iQOO Z10 & Z10X Review Best Phones Under 20000 Rupees 2025

The budget smartphone market in India is fiercely competitive, and iQOO has raised the bar with its latest releases, the iQOO Z10 and iQOO Z10X. Priced around ₹20,000 (with the Z10X dipping to an effective price of ₹12,500), these phones offer flagship-level features like massive batteries, fast charging, vibrant displays, and robust performance. This comprehensive review dives deep into every aspect of these devices, helping you decide which one is the best “Phone Under 20000 Rupees” for you.

Introduction

The iQOO Z10 and Z10X are tailored for budget-conscious buyers who demand premium features without breaking the bank. With massive batteries, sleek designs, and powerful processors, these phones cater to gamers, content creators, and everyday users alike. Whether you’re looking for a device to handle intensive gaming, binge-watch shows, or simply last through a busy day, these phones promise to deliver. Let’s explore why they’re strong contenders in the “Phone Under 20000 Rupees” segment.

iQOO Z10 Specifications

Category	Details
Price	~₹20,000 (effective)
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
RAM	12GB
Storage	256GB (UFS 2.2)
Display	6.77-inch AMOLED, Full HD+ (2400×1080), 120Hz, quad-curved
Brightness	Up to 5,000 nits (peak, claimed), 1,300 nits (typical outdoor)
Battery	7,300mAh
Charging	90W fast charging (50% in ~33 minutes), reverse wired charging
Rear Camera	50MP (main, f/1.8) + 2MP (macro/depth)
Front Camera	32MP (wide-angle support)
Video	4K recording (front and rear)
Operating System	FunTouch OS 15 (based on Android 15)
Security Updates	March 2025 patch
Update Policy	2 years OS updates + 3 years security updates
Build	Glass back, metal frame, quad-curved design, military-grade certification
IP Rating	IP65 (dust and water resistance)
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Connectivity	5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, dual SIM
Sensors	In-display fingerprint (optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Audio	Single speaker
Additional Features	IR blaster (in camera module), AI features (Circle to Search, AI Eraser, AI Note Assist, Document Scanner)
Colors	Not specified (features light-reflective back panel)

iQOO Z10X Specifications

Category	Details
Price	~₹12,500 (effective)
Processor	MediaTek Dimensity 7300
RAM	8GB or 12GB (assumed based on segment)
Storage	128GB or 256GB (assumed, UFS 2.2 likely)
Display	6.77-inch AMOLED, Full HD+ (2400×1080, assumed), 120Hz
Brightness	Not specified (likely lower than Z10’s 5,000 nits)
Battery	6,500mAh
Charging	44W fast charging
Rear Camera	50MP (main) + 2MP (macro/depth)
Front Camera	32MP (assumed, wide-angle support)
Video	4K recording (front and rear)
Operating System	FunTouch OS 15 (based on Android 15)
Security Updates	March 2025 patch
Update Policy	2 years OS updates + 3 years security updates
Build	Glass back, metal frame, military-grade certification
IP Rating	IP64 (splash and dust resistance)
Weight	Balanced (exact weight not specified)
Connectivity	5G, Wi-Fi 6 (assumed), Bluetooth 5.3 (assumed), dual SIM
Sensors	In-display fingerprint (optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Audio	Single speaker
Additional Features	AI features (Circle to Search, AI Eraser, AI Note Assist, Document Scanner, assumed)
Colors	Blue (with unique back panel pattern)

Unboxing Experience

Both phones come well-equipped, ensuring you have all the essentials right out of the box.

iQOO Z10

• Contents:
  • iQOO Z10 smartphone
  • 90W fast charger
  • USB Type-A to Type-C cable
  • Transparent protective case
  • SIM ejector tool
  • User manual and warranty documentation
• Highlights: The inclusion of a 90W charger is a rarity in this price range, ensuring lightning-fast charging.

iQOO Z10X

• Contents:
  • iQOO Z10X smartphone
  • 44W fast charger
  • USB Type-A to Type-C cable
  • Transparent protective case
  • SIM ejector tool
  • User manual and warranty documentation
• Highlights: The 44W charger is solid for the price, though slower than the Z10’s.

The unboxing experience feels premium for both devices, with practical accessories like clear cases included to protect your investment.

Design and Build Quality

iQOO has put significant effort into making these phones look and feel more expensive than their price tags suggest.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Back Panel: Features a dynamic light-reflective pattern that shifts with the angle, creating a mesmerizing effect. The matte finish resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping the phone pristine.
  • Weight: Surprisingly lightweight despite a massive 7,300mAh battery, making it comfortable for extended use.
  • Build: Slim profile with a quad-curved display and a slightly curved metal frame for superior ergonomics. It boasts an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance and military-grade certification for durability.
  • IR Blaster: Integrated into the camera module, allowing the phone to double as a universal remote for appliances like TVs and ACs.
  • Camera Module: Sleek and unobtrusive, blending seamlessly with the back panel.
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Back Panel: Sports a unique pattern, available in a vibrant blue color that stands out. Like the Z10, it’s smudge-resistant with a matte finish.
  • Weight: Well-balanced, even with a 6,500mAh battery, ensuring comfort during prolonged use.
  • Build: Slim design with an IP64 rating for splash and dust resistance and military-grade certification. The frame is slightly less curved than the Z10’s.
  • IR Blaster: Not explicitly mentioned for the Z10X, suggesting it may be exclusive to the Z10.

