Verdict on the Xiaomi Poco X7: Solid everyday smartphone despite low price

The Xiaomi Poco X7 is the cheapest smartphone in the new Poco lineup, currently costing $279 at Amazon if buyers opt for the base configuration (8/256 GB) in silver. Those willing to spend an additional $16 can get the larger configuration with 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage space. Other features include 5G, not-so-fast WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, stereo speakers, and an IR blaster for remote control of compatible devices such as smart TVs.

Also available with synthetic leather back cover

With its curved display, narrow display edges and a back cover made of synthetic leather on both the black and yellow color variants, the Xiaomi Poco X7 is nice to look at. It also impresses with its high-quality workmanship and IP68 certification, making it dust- and water resistant. The green and silver color variants have a matte plastic back cover and are pleasantly light at 186 grams (190 grams for the synthetic leather variant).

Bright AMOLED display with strong HDR effects

The color-accurate AMOLED display of the Xiaomi Poco X7 delivered four-digit brightness in our tests with a peak SDR value of 1,156 cd/m², placing it above similarly priced smartphones. In HDR, the screen increases to more than 2,500 nits and thus generates impressive HDR effects.

The Xiaomi Poco X7 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300, which provides mid-range performance. Although everyday operation is smooth, graphically demanding tasks are not the strength of the eight-core SoC, which is why many games only run smoothly under limits.

Android 17 promised

The Xiaomi Poco X7 comes with Android 14, based on Xiaomi's HyperOS 1.0, which occasionally displays advertisements in system apps. Xiaomi promises Android updates up to 2029 as well as 3 OS upgrades within the same timeframe. Unfortunately, the EU version of the smartphone does not come with a power adapter. The smartphone can be charged with up to 45 watts; it took 53 minutes for a complete charging cycle in our tests.

Read the full review of the Xiaomi Poco X7 here for more detailed information.