When considering budget smartphones, particularly those priced under Rs 15,000, there are typically two main expectations. Firstly, the phone should cover the basics well, including features like decent battery life, a satisfactory display, and smooth software. Secondly, despite being constructed from affordable materials like plastic, the device should still feel comfortable and sturdy in hand.
The Infinix Hot 40i appears to meet many of these criteria, all while maintaining a price tag under Rs 10,000. In this review, we’ll delve into how the Infinix Hot 40i performs in various aspects, highlight its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately assess whether it warrants investment.
Starting with the display, the Infinix Hot 40i offers a 6.56-inch IPS HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate. While it may not differ significantly from the brand’s cheaper Smart 8 model, the display remains commendable for its price point. The minimal bezels lend the phone a modern aesthetic, and the punch-hole cutout for the front-facing camera is relatively discreet. Although the color reproduction is satisfactory, it’s important to note that this isn’t an OLED panel, so expectations should be tempered accordingly.
In terms of design, Infinix has opted for a familiar approach, maintaining the boxy, squared-off design seen in its previous models. The matte plastic back panel effectively repels fingerprints, although the glossy sides may pose a slight drawback compared to the matte finish of the Smart 8. The Palm Blue color variant offers a unique appearance, particularly when light reflects off its surface, which may appeal to many users.
In terms of performance during day-to-day use, the Infinix Hot 40i handles tasks like web browsing, social media scrolling, and light gaming with ease. However, heavier gaming may lead to occasional frame drops. One notable advantage for power users is the generous 256GB of built-in storage, expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card. Additionally, RAM management is satisfactory, with apps generally staying in memory without frequent reloads.
The Unisoc T606 octa-core chipset delivers decent performance with minimal heating issues. However, occasional stutters may occur during intensive usage scenarios. In the camera department, the Infinix Hot 40i features a 50MP primary camera along with a secondary depth sensor and Quad-LED flash. While resulting images may suffer from blown-out highlights, they generally suffice for everyday use.
However, accessing the Portrait mode can be challenging, and the selfie camera produces photos with adequate detail. The inclusion of a dedicated beauty mode and a front-facing flash may appeal to certain users. Overall, the camera experience is satisfactory for the price point, although improvements in the integration of secondary sensors are warranted.
In terms of battery life, the Infinix Hot 40i impresses with its 5,000mAh battery, providing up to two days of usage with moderate usage. However, the 18W charger may not be ideal for users seeking quick charging solutions.
On the software front, the XOS 13 experience may not appeal to everyone, and software support remains a concern. Nevertheless, features like the ‘Magic Ring’ and Xboost offer added functionality. Despite some drawbacks, the Infinix Hot 40i presents a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a well-rounded smartphone experience under Rs 10,000.
