Hey there tech enthusiasts! Today, we're diving headfirst into the realm of Xiaomi's latest creation - the Poco C65. This smartphone promises a lot, but does it live up to the hype? Let's break it down.
Xiaomi's Poco C65 steps into the smartphone arena as a formidable entry-midrange contender. It's not quite rubbing shoulders with the flagship elites, but it certainly isn't lurking in the shadows of basic entry-level devices either. This phone is tailor-made for users who crave a little more from their budget without burning a hole in their pockets, including budget-conscious tech enthusiasts seeking impressive features, casual users desiring a snappy and reliable smartphone experience, and photography enthusiasts with an eye for budget-friendly excellence.
However, power users demanding top-tier performance and cutting-edge features and mobile gamers who push their devices to the limit may swipe left on the Poco C65.
Body
The Poco C65 doesn't just flaunt a sleek 168×78×8.1 mm frame; it's also armored with Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring durability without sacrificing style. With color options like Black, Blue, and Purple, you can pick a hue that resonates with your vibe.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| General |
|
| Dimensions | H: 168 mm (6.61″), W: 78 mm (3.07″), D: 8.1 mm (0.32″) |
| Mass | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Material | Glass front; Corning Gorilla Glass for display protection |
| Colors | Black, Blue, Purple |
The dimensions of the Xiaomi Poco C65 and its cool 192 g weight strike a balance, making it comfy for those marathon texting sessions or hours of scrolling. Slip it into your pocket or toss it into your bag - it won't weigh you down like a bag of bricks.
Coming to the armor of this beauty, the Xiaomi Poco C65 flaunts Corning Gorilla Glass for display protection. It's like having a personal bodyguard for your screen. Compared to its predecessor, the Poco C55 with Panda Glass, this is a step up. Gorilla Glass is known for durability, so you can be a bit less anxious about accidental slips and bumps.
As for the colors - Black, Blue, and Purple - each hue has its own flair. Black exudes a classic, understated elegance; Blue adds a touch of tech-savvy vibrancy; and Purple, well, that's for the bold trendsetters who want to stand out in the crowd. So, whether you're a sleek professional or a vibrant personality, there's a color for every tech enthusiast out there!
If we compare the Poco C65 with the predecessor Poco C55, it's slimmer and keeps the same mass. The Poco C55 was 168.8×76.4×8.8 mm and 192 g.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
The Xiaomi Poco C65 is MIA (missing in action) when it comes to an official IP rating. Should you, as a potential buyer, be donning your detective hat and raising an eyebrow? Let's break it down.
While an official IP rating is like a smartphone's passport to durability, not having one doesn't necessarily mean it's allergic to water and dust. The absence of an IP rating might be more about cost-cutting than actual vulnerability. So, is it a deal-breaker? Not necessarily. Just be a bit cautious around water bodies and dusty adventures. Here are some defensive maneuvers for shielding your Poco C65:
- Protective Case: Invest in a good-quality protective case. It's like giving your phone a suit of armor. Not only does it guard against accidental drops, but it also shields against scratches and minor impacts. Plus, there are cases out there that don't compromise on style.
- Screen Protector: Think of it as the phone's invisible shield. A screen protector adds an extra layer of defense against scratches and can absorb some of the impact during falls. With Gorilla Glass on the display, this combo is like a dynamic duo for your Poco C65.
- Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings. If raindrops start tap-dancing on your screen, it's probably best to shield the Poco C65. Similarly, avoid taking it on desert safaris where sand might decide to make an unwelcome guest appearance.
While an IP rating is a nice safety net, a bit of extra caution and a reliable case can make up for it. So, potential Poco C65 owners, fear not! Embrace your phone, keep it snug in a protective layer, and let it conquer the tech wilderness with style.
Display: A Feast for the Eyes
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The 6.74-inch IPS LCD display boasting a 90 Hz refresh rate is a standout feature. Whether you're scrolling through your favorite social media feed or binge-watching your go-to series, the visuals are bound to be smooth and vibrant. However, the 720×1600 pixel resolution might leave pixel aficionados yearning for a tad more crispness.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Size | 6.74″ (171 mm) diagonal |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 720×1600, about 260 PPI |
| Brightness | Typical: 450 nits; HBM: 600 nits |
The Xiaomi Poco C65's display is the window to the digital world! Let's unravel the magic that unfolds on its IPS LCD canvas. The IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology ensures vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. It's like having a front-row seat to a visual spectacle, whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or diving into a gaming marathon.
Talking about the refresh rate razzle-dazzle, the higher refresh rate ensures smoother scrolling and animations, making your interactions with the phone feel buttery smooth. The high refresh rate of 90 Hz is a feature that might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but once you experience it, going back might feel like sipping decaf after years of espresso.
