Honor X5b and X5b Plus
In a world where smartphone launches often come with significant fanfare, Honor has opted for a more understated approach with the introduction of its latest entry-level devices: the Honor X5b and X5b Plus. Available in select markets across the Middle East, these smartphones cater to budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable performance without the high price tag. Although they share many features, the X5b Plus offers some enhancements that may make it a more appealing choice for certain users.
Design and Display
Both the Honor X5b and X5b Plus sport a modern design with a focus on usability. They feature a 6.56-inch LCD display that offers a 720p resolution, providing adequate clarity for everyday tasks. The display includes a waterdrop notch that houses the front-facing camera, contributing to a sleek look. Additionally, both models support a 90 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smoother scrolling and improved responsiveness, particularly in social media and gaming applications.
Performance
Under the hood, both smartphones are powered by the MediaTek Helio G36 chipset, designed for efficient performance in budget devices. This LTE-only processor ensures that users can enjoy reliable connectivity and decent performance for daily tasks, such as browsing the web, using social media apps, and streaming videos. The devices run on Android 14, layered with Honor’s MagicOS 8.0, providing a user-friendly interface with various customization options and features.
Camera Capabilities
One of the key differences between the X5b and X5b Plus lies in their camera specifications.
- Selfie Camera: Both models are equipped with a 5 MP front-facing camera, suitable for video calls and casual selfies.
Rear Cameras
- Honor X5b: Features a 13 MP main sensor, paired with a 0.8 MP secondary shooter for basic photography needs.
- Honor X5b Plus: Offers a more advanced 50 MP main sensor, allowing for higher-resolution photos and improved low-light performance. The secondary camera remains the same at 0.8 MP.
These camera setups make both models capable of capturing everyday moments, but the X5b Plus stands out for those who prioritize photography.
Battery Life
Both the X5b and X5b Plus come with a substantial 5,200 mAh battery, promising all-day usage on a single charge. This capacity is particularly advantageous for users who rely on their phones throughout the day for browsing, streaming, and communication. The efficient chipset combined with the sizable battery ensures that users won’t need to worry about their devices running out of power during critical moments.
Memory and Pricing
In terms of memory and storage options:
- Honor X5b: Offers 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage, priced at approximately $80, making it an appealing option for those looking for a basic smartphone.
- Honor X5b Plus: Comes with 4 GB of RAM and a more generous 128 GB of internal storage, retailing for SAR 399 (around $106). This additional storage capacity is beneficial for users who download apps, take photos, and store media files.
Conclusion
The Honor X5b and X5b Plus present a compelling choice for anyone seeking an affordable smartphone that doesn’t compromise on essential features. While both devices offer solid performance, the enhanced camera and storage options of the X5b Plus may justify its slightly higher price for those who need a bit more from their device.
In a competitive market, Honor’s quiet launch of these models highlights the brand’s commitment to providing quality options at accessible prices, making them worthy contenders for budget-conscious consumers.