After testing the iQOO Z10R for over three weeks, it’s clear that this phone is one of the stronger contenders in the sub-Rs 20,000 price bracket. Priced at Rs 19,499 for the base variant, it delivers a premium in-hand feel, a sleek design, and reliable everyday performance. While it isn’t flawless, the overall package makes it a solid option for anyone seeking value without cutting too many corners.

Performance and Everyday Use

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, the iQOO Z10R handles day-to-day tasks smoothly. Apps open quickly and multitasking is fairly seamless, thanks to strong memory management. However, I did notice the occasional frame skip when juggling multiple apps, likely due to software optimisation issues. On benchmarks, the phone scored 1,035 (single-core) and 2,985 (multi-core) on Geekbench 6, respectable, though rivals like the CMF Phone 2 Pro edge ahead. For gaming, the phone provides stable performance and excellent thermal management, ensuring it doesn’t overheat even during extended sessions.

Design and Display

The Z10R’s design stands out with its gradient finish and well-balanced weight distribution. The Aquamarine variant I tested has just the right amount of flair without being too flashy. The glossy sides, however, pick up fingerprints easily, matte edges would have been a better choice. Its curved 4D display adds to the premium look, though finding the right tempered glass protector could be tricky. On the bright side, the IP68/IP69 rating ensures durability against water exposure, which is rare at this price point.

Camera Quality

The camera setup is modest, a 50MP primary sensor paired with a 2MP depth sensor. While the lack of ultra-wide or telephoto lenses limits versatility, the main sensor delivers reliable results. Images are sharp with decent dynamic range, though grain can creep in under tricky lighting. Video recording at 4K 30fps is solid, making it dependable for casual photography and social media use.

Battery and Software

Battery life is one of the Z10R’s biggest strengths. Its 5,700mAh cell comfortably lasts up to two days on moderate use and charges quickly. The in-display fingerprint scanner is responsive but could have been positioned slightly higher for ease of use. Funtouch OS 15 has improved, but still has quirks, including redundant features and inconsistencies compared to competitors’ software.

Verdict

The iQOO Z10R strikes a fine balance between performance, design, and battery life. While the speakers, haptics, and software polish leave room for improvement, the device justifies its price with dependable performance and a premium feel. At Rs 19,499, it’s a compelling option for users who want a stylish, capable smartphone without breaking the bank.

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