- Honor’s ultra-durable contender: The Honor X9b 5G (aka Honor X9d 5G in some regions) stands out with an extra-large battery (5,800–8,300 mAh) and a tough build featuring a multi-layer drop-resistant design [1] [2]. It even earned a DXOMARK Gold battery rating for its longevity [3].
- High-refresh displays & big screens: The X9b sports a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED at 120Hz, while rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy A56 (6.7″ FHD+ AMOLED) and OnePlus Nord 5 (6.8″+) also offer smooth 120Hz screens [4] [5]. Honor’s latest X9d version hits an eye-searing 6000 nits peak brightness – far above typical mid-range phones [6].
- Performance meets efficiency: Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 series (Gen 1 in X9b, upgraded 4nm Gen 4 in X9d) [7] [8], the Honor delivers solid mid-range performance. Competitors vary: Samsung uses an efficient Exynos 1580 in the A56 [9], Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ packs a Dimensity 7200 Ultra chip [10], and OnePlus’s Nord 5 even squeezes in a toned-down Snapdragon 8-series for near-flagship speed [11].
- All-day batteries & blazing charging: The Honor X9b’s 5,800 mAh cell easily endures heavy use, and the X9d’s 8,300 mAh is industry-leading [12]. Fast charging ranges from Honor’s 35W/66W to Samsung’s improved 45W (up from 25W) [13] [14] and Xiaomi’s astounding 120W HyperCharge on the Note 13 Pro+ [15] – meaning a full charge in about 20 minutes. Realme’s 12 Pro+ offers 67W and great battery life [16] [17].
- Cameras and photography: Honor equips a high-res 108 MP main camera [18] (upgraded to 108+5+2MP triple setup) which delivers decent shots, though competitors push boundaries: Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ boasts a 200 MP sensor for detailed images [19], and Realme’s 12 Pro+ uniquely includes a 64 MP 3× periscope zoom lens – rare in this class – enabling up to 120× digital zoom [20] [21]. The Galaxy A56 sticks to a reliable 50 MP triple camera system that TechRadar calls “sharp, well-balanced” for all scenarios [22]. OnePlus Nord 5’s cameras are a step down, with reviewers finding them “unimpressive” for the price [23].
- Software and updates: Out of the box, Honor’s MagicOS (based on Android 13 for X9b, Android 15 for X9d) brings handy features like Magic Text OCR [24]. However, update policies differ widely: Honor promises about 3 Android version updates & 4 years security for the X9d [25], while Samsung’s A56 leads with a class-best 6 years of OS & security updates [26] – ensuring longevity. Xiaomi and Realme offer 2–3 years of updates but tend to lag (Android Central noted the Redmi “won’t get timely updates” and ships with older OS versions) [27] [28]. Motorola’s near-stock Android is clean, but its update support is one of the shortest (often just one major update on Moto G series).
- Build quality & durability: Honor emphasizes toughness – a “three-level” armor design with wraparound cushioning, seals, and reinforcements helps the X9b survive drops up to 1.5 m [29]. The upgraded X9d even achieved military-grade durability with IP69K water resistance and 2.5 m drop protection, an unprecedented “Durability King” in this segment [30]. By contrast, Samsung’s A56 feels premium with a sleek metal frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+, and IP67 waterproofing [31], but isn’t meant to be slammed around. Xiaomi’s Note 13 Pro+ offers an IP68 rating (waterproof) in a glass-bodied, curved design [32], showing flagships aren’t the only ones getting rugged. Realme 12 Pro+ also adds basic dust/water sealing (IP65) and a tough curved glass display [33] [34]. The Nord 5 cut costs with a plastic build that reviewers called “boring,” lacking the flair of its predecessor [35]. Motorola’s mid-rangers like the Moto G84 use plastic frames (some with faux leather backs) and a “water-repellent” coating rather than full IP certification, prioritizing low cost and light weight over premium materials.
Honor X9b at a Glance (vs Key Rivals)
Honor X9b 5G in Sunrise Orange (vegan leather back) – a phone built for longevity with its toughened glass and robust frame [36] [37]. It launched in late 2023 as a durable mid-range option focused on battery life and resilience.
