Poco’s First “Ultra” Phone: A Budget Flagship with a Triple Camera and Fast Charging
In the world of budget smartphones, Poco has always been a name to reckon with. The sub-brand of Xiaomi has consistently delivered high-performance devices at affordable prices. Now, Poco is taking things to the next level with its first “Ultra” phone, the F7 Ultra. This device boasts a triple rear camera setup, fast charging, and IP68 protection, all packed into a sleek and slim design. But is it worth the £649 price tag?
A Flagship Chipset at a Budget Price
The F7 Ultra runs on the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is a significant upgrade from Poco’s previous offerings. This powerful processor is paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, ensuring seamless performance and multitasking capabilities. The only other device that offers the 8 Elite chipset at a lower price is the Redmagic 10 Pro, but its gamer aesthetic may not appeal to everyone.
A Triple Camera Setup with a Twist
The F7 Ultra’s rear camera array is a highlight of the device, featuring a 50 megapixel main camera, a 50MP 2.5x telephoto camera, and a 32MP ultrawide camera. The camera performance is impressive, with good detail, decent dynamic range, and true-to-life colors. However, there is some noise present, especially when pushing the telephoto camera’s optical zoom into digital territory.
Other Key Features
The F7 Ultra also boasts a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 1440p resolution and a max refresh rate of 120Hz. The sizable 5,300mAh battery is supported by both 120W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The device also features an IP68 rating, ensuring it can withstand dust and water.
Design and Availability
The F7 Ultra is available in two colors: a bold yellow finish and a more subdued black model. Both versions feature glossy detailing around the camera, which adds a touch of elegance to the device. The phone is slim at 8.39mm, making it easy to carry around.
The F7 Pro: A More Affordable Option
For those who want a Poco device but don’t need the latest and greatest, the F7 Pro is a more affordable option. Priced at £499, it uses the older Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and features a bigger 6,000mAh battery. However, it has slower 90W charging and no wireless charging option. The camera setup is also downgraded, with a single 20MP selfie camera and an 8MP ultrawide camera.
Conclusion
The Poco F7 Ultra is a significant step up for the brand, offering a flagship chipset, triple camera setup, and fast charging at an affordable price. While it may not be perfect, it’s a great option for those who want a high-performance device without breaking the bank. The F7 Pro is also a solid choice for those who want a more affordable option with a bigger battery.
Actionable Insights
- If you’re in the market for a budget flagship, the Poco F7 Ultra is definitely worth considering.
- If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the F7 Pro is a good choice, but be aware of the slower charging and downgraded camera setup.
- Poco’s software experience is smoother than some other budget brands, making it a great option for those who want a hassle-free Android experience.
Summary
The Poco F7 Ultra is a budget flagship that packs a punch. With its flagship chipset, triple camera setup, and fast charging, it’s a great option for those who want a high-performance device without breaking the bank. The F7 Pro is also a solid choice for those who want a more affordable option with a bigger battery. Whether you choose the F7 Ultra or the F7 Pro, you can’t go wrong with Poco’s latest offerings.