HONOR X9b 5G Price, Specs, Unboxing, Drop Test, and Review

HONOR, a hotshot player in the mobile industry, has recently introduced its latest upper midrange contender, the HONOR X9b 5G.

Packed with innovative features and having a focus on extreme durability and reliable performance, this fresh release will surely captivate the interest of HONOR fans and tech enthusiasts who want a ultra-tough daily driver that can keep up with their lifestyle.

In this review, we will delve into the device's specifications, design, durability, performance, and more to provide a comprehensive assessment of its capabilities.

Price and Availability in the Philippines

The HONOR X9b 5G made its debut in the Philippines on January 12, 2024, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom. The official suggested retail price is PHP 16,999, positioning it as an attractive option in the upper midrange segment.

The pre-order period extends from January 12 to 19, 2024, allowing eager consumers to secure their units ahead of the official release. HONOR fans who will successfully pre-order a unit via the company's official online and retail stores will get a FREE HONOR Gift Box and HONOR Choice X5 Earbuds worth PHP 4,000. After the pre-order period, on January 20, 2024, the handset will become formally available for purchase online and across the country.

For those who are interested, you may pre-order your HONOR X9b 5G here:

Shopee

Lazada

TikTok Shop

Quick Unboxing and Package Contents

The packaging of the HONOR X9b 5G is a simple yet elegant affair. The plain white box features an image of the handset on the cover, setting the stage for what lies inside.

Upon opening, users are greeted with the device itself, accompanied by a Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card, a metal pin for ejecting the SIM card tray, USB Type-C charging cable, 35W travel charger, and a free transparent silicone case.

The inclusion of essential accessories and a protective case enhances the overall unboxing experience.

Design

The HONOR X9b 5G not only delivers advanced technology but also presents a visually striking and modern design. Encased in a sleek polycarbonate shell, the device exudes sophistication while maintaining durability. 

The all-angle ultra-tough display ensures resilience against daily wear and tear, providing users with a reliable device that can withstand the challenges of everyday use. Complementing the modern design is the faux leather back panel, which not only adds a touch of luxury but also contributes to a premium aesthetic, creating a device that feels as good as it looks.

A distinctive physical feature that sets the HONOR X9b 5G apart is its circular camera module at the back, adorned with gold metal accents and intricate details reminiscent of high-end wristwatches. This design choice not only adds a unique flair but also reinforces the device's commitment to merging technology with elegance. 

The attention to detail in the camera module reflects HONOR's dedication to crafting devices that go beyond mere functionality, incorporating elements of artistry and sophistication.

The HONOR X9b 5G offers users a choice of three captivating colorways: Sunrise Orange (Hero Colorway), Midnight Black, and Emerald Green. These options not only cater to individual style preferences but also showcase HONOR's commitment to providing a device that is both durable and stylish. 

The color choices, coupled with the carefully selected materials, contribute to a cohesive design language that aligns with contemporary aesthetics, making the HONOR X9b 5G a device that appeals to users looking for a blend of durability and style in their smartphones.

All-Angle Ultra Tough

The HONOR X9b 5G boasts an innovative and resilient design with its HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display, providing users with a 360° anti-drop protection for the entire device.

This all-angle ultra-tough design ensures comprehensive protection against accidental drops, offering a three-level safeguard for the screen, frame, and internal compartments. The Single Point Reinforcement protection, Wrap-Around Cushioning, and Deep Seal Protection collectively create a robust shield against impacts.

Notably, the HONOR cushioning material, featuring micron-sized pores, is a game-changer in drop resistance, capable of absorbing up to 1.2 times the impact of a drop. This cutting-edge technology not only enhances the device's durability but also contributes to a sense of security, making the HONOR X9b 5G a reliable companion in everyday usage scenarios.

Watch my quick features overview and double 5-feet drop test of the HNOR X9b 5G to confirm its durability:

Display

The centerpiece of this device is its expansive 6.78-inch AMOLED display, which undoubtedly takes center stage. Boasting a high-resolution of 1.5K (1220 x 2652 pixels) and adopting a sleek 19.5:9 aspect ratio, this display promises a visually stunning experience. The generous size, combined with an exceptional 91.2% screen-to-body ratio, contributes to an immersive viewing experience that captivates users. Whether engaging in multimedia consumption, gaming, or simply navigating through the interface, the display's prominence enhances the overall usability and enjoyment of the device.