The Honor X9b 5G made its debut in October 2023 (global) and early 2024 in markets like India. Priced around ₹18,999 (~$230) in India [38] (or ~SAR 1,399 in Mideast), it significantly undercuts some competitors while packing strong specs. Honor’s X9 series refreshes annually (the X9c in 2024, and X9d in late 2025), iterating on the same formula of big battery and durability. The X9b’s core specs include a 6.78″ curved AMOLED (1200×2652) at 120 Hz with high 1,200 nits brightness [39], the Snapdragon 6 Gen1 5G chipset (8 GB RAM), and a 5,800 mAh battery with 35W fast charge [40]. Its triple rear camera (108 MP main + 5 MP ultra-wide + 2 MP macro) is versatile on paper [41], and a 16 MP selfie camera suffices for social shots [42].
What really sets the Honor X9b apart is its focus on endurance. Honor engineered a special “Ultra-Bounce” display and triple-layer internal protection to absorb shocks [43]. Reviewers have noted that despite this rugged marketing, the phone’s design remains sleek and not like a typical rugged phone (no rubberized corners here) [44]. In fact, the X9b’s design echoes modern trends: slim (7.98 mm), light (185 g) [45] [46], with premium touches like a vegan leather back option and curved-edge screen. It strikes a balance between style and toughness. Tech enthusiasts have torture-tested it with drops; the consensus is that the “Ultra-resilient” build works for everyday accidents – far fewer cracked screens from waist height drops, making it a boon for the accident-prone [47] [48]. The X9b is IP53-rated, meaning it’s safe from dust and light splashes [49], but not full submersion.
Under the hood, Snapdragon 6 Gen1 (a 4nm octa-core chip) provides smooth daily performance [50]. It’s adequate for web, media, and casual gaming, though devices like the Nord 5 with an 8-series chip or Xiaomi’s devices with Dimensity 7200 have a performance edge in benchmarks. Honor’s MagicOS 7.2 (based on Android 13) is feature-rich and relatively lightweight, though not as bloat-free as Motorola’s stock Android or as refined as Samsung’s One UI. MagicOS includes neat tricks like Magic Text (OCR straight from images) and various AI smart features [51]. Users report a generally snappy UI and useful multitasking tools, but also note that Honor’s update pace is moderate – the X9b arrived with Android 13 while Android 14 was already out, and got Android 14 after a wait. The company has promised about two major Android updates for X9b and more for X9d (which ships with Android 15 and is slated for Android 16–17) [52]. Security patches are pledged for 3–4 years [53]. This is decent, though Samsung’s and OnePlus’s promises outlast it.
On the camera front, the Honor X9b’s 108 MP main sensor can capture detailed daylight shots. It bins pixels for better light sensitivity, producing 12 MP photos by default. Reviews praise the camera’s sharpness in good light, but note it struggles in low-light without night mode, and the auxiliary cameras (5 MP ultrawide, 2 MP macro) are just average – a common trade-off in this range [54] [55]. Video tops out at 1080p on the X9b (no 4K), which is a limitation for creators. The X9d’s camera setup appears similar in megapixels but may include improved sensors or processing; still, photography isn’t the primary selling point of the X9 series. It’s “good enough” for casual use, but avid camera users might lean toward competitors like Xiaomi or Google’s Pixel A-series for superior imaging.
Perhaps the X9b’s biggest accolade is battery life. The 5,800 mAh battery is larger than nearly all rivals, and Honor claims it can stream video for 19 hours straight or handle 12 hours of gaming on a charge [56]. In real-world use, that translates to 2+ days of moderate use – a real advantage for those constantly on the go. Even after heavy use for a year, the battery health remains high; Honor touts that the battery retains strong performance even after three years of use, thanks to high-density cell tech [57]. The X9d pushes this further with a mammoth 8,300 mAh silicon-carbon battery, which is currently the largest in any mainstream smartphone [58]. It’s a true two-day (possibly three-day) phone, addressing battery anxiety completely. Charging on X9b is a modest 35W (taking roughly an hour+ for a full charge), whereas the X9d upgrades to 66W, cutting that time significantly [59]. While not class-leading, it’s satisfactory – and the huge capacity means you’ll charge less often anyway. Notably, Xiaomi and Realme mid-rangers can charge much faster (67W to 120W), but they also have smaller batteries to fill.
