realme 14x

As mentioned, the Realme 14X 5G draws power from the Dimensity 6300 SoC, which has become a go-to choice for OEMs in the segment. The same MediaTek chipset powers several other devices, including the Tecno Pova 6 Neo (review), Infinix Note 40X (review), and iQOO Z9 Lite (review). Realme deserves credit for offering 128GB storage and 6GB RAM for the base variant, priced at Rs 14,999. The top variant, which I reviewed, has 8GB RAM and the same storage. It's currently available for Rs 15,999, excluding offers. Based on benchmark scores, the Dimensity 6300 SoC-powered Realme 14X 5G secures a respectable position, outperforming the iQOO Z9 Lite (review), which features the same MediaTek processor. It delivers decent performance for everyday tasks and productivity as well. However, occasional lags and stutters were noticeable when switching between apps.On the bright side, the 120Hz display ensures a smooth and responsive scrolling experience.I also noticed minor stutters while playing demanding titles, including BGMI and COD Mobile. Its battery management was better than rivals, including the new POCO M7 Pro. However, our lab test shows that the Realme 14X 5G's thermals need improvement, though I didn't notice any heating signs during long gaming sessions. It could also be because of Delhi's cold weather conditions prevalent at the time of writing.In terms of connectivity, Realme has been gradually expanding 5G support across its budget offerings. The Realme 14X 5G supports eight essential 5G bands, which worked reliably in my location in South Delhi. Competitors like Motorola generally provide better 5G band support in their affordable Moto G-series smartphones, and Realme can consider improving this in the next iteration.The brand must also strive to improve its software experience, as the 14X 5G gets several pre-loaded apps. The phone ships with Android 14-based custom UI out-of-the-box, while it's a matter of time before Android 15 becomes the norm from the get-go.SmartphonePre-installed appsOS updates (Android + security)Realme 14X 5G672 years + 3 yearsPOCO M7 Pro632 years + 4 yearsiQOO Z9 Lite522 years + 3 years

Like most rivals in the segment, the Realme 14X 5G skips the ultra-wide camera, which I feel is a missed opportunity to stand out against the competition. Notably, the back features three camera cutouts, though it's only for aesthetics, as there's only a single 50MP camera. There's also a secondary 2MP camera, likely to assist with depth sensing since there's no macro mode in the Camera app. Overall, the secondary camera doesn't practically assist with anything.Under ample lighting conditions, the Realme 14X 5G performs well, delivering images with pleasing brightness and colours. While the level of detail isn't always exceptional, and some noise can occasionally creep in, this is a common limitation among smartphones in this segment. The phone also takes decent selfies and portraits without compromising facial details.However, the Realme 14X 5G needs to improve the low-light shots, as images often include lots of grains with inconsistent colour mapping. Enabling night mode can offer respite, but there's no significant change.

I've rarely faced battery-related issues with Realme smartphones, and the story with the Realme 14X 5G remains the same. The phone houses a massive 6,000mAh battery without significantly contributing to the overall thickness and weight. With the bundled 45W charger, the phone took over 70 minutes to go from 20 to 100 percent.However, the average charging speed is compensated by its brilliant battery backup. In my review, the phone easily lasted an entire day with the highest settings enabled.The Realme 14X 5G is also among the best performers in our PCMark battery test, lasting for 20 hours.SmartphonesBatteryCharging time (20 to 100 percent)Realme 14X 5G (45W)6,000mAh74 minutesPOCO M7 Pro (45W)5,110mAh53 minutesiQOO Z9 Lite (15W)5,000mAh107 minutes