vivo iQOO Z9 Lite Review: A Budget-Friendly 5G Phone

The vivo iQOO Z9 Lite was released in July 2024 as a more affordable 5G option from Vivo’s iQOO sub-brand. With a mid-range processor, decent cameras, and 5G connectivity, the iQOO Z9 Lite aims to bring 5G to more users on a budget.

Design and Display

The iQOO Z9 Lite has a plastic body that feels lightweight at 185g. It features a 6.56-inch LCD screen with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The screen is reasonably bright at 840 nits, and the 20:9 aspect ratio provides an immersive viewing experience. The dual-SIM tray uses a hybrid setup, where either the second SIM slot or the microSD card can be used at once.

Performance and Hardware

Powering the iQOO Z9 Lite is the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset with up to 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. This provides sufficient processing power for basic daily tasks and lightweight gaming. The Dimensity 6300 also enables 5G connectivity for high-speed data. Other specs include a 50MP main camera, an 8MP selfie camera, and a sizable 5000mAh battery with 15W charging.

Software and User Experience

The phone runs Android 14 with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 14 skin on top. The UI is easy to navigate, with useful options like a customizable Dark Mode. App installation and performance were smooth in general usage. Battery life is decent, lasting over a day of moderate usage.

Value for Money

At a starting price of Rs. 10,498, the iQOO Z9 Lite undercuts most other 5G phones in its segment. It offers the latest connectivity standards along with decent daily performance. While not the most powerful or best-built device, it delivers the basics at an affordable price point, making it a good consideration for those looking for an entry-level 5G experience.