Is the HONOR X9C the Right Smartphone for Startups and Entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurs need a smartphone that can keep up with a demanding, fast-paced lifestyle. The HONOR X9C has been making waves for its ultra-durable build, massive battery, and sleek design. But first impressions reveal a few trade-offs that might not suit everyone.

Durability That Stands Out

One of the biggest talking points about the HONOR X9C is its toughness. While there’s no official IP rating, online videos show it surviving drops, scratches, and even a spin in a washing machine. That’s a promising sign for anyone prone to accidents. The curved AMOLED display is also reinforced, making it more resistant to cracks.

At just 7.98mm thick and 185g, it remains lightweight and stylish, though the glossy back panel is a fingerprint magnet. The lack of a confirmed water and dust resistance rating is worth keeping in mind, despite its apparent resilience.

Battery Life and Charging

The 5,800mAh battery is another highlight, promising all-day power with ease. In early use, it holds up impressively, making it ideal for long workdays. The 35W charging speed, however, isn’t the fastest in its class. For those who frequently need quick top-ups, this could be a slight drawback.

Performance and Everyday Use

Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset and 12GB RAM (plus 8GB virtual RAM), the HONOR X9C delivers smooth performance for daily tasks. Multitasking feels fluid, but heavier applications and gaming push its limits.

The 256GB storage should be sufficient for most users, but with no microSD card slot, heavy file users might find it limiting.

Camera and Connectivity

The 108MP main camera takes sharp, vibrant shots in good lighting, though low-light performance is just average. The 5MP ultra-wide lens is useful but lacks detail compared to competitors. The 16MP front camera works well for video calls but isn’t groundbreaking.

5G connectivity is a plus for those relying on fast mobile data, but the lack of Wi-Fi 6 support is surprising, considering its target audience.

Early Verdict

At a starting price of R10 999.00, the HONOR X9C is a solid option for entrepreneurs who value durability, battery life and affordability. The combination of a tough build, decent performance, and all-day battery makes it appealing. However, the slower charging, lack of expandable storage, and mid-range camera setup mean it won’t be for everyone. If you need a device that can handle life’s knocks without breaking the bank, it’s worth considering.

 

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