Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC

The Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC: A Heavy Hitter on a Budget Still Worth a Look?

I spent a good chunk of time recently with the Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC, a phone that, even a while after its release, still pops up in discussions about value-for-money devices. My testing involved daily use as my primary device, some casual gaming, a fair amount of photography, and the usual social media scrolling. Right off the bat, the phone made a strong impression, albeit a somewhat weighty one, literally. At its price point, it squarely aimed at the budget-conscious consumer looking for a robust feature set without breaking the bank. Let's dive into the details.

Making Waves in the Mid-Range

Back when the Poco X3 NFC launched, it was a statement piece. Xiaomi, through its Poco sub-brand, was aggressively targeting the mid-range segment with a focus on delivering flagship-level features without the flagship price tag. This phone was a prime example of that strategy. The pricing was undeniably attractive, undercutting many of its competitors while boasting specifications that looked impressive on paper. My take is that it was a calculated move to gain market share by offering exceptional value, and it largely succeeded. The X3 NFC became a benchmark for budget-friendly performance, forcing other manufacturers to step up their game.

Solid Build, Noticeable Heft

Picking up the Poco X3 NFC, the first thing you notice is its substantial heft. At 215 grams, it's not a phone you'll easily forget is in your pocket. However, this weight contributes to a feeling of solidity and durability. The polycarbonate back, while not as premium as glass or metal, feels robust and capable of withstanding everyday bumps and scrapes. The design, while not groundbreaking, is functional and features a prominent camera module. In hand, the curved edges make it reasonably comfortable to hold despite its size, although prolonged one-handed use might lead to some fatigue. While it might not win any beauty contests for its sleekness, its build quality inspires confidence for practical, everyday use.

A Smooth Operator on the Eyes

The 6.67-inch IPS LCD display is a real highlight for a phone in this category. While it doesn't boast the inky blacks and vibrant contrast of an AMOLED, the colors are surprisingly punchy and vivid. I found that watching videos and browsing photos was an enjoyable experience. The real star of the show here is the 120Hz refresh rate. Scrolling through social media feeds and navigating the interface felt incredibly smooth, a noticeable step up from standard 60Hz displays. While the 1080 x 2400 resolution (resulting in a pixel density of 395 ppi) isn't the absolute sharpest, it provides more than enough clarity for most tasks, including gaming. Speaking of which, games looked good, and the high refresh rate certainly contributed to a more fluid experience. Even under bright sunlight, the display held up reasonably well, though direct glare could be an issue, as is typical with LCD panels.

Performance That Punches Above Its Weight

Under the hood, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G chipset is the engine driving the Poco X3 NFC. In my testing, this mid-range processor proved to be a capable performer for everyday tasks. Navigating through apps, browsing the web, and multitasking felt fluid and responsive. I even put it through its paces with some gaming sessions. While it might not handle the absolute highest settings in demanding titles, it ran popular games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile smoothly on medium to high settings without noticeable lag or stuttering. Multitasking was also handled admirably; switching between several open applications didn't result in frustrating slowdowns. Temperature management was also decent. While the phone did get slightly warm during extended gaming sessions, it never reached uncomfortable levels. For a phone in this price bracket, the performance offered by the Snapdragon 732G was genuinely impressive.

A Surprisingly Versatile Camera System

The camera system on the Poco X3 NFC is surprisingly versatile for its price. The 64MP main sensor, using pixel binning technology, captures detailed and vibrant photos in good lighting conditions. I was particularly impressed with the dynamic range it managed to capture. The dedicated ultra-wide lens comes in handy for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots, although the image quality isn't quite as sharp as the main sensor. The macro lens allows for close-up shots, though its 2MP resolution limits its usefulness for serious macro photography. The 2MP depth sensor assists with portrait mode, creating a pleasing background blur effect. Video recording capabilities are also solid, with the phone capable of shooting up to 4K at 30fps. Electronic image stabilization (EIS) helps to keep footage relatively stable. The 20MP front-facing camera delivers decent selfies and is perfectly adequate for video calls. While it might not compete with flagship camera systems, the Poco X3 NFC provides a very capable and enjoyable photography experience for its price point.

Battery Life That Goes the Distance

One of the standout features of the Poco X3 NFC is its impressive battery life. The large 5160mAh battery easily powered me through a full day of moderate to heavy use, including social media, web browsing, streaming music, and some photography. On lighter usage days, I often found myself heading to bed with a significant amount of charge still remaining. The included 33W fast charger is a welcome addition, quickly topping up the battery when needed. I consistently found that it could charge the phone from empty to a significant percentage in a relatively short amount of time, minimizing downtime. For users who prioritize battery endurance, the Poco X3 NFC is a real winner.

Software: A Functional Though Dated Starting Point

The Poco X3 NFC initially launched with Android 10, layered with Xiaomi's MIUI. While it has since received an update to Android 12, starting on an older version is a notable point. MIUI offers a wealth of customization options and features, but it can also feel a bit bloated at times. I found the interface to be generally smooth and responsive, though some users might find the sheer number of pre-installed apps overwhelming. Features like the app drawer and various system customization options are welcome additions. While the update to Android 12 is appreciated, the phone is unlikely to receive further major Android updates, which is something to consider for long-term users.

Value Proposition: Still a Strong Contender?

Even now, looking back, the Poco X3 NFC offered incredible value for money. It packed a punch in terms of performance, display quality, and battery life, all at a price that was hard to beat. This phone is ideal for budget-conscious users who prioritize performance and battery life over having the absolute latest software or the most premium design. It's a great option for students, casual gamers, and anyone who needs a reliable daily driver without breaking the bank. However, those seeking the absolute best camera quality or the most refined software experience might want to explore slightly higher-priced alternatives.

Final Verdict: A Reliable Performer That Stands the Test of Time

The Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC, even in today's market, remains a compelling option for those seeking excellent value. Its combination of a smooth 120Hz display, capable performance, long-lasting battery, and a versatile camera system makes it a well-rounded device for everyday use. While its weight and the older initial software might be drawbacks for some, the overall package delivers a fantastic user experience for the price. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone that won't empty your wallet, the Poco X3 NFC is definitely worth considering, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a great smartphone experience.