When POCO M5 was launched there was huge rush of people in Nepalese market to buy it. Since it was promised to be best budget gaming mobile phone. Especially, since it was within every middle family’s price range we were also excited when we were using it. This review is based on our experience with the 6GB RAM/128GB model.
POCO M5 Specs Breakdown:
| Feature | 4GB/64GB | 4GB/128GB | 6GB/128GB (Our Model) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G99 | MediaTek Helio G99 | MediaTek Helio G99 |
| Display | 6.58″ FHD 90Hz | 6.58″ FHD 90Hz | 6.58″ FHD 90Hz |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (main) + 2MP (macro) + 2MP (depth) | 50MP (main) + 2MP (macro) + 2MP (depth) | 50MP (main) + 2MP (macro) + 2MP (depth) |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 5MP | 5MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh |
| Charging | 18W | 18W | 18W |
Marketing of POCO M5:
POCO marketed the M5 as a “budget gaming perfection” . The MediaTek Helio G99 processor, 90Hz display, and large battery promised smooth performance and extended gaming sessions made the buyers attracted towards the phone. It targeted users seeking a phone that could handle everyday tasks and also decent gaming.
We used the 6GB/128GB variant for a year. Here’s our honest review:
Positives of Poco M5
- Initial Performance: For the first two months, the phone was a working as it was marketed. Apps launched swiftly, multitasking was smooth, and even gaming was flawless.
- Battery power: The 5000mAh battery lived up to the hype at the beginning easily lasting a full day with moderate usage.
- Display Prowess: The 90Hz refresh rate offered a noticeably smoother experience compared to standard 60Hz displays.
Negatives of using POCO M5:
- Performance Downgrade: As months passed, the phone’s performance also continued to degrade. Multitasking became sluggish, and even casual games lagged device.
- Camera Conundrums: While passable for basic snaps, the camera system struggled in low-light conditions and lacked versatility.
- Storage Squeeze: With heavy media usage, the 128GB storage felt less.
Gyroscope Jitters:
We also experienced frustrating gyroscope issues while playing PUBG. The aiming and movement felt imprecise, significantly impacting the gameplay experience.
Software Snags:
While software updates brought improvements, some users reported persistent issues with image processing, leading to less-than-stellar picture quality in certain scenarios.
The Verdict:
The POCO M5 delivered decent value initially, justifying its “budget warrior” title. However, the performance decline, camera limitations, and occasional software hiccups are significant drawbacks. While it might still be suitable for basic use and casual gaming, heavier users or those prioritizing camera quality might find themselves yearning for an upgrade after a year.
Remember: This review reflects our experience with a specific model and usage pattern. Your individual experience may vary depending on several factors.
Final Thoughts on POCO M5:
If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize basic tasks and casual gaming, the POCO M5 might be a viable option. However, be prepared for potential performance dips and storage limitations. For users seeking a more well-rounded experience, investing in a slightly more expensive phone could be a wiser long-term choice.
Please check out our list for Best Budget Mobile phone in Nepal here.
4/64GB variant costs NPR 20,499 and 6/128GB variant costs NPR 23,999
Yeah! If you are low on budget but you can spend Rs.10,000 more to get better phones.
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