Introduction

The Smart 8 (X6525) arrived on my desk promising a compelling blend of features at a competitive price point. This review covers my experience with the Middle East version of the phone, specifically the Timber Black model with 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put it through its paces, testing everything from its impressive display to its battery life and camera capabilities. Let’s dive in.

Key Features

The Smart 8 boasts a striking 90Hz 6.6-inch Magic Ring Fluid Punch-Hole display that’s incredibly vibrant and responsive. The 5000mAh battery is a standout feature, comfortably lasting a full day even with heavy usage. Other notable features include a dual SIM capability, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking, and a 13MP dual AI camera system with a ring-flashlight, which surprisingly provides good illumination in low-light conditions. The phone runs on Android 13, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience.

Performance and Battery Life

With 4GB of RAM, multitasking is manageable, though I did notice some occasional lag when juggling multiple demanding apps. However, for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming, the performance was more than adequate. The Octa-core processor handles most tasks efficiently. The 5000mAh battery truly impressed; it consistently lasted well over a day on a single charge, even with heavy use involving streaming videos and playing games. The Type-C fast charging is a welcome addition, considerably reducing charging time. The camera performance was satisfactory for everyday use. While it didn’t produce professional-level photos, image quality was acceptable in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance showed noise, but the ring-flashlight helped considerably.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Long-lasting 5000mAh battery
• Smooth 90Hz display
• Fast Type-C charging
• Dual SIM functionality
• Reliable fingerprint sensor and Face Unlock

Cons:

• Occasional lag during multitasking
• Camera quality could be improved in low light conditions (though the ring flash helps)
• 4GB RAM might feel limiting for power users

Final Verdict

The Smart 8 (X6525) offers excellent value for its price. The long battery life and smooth display are major highlights. While the performance isn’t top-tier, it’s suitable for most users. If you’re looking for a reliable, long-lasting phone with a beautiful screen and a competitive price, the Smart 8 is definitely worth considering. I would recommend this phone to those who prioritize battery life and screen quality over top-end performance.