POCO X2 Long-Term Experience: Smooth Performance with Room for Improvement

The POCO X2 has been available for over a month, prompting an extended review to assess its real-world performance. While positioned as a mid-range device, it essentially rebrands the Redmi K30 for international markets. Key highlights include a unique 120Hz display, reliable processing, and a capable main camera, yet the overall experience feels held back by uninspired design choices and underwhelming secondary cameras.

The 6.67-inch IPS LCD panel stands out as the POCO X2's most distinctive feature, offering smooth scrolling and improved responsiveness at 120Hz, though this comes at the cost of reduced battery life. While not as vibrant as an AMOLED screen, the display remains colorful and sufficiently bright, with HDR10 support limited to YouTube. A dual punch-hole cutout houses the front cameras, though the inclusion of a dedicated depth sensor feels unnecessary compared to competitors like the Realme 6 Pro, which opt for wider angles.

Photography benefits from the Sony IMX686 sensor, delivering rich detail and dynamic range, particularly when compared to the Realme X2. However, the 8MP ultra-wide lens, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensors add little value. Macro shots consistently disappoint, and the depth sensor struggles with accurate subject focus and background blur. Portrayals in portraits often appear dull and overexposed. Despite these shortcomings, video recording remains stable and detailed at up to 4K 30fps, with options for pro-mode adjustments.

In terms of design, the POCO X2 feels solid but lacks visual distinction. The camera module's circular pattern appears dated, and the overall aesthetic fails to stand out compared to the more memorable design of the POCO F1. The phone retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, an IR blaster, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, which proves fast and reliable. Although it lacks an IP rating, a P2i coating offers some splash resistance, and Gorilla Glass 5 protects both the front and back.

Performance remains consistent, driven by the Snapdragon 730G chipset, which handles everyday tasks smoothly and supports decent gaming. While not as powerful as the POCO F1, it adequately manages most applications and provides a responsive experience, especially when paired with the 120Hz display. However, gaming at higher settings occasionally results in minor stutters, and the touch sampling rate falls short of premium competitors like the Galaxy S20+.

Battery life proves satisfactory, offering approximately one and a half days of typical use or a full day with heavy usage, particularly when the 120Hz mode is active. The included 27W fast charger refills the 4500mAh battery to around 70% in roughly 70 minutes.

Audio quality from the single bottom-firing speaker gets loud but lacks depth in music reproduction. Call quality remains clear, with no reported issues from the other end.

Overall, the POCO X2 delivers strong performance for its price range but falls short of the bold innovation seen in earlier POCO models. While the main camera and smooth display are highlights, the generic design and ineffective secondary lenses prevent it from achieving greatness.