As for the resolution revelry with 720×1600 pixels, the Poco C65 is like an artist with a broad stroke. It's adequate for everyday tasks - browsing, social media, and streaming content. But, and there's always a but, pixel enthusiasts might notice a tad less crispness compared to higher-resolution displays. Graphic designers or avid mobile gamers might yearn for a bit more pixel perfection.
The typical brightness of 450 nits ensures visibility under most lighting conditions. But wait, there's more! The High Brightness Mode (HBM) cranks it up to 600 nits for those moments when the sun decides to show off. Overall, whether you're indoors or outdoors, your content remains vivid and legible.
In a nutshell, the Poco C65's display is like a versatile artist - it paints your digital experiences with vibrant colors and smooth transitions. The 90 Hz refresh rate adds a touch of luxury, while the resolution caters to most daily tasks.
For comparison, the predecessor Poco C55's 6.71-inch IPS LCD display sported a slightly better resolution (720×1650 px) but the standard 60 Hz refresh rate. Overall, we would say, the Poco C65's display is an upgrade over its predecessor.
Networks
Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital realm! The Xiaomi Poco C65 supports the GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.
The predecessor Poco C55 supported the same networks.
SIM
The Xiaomi Poco C65, like the predecessor Poco C55, supports dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by).
Chipset: Processing Prowess of the Poco C65
Under the hood of this device, the Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) chipset and an octa-core CPU deliver a commendable performance, ensuring smooth multitasking and app navigation. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 + 6×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 |
The Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 chipset is as powerful as it sounds. It houses an octa-core CPU with two types of cores.
The two 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores are the heavy hitters, the big guns designed for tasks that demand raw power. Think casual gaming, intense app usage, or running multiple applications simultaneously. When you need your phone to flex its muscles, these cores step up to the plate.
The six 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 form the supporting cast. They are efficiency experts and handle lighter tasks, ensuring your phone runs smoothly while sipping power conservatively. They're the background dancers, making sure the show goes on without stealing the spotlight.
The Mali-G52 MC2 GPU is the visual maestro of the Poco C65. It handles graphics-intensive tasks, ensuring your gaming sessions are smooth and your videos play without a hiccup. While not a flagship-level GPU, it gets the job done for most mobile gaming and multimedia experiences.
Tasks made for Poco C65's might include everyday activities like browsing, social media, and streaming content, which are a breeze for this setup. Casual gaming is right up this phone's alley as well. Say hello to your favorite mobile games without a stutter. And multitasking? Consider it conquered.
On the other hand, there are certain tasks that might need a bit more muscle, such as intensive gaming sessions with graphics-hungry titles, which might make the Poco C65 break a sweat. Also, if you're into heavy video editing or running resource-intensive applications, you might find the limits of this setup.
In a nutshell, the Poco C65's chipset, CPU, and GPU form a harmonious trio, offering a commendable performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming. It's like having a reliable workhorse that knows when to gallop and when to trot, making your smartphone journey a smooth ride.
For comparison, the predecessor Poco C55 sported the same chipset, CPU, and GPU configuration. No changes in this department.
Memory Mastery
Choose between two RAM / storage variants. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Internal Storage Type | eMMC 5.1 |
| Memory Card Slot | microSDXC |
| RAM / Internal Storage Variants | 6 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 256 GB |
Both the variants offer plenty of space for a casual user's pictures and videos. But if you're concerned, the microSDXC slot caters to your storage expansion needs.
Compared to the predecessor Poco C55, the RAM and the internal storage capacities in the Poco C65 have seen an upgrade. The Poco C55 came in two variants with the RAM / eMMC 5.1 storage combinations of 4 GB / 64 GB and 6 GB / 128 GB. It also supported the microSDXC memory card.
Capturing Moments: Poco C65's Photographic Prowess
For the main camera, a 50 MP primary lens and a 2 MP macro lens form the dynamic duo. With this setup, you can capture the life's moments with 1080p at 30 fps video recording.
The 8 MP front camera ensures your selfies shine; it comes with 1080p at 30 fps video recording and HDR capabilities.
Rear Camera
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 50 MP (wide), 2 MP (macro) |
| Focal Length | 28 mm, N/A |
| Aperture | f/1.8, f/2.4 |
| Autofocus | PDAF, N/A |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
| Other Features | LED flash, HDR |
The 50 MP wide lens (28 mm, f/1.8) is the main act, the star of the show. With a whopping 50 megapixels, it's ready to immortalize your moments with clarity and detail. The wide aperture (f/1.8) ensures great low-light performance, making your nighttime shots as vivid as your daytime captures.
