iQOO Neo 9 Pro: A Power-Packed Mid-Range Beast with Some Flaws

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro has quickly become one of the most talked-about smartphones in the mid-range segment, offering flagship-like performance at an affordable price. With a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a stunning 144Hz AMOLED display, and blazing-fast 120W charging, it’s a dream come true for mobile gamers and performance enthusiasts. However, like any device, it’s not without its drawbacks. Let’s dive into what makes this phone a fantastic choice, while also highlighting areas where it falls short.

Why You’ll Love the iQOO Neo 9 Pro ?

1. Blazing-Fast Performance

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, combined with 8GB/12GB RAM, ensures that the iQOO Neo 9 Pro delivers exceptional performance. Whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or streaming content, this phone handles everything smoothly. Benchmarks place it at the top of its class, making it a powerhouse for demanding users.

2. Stunning 144Hz AMOLED Display

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate is a visual treat. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and brightness reaches up to 3,000 nits, ensuring a fantastic viewing experience even in direct sunlight. The high refresh rate makes scrolling and gaming silky smooth.

3. 120W Fast Charging – A Game Changer

One of the biggest highlights of this phone is its 120W fast charging, which takes the battery from 0 to 50% in under 10 minutes. The 5,160mAh battery easily lasts a full day, even with heavy usage. If you’re always on the go, this charging speed is a lifesaver.

4. Great Camera Performance (Mostly)

The 50MP Sony IMX920 main sensor captures sharp and detailed images, even in low light. Colors are natural, and HDR works effectively to bring out highlights and shadows. Video recording is solid, supporting 8K at 30fps.

5. Competitive Pricing

Priced under ₹40,000 (~$480), the iQOO Neo 9 Pro offers features found in much more expensive flagships. If you’re looking for maximum value for money, this phone delivers in almost every aspect.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro Color Variants (Color Combos)

1. Fiery Red (Red & White Dual-Tone Leather) – This version has a premium dual-tone design with a mix of red and white vegan leather. It stands out as a bold and stylish option.

2. Conqueror Black – A sleek and classic black color with a glossy finish, giving it a more professional and minimalist look.

3. Fighter White – A clean and elegant white finish, making the device look modern and premium.

Where the iQOO Neo 9 Pro Falls Short ?

1. Disappointing Ultrawide Camera

While the main camera is fantastic, the 8MP ultrawide sensor feels outdated. The image quality is nowhere near as sharp as the primary lens, and details often look soft and washed out.

2. Bloatware and Software Issues

While the phone runs Android 14, iQOO’s Funtouch OS comes with unnecessary pre-installed apps. Some users might find the UI cluttered, and software updates are slower compared to Google Pixel or Samsung devices.

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Why Balancing Good and Bad is Important?

When reviewing a product, maintaining an 80-20 balance between praise and criticism is essential for credibility and trustworthiness. No product is perfect, and highlighting both strengths and weaknesses helps potential buyers make an informed decision. If a review is 100% positive, it sounds biased. On the other hand, excessive criticism might overlook the device’s strengths. By maintaining a realistic balance, readers can better judge whether the iQOO Neo 9 Pro suits their needs.

Final Verdict: Is the iQOO Neo 9 Pro Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a powerful gaming phone with a stunning display, incredible charging speed, and solid main camera performance, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro is one of the best choices in its price range. However, if you prioritize ultrawide camera quality, wireless charging, or water resistance, you might want to explore other option.