Full review: HONOR 90 Lite 5G

The HONOR 90 5G was met with great reception. This signaled tech brand HONOR to release its budget-friendly sibling, the HONOR 90 Lite 5G. It’s easy to tell that they’re related based on what the successor highlights: 100MP triple camera system, 6.7-inch display with eye protection, and 256GB storage. 

In this review, we’ll determine whether the Lite version shall be received with the same favorable response.

Design and build

In a sea of smartphones, HONOR devices are very easy to point out — their designs just really stand out. The secret? A dash of flashy colorways with a sprinkle of unique camera layouts. Of course, there are still safe, minimalist options. That’s what we have with the HONOR 90 Lite 5G. The colorway includes Cyan Blue, Midnight Black and Titanium Silver. 

Additionally, the rear features a dual ring design, which is an N series staple. The execution varies slightly from its more expensive sibling as this one is not perfectly round. Perhaps it’s HONOR’s way of creating identity for the Lite version. 

Ergonomics-wise, it has a boxy frame that’s easy to grip; however, the edges do not offer maximum comfort. Nonetheless, it’s still lightweight and relatively thin at 179g and 7.48mm, respectively. 

Display

For series-bingers, the 6.7-inch LTPS LCD display with 1080 x 2388 resolution will be a major treat. Even if this device is leaning more on the affordable side, the screen’s performance took no hits. There’s no compromise in the visual quality; it exhibits bright and rich colors. 

Equally important, the front panel is equipped with features that’ll prevent eye fatigue. We are pretty much glued to our phones so the TUV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification and Dynamic Dimming feature will be very beneficial. 

Also noticeable are the slim bezels; the chin, however, is much thicker than the rest. I’m still satisfied since the display has a 93.6% screen-to-body ratio.

Camera

The fancy triple rear camera layout has the 100MP main camera with f/1.9 aperture as its headliner. Amid good lighting conditions, the main camera impresses. It flaunts a good amount of detail and produces true-to-life colors. Even if you try its zooming capabilities, you won’t be disappointed. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

I noticed that it struggles a bit when light is limited. You have to make sure you’ve got stable hands when shooting in low light to produce images with lesser noise. Once you’re able to achieve this, you’ll be left with photos more than worthy of posting on social media. 

• 

• 

For those who love to take selfies, there’s the 16MP selfie camera that shows off above average performance. It exhibits detailed selfies with a good dynamic ratio. Therefore, memory hoarders like me will be able to max out its capabilities and take as many selfies and groupies with confidence. 

• 

• 

Performance

Under the hood, we have the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor powering the HONOR 90 Lite 5G. It also runs on 8GB of RAM. This translates to a satisfyingly smooth everyday user experience, which consists of replying to emails, posting on social media, downloading images, multitasking, among others.

Surprisingly, it delivers when it comes to more graphically demanding tasks like gaming. When we tried running titles like Asphalt 9 and Mobile Legends at default graphic settings, there were no hitches at all. 

To complete the package the device is built with 256GB of storage — enough to unleash your photo and app hoarder self. 

Battery

Since I’m always out and about, I could use a 2-day battery life from a smartphone. Fortunately, with light use, the HONOR 90 Lite 5G can grant you that 2-day wish. It comes as a surprise since it’s equipped with a 4500mAh battery; I’m not complaining though. 

Verdict

Everything considered, the HONOR 90 Lite 5G seems like a very promising successor. Most users search for devices that offer everyday reliability with an affordable price tag, and that’s exactly what we get from this Lite version. From the highly capable main camera and vibrant display down to its large storage and long battery life, the HONOR 90 Lite 5G offers an amazing package that you’ll find hard to refuse at PHP12,990.