Both phones feel premium in hand, with the Z10’s quad-curved design and IP65 rating giving it a slight edge in aesthetics and durability.

Display Specifications

A great display is crucial for gaming, streaming, and daily use, and both iQOO phones deliver vibrant visuals.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Type: 6.77-inch AMOLED, Full HD+ resolution (2400×1080)
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz for buttery-smooth scrolling and gaming
  • Brightness: Claimed 5,000 nits peak brightness (local), with 1,300 nits typical outdoor brightness
  • Features:
    • Quad-curved display for immersive visuals
    • In-display fingerprint scanner (optical) with reliable performance
    • Thin bezels for a modern look
  • Performance: Colors are vibrant, and blacks are deep, thanks to the AMOLED panel. Outdoor visibility is excellent, even in direct sunlight. While Netflix HDR isn’t supported, YouTube HDR videos showcase impressive highlights and brightness.
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Type: 6.77-inch AMOLED, Full HD+ resolution (assumed based on iQOO’s lineup consistency)
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz (assumed for smooth performance)
  • Brightness: Likely lower than the Z10’s 5,000 nits claim, but still adequate for outdoor use
  • Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, though curvature details are unclear (likely flat or less curved than Z10)
  • Performance: Offers similar vibrancy and smoothness, though it may lack the Z10’s quad-curved flair.

The Z10’s quad-curved AMOLED display is a standout, offering a flagship-like experience. Both phones provide smooth animations and responsive touch input, ideal for gaming and media consumption.

Battery and Charging

Battery life is a major highlight, with both phones offering exceptional endurance.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Capacity: 7,300mAh – among the largest in India’s mainstream smartphone market.
  • Charging: 90W fast charging, capable of reaching 50% in approximately 33 minutes.
  • Features: Supports reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices (e.g., earbuds or another phone).
  • Backup: iQOO claims up to two days of usage on a single charge, which is highly plausible for moderate users. Even heavy users can expect 1.5 days with gaming and streaming.
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Capacity: 6,500mAh – still impressive for the price segment.
  • Charging: 44W fast charging, slower but sufficient for quick top-ups.
  • Features: No mention of reverse charging, suggesting it’s exclusive to the Z10.
  • Backup: Easily lasts a full day with heavy use, and up to two days with light usage like calls, messaging, and browsing.

The Z10’s massive battery and faster charging make it ideal for power users, while the Z10X offers excellent longevity at a lower cost.

Performance and Gaming

Both phones are equipped with capable chipsets, ensuring smooth performance across tasks.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
  • RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB UFS 2.2 storage (other variants may exist)
  • Benchmarks:
    • AnTuTu: ~8,40,000
    • Geekbench: ~3,100 multi-core score
  • Gaming:
    • Call of Duty Mobile: 89.1–89.6 average FPS at 90fps settings, with minimal frame drops.
    • BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India): 59.6 average FPS at 60fps, with potential for 90fps via future updates.
    • Genshin Impact: 50.1 average FPS at 60fps, respectable for a heavy game.
  • Thermal Management: Graphite cooling sheet keeps temperatures under control, even during extended gaming sessions.
  • Multitasking: Handles multiple apps seamlessly, thanks to ample RAM.
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300
  • RAM/Storage: Likely 8GB or 12GB RAM, 128GB or 256GB storage (exact specs not detailed).
  • Benchmarks: Comparable to the Z10, though slightly lower due to the Dimensity chipset.
  • Gaming: Expected to handle BGMI and COD Mobile at 60fps comfortably, though specific FPS data wasn’t provided.
  • Thermal Management: Likely includes cooling tech, ensuring stable performance.

The Z10’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 offers a slight edge in gaming and efficiency, but the Z10X’s Dimensity 7300 is no slouch, delivering reliable performance for its price.

Camera Performance

Both phones feature versatile camera setups that perform well for casual photography and videography.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Rear Camera:
    • 50MP main sensor (f/1.8, good low-light performance)
    • 2MP secondary sensor (likely macro or depth)
  • Front Camera: 32MP (wide-angle support for group selfies)
  • Performance:
    • Main Camera: Captures sharp details with vibrant, slightly saturated colors. A natural color profile is available for more accurate tones.
    • HDR: Handles complex lighting well, balancing highlights and shadows effectively.
    • Portraits: Accurate edge detection with natural bokeh and good skin tone processing. Minor over-processing in tricky lighting.
    • Low Light: Decent results with controlled noise, suitable for night shots.
    • Selfies: Sharp and detailed, though skin tones may vary slightly. Wide-angle mode is great for group shots.
    • Video: 4K recording with stable colors, minimal color shift, and good detail retention.
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Rear Camera:
    • 50MP main sensor
    • 2MP secondary sensor
  • Front Camera: 32MP (assumed based on iQOO’s lineup)
  • Performance: Closely matches the Z10, with sharp details, vibrant colors, and solid HDR. Also supports 4K video recording with similar quality.

