Honor X5B Plus Review by Cytech Digitals in Kenya
The Honor X5B Plus is a sleek and budget-friendly smartphone that brings impressive features to the entry-level segment. With a stylish design and powerful internals, it caters to users looking for solid performance and all-day reliability without breaking the bank. As of April 2025, the current price of the Honor X5B Plus in Kenya is approximately KSh 15,000, making it an appealing option for students, first-time smartphone users, or anyone seeking a dependable backup device.
Product Overview and Specifications
The Honor X5B Plus is designed to meet the needs of modern users while maintaining affordability. Its specifications make it a competitive option in the budget smartphone market. Below are the key specifications:
- Display: 6.56-inch TFT LCD, HD+ resolution (1612 x 720 pixels)
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: Up to 256GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC
- Rear Camera: 50MP primary camera, auxiliary sensor, LED flash
- Front Camera: 5MP for selfies and video calls
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G37
- Operating System: Android 14 with MagicOS 8
- Battery: 5200mAh, 10W charging via USB Type-C
- Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS
- Colors: Available in multiple color options
Display Quality
The large 6.56-inch TFT LCD display of the Honor X5B Plus offers an HD+ resolution, making it suitable for various activities, from streaming videos to browsing social media. The screen brightness and color accuracy are commendable for a budget device, ensuring that users can enjoy their favorite content with decent clarity. The size is also perfect for one-handed use, which is particularly beneficial for users on the go.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Honor X5B Plus is powered by the MediaTek Helio G37 chipset, which, combined with 4GB of RAM, provides a smooth user experience for everyday tasks. Whether you’re multitasking between apps or enjoying light gaming, this smartphone holds up well. Running on Android 14 with MagicOS 8, the device offers a clean and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. The software is optimized for performance, ensuring that users have a seamless experience.
Camera Capabilities
Photography is a significant highlight of the Honor X5B Plus. The 50MP primary rear camera is capable of capturing vibrant and detailed photos, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts on a budget. The additional auxiliary sensor enhances the camera’s capabilities, allowing for better depth perception and clarity in photos. The 5MP front camera is also effective for selfies and video calls, ensuring that you can stay connected with friends and family without compromising on quality.
Battery Life
With a robust 5200mAh battery, the Honor X5B Plus promises all-day usage, which is a crucial factor for users who rely on their smartphones for various tasks throughout the day. The battery life is complemented by 10W charging via USB Type-C, which, while not the fastest, provides adequate charging speeds to get you back on the go. Users can expect to get through a full day of usage without needing to recharge, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
Connectivity Options
The Honor X5B Plus comes equipped with all the essential connectivity options, including 4G LTE for fast internet browsing, Wi-Fi for connecting to local networks, and Bluetooth 5.1 for seamless pairing with other devices. The inclusion of GPS also ensures that users can navigate easily, whether they are using maps for directions or tracking their fitness activities.
Design and Build Quality
In terms of design, the Honor X5B Plus showcases a modern aesthetic with a sleek profile that is comfortable to hold. The smartphone is available in multiple color options, allowing users to express their personal style. The build quality is solid for a budget device, ensuring durability and longevity, which is essential for everyday use.
Market Availability and Pricing in Kenya
The Honor X5B Plus is widely available across various retail outlets in Kenya, both online and in physical stores. The competitive pricing of approximately KSh 15,000 positions it well against other smartphones in the same category. This price point makes it accessible to a broad audience, particularly students and young professionals looking for an affordable yet capable smartphone.
Comparison with Competitors
When considering the Honor X5B Plus, it’s essential to compare it with other smartphones in the budget segment. Below are some notable competitors:
- Samsung Galaxy A03 – Priced similarly, the Galaxy A03 offers a slightly larger display but lacks the camera quality of the Honor X5B Plus.
- Xiaomi Redmi 10 – Known for its impressive battery life, the Redmi 10 competes closely but may fall short in processing power compared to the Honor X5B Plus.