One of the standout features of this AMOLED display is its remarkable color reproduction. With the ability to showcase an impressive 1 billion colors, users can expect visuals that are vibrant, rich, and true to life. The addition of a 120Hz refresh rate further elevates the display's performance, ensuring smooth and fluid transitions between screens, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and other dynamic content. Moreover, the display's 1200 nits peak brightness enhances visibility in various lighting conditions, making it versatile for outdoor use and delivering a consistently high-quality visual experience across different scenarios.

Cameras

For photography enthusiasts, the HONOR X9b 5G is a noteworthy device with a triple-camera setup that elevates the possibilities for capturing stunning images. At the forefront is the impressive 108 MP wide lens with a wide f/1.8 aperture, promising detailed and vibrant shots. This high-resolution sensor is a game-changer, allowing users to capture intricate details in their photographs and ensuring a level of clarity that will be appreciated by those who value the art of photography. The wide aperture further enhances the device's low-light performance, enabling users to capture compelling images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Adding to the creative arsenal is the 5 MP ultrawide lens, expanding the horizons for photography enthusiasts. This lens offers a wider field of view, enabling users to experiment with unique perspectives and capture more of the scene in a single frame. Whether it's sweeping landscapes or group shots, the ultrawide lens contributes to the versatility of the camera system. Additionally, the inclusion of a 2 MP macro lens caters specifically to close-up photography, allowing users to explore the world of intricate details and capture subjects up close with precision.

On the front, the HONOR X9b 5G doesn't disappoint, featuring a 16 MP front camera dedicated to capturing clear and detailed selfies. This ensures that the device provides a comprehensive photography experience, not just limited to the rear camera setup. Selfie enthusiasts will appreciate the front camera's ability to deliver sharp and vibrant self-portraits, contributing to a well-rounded photography capability that covers both the main and front-facing perspectives. Overall, the combination of these camera features on the HONOR X9b 5G caters to the diverse needs and creative aspirations of photography enthusiasts.

Video Recording

The HONOR X9b 5G impresses with its video recording capabilities, supporting 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30fps. However, the absence of EIS might be a drawback for users seeking enhanced stability in their video content. Nevertheless, the device compensates with its high-resolution camera sensors, ensuring clarity and detail in every frame.

Internal Hardware

Under the hood, the HONOR X9b 5G is powered by the 4nm Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset. The octa-core CPU, consisting of four Cortex-A78 and four Cortex-A55 cores, delivers a balance between performance and efficiency. The Adreno 710 GPU contributes to a smooth graphics performance, especially notable in gaming scenarios.

The device boasts a substantial 12GB of RAM, supplemented by an 8GB RAM expansion option, providing ample memory for multitasking and resource-intensive applications. Internal storage is set at a generous 256GB, although the absence of a microSD card slot might be a limitation for users seeking additional storage flexibility.

Software

The HONOR X9b 5G runs on Android 13, overlaid with the Magic UI 7.2, offering a user-friendly and feature-rich interface. 

The software optimization ensures seamless navigation, and the latest Android version brings enhanced security and functionality. The Magic UI 7.2 introduces various customization options like changing wallpapers, adding a layer of personalization to the user experience.

Gaming Performance

Gaming enthusiasts will find the HONOR X9b 5G to be a capable companion, thanks to its Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 gaming chipset. The combination of a powerful CPU and GPU ensures smooth gameplay, with graphics rendering that meets the demands of modern gaming titles. 

Notably, Mobile Legends Bang Bang, a popular mobile game, runs fluidly, showcasing the device's gaming prowess. The 120Hz Refresh Rate of the display allows the device to support "Super" High Frame Rate and the Adreno 710 GPU enables stutter-free performance as well as "Ultra" graphics gameplay setting. Amazingly, even with these high settings turned on, the device doesn't run noticeably hot while running the title.

Privacy and Security Features

The HONOR X9b 5G prioritizes user security with a facial recognition feature and an under-display fingerprint scanner.

These biometric authentication methods offer convenient and secure ways to unlock the device. In addition to biometrics, traditional pattern and passcode unlock methods are also available, providing users with a range of options to suit their preferences.

Battery and Charging Speed

One of the standout features of the HONOR X9b 5G is its robust 5,800 mAh battery. The device promises an impressive three days of battery life, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize longevity. 

