HONOR X9d 5G Review: The Toughest Phone Reinforcing A Legacy of Durability
The much-anticipated Toughest Phone, HONOR X9d 5G, has officially
launched in the Philippines! Available for pre-order from January 9 to
23 at HONOR Experience Stores, partner retailers, and online platforms
like Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, the X9d 5G comes in Reddish Brown,
Sunrise Gold, and Midnight Black, priced at PHP 17,999. Pre-order perks
include a HONOR Gift Box (PHP 1,499), Jisulife Life Fan 5, and a chance
to win a Tesla Cybertruck. With 12GB RAM + 12GB RAM Turbo, 256GB
storage, long-lasting battery, and durable design, it’s built to keep up
with students, young professionals, commuters, riders, and anyone always on the
move.
- Ultra-Tough Yet Handsome: The HONOR X9d 5G pairs industry-first SGS Triple-resistant certification with a refined, classy design that does not look or feel like a rugged phone, making it ideal for everyday use, work, and travel.
- Massive Battery, Bright Display: An enormous 8300 mAh battery delivers genuinely impressive real-world endurance, while the ultra-bright 120Hz AMOLED display with excellent touch response makes gaming, streaming, and outdoor use especially enjoyable.
- Pricing and Launch Offers: Official Philippine pricing, pre-order details, and possible launch freebies for the HONOR X9d 5G have yet to be announced and will be added here once confirmed.
Some smartphones are built to impress on paper, while others are designed to
survive real life. The HONOR X9d 5G clearly belongs to the latter, but
what makes it interesting is that it does not sacrifice looks or everyday
usability in the process.
This is not a bulky, industrial-looking device that screams rugged phone.
Instead, it feels thoughtfully designed for people who are constantly on the
move, whether you are a student juggling classes, a young professional
commuting daily, or a worker exposed to unpredictable conditions.
The HONOR X9 Series has long been known for durability, and with the X9d 5G,
that legacy continues with a more confident and refined approach. After
spending hands-on time with the device, it becomes clear that this phone is
meant to be used without fear.
Price and Availability in the Philippines
The HONOR X9d 5G officially launched in the Philippines on January
9, 2026, and is now available for pre-order nationwide. Consumers can
reserve the device through HONOR Experience Stores, partner retailers, and
major e-commerce platforms including Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.
Pre-ordering comes with exclusive freebies - a HONOR Gift Box worth PHP
1,499 and a Jisulife Life Fan 5, which can be claimed starting January 24.
On top of that, buyers also get a chance to win a
Tesla Cybertruck worth PHP 17 Million, adding an
exciting incentive for early adopters.
Locally, the phone comes in a single robust configuration: 12GB RAM plus
12GB HONOR RAM Turbo and 256GB internal storage. This simplifies the
buying decision while ensuring users have a fully capable setup from day
one. Students managing school apps, young professionals multitasking
between work and social apps, and workers on the go will all benefit from
this generous memory and storage combination.
The device is offered in three striking colors - Reddish Brown, Sunrise
Gold, and Midnight Black - and is priced at PHP 17,999. With
pre-orders running from January 9 to January 23, the HONOR X9d 5G is
available both offline and online, making it accessible to a wide range of
users. Combining impressive durability, long-lasting battery life, and
balanced performance, the X9d 5G is built to keep up with the fast-paced
lifestyle of students, young professionals, commuters, and everyday users
who need a phone that won’t slow them down.
Launch Experience
HONOR Philippines kicked off the X9d 5G in style with a high-energy event
at the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Hotel in BGC. The launch felt
more like a concert than a traditional product reveal, immediately drawing
excitement from attendees and online viewers alike. Headlining the night
as the pièce de résistance was Sponge Cola, one of the most beloved names
in Original Pilipino Music, whose performance closed the program on a high
note, leaving the crowd energized and nostalgic. Hosting duties were
handled by the ever-entertaining Boys Night Out, the iconic evening radio
talk show known for humor, spontaneity, and a loyal fan following. The
combination of live music and charismatic hosts turned the event into an
interactive show, engaging both tech enthusiasts and casual viewers
watching from home or catching clips online.
HONOR also highlighted its commitment to supporting local talent by
featuring rising P-Pop groups 6ENSE and YARA. Their performances injected
a youthful, contemporary vibe, perfectly aligning with HONOR’s push to
connect with younger audiences. By integrating technology, music, and
culture into the same stage, the launch emphasized that a smartphone is
not just a tool, but also part of lifestyle and entertainment for today’s
digital-first generation. The live showcase of Sponge Cola performing
“Jeepney” became a highlight for both attendees and online viewers,
demonstrating how tech launches can blend seamlessly with Filipino pop
culture.
