Introduction
When shopping for a mid-budget 5G smartphone in 2025 — especially in Saudi Arabia — buyers often look for a balance between performance, battery life, and value. Many people don't need a flagship-level phone, but still want long-lasting battery, smooth performance, and modern connectivity. The iQOO Z10x is designed just for that: a device that doesn’t push ultra-high price tags but still delivers key daily strengths. But is it still a smart buy in 2025? Let’s break it down.
Key Specifications & Strengths of the iQOO Z10x
Here are the most important features that make the Z10x attractive:
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Battery: A massive 6,500 mAh battery, which is very generous for a mid-range device.
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Charging: 44 W wired fast charging.
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Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 (4 nm) gives good energy efficiency and solid 5G performance.
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Memory / Storage: Comes in variants like 6 / 8 GB RAM + 128 / 256 GB storage, using UFS 3.1 in higher models.
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Display: 6.72-inch LCD (IPS) screen with 120 Hz refresh rate and high brightness (reported ~1050 nits).
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Camera: Dual rear: 50 MP main + 2 MP depth. Front: 8 MP.
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Build: Plastic frame, but notably MIL-STD-810H certified for durability.
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Software: Ships with Android 15 via Funtouch OS 15; reported “up to 2 major Android version” upgrades.
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Price in Saudi Arabia: Depending on source, the Z10x is listed around SAR 555–999(approx.).
Real-World Performance & User Feedback
Performance & Daily Use
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According to hands-on posts, the Dimensity 7300 delivers a snappy, smooth experience. One early user noted that apps open quickly and multitasking feels very fluid.
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After 7 months of use, another user reported that performance remained stable: “apps open quickly, switching between them is lag-free.”
Battery Life
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In tests, the Z10x lasted 24 hours, 10 minutes in PC Mark Work test, and 37 hours, 46 minutes in a video loop.
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According to a review on Times Bull, real-world usage could hit 28 hours in certain usage patterns.
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That user also noted with “typical use” (social media, light gaming, video) the phone could last up to two days.
Charging
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The 44W charging is decent, but not super fast: per reviews, a full charge takes around 1 hour 40 minutes.
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That’s not bad for a 6,500 mAh battery, but if top speed charging is your priority, some competitors may be faster.
Camera Quality
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The 50 MP main camera performs reasonably well in daylight: good detail, natural colors.
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In low light, the camera does “respectable exposure and detail,” though it’s not best-in-class.
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Portraits (depth) may feel overprocessed or have edge issues, per review.
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Selfies (8 MP) and video are serviceable, but not standout.
Build & Durability
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The Z10x is MIL-STD-810H compliant, which is unusual in this price range and suggests a more rugged build.
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According to users, the in-hand feel is solid; after months of use, the physical buttons and the body remain in good condition.
Software & Longevity
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Running Android 15 with Funtouch OS 15 is a plus for freshness.
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There’s a reported commitment to two major Android version upgrades, which is decent for a mid-range phone.
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Some users complain about bloatware or software polish not being as refined as more premium models.
Strengths & Trade-Offs — Is It Still Competitive in 2025?
Strengths
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Exceptional Battery Life
The 6,500 mAh battery combined with efficient chipset gives real endurance. For heavy users or anyone who hates charging daily, this is a standout. -
Very Good Value
At a reported SAR 555–999(approx.) in Saudi Arabia (though the exact retail may vary), the Z10x offers great features for the money. -
Smooth Display
120 Hz refresh rate makes the UI feel fluid, particularly helpful for social media, browsing, and gaming. -
Durability
MIL-STD-810H rating offers some reassurance about ruggedness; not common in budget or mid-budget phones. -
Decent Performance
Dimensity 7300 is efficient and capable: good for daily tasks, moderate gaming, and multitasking. -
Long-term Software
With Android 15 and a promise of 2 major updates, the phone has some future-proofing.
Trade-Offs / Drawbacks
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Charging Speed
44W is fine, but not lightning fast; filling up a 6,500 mAh battery fully can feel slow compared to more aggressively charging rivals. -
Camera Limitations
The dual-camera setup is basic; no ultra-wide, low-light performance is only average, and user reports mention lag/processing issues. -
Plastic Build
While durable, plastic feels less premium than glass or metal. For someone prioritizing design or build luxury, this might feel cheaper. -
LCD (Not OLED)
The 120Hz panel is good, but being IPS/LCD (not AMOLED) means less deep blacks, lower energy efficiency in certain scenarios, and potentially weaker contrast. -
Software Might Feel Bloated
As some reviews mention, Funtouch OS may include extra bloat or features that not all users need. -
Limited Camera Flexibility
Only a 50 MP main and a 2 MP depth sensor — no ultra-wide or telephoto — limits photography versatility.
Comparison With Competitors in Saudi Arabia (2025)
When evaluating whether to buy the Z10x in 2025, it's useful to compare it against other mid-range / budget-5G options you might find in KSA:
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Other iQOO / Vivo Z-series:
For example, the iQOO Z10 (non-x) is around in the same market. Vivo iQOO Z10 5G Depending on variant, Z10 might offer different features (chipset, design) — compare them if you can. -
Xiaomi / Redmi: Many Xiaomi / Redmi models often offer strong performance, faster charging, and maybe better cameras in this mid-range bracket — but perhaps with smaller batteries or less ruggedness.
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Realme / Infinix: These brands compete aggressively in value 5G devices; some may offer faster charge, different screen types, or more camera variety, but might compromise on battery or long-term support.
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Samsung: Entry-level Galaxy A-series or M-series phones might offer trusted brand support, but often don’t match the raw battery capacity of Z10x for the same money.
In short: the Z10x holds a competitive position if battery + value are your priorities; if camera, display quality, or super fast charging matter more, you may find better in rival devices.
Considerations for Saudi Arabian Buyers
For KSA buyers, here are a few things to think about before buying the Z10x in 2025:
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5G Bands: Ensure the specific Z10x variant supports the 5G bands used by your local carrier (STC, Mobily, Zain) — double-check network compatibility.
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Charger & Adapter: Make sure the 44W charger comes in the box or is available locally, and that the plug type suits Saudi outlets.
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Long-Term Use: If you plan to keep the phone for 2–3 years, the large battery is a major advantage. But consider whether two major Android version updates are enough for your needs.
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Resale Value: Mid-budget phones often depreciate faster, but iQOO devices with strong battery life may retain some appeal. However, camera-focused buyers or brand-loyal users may choose newer models instead.
Verdict — Is It Worth It in 2025?
Yes — with caveats. The iQOO Z10x is a very compelling buy in Saudi Arabia in 2025 for users who prioritize battery life, value, and reliable performance. It stands out in its class thanks to its:
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Huge 6,500 mAh battery
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Decent performance via Dimensity 7300
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Smooth 120Hz screen
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Rugged certification (MIL-STD-810H)
FAQs
Q.1. Will the Z10x’s 6,500 mAh battery really last two days?
Yes, in moderate use it can approach 2 days; in heavy use you’ll likely get more than a full day.
Q.2. How fast does it charge?
It uses 44W wired charging. A full charge typically takes around 1 hour 40 minutes.
Q.3. Is the camera good for photos?
The 50 MP main camera does well in daylight; low-light and portrait shots are decent but not exceptional.
Q.4. Is the phone durable?
Yes — it has MIL-STD-810H certification, which suggests better drop / stress resistance than a typical plastic mid-range phone.
Q.5. How much does it cost in Saudi Arabia?
Reported price ranges from SAR 555-999(approx.) depending on variant and seller.