The inclusion of DOMARK Gold Battery Label with a 3-year anti-aging guarantee instills confidence in the device's long-term battery performance. The 35W fast charging capability ensures that users can quickly replenish the battery when needed, adding convenience to the overall user experience.

Verdict with Pros and Cons

In summary, the HONOR X9b 5G emerges as a compelling flagship option in the market, offering a blend of powerful hardware, a feature-rich camera system, and an impressive display. The device excels in battery life, providing users with an extended usage window. However, the absence of a microSD card slot and EIS in video recording might be considered drawbacks for some users.

Pros:

All-Angle Ultra Tough build

Sleek design with premium materials

Vibrant AMOLED display with high resolution

Powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset for smooth performance

Extensive RAM and internal storage options

Impressive battery life with fast charging support

Comprehensive privacy and security features

Cons:

Lack of microSD card slot for storage expansion

No electronic image stabilization (EIS) in video recording

Recommendation

The HONOR X9b 5G is recommended for users seeking a feature-packed upper midrange device with a focus on extreme durability, long-lasting battery life, imaging, and gaming performance. 

Its vibrant display, all-angle ultra tough build, reliable camera system, and robust internal hardware make it a strong contender in the market. However, users requiring expandable storage options and advanced video stabilization features may need to weigh these considerations against the device's numerous strengths. 

Overall, the HONOR X9b 5G offers an impressive combination of robust style and practical substance, making it a noteworthy choice in today's competitive smartphone landscape.

HONOR X9b 5G Specs

Dimensions: 163.6 x 75.5 x 7.98 mm

Weight: 185 grams

Materials: Polycarbonate Shell, All-Angle Ultra Tough Display, Faux Leather Back Panel

Colorway: Sunrise Orange (Hero Colorway), Midnight Black, Emerald Green

Models: ALI-NX1

DISPLAY

Size: 6.78 inches, 112.6 cm2 (~91.2% screen-to-body ratio)

Resolution: 1.5K 1220 x 2652 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~431 ppi density)

Type: AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 1200 nits (peak)

PLATFORM

OS: Android 13, Magic UI 7.2

Chipset: 4nm Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1

CPU: Octa-core (4 x 2.2 GHz Cortex-A78, 4 x 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)

GPU: Adreno 710

MEMORY

RAM: 12GB + 8GB RAM Expansion

Internal: 256GB

microSD Card slot: No

MAIN CAMERA

Triple:

108 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/1.67", PDAF

5 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide)

2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)

Features: LED flash, panorama, HDR

Video: 4K 30fps, 1080p 30fps, No EIS

SELFIE CAMERA

Single: 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide)

Video: 1080p 30fps, No EIS

SOUND

Loudspeaker: Yes

3.5mm jack: No

COMMUNICATIONS

SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, Dual Standby)

5G: Yes

4G LTE-A: Yes

WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct

Bluetooth: 5.1, A2DP, LE

Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS

NFC: Yes (market/region dependent)

Infrared port: Yes

Radio: No

USB: USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

PRIVACY AND SECURITY FEATURES

Facial Recognition: Yes

Fingerprint Scanner: Yes, Under-Display

Pattern and Passcode Unlock: Yes

SENSORS

Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass

BATTERY

Type: Li-Po 5,800 mAh, Non-Removable

Charging: 35W Fast Charging, Wired

HONOR X9b 5G Packaging and Box Contents 

Box Design - Plain White Box with Image of Handset Printed on Cover

Contents - Unit Itself, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card, Metal Pin for Ejecting SIM Card Tray, USB Type C Charging Cable, 35W Travel Charger, Free Transparent Silicone Case

HONOR X9b 5G Highlights

1. HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display

1.5K retinal resolution

SGS 5-Star Whole-Device Drop Resistance Certification

5-fold Eye Protection

1920Hz High-frequency PWM Dimming is flicker-free in dim light

2. 5800mAh Battery

3 Days Battery Life

DOMARK Gold Battery Label 3-year Anti-Aging Guarantee

Ultra-Slim in Hand

3. 108MP Lossless Capture Camera

Motion Capture

3x Lossless Zoom

4. Powerful Performance

4m Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 Gaming Chipset/

20GB+256GB Massive Storage/ MagicOS 7.2

HONOR X9b 5G Price in the Philippines

Official Suggestedt Retail Price - PHP 16,999

Launch Date - January 12, 2024 at Marriott Grand Ballroom

Pre-Order Period - January 12 to 19, 2024