Honor has silently introduced two new budget-friendly smartphones to its X series lineup: the X5b and X5b Plus. These devices, currently available in select Middle Eastern markets, offer a glimpse into Honor's strategy for the entry-level segment.
Shared Features
Both the X5b and X5b Plus share several key specifications:
- 6.56-inch LCD display with 720p resolution and 90Hz refresh rate
- MediaTek Helio G36 chipset (LTE-only)
- 5,200 mAh battery
- Android 14 with MagicOS 8.0 overlay
- 5MP front-facing camera in a waterdrop notch
- Available in Flowing Black and Flowing Blue color options
X5b Plus: A Step Up
The X5b Plus justifies its Plus moniker with two notable upgrades:
- Camera : A 50MP main rear camera (compared to 13MP on the standard X5b)
- Storage : 128GB of internal storage (vs. 64GB on the X5b)
Both models feature a secondary 0.8MP macro camera, which is unusually low resolution even for budget devices.
Pricing and Availability
- Honor X5b: Approximately $80 (4GB RAM / 64GB storage)
- Honor X5b Plus: Around $106 (4GB RAM / 128GB storage)
Analysis
The Honor X5b series targets the ultra-budget segment, prioritizing battery life and a smooth display experience. The use of the Helio G36 chipset suggests these devices are aimed at basic users rather than those seeking high performance.
The significant camera upgrade on the X5b Plus could be a key differentiator for budget-conscious shoppers who prioritize photography. However, the low-resolution secondary camera on both models may be a point of criticism.
While currently limited to Middle Eastern markets, Honor's history suggests a potential wider release in the future. The competitive pricing could make these devices attractive options in markets where entry-level smartphones are in high demand.