Vivo’s premium X smartphone series gained significant traction with the launch of the X70 Pro+ in 2021, which was favorably compared to Xiaomi’s Mi 11 Ultra. The X70 Pro+ effectively utilized a distinctive gimbal stabilization system and introduced the V1 imaging chip, providing excellent stability for video recording under various lighting conditions. Following this, the X80 Pro seamlessly built upon its predecessor’s legacy by adding features like handheld astrophotography and excelling in low-light scenarios with its quad-camera setup. However, the subsequent Vivo X90 Pro faltered somewhat, lacking essential hardware elements and facing challenges in delivering superior camera and performance capabilities.
The newly launched Vivo X100 Pro distinguishes itself from its predecessors while maintaining several hallmark features. It showcases a signature curved-edge display that sets it apart, resulting in a unique look and feel. The phone retains the triple rear camera configuration but updates the hardware. Notably, the X100 Pro introduces the new V3 imaging chip alongside the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, aligning it as an enticing option in the smartphone market. After testing the device for a couple of weeks, here are my observations.
Vivo X100 Pro Review: Price in India
While the Vivo X100 Pro may not directly compete with Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra due to differing price tiers, it positions itself as a formidable opponent to Google’s premium Pixel 8 Pro, priced starting at Rs. 1,06,999. The Vivo X100 Pro is available at Rs. 89,999, featuring 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. The packaging includes a charger, a Type-C cable, and a robust silicon case.
Vivo X100 Pro Review: Design
In line with last year’s model, the Vivo X100 Pro has been unveiled in a singular finish, named Asteroid Black, which boasts a fluorite anti-glare glass back. Unlike other brands offering diverse choices at similar price points, customers in India are still awaiting the orange vegan-leather texture that debuted in China.
The design of the Vivo X100 Pro has undergone several enhancements from the X90 Pro. Although the device remains large and substantial, the rounded design helps create an illusion of slimness, despite the significant camera bump contributing to its overall bulk. Vivo’s continued use of the 3D curved edge display is interesting, especially as many competitors have moved away from this feature.
The weight of the X100 Pro stands at 225 grams, comparable to last year’s model. In contrast, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra weighs 234g, while Apple’s titanium-designed iPhone 15 Pro Max feels lighter at 221g. Nevertheless, the X100 Pro design, particularly its pronounced camera bump, allows it to stand out uniquely among previous versions.
The camera bump’s stainless steel ring echoes the design inspiration from the sun’s halo, though a raised edge on the ring could enhance protection for the vulnerable camera glass.
While the matte finish exudes a premium feel, it also risks being slippery. Users may find it beneficial to utilize the included case, as the phone can feel cumbersome and top-heavy due to its camera configuration.
The curved front glass has maintained its resistance to smudges and scratches throughout the review duration. However, the curved display does reduce the viewing area slightly outdoors due to reflections.
The device holds an official IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Coupled with the wireless charging capability and a substantial 5,400mAh battery, the bulk of the X100 Pro is somewhat justified.
Vivo X100 Pro Review: Specifications and Software
Equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, a first for India, the Vivo X100 Pro combines this processor with a new V3 imaging co-processor designed to enhance imaging and gaming performance. The device offers 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, with no option for expandable memory, although it does accommodate two physical nano SIM cards and supports eSIM functionality with dual 5G standby.
The 6.78-inch full-HD+ AMOLED screen features a 120Hz refresh rate supported by LTPO technology, intelligently adapting refresh rates to optimize battery life. An optical fingerprint reader embedded in the display performed reliably during testing.
Communication technologies include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, an infrared port, and a USB-C port (version 3.2), along with compatibility for well-known satellite navigation systems. The large 5,400mAh battery, composed of two cells, can be rapidly charged via the bundled 120W wired charger and supports 50W wireless charging, which requires a separate purchase.
The device runs on Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14 and was updated to the latest December 2023 security patch during testing. Vivo has assured users of three years of security and firmware updates.
Funtouch OS 14 offers more personalization options compared to its predecessor.
