Vivo X300 Review: A Compact Powerhouse That Challenges the iPhone 17

The Vivo X300 positions itself as a compelling alternative to the iPhone 17 in the compact flagship segment. With a sleek 6.31-inch AMOLED display, premium build quality, and a robust feature set, it aims to attract users seeking a smaller yet powerful device.

Design and Build The X300 features a glass back with a matte finish and aluminum frames, weighing in at 190g and measuring 150.57 x 71.92 x 7.95mm. It carries an IP68/IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, available in Black, Blue, Red, Purple, and Pink variants.

Display and Screen Equipped with a 6.31-inch BOE Q10+ OLED panel, the display offers 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and peak brightness reaching nearly 2000 nits in auto mode, peaking at 4500 nits for HDR content. While it lacks Dolby Vision, the color calibration and even bezels enhance the viewing experience.

Performance and Battery Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, the X300 matches the performance of the X300 Pro, handling everyday tasks and casual gaming smoothly. The 6,040 mAh battery provides over eight hours of screen time, outperforming the iPhone 17, and supports 90W wired and 40W wireless charging.

Camera Capabilities The camera setup includes a 200MP Samsung HPB main sensor with OIS, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP Sony LYT-602 periscope telephoto lens. Photos showcase sharp detail and vibrant colors, though the ultra-wide lens falls short of the iPhone 17's capabilities. Video recording supports up to 4K at 120fps, with stabilization nearly matching the iPhone 17.

Software and Experience Running Android 16 with Vivo's OriginOS 6, the software brings smoother animations and improved responsiveness. While not as polished as OneUI or OxygenOS, it offers a refined user experience with reliable ultrasonic fingerprint sensing.

Audio and Haptics The speakers deliver loud audio but lack balance in the treble range. Haptics feel precise but slightly less refined compared to the iPhone 17. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience remains satisfying.

Verdict The Vivo X300 stands out as a well-rounded compact flagship, offering strong performance, a versatile camera system, and excellent battery life. While cooling could be improved for intensive gaming, it serves as an excellent choice for users prioritizing a smaller form factor without compromising on features or quality.