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Vivo X300 Review – Small Size, Big Performance



The announcement of the vivo X300 series sparked excitement, especially for the X300 Pro model with powerful specifications. However, behind the spotlight, the X300 also stands out with its own uniqueness. It is not a simple model but rather comes as a flagship device for those who want a high-performance smartphone in a size that is comfortable to hold. For users who want premium features without the large size, the Vivo X300 is ready to captivate.


Specifications

Vivo X300

6.31″ LTPO AMOLED screen

1216 x 2640 pixels

HDR10+, HDR Vivid, 4500 nits (peak)

Ultra HDR image support

Mediatek Dimensity 9500 processor (3 nm)

1 x 4.21 GHz C1-Ultra chip

3 x 3.5 GHz C1-Premium

4 x 2.7 GHz C1-Pro

Arm G1-Ultra Graphics Chip

RAM 16GB LPDDR5X

Internal Storage 512GB UFS 4.1

Primary Camera 200 MP, f/1.7, 23mm (wide) OIS

50 MP, f/2.6, 70mm (periscope telephoto)

OIS, 3X optical zoom

50 MP, f/2.0 (ultra-wide)

Selfie Camera 50 MP, f/2.0 (wide)

HDR

Battery Si/C Li-Ion 6040 mAh (Global)

90W wired

40W wireless

Reverse charging

Nano SIM/Telephony/eSIM

NFC Yes

Audio Jack No

Waterproof IP68/IP69

Scanning System Fingerprint Scanner

Face Scan

Selling Price RM3599

Usage Experience

It is no exaggeration to say that vivo has retained several key features from the X200 FE including the round camera module and matte finish. In fact, my experience holding the X300 is reminiscent of the previous X200 FE review. For comparison, the closest model is the X200 Pro Mini. However, since it is not officially offered in Malaysia, the X200 FE is a more accurate reference.


This device is small, compact and comfortable to use with one hand. In terms of mass, size and diameter, it is almost the same as the X200 FE, but this device feels a little heavier. I also got used to it easily because the iPhone 14 used has almost the same size, making using the X300 more pleasant and not awkward.


In terms of build and finish, the experience offered is not much different from the X200 FE, and even feels more solid in its class. Although comfortable to hold, the physical balance of this device is slightly disturbed by the large round camera bump, especially because of the small overall size of the device.


The ZEISS branding is also still clearly visible, indicating that this camera system was developed in collaboration with the company. This is not the first time, but has been a habit for vivo flagship phones for the past few years.


Vivo maintains a premium feel on the X300 with the use of AG Matte glass on the back, offered in three color options, namely Pink, Blue and Black. The premium feel is clearly felt because it does not resemble cheap plastic.


This surface is not only resistant to fingerprints, but is also able to reflect light with subtle patterns that change, thus adding exclusive value to the design. More importantly, the back does not slip easily from the grip even when holding other items. After more than two weeks of daily use, I have increasingly appreciated how practical this phone is because it does not tire the fingers and ensures that the device is always secure in the grip.


The button and port layout design on the X300 still maintains the standard style like most other vivo devices. On the right side there is a power button with audio adjuster while the SIM slot, USB-C port and speaker are placed at the bottom.


Next, the IR Blaster is provided at the top. This is not surprising because most modern devices also use a similar concept and arrangement, making the user experience easier.


Until now, vivo has not provided a dedicated button for the camera like some manufacturers offer on their flagship devices. As far as I know, only the X Fold is equipped with this feature. Therefore, it is hoped that vivo can add a camera button to future models to complete the user experience when taking pictures either horizontally or vertically.


Unlike the Pro model, the X300 is not equipped with a customizable button on the left side, thus making it simpler in terms of design. However, it still maintains the position of the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor which is placed about 1/3 from the bottom of the screen. This position actually makes it easier for the thumb to reach the sensor, thus making the unlocking process easier.


The device's speakers come with a stereo system, with another grille located on the phone's handle. The sound produced may not be completely balanced, but it sounds clear and not hollow, making it quite suitable for daily use.


The X300 uses a 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 4500 nits. These specifications are the same as the previous X200 series. Throughout use, the screen did not show any problems with dimming, including when used under bright light.


The display looks clear and bright, with vibrant colors, especially for bright tones. Blacks also look deep, which makes the display deeper. At the same time, scrolling feels smooth through the support of a 120Hz refresh rate, which also makes the user experience more responsive.


