iQOO Z9s 5G review
The iQOO Z9s 5G aims to redefine the mid-range smartphone experience with a mix of power, style, and longevity. But does it truly stand out, or is it just another device in the crowded segment? Let’s break it down.
Design – Slim, Sleek, and Practical
The first thing you notice about the Z9s 5G is its incredibly slim profile (7.49mm thick), making it one of the sleekest phones in its class. The matte-finish back (available in Onyx Green and Titanium Matte) gives it a premium feel while resisting fingerprints. Unlike some flashy competitors, iQOO keeps things understated but elegant. The IP64 rating is a nice bonus, offering protection against dust and water splashes.
Display – Bright and Snappy
With a 6.77-inch AMOLED panel, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 1,800 nits of peak brightness, this phone doesn’t just look good—it performs smoothly. Whether you’re binge-watching or gaming, the colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep, and the sunlight visibility is impressive. HDR10+ support means streaming content looks fantastic.
Performance – Built for Speed
Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset powers the Z9s 5G, paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. iQOO’s focus has always been performance, and this phone doesn’t disappoint. Apps open fast, multitasking is seamless, and casual gaming runs effortlessly. Even in intensive games, the phone maintains stability without overheating, thanks to its liquid cooling system.
Cameras – Good, but Could Be Better
The 50MP OIS primary sensor is the star of the show, capturing crisp and detailed shots, especially in daylight. However, the 2MP depth sensor feels like an afterthought. The 16MP front camera does a solid job for selfies, but an ultra-wide-angle lens would have added more versatility. Night photography is decent, thanks to OIS, but it’s not flagship-level.
Software – Almost Clean, But…
Running Funtouch OS 14 on Android 14, the software experience is smooth, with plenty of customization options. However, the bloatware situation is a bit disappointing—some pre-installed apps may annoy purists. On the bright side, iQOO promises two years of major updates and three years of security patches, ensuring longevity.
Verdict – Is It Worth It?
For ₹19,999, the iQOO Z9s 5G offers a premium design, a vibrant display, solid performance, and an excellent battery life. It’s an easy recommendation for gamers and power users. The downsides? No ultra-wide camera, some bloatware, and competitors offering faster charging. But if raw performance and battery life matter most, the Z9s 5G is a top contender.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Ultra-Slim & Stylish – At just 7.49mm, it's one of the thinnest phones in its class. The matte finish looks premium and resists fingerprints.
✅ Bright & Smooth Display – 6.77-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,800 nits brightness, and HDR10+ support make it great for content consumption.
✅ Powerful Performance – The MediaTek Dimensity 7300 ensures smooth multitasking and gaming, supported by liquid cooling to prevent overheating.
✅ Long Battery Life – The 5,500mAh battery easily lasts a full day of heavy use.
✅ Fast Charging – 44W fast charging gets you 0 to 100% in about an hour.
✅ OIS Camera – The 50MP main sensor with OIS takes sharp and stable photos, especially in daylight.
✅ Decent Software Support – iQOO promises 2 years of Android updates and 3 years of security patches.
Cons:
❌ No Ultra-Wide Camera – The 2MP depth sensor feels like a filler; an ultra-wide lens would have been more useful.
❌ Bloatware – Some pre-installed apps may be annoying for users who prefer a clean experience.
❌ Only 44W Charging – While decent, competitors offer faster charging speeds at similar prices.
❌ Front Camera Could Be Better – The 16MP selfie camera is good but not exceptional, especially in low-light conditions.
Conclusion – Should You Buy the iQOO Z9s 5G?
The iQOO Z9s 5G is a performance-focused mid-range smartphone with a sleek design, brilliant display, solid battery life, and smooth gaming performance. It’s a great choice for gamers, heavy users, and anyone who prioritizes speed and battery life.
However, if you need a more versatile camera setup (with an ultra-wide lens) or faster charging speeds, you might want to explore alternatives like the Realme or Redmi offerings in this price range.
Overall, for ₹19,999, the iQOO Z9s 5G is a well-rounded package with only a few compromises. If performance and display are your top priorities, it’s an excellent choice.