The formal presentations complemented the entertainment, giving attendees
and viewers - including partner dealers, members of the media, and HONOR
stars - detailed insights into the HONOR X9d 5G. Jaynard Lamarca,
National Training Head, unveiled the phone’s specs and features,
Pao Oga, PR Head, shared how the X9 Series has made HONOR the #1
midrange smartphone brand in the Philippines, and Eason de Guzman,
Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead, revealed the suggested retail
price, pre-order freebies, and the exciting Tesla Cybertruck giveaway.
Quick Unboxing and Package Contents
The HONOR X9d 5G comes in a sleek white box featuring an image of the phone
on top, giving a premium first impression right out of the gate.
Unboxing it feels refreshingly complete, with everything thoughtfully
included for a seamless first-day experience. Inside, you’ll find the
smartphone itself, a 66W fast charger, USB Type-C cable, SIM ejector tool,
documentation, and a protective case - everything you need to get started
immediately.
The inclusion of the 66W fast charger is particularly noteworthy for
students, young professionals, and workers on the go. Short breaks, quick
top-ups during coffee runs, or powering through long commutes are now
hassle-free, eliminating the need to purchase additional charging
accessories. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that aligns perfectly with the
lifestyle of users who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day.
Another practical bonus is the protective case included in the standard
retail package. This means buyers don’t need to spend extra on a separate
case to protect their investment from drops, bumps, or scratches, ideal for
riders, commuters, and students juggling busy schedules. HONOR clearly
designed the unboxing experience with everyday users in mind, combining
convenience, functionality, and peace of mind in one neat package.
First SGS Triple-resistant Premium Performance Certified
Durability is where the HONOR X9d 5G truly earns its reputation, and this
is exactly why HONOR Philippines confidently describes it as “The Toughest Phone.” It is the first smartphone to receive the SGS Triple-resistant Premium
Performance Certification, covering drop resistance, dust resistance, and
water resistance. For Pinoy consumers, this translates to everyday
protection you can actually rely on. Whether you are a student rushing
between classes, a delivery rider braving unpredictable roads, or a
professional constantly moving between meetings, the phone is clearly
built to handle real world abuse, not just ideal conditions.
To see if those claims held up, I personally put the HONOR X9d 5G through
a real life durability test. I dropped the phone from a height of around
2.5 meters using stairs, a scenario that mirrors common accidents like
fumbling your phone while boarding a jeepney or walking up concrete steps.
The entire process was documented and shared on Instagram, Facebook,
YouTube, and TikTok reels. I hesitated briefly before letting it fall, not
because I doubted the certification, but because the phone looks genuinely
handsome and refined, the kind of device you instinctively want to
protect.
After multiple drops, the results spoke for themselves. The device emerged
without visible damage, no cracks, dents, or functional issues. Based on
these tests, the HONOR X9d 5G clearly reinforces the durability legacy
that the HONOR X9 Series is known for. For users who depend on their
phones from morning commutes to late night scrolling, this level of
toughness brings confidence and peace of mind, proving that “The Toughest
Phone” is more than just a tagline.
Design
What makes the HONOR X9d 5G stand out is how it manages to look classy and
sophisticated while being built to take a beating. This is not a phone
that screams rugged at first glance. At just 7.8 mm thin and weighing 193
grams, it feels well balanced in the hand and comfortable even during long
hours of use. For students attending online classes, young professionals
glued to emails, or riders constantly checking navigation, the slim
profile and manageable weight make daily handling easy and fatigue free.
The design choices clearly reflect a balance between style and strength.
The glass front gives the phone a premium, polished look that would not
feel out of place in meetings or coffee shops.
At the same time, the plastic frame and back are purposefully selected for
better shock absorption and durability. This combination makes sense for
Pinoy users who want a phone that looks good in public but can also
survive crowded commutes, bumpy rides, and the occasional accidental drop.
While planning the drop test, I honestly found myself pausing for a
moment. The HONOR X9d 5G looks refined and well finished, not like a
device you would normally imagine throwing down a set of stairs. That
hesitation says a lot. It proves that HONOR succeeded in creating a phone
that delivers both handsomeness and toughness, giving users the confidence
of durability without sacrificing everyday style.
Display
The 6.79-inch AMOLED display on the HONOR X9d 5G is more than just a
screen - it’s a daily pleasure for students, young professionals, mobile
gamers, and anyone constantly on their phone. With its 1.5K resolution and
120Hz refresh rate, everything from scrolling through social media to
typing messages and streaming videos feels smooth and sharp. The high
touch sampling rate makes interactions feel instantaneous, so playing
mobile games, editing photos, or navigating apps is seamless and
satisfying.