This 120Hz screen does have an impact on the battery, but based on my experience, it is still satisfactory for daily use. Furthermore, the AI ​​Adaptive Eye Comfort Mode can adjust the screen color according to the ambient light to reduce eye fatigue. This screen also has TÜV Low Blue Light certification from Germany, making the scrolling experience comfortable even after long periods of use.


Hardware and Internal Software

This device comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chip, just like the Pro version. This chip is the most premium from MediaTek, thus able to provide more stable performance. In addition, it is combined with 16GB RAM memory and 512GB internal storage in addition to offering 16GB virtual RAM that is automatically built without the option to change the settings.


However, this internal storage cannot be expanded, so users are only tied to a capacity of 512GB. However, through the Lossless App Compression function, users can save up to 50GB of storage space. This feature is provided on the new operating system OriginOS 6 which was previously not available on Funtouch OS.


In terms of experience, as can be expected from a flagship device, the performance feels fast, smooth, and stable without any system problems or time lag. In addition, the animation transition when switching applications also runs smoothly without interruption or getting stuck. In addition, the application download process is very fast and does not take long.


For the first experience, I was able to test Honor of Kings and its performance was found to be smooth without any noticeable issues. With the highest settings, this game can be played consistently at 120FPS even with many characters without getting stuck. Additionally, the graphics look beautiful with pops of color while there are no overheating issues as experienced on devices with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips.


AnTuTu 3D

Chip Score

Vivo X300 3,309,171

Honor Magic8 Pro 3,424,247

Vivo X300 Pro 3,507,869

OnePlus 15 3,720,096

Google Pixel 10 Pro 1,214,735

Oppo Find X9 Pro 3,472,342

Apple iPhone 17 Pro 2,634,345

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 1,946,864

Oppo Find X8 Pro 2,629,017

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max 1,720,751


Geekbench 6

Chip Single Core Multi Core

Vivo X300 3361 10063

Honor Magic8 Pro 3587 9853

Vivo X300 Pro 3507 10469

OnePlus 15 3553 10484

Google Pixel 10 Pro 2303 6134

Oppo Find X9 Pro 3158 9298

Apple iPhone 17 Pro 3560 8835

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 2957 9435

Oppo Find X8 Pro 2663 8959

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max 3359 8129


3DMark Wildlife Extreme

Chip Score

Vivo X300 5836

Honor Magic8 Pro 7,659

Vivo X300 Pro 7,075

OnePlus 15 6,741

Google Pixel 10 Pro 3,266

Oppo Find X9 Pro 6,127

Apple iPhone 17 Pro 5,873

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 6,135

Oppo Find X8 Pro 6,251

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max 4,560


The device also features the new operating system OriginOS 6, which is offered for the first time outside of China. This transition marks the end of the Funtouch OS era, replaced by a fresher modern interface and smoother animations. OriginOS 6 also introduces practical features such as Lossless App Compression, which can save up to 50GB of storage space, as well as automatic RAM Expansion up to 16GB for a more efficient user experience.


In addition, this system also comes with AI Retouch capabilities that offer various smart functions. Among them are AI Eraser to erase unwanted subjects, image quality enhancement through AI Ultra HD, AI Image Expander to expand the image frame, and AI Color Adjust that allows users to change the color tone to either warm or cold.


Meanwhile, the AI ​​Flip Card feature functions as an AI-based interactive card that can be used as wallpaper with support for up to four images. These cards can also display important updates such as weather and other information, making the user experience more practical and engaging.


Users can also enjoy the Live Updates feature that resembles Apple's Dynamic Island concept by keeping important information at the top of the screen with quick access to relevant actions. Other functions include Copy & Go that allows phone numbers to be used directly for calls or messages after being copied, and Drag & Go that makes it easy to edit images without having to leave the current application. Along with the AI ​​era, OriginOS 6 also supports Gemini and Circle to Search integration for a smarter experience.


In terms of design, vivo introduces a new design language called Origin Design, with elements such as rim light that resembles the glass effect (Liquid Glass) in iOS 26. This interface features a three-dimensional design, Dynamic Glow, Translucent Color System and Gradient Blur that make the display more lively. The Notification & Widget Stacks function also helps organize information more neatly while the lock screen personalization gives users the freedom to make it more personal.


