Xiaomi poco c85: massive battery, sweet deal, but is it enough?
Forget fleeting trends; Xiaomi's POCO C85 is staking its claim in the budget smartphone arena with a proposition that's hard to ignore: a colossal 6,000mAh battery and a nearly 7-inch display, all currently sporting a significant 29% discount on Amazon. It's a tempting offer, but does this device deliver beyond the headline specs?
A battery that just won't quit
Let's address the elephant in the room – that battery. Xiaomi is touting over two days of usage on a single charge, and the numbers back it up. We're talking up to 82 hours of music playback or 22 hours of video streaming. And for those who like to double as a mobile power bank, the reverse charging feature—though limited to 10W—could be a lifesaver in a pinch.
But the POCO C85 isn't just about endurance. The generous 6.9-inch display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, promises a smoother visual experience, especially when gaming or scrolling through social media. The peak brightness of 810 nits is admirable for its class. However, the HD+ (720p) resolution is a noticeable step down from competitors offering Full HD+, and the Helio G81-Ultra processor, while adequate for basic tasks, won’t be setting any performance records.
The fine print and missing features
The POCO C85 isn’t without its compromises. The lack of 5G connectivity is a significant drawback for users prioritizing future-proof performance. The absence of NFC, a standard for mobile payments in many regions, is a notable omission. And while the dual 50MP AI-powered camera system sounds impressive, it’s important to remember that image quality in this price range is often a trade-off.
Despite these shortcomings, the POCO C85 presents a compelling value proposition—currently priced at €119.99 for a configuration with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It’s a price point that undercuts many competitors and makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. With its substantial battery, expansive display, and competitive pricing, the POCO C85 is a solid contender in the increasingly crowded entry-level smartphone market.
Pros: Massive 6,000mAh battery offering extended usage, 33W fast charging (50% in 31 minutes), smooth 120Hz display, and a surprisingly competitive price.
Cons: Absence of 5G connectivity, no NFC support for mobile payments, limited processor performance, and an HD+ resolution display.