HONOR X8a: On the competitive mid-segment smartphone category, HONOR has been making a slow comeback.
The aim with the HONOR X8a is to target stylish users of all ages and offer a mid-range all-rounder that doesn’t break the bank.
Advertised as a budget phone in a sexy outfit, the X8a introduces neat design, a big display and a 100MP main cam to the scene.
But does that spec sheet result a solid day-to-day experience? Let’s take a deeper look.
Design: Thin, Sleek and Lightweight
If the HONOR X8a stands out in one department – it is definitely design. It features a flat-edged frame with a high-end matte finish on the back that make it look as premium as many more expensive models.
With just a 7.48mm thickness and a weight of 179g, it’s thin and featherlight in the hand — ideal for anyone who wants a phone that won’t burden them throughout the day.
The rear camera module is a little elevated but goes well with the design and look and feel. In colors such as Cyan Lake and Titanium Silver, the X8a doesn’t seem the least bit “budget” in any way—it comes across as more expensive than it is.
Display: Large and just about bright enough
The X8a offers s 6.7-inch LTPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. It presents solid viewing experience in daily life with brilliant colours and acceptable sharpness. YouTube and a cursory glance through social media feels smooth.”
It’s not, however, an AMOLED panel, so the black levels aren’t as deep and sunlight legibility can be a little poor outside. However, for what you’re paying for it, the screen is well-tuned and easier on your eyes.
Performance: Goodwith the Basics
HONOR X8 is fueled by MediaTek Helio G88 processor with up to 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB internal memory.
This combination is powerful enough for daily activities — social media, messaging, web browsing and casual gaming.
This surely won’t be flagship speed. It’s not for heavy gaming or intense multitasking, but can handle lighter apps and even some medium weight games such as Call of Duty Mobile on low settings.
It also packs RAM Turbo that expands the memory virtually, by recording the data on internal storage, so you can have better multitasking.
Cameras: A Lot of Megapixels, but Not Much to Show for It
It could be the 100MP main camera, which does sound impressive on paper, and certainly in daylight it took sharp, vibrant snaps with decent detail. Colors are well rendered and shots look good for social media posting.
The 5MP ultra-wide and 2MP macro lens are a bit more restrictive. The ultra-wide shots are bereft of any detail, and the macro is more of a toy.
It is still the 16MP front camera for selfies and video calls, and it does its job quite well in good light.
Low-light photos is where the phone sort of struggles a bit, especially since there is no OIS. Pictures can tend to look a little detail-less and soft, even with night mode engaged.
Battery Life: Good, Not Great average out of the 5 measuring days I got up to 5.5 hours during my heaviest use day You can likely get 6+ hours if you’re gentle on it Here are some screen shots I took over the past 5 days: I think this is fairly reflective of just using the thing as I would (heavy web browsing) Meter – 3 hour 25 minutes 83% remaining, charger unplugged Meter- 3 hour 3 hour 45 minutes 72% remaining, charger plugged in Meter – 2 hours 15 minutes 47% remaining, charger unplugged Meter – 3 hours 48 minutes 79% remaining, charger unplugged Meter 5 hours, 52% remaining, charger plugged in I do wish it had a better battery.
battery life I was a little disappointed that the battery in this machine wasn’t capable of a better battery life.
The 4500mAh battery will last you a day of regular usage, but if you’re a heavy user, don’t expect miracles. With moderate use — calls, social media checking and light video watching — you can easily get though the day.
And while the 22.5W fast charging is not the absolute fastest, it gets the phone to about 50% in about 30 minutes, which is decent.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Sleek and lightweight design
Good daytime photo quality from 100MP camera
Smooth 90Hz display
Dependable performance for all-day browsing, wrangling, and Incredible battery life so you can work, browse, & play all day long
For multitasking, RAM Turbo is there to offer assistance
Cons:
Not great for gamers- Helio G88
LCD screen, not AMOLED
So-so low-light photography
No stereo speakers
No 5G connectivity
HONOR X8a: The takeaway: A budget-friendly, stylish pick for everyday use
The HONOR X8a doesn’t try to be everything — instead, it concentrates on doing the basics well, while also adding a touch of style and some standout features, such as the 100MP camera and a smooth 90Hz display.
For people who care about design, day-to-day reliability and are not fixated on gaming or 5G, this phone finds a sweet spot.
It isn’t a phone designed for power users but for students, light users or those just looking to upgrade without spending too much, the HONOR X8a puts forward a strong case for itself.
