The Xiaomi Poco C81 is a new contender in the entry-level segment, designed specifically for budget-conscious students and first-time smartphone users in Pakistan. Officially launched on 24 October 2024, this device is available for Rs. 34,999 (approximately $125 USD) at official Xiaomi stores and online retailers like mistore.pk.

Key details

- Price: Rs. 34,999
- Launch Date: 24 October 2024
- Official Store: mistore.pk
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- Battery: 5000 mAh

Design & Build

The Poco C81 features a plastic unibody design that feels surprisingly sturdy in the hand. It comes in shades of Power Black and Cool Blue. The matte finish helps in resisting fingerprints, which is a major plus for a budget device. Weighing 192 grams, it is comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions or social media scrolling.

Display

The phone sports a 6.71-inch IPS LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. While the resolution is limited to 720 x 1650 pixels, the high refresh rate makes animations feel smooth. For a phone at this price point, the brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, though sunlight legibility is average.

Performance

Under the hood, the Poco C81 runs on the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset. In real-world usage, it handles daily tasks like WhatsApp, YouTube, and light multitasking without major hiccups. With 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, it offers a decent experience for entry-level gaming, provided you keep graphical settings at medium or low.

Camera

The rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth lens. During our testing, the 50MP shooter captured sharp images in daylight with decent color reproduction. However, low-light performance is limited, showing some noise. The 8MP front-facing camera is sufficient for video calls and casual selfies.

Battery

Equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, the C81 easily lasts a full day of moderate use. It supports 18W fast charging via the included USB Type-C port. While it is not the fastest charging speed on the market, it takes about 110 minutes to reach a full charge from zero, which is acceptable for the price.

Verdict

The Xiaomi Poco C81 is a reliable daily driver for users who prioritize battery life and a smooth display over high-end gaming performance. At Rs. 34,999, it provides a well-rounded package that is hard to beat for students or those looking for a secondary device. If you need a phone that just works without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice to consider this year.