Both phones deliver camera performance that exceeds expectations for the price, making them ideal for social media enthusiasts and casual photographers.

Software and AI Features

The software experience is smooth, modern, and packed with practical features.

• Operating System: FunTouch OS 15, based on Android 15
• Security Updates: March 2025 patch pre-installed
• Update Policy: 2 years of OS updates + 3 years of security updates, ensuring longevity
• Performance:
  • Smooth app opening/closing animations
  • Fast UI transitions and navigation
  • Responsive touch response
• Bloatware: Some pre-installed apps (e.g., Hot Apps, Hot Games), but most can be uninstalled or disabled via the V-App Store.
• AI Features:
  • Circle to Search: Search for items directly from videos or images (e.g., identify a T-shirt in a video).
  • AI Eraser: Remove unwanted objects or people from photos with ease.
  • AI Note Assist: Summarize rough notes, reformat them, or extract to-do lists.
  • Document Scanner: Ultra HD scanning with enhancement options for documents. Supports post-editing to optimize scanned images.
• Customization: Offers themes, icon packs, and always-on display options for personalization.

The AI features are genuinely useful, and the update policy ensures these phones remain relevant for years.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Both phones are well-equipped for modern connectivity needs.

• iQOO Z10:
  • Network: 5G support, dual SIM
  • Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6
  • Bluetooth: 5.3
  • Sensors: In-display fingerprint, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
  • Audio: Single speaker with decent loudness (no stereo)
  • Extras: IR blaster for remote control functionality
• iQOO Z10X:
  • Network: 5G support, dual SIM
  • Wi-Fi: Likely Wi-Fi 6
  • Bluetooth: 5.3 (assumed)
  • Sensors: In-display fingerprint, standard sensor suite
  • Audio: Single speaker
  • Extras: No confirmed IR blaster

The Z10’s IR blaster is a unique addition, while both phones offer robust 5G connectivity for future-proofing.

iQOO Z10 vs. Z10X: Detailed Comparison

Here’s a comprehensive table comparing the two phones:

Feature	iQOO Z10	iQOO Z10X
Price (Effective)	~₹20,000	~₹12,500
Processor	Snapdragon 7s Gen 3	MediaTek Dimensity 7300
RAM/Storage	12GB/256GB (UFS 2.2)	8GB or 12GB/128GB or 256GB (assumed)
Display	6.77″ AMOLED, quad-curved, 120Hz	6.77″ AMOLED, 120Hz (curvature TBD)
Battery	7,300mAh	6,500mAh
Charging	90W (50% in 33 mins)	44W
Rear Camera	50MP + 2MP	50MP + 2MP
Front Camera	32MP	32MP (assumed)
IP Rating	IP65	IP64
Build	Quad-curved, military-grade	Military-grade
IR Blaster	Yes	Not confirmed
Audio	Single speaker	Single speaker
Software	FunTouch OS (Android 15)	FunTouch OS (Android 15)
Updates	2+3 years	2+3 years

The Z10 is the premium option with a larger battery, faster charging, and a quad-curved display, while the Z10X offers incredible value for budget buyers.

Pricing and Value Proposition

• iQOO Z10: Priced at ~₹20,000, it competes with top-tier budget phones like the Poco X7 Pro and Realme Narzo 70 Pro, offering a unique combination of battery life, design, and performance.
• iQOO Z10X: At an effective price of ~₹12,500, it’s a steal, undercutting competitors like the Moto G85 and Redmi Note 14 while delivering comparable features.

Both phones provide exceptional value, with the Z10X being particularly appealing for those prioritizing affordability.

Pros and Cons

iQOO Z10

Pros:

• Massive 7,300mAh battery with 90W charging
• Stunning quad-curved AMOLED display
• Premium design with IP65 rating
• IR blaster for added utility
• Strong gaming performance

Cons:

• Single speaker (no stereo)
• No Netflix HDR support
• Minor bloatware

iQOO Z10X

Pros:

• Affordable at ~₹12,500
• Large 6,500mAh battery
• Solid performance for the price
• AMOLED display with 120Hz
• Military-grade durability

Cons:

• Slower 44W charging
• No confirmed IR blaster
• Slightly less premium design

Conclusion

The iQOO Z10 and Z10X redefine what’s possible in the “Phone Under 20000 Rupees” category. The Z10, with its massive 7,300mAh battery, 90W fast charging, quad-curved AMOLED display, and Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, is a powerhouse for users who want it all. The Z10X, priced at an unbeatable ~₹12,500, offers a 6,500mAh battery, capable MediaTek Dimensity 7300, and similar camera and display quality, making it a budget champion.

If you’re a heavy user who values battery life and premium design, the Z10 is your go-to. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a feature-packed phone, the Z10X is hard to beat. Both phones showcase iQOO’s commitment to delivering value, making them top recommendations for 2025.