In addition, there is a Tap to Share feature that makes sharing with iPhone devices easier, and at the same time can be used with MacBook and Windows through the EasyShare application that makes integration between devices smoother.


Camera and Image Performance

This is where things start to get interesting. Once again, Vivo opted not to use a 1″ sensor but instead maintained a different approach that was considered more appropriate. I found the ZEISS color profile this time to look more natural than before. At the same time, the Vivid Mode color choices looked very bright and striking.


However, this mode is less suitable for use if the environment only has one or two main colors as the results can look too prominent. On the other hand, vivid is more effective when there are many colors that clearly stand out, thus providing a more lively and interesting result.


In addition, Textured Mode provides more cinematic results with clear details. The Macro function is also effective as the image looks sharp and the subject can be clearly separated from the background. However, this mode requires conditions with minimal movement. For example, when I tried to take a picture of ants on a tree, although the autofocus system worked well, the camera still struggled a little to capture the small movement.


Next, the 50MP Mode produces sharper images than the normal mode. However, when compared to the 200MP Mode there is a slight difference in terms of color. In this case, the 200MP mode does not support the zoom function but can still be used to crop after shooting with maintained quality. For maximum zoom, the image quality starts to suffer and I found the best results only up to 20 times zoom.


Meanwhile, for Ultra-Wide Mode, the edge corners of the image appear less sharp. However, the camera is still able to process images well even with bright backlighting. The zoom transition feels smooth but at the maximum level it is quite difficult to stabilize. In addition, there is a noticeable 'Chromatic Aberration' problem when taking photos against the light in certain conditions.


My experience with Portrait Mode, especially at night, is very satisfactory because the noise is significantly reduced, the subject details are clear and the background can be separated well. In addition, skin tones look natural and not too dull. However, the camera still has a bit of difficulty separating small objects from the main subject such as glasses frames, but this issue rarely occurs.


I also find it better to use Night & Landscape Mode than the regular camera mode for night shots. The results show lower noise, bright objects do not look too blooming and the subject is still sharp and clear. In addition, the night sky looks bright without too much noise.


It should be noted that after taking a picture using the normal camera mode, there is a slight time lag but not too long. Meanwhile, for the 50MP Mode and 200MP Mode, the time lag is more noticeable. In addition, in certain situations, the picture looks as if it is over-processed when observed closely. Despite this, overall this camera still provides a good experience with satisfactory results.


In terms of video recording, autofocus performance is good when the subject is close, but it is quite difficult to maintain focus if the subject is far away. The camera also provides a Log Mode function that is suitable for users who like to do 'color grading'. However, it should be noted that using this mode comes with some compromises, including reduced stability.


Battery and Fast Charging

The X300 comes with a large 6040mAh battery in a compact body, which is able to last all day even with heavy use. In real-world use, the battery life is good and can support busy daily activities without any problems.


In fact, based on usage experience, this device can achieve up to 15 hours of Screen-On Time (SOT) and around 9 hours of SOT in other scenarios, making it one of the compact smartphones with impressive battery life.


In addition, 90W wired and 40W wireless charging support is provided to ensure that the recharging process can be done quickly. Even a short charge is enough to provide extra energy, meaning users don't have to rely on a power outlet for too long.


What's in the Box

Here's what's included in the box we received:


1 x Vivo X300

1 x 90W Charging Head.

1 x USB-A to USB-C Cable.

1 x Silicone Case.

1 x User Manual.

1 x SIM Ejector.

Conclusion

The X300 can be considered a compact flagship device without major compromises. It combines a modern design, a bright 120Hz LTPO panel and a high-quality camera system, although it is not on par with the X300 Pro model. Coupled with a 6040mAh battery, 90W fast charging, this device also offers a flagship-level experience in a small body.


However, it is not the choice for everyone. With a price tag that competes with Apple, Samsung and others, this device does not have a strong ecosystem or the longest software support. However, for those who prioritize compact-sized devices, long-lasting batteries and best-in-class cameras, the X300 model is clearly attractive as a flagship device with its own identity.


Pros

Compact design and comfortable to hold.

A bright and smooth 120Hz LTPO display.

A flagship chip with solid performance.

A high-quality camera with solid performance.

A fresh OriginOS with interesting AI features.

A 6040mAh battery that lasts all day.

Fast charging 90W wired and 40W wireless.

Cons

Less robust ecosystem.

Shorter software support than competitors.

High price to compete with major brands.

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