The Honor X6e is a new budget 5G smartphone that promises solid performance without breaking the bank. Launched in Pakistan on 12 March 2024, it is priced at Rs. 34,999 (approximately US$ 125). Designed for students, young professionals, and first-time smartphone buyers, the X6e packs a 6.72-inch display, a capable MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor, and a 5200mAh battery with 35W fast charging. But does it deliver where it counts, or is it just another overhyped budget device?

Design & Build

The Honor X6e arrives in a sleek, modern design with a glossy back panel that catches fingerprints easily. The phone measures 165.7 x 75.9 x 8.1 mm and weighs 193 grams, making it comfortable to hold for long hours. It comes in three colors: Black, Blue, and Silver. The build quality feels sturdy, with a plastic frame and a matte finish on the back that resists smudges better than most budget phones. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is responsive, and the volume and power buttons are well-placed for one-handed use.

Display

The phone sports a 6.72-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+). The screen has a 90Hz refresh rate, which is a pleasant surprise at this price point. Colors are vibrant, with good brightness levels for outdoor visibility. The display is protected by a 2.5D curved glass, though it lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance. In real-world use, the 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and gaming smoother compared to standard 60Hz displays.

Performance

Under the hood, the Honor X6e is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD). The Dimensity 6100+ is a mid-range 5G chipset that handles everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and light gaming with ease. In benchmark tests, the X6e scored around 450,000 on AnTuTu, which is respectable for its price. Multitasking is smooth, and the phone rarely stutters, even with multiple apps open. However, heavy gamers might find the performance slightly lacking for titles like PUBG or Call of Duty at high settings.

Camera

The Honor X6e features a triple-camera setup on the back: a 50MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The main camera takes decent photos in good lighting, with accurate colors and decent detail. However, in low light, the performance drops significantly, and the images appear grainy. The 2MP macro and depth sensors are gimmicks at best and rarely produce usable results. The front camera is an 8MP shooter, which is adequate for video calls and selfies in daylight but struggles in dim lighting. Video recording is capped at 1080p@30fps, which is standard for this segment.

Battery

The Honor X6e is equipped with a 5200mAh battery, which is one of the largest in its price range. In real-world usage, the phone easily lasts a full day on a single charge with moderate use, including web browsing, social media, and some light gaming. The 35W fast charging support is a welcome addition, allowing the battery to go from 0 to 100% in about 70 minutes. This means you can quickly top up the phone during a short break, making it ideal for busy professionals or students.

Verdict

The Honor X6e is a solid budget 5G smartphone that punches above its weight in some areas. Its 6.72-inch 90Hz display, MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, and 5200mAh battery with 35W fast charging make it a great choice for users looking for a reliable daily driver without spending a fortune. The camera performance is mediocre at best, and the lack of water resistance is a minor drawback. However, if you prioritize display quality, battery life, and performance over photography, the Honor X6e is a worthy contender in the sub-Rs. 40,000 segment. It’s not perfect, but it delivers excellent value for money.

Key details

  • Launch date: 12 March 2024
  • Price in Pakistan: Rs. 34,999
  • Price in USD: ~US$ 125
  • Where to buy: Official Honor stores, Daraz, and major retailers across Pakistan
  • Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty

For the latest deals and availability, visit the official Honor Pakistan website: https://www.honor.com/pk/.