In summary, Honor’s X9b/X9d offers a compelling value: robust build quality, an expansive display, solid performance, and outstanding battery endurance – all at a price often lower than Samsung, OnePlus, or Google alternatives. It is targeted at users who prioritize longevity and reliability: those who want a phone that won’t shatter easily or die before day’s end. As we’ll see below, each competitor has its own spin on what a “mid-range 5G hero” should be, whether that’s camera prowess, software polish, or raw performance.
Where Honor X9b Shines vs. Key Competitors
To understand the Honor X9b’s place, let’s compare it across crucial aspects with some popular mid-range 5G phones of late 2025: Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+, Realme 12 Pro+ 5G, Motorola Moto G84 5G, and OnePlus Nord 5. Each of these represents a strong offering around the $300–$500 range, but they excel in different areas:
Pricing & Value: Honor aggressively prices the X9b at the lower end of mid-range. Around $300 (₹20k) gets you 8/256GB on the X9b [60], undercutting the Samsung Galaxy A56 (which starts at $499 / £499 for 8/128GB [61]) and the OnePlus Nord 5 (launching at £399 (~$600) for 8/256GB in Europe) [62]. Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ comes in around €499 (~$530) for its higher-spec model with 12GB/512GB, reflecting its premium features (200MP camera, 120W charging). Realme 12 Pro+ is roughly $360–$400 depending on configuration [63], positioning itself as a high-value proposition given its flagship-like cameras. Motorola’s Moto G84 is a budget-friendly entrant at around $300 or less (in some regions under $250), aiming for bang-for-buck. All told, Honor offers one of the best value packages: it’s priced like a budget phone but with features (high-refresh AMOLED, big battery, advanced durability) often seen in pricier devices [64] [65]. TechRadar even called the Galaxy A56 “serious value at its price point” [66] [67], but the X9b undercuts that price significantly for cost-conscious buyers.
Design & Build: In terms of look and feel, Samsung’s A56 arguably feels most premium – it inherits design cues from flagships with a metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ panels [68]. Reviewers were impressed that “every inch of the A56 looks and feels premium” like a high-end device [69]. It’s also quite slim (7.4 mm) and light (198 g) [70]. Honor’s X9b, despite its huge battery, is reasonably thin (7.98 mm) and light, thanks to plastic frames, and its frosted glass or leatherette back gives it a classy touch [71] [72]. The X9d switches to a flat display and comes in leather or matte finishes, focusing on durability over glitz. Xiaomi’s Note 13 Pro+ has a curved glass display and glossy back that screams “flagship”, and notably an IP68 rating – a rarity in mid-range [73]. It’s a bit heavier (204.5 g) and thicker (8.9 mm) [74], likely due to the glass and bigger camera module. Realme 12 Pro+ opts for a vegan leather back (in some colors) and a curved front, looking and feeling high-end; it’s even IP65 rated for dust/water which adds confidence [75] [76]. OnePlus Nord 5 took a more utilitarian approach: it dropped the flashy design of Nord 4 for a plain back and plastic build, which earned it criticism – “a downgrade… boring design” [77] [78]. Motorola’s G84, interestingly, collaborated with Pantone to offer a striking Viva Magenta vegan leather edition, which gives it character [79] [80]. Its build is otherwise plastic but solid, and it has a water-repellent nano-coating (though no formal IP rating).