Outdoor use is a breeze thanks to the display’s impressive peak brightness
of up to 6000 nits. Whether you’re checking emails under the glaring
midday sun, navigating the streets on a motorcycle or jeepney, or enjoying
a quick video break at the park, visibility remains clear and vibrant. You
don’t have to constantly shade the screen or squint to see details, which
is a huge practical benefit for users on the move.
Long hours of screen time are also easier on the eyes. Eye comfort
features like 3840Hz PWM dimming help reduce flicker and eye strain,
making late-night study sessions, binge-watching, or extended work calls
less tiring. For users who spend a lot of their day glued to their phones,
the display combines beauty, clarity, and health-conscious design - giving
you both a premium viewing experience and a practical tool that keeps up
with a busy lifestyle.
Imaging Performance
The HONOR X9d 5G puts imaging front and center with a 108 MegaPixels main
camera that consistently delivers sharp, detailed photos in a wide range
of lighting conditions.
Daylight shots show strong clarity and pleasing color reproduction, while
good dynamic range helps retain detail in both highlights and shadows.
Optical Image Stabilization plays an important role here, especially in
low light scenes, reducing blur from hand movement and allowing the camera
to capture clearer images even when lighting is less than ideal.
Beyond hardware, HONOR leans into practical AI powered photo tools that
make everyday editing simple and approachable. Features such as object
removal, reflection cleanup, and photo upscaling are built directly into
the camera and gallery experience, letting users quickly enhance images
without relying on third party apps. The dual camera setup also includes a
5 MegaPixels ultra wide camera for group shots and landscape scenes,
supported by familiar tools like HDR, panorama, and LED flash for added
versatility.
Here are some sample photos taken using the cameras at the back of HONOR
X9d 5G. Kindly tap on them for a larger view:
3X Zoom
Ultra-Wide Camera
3X Zoom
Selfie Camera Performance
For selfies and video calls, the 16 MegaPixels front camera delivers clean
and natural looking results.
Skin tones appear balanced, and the wide lens makes it easier to fit more
people into the frame without awkward angles. The front camera offers
reliable quality that feels well suited for daily use, especially for
users who value simplicity and consistent results over heavy processing.
Video Recording
The HONOR X9d 5G’s main rear camera supports 4K video recording at 30fps,
producing sharp and detailed footage under good lighting conditions. While
the resolution is impressive, stabilization in 4K is limited, and handheld
walking shots can show noticeable shake. This is an area where HONOR could
further improve through future software updates, especially for users who
enjoy shooting videos while moving.
Here's a sample collage of 4K videos recorded using the HONOR X9d 5G during HONOR Philippines' experiential event to showcase the durability of this smarpthone versus Tesla Cybertruck held at WBS Studios in Pasig City last January 5, 2026. The final video was exported in 2K:
For more practical, everyday use, recording in 1080p is the more reliable
option. At this resolution, electronic image stabilization becomes
available, resulting in smoother clips that are better suited for vlogs,
casual filming, and social media content. The ability to zoom in slightly
while maintaining decent framing also helps with composition. The main
camera also holds up reasonably well in low light, as shown in the sample
video of Sponge Cola singing “Jeepney” during the phone’s launch event,
where the footage retained usable detail and clarity despite challenging
lighting conditions.
Front camera video recording is capped at 1080p, but it delivers
respectable results for selfies, stories, and video calls. With skin
beautification enabled, footage looks presentable without appearing overly
processed, and a modest level of electronic stabilization helps reduce
minor shakes. This makes the front camera a dependable option for users
who frequently record talking head videos or quick updates on the go.
Operating System and User Interface
Running on Android 15 with MagicOS 9, the HONOR X9d 5G delivers a software
experience that feels instantly familiar, especially for users coming from
other Android devices. Navigation is smooth and intuitive, with core
functions laid out in a way that minimizes the learning curve.
From quick access toggles to gesture based controls, everything feels
thoughtfully placed, making day to day tasks like messaging, browsing, and
app switching effortless even for first time HONOR users.
MagicOS 9 also leans heavily into customization without overwhelming the
user. Home screen layouts, icon styles, themes, and always on display
options can be adjusted to match personal preferences, while still keeping
the interface clean and easy on the eyes. Practical features such as smart
folders, enhanced privacy controls, and system wide optimizations add
depth beneath the simplicity. The result is an operating system that feels
both comfortable and flexible, giving users freedom to personalize their
phone while maintaining a smooth and reliable experience throughout daily
use.
