The iQOO Z1x: a new Snapdragon 765G, 120Hz phone starting at ~US$229

The iQOO Z1x is the latest in a growing line of 5G mid-range phones released in 2020. Its maker has now confirmed that it does in fact have the same screen dimensions as its more premium sibling the Z1 - although this version has a 120Hz refresh rate and also supports HDR10. Then again, it is also not an AMOLED panel, which means its fingerprint sensor is found on the side of the phone. 

Nevertheless, iQOO asserts that its display specs, in conjunction with its Snapdragon 765G SoC and "PC"-like cooling solution, makes the Z1x ideal for casual gaming. Furthermore, the Vivo brand claims its new phone can automatically adjust its refresh rate depending on the content called for in order to optimize power consumption.

Besides this selling-point, the Z1x has triple rear cameras: a 48MP main shooter along with dual 2MP sensors. iQOO asserts that they are compatible with AI features, as well as a "Hyper-HDR" mode. However, the most interesting aspect of this new entrant onto the Chinese market is its price. iQOO has set its base 6GB RAM SKU at just 1598 yuan (~$229).

This model has only 64GB of internal storage, however; doubling it brings the Z1x's price up to 1798 yuan (~$258). Alternatively, the 8GB RAM variants that earned its reportedly decent scores on the Master Lu benchmark start at 1998 yuan (~$277) for one with 128GB of storage, or 2298 yuan (~$329) for a top-end 8/256GB unit.

Shoppers will also have the opportunity to buy a branded iQOO case for these new phones at a special price of 39 yuan (~$5.60) in colors that match the Z1x's new styles (Sea Azure, Sharp Cool Black and Water White). iQOO has clearly pitched this phone to sell, and quickly, on its new retail platforms that include Tmall, Suning and Vivo's own stores.

It is indeed competitive, especially compared to the launch prices of certain other Snapdragon 765G phones out there. However, it does have some drawbacks, mainly in that, despite the entry-level SKU's configuration, iQOO has made no mention of SDcard expansion in relation to the new, affordable 5G device.

In addition, other comparable phones may beat the Z1x in some areas, mostly camera performance; then again, this new player is clearly all about that display.