When it comes to durability, the Honor X9 series really has an edge. No competitor advertises drop resistance like Honor does. The X9b/X9d’s reinforced internal frame and cushioned corners mean it can survive drops that might shatter the average glass phone [81] [82]. In contrast, one must use a good case on phones like the A56 or Nord 5 to avoid damage from drops – they have tough glass but glass nonetheless. Water and dust protection is more varied: Xiaomi’s IP68 means the Note 13 Pro+ can actually be dunked in water safely [83], one of the first Redmi Notes with that capability. Samsung’s IP67 on A56 is just a notch below – safe from rain and shallow submersion [84]. Honor X9b’s IP53 only covers splashes, while Realme’s IP65 handles dust and light water jets but not immersion [85]. Motorola typically promises only “splash-proof”. For everyday accidents (drops, knocks), Honor’s design is arguably most forgiving – a big selling point for clumsy users or those in active jobs.
Display Quality: All these phones boast vibrant OLED displays with high refresh rates, but there are nuances. Honor X9b’s 6.78″ AMOLED at 120 Hz is sharp (≈429 ppi) [86] [87] and even uses 2160 Hz high-frequency PWM dimming to reduce eye strain (a feature also seen on Xiaomi and Realme). The X9d’s panel is nearly 6.8″ flat AMOLED and breaks records with up to 6,000 nits peak brightness for sunlight readability [88] [89] – likely one of the brightest screens ever, using a trick of pushing small areas of the screen to extreme brightness for HDR highlights. By comparison, the Galaxy A56’s 6.7″ Super AMOLED is praised for rich colors and a new Vision Booster feature that improves outdoor visibility (peak around 1200+ nits) [90] [91]. TechRadar lauded the A56’s screen, saying they were “genuinely impressed” by its vibrancy and smoothness [92]. Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ has a slightly smaller 6.67″ CrystalRes AMOLED with a 2712×1220 resolution (446 ppi) and 120Hz, and it supports Dolby Vision and even 12-bit color for extra HDR depth [93]. It hits 1,800 nits peak – excellent, but Honor’s X9d eclipses that. Realme 12 Pro+ offers a 6.7″ 1080p AMOLED, 120Hz, notable for its curved edges and an advertised 2160Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort [94] [95]. OnePlus Nord 5 increased its screen to beyond 6.8″, 120Hz as well, but interestingly reviewers pointed out OnePlus lowered the peak brightness on Nord 5 vs Nord 4, making it less readable in harsh light [96] [97]. It’s still a fluid, large canvas – great for gaming and media – just not the brightest. Motorola’s Moto G84 has a 6.5″ pOLED at 120Hz, smaller than the others but still offering punchy colors and even 10-bit color depth. For pure specs, Honor X9d and Xiaomi take the crown in resolution/brightness, Samsung in color accuracy (usually calibrated well) and reliability, Realme in visual flair (curves), and OnePlus in sheer size.
Performance & Software Experience: Here we see different chipset choices shaping the user experience. The Honor X9b with Snapdragon 6 Gen1 is a capable mid-range performer – roughly on par with a Snapdragon 778G or Dimensity 1080 in everyday tasks. It’s smooth for daily apps, multi-tasking with its 8GB RAM is fine, and even some gaming is possible (medium settings). However, demanding 3D games will show its limits. The X9d’s Snapdragon 6 Gen4 provides a nice boost – built on a 4nm process and with newer Cortex-A720 cores [98], it’s more efficient and scores around 1,000,000 in AnTuTu [99], which is approaching last-gen flagship territory! This means Honor’s latest can handle heavy multitasking and advanced AI features on-device better. In comparison, Samsung Galaxy A56 uses the Exynos 1580 (5 nm), an octa-core that significantly improved on the A54’s chip [100]. It delivers snappier performance and better thermals; that said, it’s tuned for efficiency, so while the UI is fluid (One UI 6 is well-optimized), hardcore gaming will still be just okay. Samsung doesn’t chase performance crowns in the A-series; instead, it provides stable performance and excellent software optimization, which reviews found sufficient for most users despite “middling performance” in benchmarks [101] [102]. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ runs on MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra, a 4nm chip with upper-midrange prowess (CPU up to 2.8 GHz) [103]. This chip handles games and apps very well – in fact, it’s comparable to a Snapdragon 7+ Gen1. Xiaomi’s MIUI, however, can be heavy; some users notice occasional ads or bloatware in the UI, which detracts from the experience [104] [105]. Xiaomi’s software is feature-rich but not as clean as Samsung’s or OnePlus’s.