Internal Hardware
The HONOR X9d 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset
built on a 4nm process, offering a balanced mix of performance and
efficiency. Its octa-core CPU configuration—1x Cortex-A720 at 2.3 GHz, 3x
Cortex-A720 at 2.2 GHz, and 4x Cortex-A520 at 1.8 GHz—handles everyday
tasks with ease while providing enough muscle for more demanding apps and
mobile games. Paired with the Adreno 810 GPU, the phone delivers smooth
graphics rendering, making gaming, video streaming, and social media
scrolling feel responsive and visually appealing.
Memory performance is a standout feature for this device. With 12GB of RAM
plus 12GB HONOR RAM Turbo, multitasking is virtually seamless. Students
switching between note-taking apps, video lectures, and research tabs will
find the phone keeps up effortlessly, while young professionals juggling
emails, cloud apps, and conference calls won’t notice slowdowns. The
generous RAM also benefits casual gamers who want to run titles with
higher graphics settings without hiccups.
Storage is equally generous, with 256GB of internal memory to house apps,
photos, videos, and documents. While there is no card slot for expandable
storage, the ample built-in capacity ensures most users can store
everything they need without compromise. Combined with its efficient
chipset and RAM setup, the HONOR X9d 5G offers a well-rounded, reliable
performance package suitable for students, commuters, professionals, and
anyone who relies heavily on their phone throughout the day.
Gaming Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 and Adreno 810 GPU, the HONOR X9d 5G
delivers a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience that suits both casual
and competitive players. Games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang run with
stable frame rates, responsive touch input, and consistent performance,
making intense matches feel fluid and lag-free. The phone handles
multitasking in the background without impacting gameplay, so switching
between apps, chat, and streaming won’t slow things down.
Another advantage for on-the-go gamers is the phone’s thermal management.
Even during extended gaming sessions, heat buildup is minimal, which helps
maintain comfort while holding the device and protects long-term
performance. Combined with the large, high-refresh AMOLED display, the
HONOR X9d 5G provides a visually immersive and responsive gaming
experience that keeps students, commuters, and young professionals
entertained wherever they are.
Privacy and Security
The HONOR X9d 5G offers a well rounded set of security options designed
for both convenience and peace of mind. An optical in display fingerprint
scanner provides quick and reliable access, unlocking the phone with a
natural thumb placement that feels intuitive during daily use. Recognition
is fast and consistent, making it easy to securely access apps, files, and
sensitive information without interrupting your workflow.
Facial recognition is also supported for hands free unlocking, adding
another layer of flexibility depending on user preference and environment.
For those who prefer traditional methods, pattern and passcode unlock
options remain available and fully supported. Together, these choices
allow users to select the security setup that best fits their habits,
balancing speed, accessibility, and protection in everyday scenarios.
Battery and Charging Speed
The HONOR X9d 5G is built for people who are always on the move. With its
massive 8300 mAh battery, the largest ever in the HONOR X9 Series, it
delivers endurance you can genuinely feel throughout the day.
For students juggling online classes, note taking, and late night
scrolling, the phone easily lasts from morning lectures to bedtime without
battery anxiety. Young professionals and workers on the road will
appreciate how it powers through emails, navigation, calls, and social
media without constantly hunting for a charger. Even with heavy use,
getting through more than a full day is effortless, while lighter users
can stretch usage close to three days on a single charge.
Charging is just as practical as the battery life itself. The 66W fast
charging support means quick top ups during short breaks, coffee stops, or
lunch hours can already give you enough power to finish the day. Reverse
wired charging adds another layer of convenience, allowing the HONOR X9d
5G to share power with accessories like earbuds or even help out a
friend’s phone in a pinch. It is a setup that clearly caters to real world
routines, where reliability matters just as much as speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Ultra-Durable Build: SGS Triple-resistant certified (“The Toughest
Phone”) with drop, dust, and water resistance.
Stylish Design: Slim (7.8 mm) and lightweight (193 g) yet feels
premium and sophisticated.
Massive Battery: 8300 mAh battery with 66W fast charging and
reverse wired charging for accessories.
Smooth Display: 6.79-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh
rate, excellent sunlight visibility.
High Performance: Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 + Adreno 810 GPU, 12GB RAM +
12GB HONOR RAM Turbo, 256GB storage.
Versatile Camera Setup: 108MP main camera with OIS, 5MP ultra-wide,
16MP front camera, plus AI photo tools.