The user interface of Funtouch OS 14 is notably similar to the previous version but offers enhancements. The theming engine allows for improved customization options, with instant application of themes and increased stability compared to earlier versions. Vivo has emphasized system optimization, introducing an instant startup mode that boots the phone in 20 seconds after a complete power-down. However, while the software seems polished, it does not quite match the AI-enhanced capabilities seen in the Pixel 8 Pro.
Vivo X100 Review: Performance
The performance remains smooth across tasks, supported by 16GB of RAM (along with an additional 16GB of virtual RAM), accommodating demanding multitasking and gaming needs. The device managed impressive benchmark scores, significantly exceeding the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered iQoo 12 in AnTuTu and Geekbench assessments.
Vivo claims a 30 percent increase in energy efficiency with the new 6nm co-processor, enhancing both imaging capabilities and gaming experiences. The imaging chip also lowers power consumption during gaming through frame interpolation, achieving up to 90fps.
The LTPO display marks a significant upgrade, dynamically aligning its refresh rate for enhanced software performance and markedly improved battery efficiency. The screen shines brightly outdoors, reaching a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. Furthermore, it includes a high-frequency dimming feature, alleviating eye strain in low-light environments.
Demanding games have already begun to support high frame rates, while Vivo’s Game Frame Interpolation feature enhances the fluidity of titles not exceeding traditional limits. However, users may encounter touch sampling lag due to this feature, which may hinder performance in competitive scenarios.
Despite experiencing some heat during video recording, the device effectively manages temperatures overall, though issues can arise after extended use. With a substantial 5,400mAh battery, endurance was remarkable, demonstrating over twenty-one hours in video playback tests.
Daily usage consisted of typical activities like messaging, social media, and gaming, with the phone comfortably lasting a day and a half on average without needing recharging.
Vivo’s charging technology proved efficient, rapidly refilling the massive battery, reaching 90% in just about 30 minutes and fully charging in under 40 minutes. While not extensively tested, the 50W wireless charging function works with standard Qi pads.
Vivo X100 Pro Review: Cameras
The camera specifications of the Vivo X100 Pro indicate considerable updates across all three lenses in its rear camera configuration. This year, the smartphone incorporates three 50-megapixel sensors. The primary camera, utilizing a 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor, includes PDAF, laser-assisted autofocus, and OIS. The new telephoto lens offers significant versatility, enabling high-quality close-up shots due to its innovative design.
The camera app features multiple color modes for users.
The camera interface is user-friendly, with streamlined options, facilitating easy adjustments without delving into complicated settings. Users can select color treatments from Vivid, Textured, or Zeiss Natural modes. The Natural mode effectively balances colors for accurate scene representation, particularly appealing for photography enthusiasts.
The advanced telephoto lens enhances close-up capabilities, enabling sharp and clear portrait shots while also accommodating macro photography needs. Additionally, specialized focal lengths for portrait modes were effectively tailored, allowing for excellent detail rendering.
Zoom capabilities extend to a hybrid 100X, though the results are less impressive than the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s offerings. The device shows decreasing image quality beyond 10X but retains depth and detail within that range.
A unique addition is the Telephoto Sunshot mode for sunset photography, although color accuracy can be an issue as the images may have an exaggerated hue.
The ultra-wide camera performs adequately but struggles in low-light conditions, displaying washed-out details compared to competitors. Selfies are decent but fall short, lacking definition despite reasonable skin tone accuracy.
Video capabilities, particularly at 4K, yield solid performance across various settings, though low-light recordings may contain noise. Cinematic modes contribute creative options but may not achieve the precision seen in Apple’s offerings.
Vivo X100 Pro Review: Verdict
Vivo successfully targets photography enthusiasts with the X100 Pro, marrying advanced hardware with intelligent AI enhancements for a satisfying mobile imaging experience. While it may not overshadow competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra in zoom quality or the Pixel 8 Pro in AI capabilities, it holds significant appeal for street photographers and portrait lovers alike.
Beyond its camera, the Vivo X100 Pro excels in general performance and versatility, underscoring its potential as a well-rounded flagship smartphone for 2024.