Enter the supporting character, the 2 MP (f/2.4) macro lens. It might not be the resolution giant, but it has a specific job - capturing the intricate details of close-up subjects. Whether it's the delicate veins of a leaf or the texture of your favorite fabric, the macro lens is there for the tiny wonders.
PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) is like having a ninja focusing system. PDAF ensures your shots are quick to focus, reducing that annoying lag between you pressing the shutter button and capturing the perfect moment.
The Poco C65 comes prepared for the dark. The LED flash steps in when natural light isn't enough, ensuring your photos don't succumb to the shadows.
Say goodbye to washed-out skies and overly dark shadows. HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances the contrast and color range in your photos, creating images that pop with vibrancy and detail.
The Poco C65 doesn't just stop at photos; it's a video maestro too. Shoot in Full HD at 30 frames per second, and your videos will be as crisp as your photos.
In a snapshot, the Poco C65's main camera setup is a dynamic duo, ready to capture the essence of your moments. With a high-megapixel main lens and a macro lens for the up-close magic, plus features like PDAF, LED flash, and HDR, your photography journey is set to be a visually rich experience.
The older Poco C55 featured a similar main camera setup with matching 50 MP primary lens, video capabilities, and features, but it had a 0.08 MP depth sensor in place of the macro lens of the Poco C65.
Front Camera
The selfie snapper sits inside a centered water-drop notch on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8 MP |
| Aperture | f/2.0 |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
| Other Features | Ring light, HDR |
This is an upgrade over the 5 MP selfie camera sported by the older Poco C55, which had otherwise similar features including 1080p at 30 fps video recording and HDR.
Fueling Your Day: Poco C65's Battery Brilliance
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
A 5000 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery is the heartbeat of the Poco C65, promising a marathon rather than a sprint. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Li-Po (non-removable) |
| Capacity | 5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 18 W, PD |
The 18 W wired charging, while not the fastest out there, still ensures you spend more time enjoying your device and less time waiting for it to recharge.
The older Poco C55 had a similar battery setup, but it supported a slower, 10 W, wired charging.
Sound
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Xiaomi Poco C65 |
|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | Yes |
The older Poco C55 had a similar audio setup.
Connectivity Galore: Poco C65 Keeps You Linked
The Xiaomi Poco C65 is a connectivity juggernaut. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The Poco C65 boasts Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.3, ensuring a seamless and high-quality connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
Lost? Not with the positioning capabilities of the Xiaomi Poco C65! It supports multiple global navigation satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS. This means your phone always knows where you are, no matter where you travel in the world. Whether you're navigating through bustling cities or remote wilderness, your phone's positioning technology ensures you're always on the right path.
Depending upon the region from where you get your Poco C65, it may have NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your phone interactions effortless.
The inclusion of FM radio with recording capability adds a touch of nostalgia for those who love the classic radio experience and like to keep it old school.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 2.0 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your phone, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 2.0 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your phone's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. This is a notable upgrade over the microUSB 2.0 sported by the predecessor Poco C55.
Sensors
The Xiaomi Poco C65 comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Virtual Proximity Sensing: The basic principle behind virtual proximity sensing is similar to a traditional proximity sensor (which detects the presence or movement of an object without physically contacting it). The "virtual" part refers to the use of software algorithms and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to enhance your device's proximity sensing capabilities. This can enable features like gesture controls, where your device responds to specific hand movements even before you touch the screen, creating a more intuitive and immersive user experience.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Poco C65.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
Now, the burning question - does the Poco C65 justify its price tag?
On the upside, you get a feature-packed device that doesn't break the bank with impressive display and camera setup for the price range. Decent battery life ensures a reliable day-to-day experience.
On the other side, there are a few considerations. The 720p display might not satisfy the pixel enthusiasts. And power users might find the performance a bit shy of flagship standards.
In the grand scheme of things, the Poco C65 emerges as a budget-friendly powerhouse. If you're looking for a smartphone that delivers on multiple fronts without emptying your wallet, the Poco C65 might just be your tech soulmate. It's a delightful blend of affordability and functionality, making it a strong contender in the crowded midrange market. So, if you're ready to add a reliable companion to your tech arsenal, the Poco C65 could be the one for you!
Feature (top) image credit: Xiaomi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Xiaomi Poco C65 release date?
The Xiaomi Poco C65 was announced on the 5th November, 2023. It has been released on the 6th November, 2023.
What is Xiaomi Poco C65 price?
The Xiaomi Poco C65 is priced USD 129 for the 128 GB version, and USD 149 for the 256 GB version. However, at the time of writing, both the versions are available with a USD 20 discount, i.e., for USD 109 for the 128 GB version, and USD 129 for the 256 GB version.