Decent Video Recording: 4K at 30fps for main cam; 1080p smooth with
EIS; front cam suitable for vlogs and video calls.
Comprehensive Security: Fingerprint scanner, facial recognition,
pattern and passcode unlock.
Complete Package: 66W fast charger, USB-C cable, SIM ejector, and
free protective case included.
Pre-order Perks: Free HONOR Gift Box, Jisulife Life Fan 5, and
chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck.
Cons
4K Video Stabilization: Slight shake in 4K; better results in
1080p.
No Expandable Storage: 256GB internal only, no microSD slot.
Verdict and Recommendation
The HONOR X9d 5G feels like a phone designed with everyday life in mind. It
is not just about looking good on paper, but about surviving real routines and winning even challenging days.
From accidental drops on the sidewalk to long days away from a power outlet,
its toughness and endurance make it easy to trust as a daily companion. The
refined design also means it does not look or feel like a rugged phone,
striking a balance between durability and style that many consumers actually desire.
For users upgrading from the HONOR X9a or X9b, the HONOR X9d 5G delivers
meaningful improvements that you can feel right away, especially in battery
life, camera performance, and overall reliability. It also makes a strong
case for anyone switching brands, offering a familiar Android experience
without the usual adjustment period.
Students, young professionals, delivery
riders, and workers constantly on the move will appreciate a phone that
keeps up with busy schedules, effortlessly handles rough and rainy days, and still feels premium in
the hand. It is a practical, confidence boosting choice for anyone who wants
a handsome yet ultra-tough phone that delivers reliable performance across the board, wherever the day takes them.
I highly recommend HONOR X9d 5G!
HONOR X9d 5G Specs
DESIGN
Dimensions: 161.9 x 76.1 x 7.8 mm
Weight: 193 grams
Build: Glass Front, Plastic Frame, Plastic Back
Colorways: Reddish Brown, Midnight Black, Sunrise Gold, Forest Green
Durability: IP68/IP69K Dust Tight And Water Resistant, Drop Resistant Up To
2.5 m
DISPLAY
Size: 6.79 Inches, 112.1 cm², ~90.9% Screen To Body Ratio
Resolution: 1200 x 2640 Pixels, ~427 ppi
Type: AMOLED, 1B Colors, HDR
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Brightness: 800 nits Typical, 1800 nits HBM, Up To 6000 nits Peak
PWM Dimming: 3840Hz
Protection: Aluminosilicate Glass
PLATFORM
Operating System: Android 15 With Magic OS 9
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 4, 4 nm
CPU: Octa-Core 1x Cortex-A720s 2.3 GHz, 3x Cortex-A720s 2.2 GHz, 4x
Cortex-A520s 1.8 GHz
GPU: Adreno 810
MEMORY
RAM: 12GB + 12GB HONOR RAM Turbo
Internal Storage: 256GB
Card Slot: No
REAR CAMERA
Configuration: Dual Camera
Main Camera: 108 MegaPixels, f/1.8, Wide, PDAF, OIS
Ultra-Wide Camera: 5 MegaPixels, f/2.2
Features: LED Flash, Panorama, HDR
Video Recording: 4K 30fps, 1080p 30fps, Gyro-EIS
FRONT CAMERA
Camera: 16 MegaPixels, f/2.5, Wide
Video Recording: 1080p 30fps
AUDIO
Loudspeaker: Yes, Stereo Speakers
Headphone Jack: No
COMMUNICATIONS
SIM: nano-SIM + nano-SIM
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, Dual Band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth: 5.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive
Positioning: GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS
NFC: Yes
Radio: No
USB: USB Type-C 2.0 With OTG
PRIVACY AND SECURITY
Fingerprint Scanner: Optical, Under Display
Facial Recognition: Supported
Pattern And Passcode Unlock: Supported
SENSORS
Accelerometer: Yes
Compass: Yes
Gyroscope: Yes
Proximity Sensor: Yes
BATTERY
Type: Si/C Li-Ion 8300 mAh
Charging: 66W Wired Fast Charging
Reverse Charging: 7.5W Reverse Wired
HONOR X9d 5G Price
Official Suggested Retail Price in the Philippines (SRP):
PHP 17,999
Launch Date: January 9, 2026 at Grand Hyatt Manila in BGC
Release Date: January 24, 2026 (when pre-order units and freebies can be
claimed)
Pre-Order Freebies and Details: Buyers who pre-order from January 9 to
January 23 will receive a HONOR Gift Box worth PHP 1,499 and a Jisulife
Life Fan 5 upon claiming the unit on January 24, 2026. Pre-order customers
also get a chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck.
