HONOR X7b full review: A more than reliable entry-level smartphone

Reliability – this is what we tend to look for when it comes to the entry-level segment of smartphones. We gravitate towards devices that are long-lasting, and that can satisfy our yearning for work-life balance. For a smartphone under Php 10,000, the HONOR X7b ticks all of these boxes. Read more for the full review. 

Build & Design

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The HONOR X7b comes in a slim profile at 8.24mm. It is also pretty lightweight, weighing 199g. This is due to the 3D Backplane Quad-Curved design which also makes it quite easy and comfortable to hold. 

It also comes in three different colors. For those searching for a bit more vibrancy, the Emerald Green and Flowing Silver variants may just be what you’re looking for. Midnight Black is also available as a more classic option. 

Whether you’re sporting the youthful colors or the sleek and minimal option, you will not be disappointed with this smartphone’s style. Truly, there is something for every taste. 

The unit I got to test was the Flowing Silver color. I thought the little flowing streaks were quite gorgeous. Personally however, the glittery finish up against the light was not my cup of tea. But I could definitely see how this can be a sought-after design for others. 

Display

This smartphone features a 6.8-inch HONOR FullView LCD Display with a 91.3% screen-to-body ratio. It supports an FHD+ resolution and a color depth of 16.7 million. The clarity of the visuals are pretty decent with the colors being quite vivid which provides for an overall positive viewing experience. 

The HONOR X7b’s display also has a 90Hz refresh rate which allows for a smooth and responsive user interface. 

When it comes to protecting your eyes, this smartphone contains several features aimed at doing so. It has earned TUV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification. Less blue light is emitted that eases the strain on the eyes. 

On top of that Dynamic Dimming, Circadian Night Display Technology and Eye Comfort Mode have all been implemented to help the user enjoy the visuals for a prolonged period in any lighting environment, while minimizing eye strain. 

Camera

The HONOR X7b’s rear camera system features a 108MP main camera, a 5MP wide camera and 2MP macro camera. 

In good lighting, the main shooter is quite impressive with how detailed and clear the images are. In low light, the quality of the images produced in terms of the colors and clarity is decent. Having those steady surgeon hands will be really helpful for these scenarios. 

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The wide camera is still able to maintain some level of detail. However, it is quite clear that when it comes to taking photos with the HONOR X7b, the 108MP main shooter is the star of the show especially for an entry-level smartphone. 

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The camera system also supports Portrait Mode with 2x zoom. This adds a bit of versatility and flexibility when taking your portraits. 

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Rounding off the photo-taking capabilities – for taking selfies, the HONOR X7b is equipped with an 8MP front camera. Not much to say here other than it’s decent and gets the job done. 

Performance and OS

Under the hood, the HONOR X7b is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680. It also comes with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage which are pretty good, and what we come to expect from entry-level smartphones these days. 

This smartphone also runs the latest HONOR MagicOS 7.2 which is based on Android 13. The operating system introduces a host of features that are meant to add convenience and even boost productivity for the user. 

The new HONOR Interactive Interface delivers a more intuitive user experience. As you continuously use the smartphone over time, it will recognize your favorite apps and recommend it on the home screen for more accessibility. 

With the HONOR Personal Knowledge Center, you can save web pages offline by simply sliding three fingers. You are also able to automatically scan pages and documents. Last but not the least, you can simultaneously record and take notes for better productivity. 

In terms of gaming, I had no trouble running Call of Duty: Mobile at the highest graphics settings. However, for a title such as Genshin Impact, you might need to lower your graphical quality in order to run the game hitch-free. 

Battery and charging

This smartphone’s reliability comes from the fact that it houses a 6,000mAh battery. With moderate usage, the HONOR X7b can last for about 2 days. Crazy to think that this phone can get you through an entire weekend. 

In terms of charging, the HONOR X7b comes with a 35W HONOR Type-C charger. A full charge can be achieved in under 2 hours. 

Verdict

In terms of performance, the HONOR X7b offers everything you would need in an entry-level smartphone. What sets it apart is its impressive battery life and its main camera that can capture clear and crisp images.

The HONOR X7b retails for Php 8,999. For the price, you definitely can’t go wrong. Safe to say that this smartphone is bang-for-your-buck especially due to its reliability. 

Photos by CJ Lavares