Remember the days when phone calls were the main thing phones did? Thankfully, those times are long gone. Today’s smartphones are pocket-sized powerhouses, and the iQOO 3 5G was no exception when it launched in 2020. But with newer models constantly hitting the market, is the iQOO 3 5G still a good buy in 2024? Let’s dive in and see if this phone packs the punch for gamers and everyday users alike.
Blazing Fast Performance: Built for Speed Demons
The iQOO 3 5G was designed with gamers in mind. At its heart lies the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, a powerhouse even by today’s standards. This chip is backed by a hefty 8GB or 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and keeping those games running flawlessly. Whether you’re crushing opponents in PUBG Mobile or racing through Asphalt 9, the iQOO 3 5G delivers a stutter-free experience.
But performance goes beyond just raw specs. The iQOO 3 5G boasts a 180Hz touch response rate, making every tap and swipe feel incredibly responsive. This is especially crucial for fast-paced games where even a millisecond delay can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Additionally, the phone comes with “Monster Mode,” a software tweak that optimizes performance and prioritizes gaming tasks. With features like these, the iQOO 3 5G makes a strong case for itself as a serious gaming phone.
Display and Design: A Smooth and Stylish Looker
The iQOO 3 5G features a large 6.44-inch AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution. While not the highest resolution on the market in 2024, it still offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6, so you can rest assured it can handle minor bumps and scratches.
The design of the iQOO 3 5G is sleek and modern. The phone comes in two color options: Tornado Black and Fiery Red. The back panel has a gradient finish that catches the light beautifully. While some newer phones might have slimmer bezels, the overall design feels solid and comfortable to hold.
Cameras: Capable But Not Class-Leading
Let’s be honest, the iQOO 3 5G wasn’t built to be a camera champion. It sports a quad-camera system on the back, consisting of a 48MP main sensor, a 13MP wide-angle lens, a 13MP telephoto lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. In good lighting conditions, the cameras take decent photos with good detail and color reproduction. However, low-light performance is a bit underwhelming, and the phone lacks some of the advanced camera features found in newer flagships.
The front-facing camera is a 16MP sensor, which is perfectly adequate for video calls and selfies. Overall, while the cameras on the iQOO 3 5G are decent, they’re not the main selling point of the phone. If you prioritize photography, you might want to consider other options.
Battery Life and Other Considerations: Still Relevant in 2024?
The iQOO 3 5G packs a decent 4440mAh battery, which should be able to get you through a full day of moderate use on a single charge. However, heavy gamers might find themselves reaching for the charger a bit more often. Luckily, the phone supports 55W fast charging, which can top up the battery in no time.
Here’s the thing to consider in 2024: With newer models boasting even faster processors, higher refresh rate displays, and possibly even better battery life, the iQOO 3 5G might not be the absolute cutting edge anymore. However, if you can find a good deal on a used model, it can still be a great option for gamers and users who prioritize performance over the absolute latest specs.
Final Verdict: A Capable Contender, But Keep an Eye on the Price
The iQOO 3 5G was a solid gaming phone when it launched, and it remains a capable option in 2024, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. The phone delivers excellent performance, a smooth display, and a long-lasting battery. However, the cameras are just average, and the design might feel a tad dated compared to newer models.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the iQOO 3 5G depends
