1+2+5 configuration, instead of the previous four-cluster, 10-core design. The prime core is reportedly capable of reaching up to 4.05GHz, while the Titanium performance cores could clock at 3.42GHz and the efficiency cores at 3.02GHz, a notable increase from the O1’s 1.79GHz.

The GPU is also expected to receive a clock-speed boost to around 1.5GHz, up from roughly 1.2GHz, while memory speed could remain unchanged at 9,600 MT/s.

The Xring O3 is also expected to power a new tablet called the Xiaomi Pad 8S Pro, which may launch alongside the Xiaomi MIX Ultra. This device is expected to feature a 12.5-inch screen, a 12,000mAh battery, up to 16GB of RAM, a 32-megapixel front camera, and a 50-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera setup.

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