Xiaomi Poco F2 Pro

Revisiting a Classic: My Time with the Xiaomi Poco F2 Pro

I've spent the past few weeks diving deep into the Xiaomi Poco F2 Pro, and it's been an interesting trip down memory lane. Released in 2020, this phone occupies a curious space in today's market. At its launch, it aimed squarely at delivering flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag. Having put it through its paces in 2024, I have a clearer picture of where it stands and who might still find value in this device.

My testing involved typical daily use – browsing, social media, media consumption, and some casual gaming. I also delved into its camera capabilities and assessed its battery performance. The initial impression is that the Poco F2 Pro feels substantial, a feeling reinforced by its weight. While its original price point was compelling, its current value proposition warrants a closer examination.

Market Context: A Blast from the Recent Past

The Poco F2 Pro arrived at a time when the "flagship killer" concept was gaining significant traction. Brands like Poco aimed to disrupt the market by offering top-tier specifications at more accessible prices. Xiaomi, with the Poco F2 Pro, aimed to deliver a premium experience without the associated premium cost. Looking back, it successfully carved out a niche for users prioritizing performance and a high-quality display.

From my perspective, Xiaomi's strategy with the Poco line was, and continues to be, a smart way to cater to a specific segment of the market. The F2 Pro, even now, offers a compelling alternative to newer mid-range devices that might compromise on processing power. The price point, while varying depending on the retailer and availability, still positions it as an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking strong performance.

Design & Hardware: Solid and Substantial

My first impression upon holding the Poco F2 Pro was its undeniable heft. Tipping the scales at 219 grams, it's not a lightweight phone, but this weight lends it a feeling of quality and robustness. The design, while not groundbreaking, is clean and functional. The build feels solid, and the materials used, though not explicitly stated in hand, suggest a level of durability that inspires confidence.

In hand, the phone feels substantial and well-built. While some might find the weight a drawback, I personally appreciated the feeling of a solid device. The ergonomics are decent, though the larger size might be a stretch for users with smaller hands. The absence of any noticeable flex or creaking adds to the perception of quality. For practical daily use, the size makes typing comfortable, although single-handed operation can be a challenge at times.

Display: A Visual Treat

The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display is undoubtedly one of the standout features of the Poco F2 Pro. From my experience, the brightness is more than adequate for most conditions, offering good visibility even outdoors. Media consumption on this screen is a joy. The vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of AMOLED panels make videos and photos pop. The HDR10+ support further enhances the viewing experience, adding a dynamic range that elevates content.

While it lacks the high refresh rates found in many modern phones, the 180Hz touch sampling rate contributes to a responsive and fluid feel, particularly noticeable during gaming and fast scrolling. Even without a 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate, I found the display to be smooth enough for daily use. Gaming on this display is immersive, thanks to the vibrant colors and ample screen real estate. For practical daily use, whether browsing the web or reading articles, the sharpness and clarity of the display are consistently impressive. The pop-up selfie camera contributes to this uninterrupted viewing experience, something I personally appreciate.

Performance: Still Packing a Punch

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 865 is the engine driving the Poco F2 Pro. In my testing, this chipset continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance. Apps launch quickly, and multitasking is handled with ease. Even demanding games run without significant lag or stuttering. While it may not be the absolute latest silicon, the 865 remains a capable performer for most tasks in 2024.

During extended gaming sessions, I observed that the phone manages heat reasonably well, although some warmth is noticeable. Multitasking between numerous apps was seamless, with no noticeable slowdowns. One notable strength is the consistent performance; it didn't exhibit any unexpected stutters or hiccups during my usage. While it may not benchmark as high as current flagship phones, the real-world performance remains impressive for its class and age.

Camera System: Capable but Not Cutting-Edge

My experience with the camera system was generally positive, but it’s important to temper expectations compared to newer devices. The 64MP main sensor (Sony IMX686) captures decent images in good lighting conditions, exhibiting good detail and color accuracy. I found that photos taken in daylight often produced pleasing results, capturing vibrant colors and a respectable level of sharpness.

Specific shooting scenarios, like capturing sunsets, revealed the camera's ability to reproduce warm tones effectively. While the 8K video recording is a fun novelty, its practical use is limited for most users. Compared to market alternatives in its current price range, the camera performance is competitive, though some newer phones offer more advanced features and better low-light performance. In real-world usage scenarios, the camera is perfectly adequate for social media sharing and capturing everyday moments. However, it might not satisfy users with professional photography aspirations.

Battery & Charging: Reliable Endurance

The 4700mAh battery consistently provided me with all-day battery life under moderate usage. My typical day involves a mix of social media, browsing, email, and occasional video calls, and the Poco F2 Pro comfortably lasted through it. Charging speeds with the 30W fast charger are respectable, allowing for a significant top-up in a reasonable amount of time.

In my charging speed testing, I found that it could go from near empty to a substantial charge within an hour. Power management seems efficient, contributing to the phone's solid endurance. While not the absolute fastest charging on the market, it's certainly convenient and practical for daily use.

Software: A Familiar Experience

The Poco F2 Pro runs on Xiaomi's MIUI, offering a feature-rich experience. Daily usage felt familiar, especially for those accustomed to Android or Xiaomi's ecosystem. The interface is generally intuitive, and there's a wealth of customization options available. However, like many heavily customized Android skins, it comes with a fair amount of pre-installed apps.

While the phone has received updates, it's important to note that its update policy is likely reaching its end-of-life. The usefulness of the included features is subjective, but many users appreciate the added functionalities that MIUI provides.

Value Analysis: A Smart Choice for the Right User

My personal take on the Poco F2 Pro's value in 2024 is that it remains a compelling option for specific users. The price-to-feature ratio is still attractive, particularly for those prioritizing performance and display quality over the absolute latest camera technology or cutting-edge features like wireless charging.

I think this phone is particularly well-suited for students or anyone who needs a reliable and powerful device for everyday tasks and media consumption without breaking the bank. Those who should look elsewhere are users who prioritize top-tier camera performance, wireless charging, or the latest software updates. In the competitive landscape of mid-range smartphones, the Poco F2 Pro holds its own, especially when considering its current price.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Consideration

Ultimately, the Xiaomi Poco F2 Pro offers a compelling blend of performance and value, even several years after its release. In my testing, it proved to be a capable and reliable device. While it's not without its compromises, the strengths in its display and performance make it a worthwhile consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

If you're seeking a phone that delivers a smooth user experience, boasts a fantastic screen, and offers solid performance for everyday tasks and even some gaming, the Poco F2 Pro deserves a look. Just be aware of its limitations in terms of camera technology and the likelihood of future software updates. For the right user, this phone still provides excellent value.