Introduction

The Smart 8 (model numbers X6525 and X6525D) arrived on my desk promising a compelling blend of features at an accessible price point. This Middle East version boasts a large display, a substantial battery, and a dual-SIM capability – all features that make it attractive to a broad range of users. But does it deliver on its promises? I spent several weeks putting this phone through its paces to find out.

Features

The Smart 8 immediately impresses with its 6.6-inch display. The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling smooth and responsive, a noticeable upgrade from standard 60Hz screens. The “Magic Ring Fluid Punch-Hole” design is aesthetically pleasing, minimizing bezel interruption. The 5000mAh battery easily lasted a full day, even with heavy use, and the Type-C charging was relatively quick. The dual-SIM functionality is a welcome addition for users who need to manage two numbers. The fingerprint sensor on the side and facial recognition unlock worked reliably and quickly. The 13MP dual AI camera, while not flagship quality, produced decent photos in good lighting conditions. The ring flashlight was also surprisingly bright.

Performance

With 2GB of RAM, performance wasn’t exactly blazing fast. While everyday tasks like browsing and messaging were handled adequately, more demanding apps and games occasionally showed lag. Multitasking wasn’t its strong suit; switching between apps sometimes resulted in noticeable delays. The 64GB of internal storage is sufficient for many users, but expandable storage would have been a welcome addition. The Android operating system ran smoothly, though the version wasn’t specified, a minor drawback. Gaming performance was limited by the RAM, making it suitable only for less graphically demanding titles.

Call quality was consistently good, and the network connectivity (4G LTE) was reliable in my testing area. Overall, the performance aligns with its budget-friendly positioning. It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s perfectly usable for everyday needs.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Large and smooth display (90Hz), Long-lasting 5000mAh battery, Fast and reliable fingerprint/face unlock, Dual SIM functionality, Affordable price point.
• Cons: Limited RAM (2GB) impacting performance, No expandable storage, Camera quality could be better in low light, Android version unspecified.

Final Verdict

The Smart 8 (X6525, X6525D) is a budget phone that delivers on several key features: a large, vibrant screen, long battery life, and dual-SIM support. However, the limited RAM hampers its overall performance, making it less suitable for power users or demanding gamers. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize battery life and screen size, this phone is a decent option. However, if performance is a major concern, it’s worth considering a model with more RAM. For everyday use, it’s a solid performer; its shortcomings are largely offset by its strengths, making it a worthy contender in the budget smartphone market.