Introduction
In the ever-evolving smartphone market, Oppo continues to make its mark with budget-friendly yet feature-rich devices. The Oppo A3x is the latest addition to the company’s A-series lineup, targeting users who seek a balance between performance, design, and affordability.
With a sleek design, decent camera setup, and long-lasting battery life, the Oppo A3x aims to compete in the entry-level to mid-range segment. But does it deliver enough to stand out in a crowded market? This in-depth review will explore its design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and software to help you decide if it’s the right smartphone for you.
Design & Build Quality
The Oppo A3x follows Oppo’s signature aesthetic with a modern and minimalist design. Here’s what stands out:
- Slim and Lightweight: The phone features a slim profile with a glossy or matte finish (depending on the variant), making it comfortable to hold.
- Durable Build: While it doesn’t have a premium glass back, the plastic body ensures durability and reduces weight.
- Ergonomic Design: The curved edges provide a good grip, and the rear-mounted fingerprint scanner is conveniently placed.
- Color Options: Available in classic colors like Starry Black, Glowing Gold, and Dreamy Blue, catering to different tastes.
Though it doesn’t offer IP-rated water resistance, the build quality is solid for its price range.
Display: Immersive Viewing Experience
The Oppo A3x sports a 6.56-inch IPS LCD display with:
- HD+ Resolution (1612 x 720 pixels): While not Full HD, the screen is sharp enough for everyday use.
- 90Hz Refresh Rate: Ensures smoother scrolling and better responsiveness compared to standard 60Hz displays.
- Brightness & Color Accuracy: The display offers decent brightness levels for outdoor visibility, though colors may not be as vibrant as AMOLED panels.
- Waterdrop Notch: Houses the front camera, maximizing screen real estate.
For media consumption, browsing, and casual gaming, the display performs well, though enthusiasts might miss a higher resolution.
Performance: Smooth Everyday Usage
Under the hood, the Oppo A3x is powered by:
- MediaTek Dimensity 6020 Chipset: An entry-level 5G-capable processor that ensures efficient performance for daily tasks.
- 4GB/6GB RAM Options: Handles multitasking reasonably well, though heavy apps may cause minor lag.
- 128GB Internal Storage: Expandable via microSD card, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.
Gaming & Multitasking
- Casual Gaming: Runs games like PUBG Mobile (Low Settings), Subway Surfers, and Candy Crush smoothly.
- Moderate Workloads: Handles social media, streaming, and browsing without major hiccups.
While not a powerhouse, it delivers reliable performance for its price.
Camera: Decent Photography for the Price
The Oppo A3x features a dual-camera setup:
Rear Cameras
- 13MP Primary Sensor: Takes decent daylight photos with good detail and color accuracy.
- 2MP Depth Sensor: Assists in portrait mode shots with decent edge detection.
- Features: Night Mode, HDR, AI Scene Enhancement, and Portrait Mode.
Front Camera
- 5MP Selfie Camera: Suitable for video calls and casual selfies, though low-light performance is average.
Video Recording
- 1080p at 30fps: No 4K recording, but videos are stable and clear in good lighting.
Verdict: The camera system is adequate for social media and casual photography but struggles in low light.
Battery Life & Charging
One of the strongest aspects of the Oppo A3x is its battery:
- 5,000mAh Battery: Easily lasts 1.5 to 2 days with moderate usage.
- 10W Charging: A downside—it charges slowly compared to competitors with 18W or higher.
Battery Performance:
- Screen-on Time: ~7-8 hours (mixed usage).
- Standby Time: Excellent, losing minimal charge overnight.
If you prioritize battery life, this phone won’t disappoint, though faster charging would have been a plus.
Software & User Experience
The Oppo A3x runs ColorOS 13.1 (based on Android 13), offering:
- Clean & Customizable UI: Smooth animations and intuitive navigation.
- Useful Features:
- Smart Sidebar: Quick access to apps and tools.
- Game Space: Optimizes performance for gaming.
- Dark Mode & Eye Comfort: Reduces strain during nighttime use.
- Bloatware: Some pre-installed apps, but most can be uninstalled.
Oppo promises at least 2 years of software updates, ensuring security patches and minor OS upgrades.
Connectivity & Additional Features
- 5G Support: Future-proof for faster network speeds.
- Dual SIM + microSD Slot: Flexibility for storage and network options.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: Still present for wired audio lovers.
- Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 5, GPS: Standard connectivity options.
Pros & Cons Summary
Pros:
✅ Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery
✅ 90Hz display for smoother visuals
✅ 5G connectivity at an affordable price
✅ Decent performance for daily tasks
✅ Expandable storage support
Cons:
❌ Slow 10W charging
❌ Average low-light camera performance
❌ HD+ resolution (not Full HD)
❌ Plastic build (feels less premium)
Price & Competitors
The Oppo A3x is positioned as a budget 5G phone, competing with:
- Redmi Note 12 5G (Better display, faster charging)
- Samsung Galaxy A14 5G (Better software support)
- Realme Narzo 60x (Similar specs, lower price)
Expected Price: Around $150-$180, making it a value-for-money option.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The Oppo A3x is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious buyers who want 5G support.
- Casual users who prioritize battery life over high-end performance.
- Those who prefer a smooth 90Hz display without spending too much.
However, if you want better cameras, faster charging, or a Full HD display, alternatives like the Redmi Note 12 5G might be a better fit.
Conclusion
The Oppo A3x delivers a balanced package with long battery life, 5G support, and a smooth display at an affordable price. While it has some compromises, it remains a solid choice for budget smartphone seekers.
Would you buy it? Let us know in the comments!