- Infinix Hot 12 – Another strong contender, the Infinix Hot 12 offers a similar camera setup but has a slightly lower build quality.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on specific user needs, such as camera quality, battery life, and brand preference.
Use Cases for the Honor X5B Plus in Kenya
The Honor X5B Plus is tailored to meet various needs, making it versatile for different user scenarios in Kenya:
- Students: With its affordable price and reliable performance, it serves as an excellent tool for students who require a device for online learning and research.
- First-time smartphone users: Its user-friendly interface and solid features make it an ideal choice for individuals transitioning from feature phones to smartphones.
- Social Media Enthusiasts: The camera quality and large display cater to users who enjoy capturing and sharing moments on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
- Backup Device: For those who already own a premium smartphone, the Honor X5B Plus can serve as a reliable backup for everyday tasks.
Buying Criteria for the Honor X5B Plus
When considering the purchase of the Honor X5B Plus, potential buyers should evaluate the following criteria:
- Budget: Ensure that the price fits within your budget, considering the total cost of ownership, including accessories and potential future upgrades.
- Performance Needs: Assess what you need the smartphone for—whether it’s for basic tasks, gaming, or photography—and ensure the specifications meet those needs.
- Camera Quality: If photography is a priority, consider the camera capabilities and read user reviews to gauge real-world performance.
- Battery Life: Look for a device with a battery that can last throughout your daily activities without frequent recharging.
- Brand Preference: Consider brand reliability and after-sales service, especially in your local area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the battery life like on the Honor X5B Plus?
The Honor X5B Plus features a 5200mAh battery that provides all-day usage under normal conditions. Users can expect to get through a full day of activities, including browsing, streaming, and social media use, without needing to recharge.
2. Can the storage be expanded on the Honor X5B Plus?
Yes, the Honor X5B Plus comes with up to 256GB of internal storage that can be expanded further via a microSDXC card, allowing users to store more apps, photos, and videos.
3. Does the Honor X5B Plus support 5G connectivity?
No, the Honor X5B Plus supports 4G LTE connectivity, which is adequate for most users in Kenya as 5G networks are still being rolled out in various regions.
4. What color options are available for the Honor X5B Plus?
The Honor X5B Plus is available in multiple color options, allowing users to choose a style that fits their personal preference.
5. Is the Honor X5B Plus suitable for gaming?
While the Honor X5B Plus is not a dedicated gaming phone, it can handle light gaming and casual gaming experiences thanks to its MediaTek Helio G37 chipset and 4GB RAM. However, for more intensive gaming, users may want to consider higher-end options.
Troubleshooting Guide for the Honor X5B Plus
If you encounter any issues with your Honor X5B Plus, here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- Battery Not Charging: Ensure that the charging cable and adapter are working. Try using a different cable or adapter to see if the issue persists.
- Slow Performance: Clear cache data and uninstall unused apps to improve performance. Restarting the device may also help.
- Camera Issues: If the camera is not functioning correctly, try restarting the device. Ensure that the camera lens is clean and free of obstructions.
- Connectivity Problems: If you are having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi or mobile data, toggle airplane mode on and off, or reset network settings.
Conclusion
The Honor X5B Plus stands out in the budget smartphone market with its robust features, stylish design, and affordability. Whether you are a student, a first-time smartphone user, or someone in need of a reliable backup device, the Honor X5B Plus delivers impressive value for its price. With its solid performance, decent camera capabilities, and long battery life, it is a worthy contender for anyone looking to purchase a smartphone in Kenya in 2025.
As the smartphone market continues to evolve, the Honor X5B Plus remains a strong option for those seeking a balance between cost and functionality. Don’t hesitate to explore this device further and see how it can fit into your daily life.
For more insights, reviews, and comparisons, check out our smartphone reviews and stay updated with the latest trends in the mobile market.
Alternative Products
- HONOR H200 Pro 12/512GB - KSh67,000
- Honor X9C 12/256GB - KSh39,500
- HONOR X6B - KSh17,500
- HONOR H200 - KSh41,500
- HONOR X7C - KSh24,000