Realme 12 Pro+ interestingly chose Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 – a 4nm chip but positioned slightly below the Snapdragon 7+ Gen2 in graphics. It’s smooth in daily use and “adequate” for its class, but as Android Central noted, the chipset “isn’t as competitive” – meaning some other phones at this price use faster chips [106] [107]. Still, Realme UI is fairly optimized, and with up to 12GB RAM, most users won’t feel slowdowns. OnePlus Nord 5 is a performance leader here: it packs a special Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset [108] [109] – basically a slightly detuned last-year flagship chip. This makes the Nord 5 “blazingly fast,” yielding some of the best benchmark scores in the mid-range class [110] [111]. OnePlus’s OxygenOS (or the new integrated ColorOS codebase) is smooth and geared towards speed, with gamers benefiting from this horsepower. However, it might run warmer and battery life can suffer under load given its smaller battery. Motorola Moto G84 runs on the aging Snapdragon 695 – not very powerful on paper, but thanks to near-stock Android, the phone feels surprisingly zippy. In fact, TechRadar found the G84 handled games and tasks better than expected, calling it a “powerhouse for gaming on a budget” [112] [113]. The clean Android experience (with just a few Moto add-ons) means no heavy UI slowing it down. The downside: the 695 chip can’t record 4K video and isn’t future-proof for heavy apps.
Regarding software UI and features: Samsung’s One UI is feature-rich, polished, and now includes some AI features even on the A56 (like “Awesome Intelligence” for smart search, object eraser, etc.) [114] [115]. Reviewers appreciate that Samsung keeps the UI “tidy” and not overly cluttered [116]. One UI also has knacks like Secure Folder, Samsung Pay, etc., giving mid-range users some flagship perks. Xiaomi’s MIUI offers tons of customization and Xiaomi’s ecosystem apps, but also comes with pre-installed apps (some can be removed). Realme UI and OnePlus’s OxygenOS are both offshoots of Oppo’s ColorOS these days – they have many customization options, Always-on display styles, and so on. Realme UI 5.0 (Android 14) on the 12 Pro+ was noted to be bloated by AC (with recommendations to disable/uninstall spammy apps) [117] [118], but once that’s done, it’s smooth. OxygenOS on Nord 5 still maintains a clean aesthetic and fast animations, scoring high on user satisfaction for its fluidity. Motorola’s Android is almost pure, with only useful gestures (chop for flashlight, twist for camera) and the Ready For desktop mode. It’s arguably the most streamlined experience here – great for purists.
Camera Capabilities: If cameras are your priority, the mid-range segment has never been better. Honor X9b’s 108MP main camera performs well in ample light, producing sharp shots with natural colors. However, it lacks OIS (optical stabilization), meaning low-light photos can be hit or miss without a steady hand or Night Mode. The absence of 4K video and merely okay auxiliary lenses place it behind some competitors for camera enthusiasts. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ takes a lead with its 200MP primary camera with OIS [119]. This large sensor (1/1.4″) and high pixel count allow for detailed images and decent low-light performance with pixel binning. Xiaomi’s image processing tends to yield punchy colors. It can even shoot 4K video (up to 30fps) [120], though not 60fps, and still lacks a true telephoto lens (the 8MP ultrawide and 2MP macro are mediocre). Android Central’s verdict on the Note 13 Pro was that while the camera hardware is impressive (particularly the 200MP shooter), the other cameras were “not worth the hassle” and no 4K60 video was a letdown [121] [122]. Still, as a point-and-shoot device, the Note 13 Pro+ can capture some stunning shots that few mid-rangers can match, especially in daylight.
Realme 12 Pro+ 5G in “Navigator Beige” – note the large circular camera bump housing its 50 MP main, 8 MP ultrawide, and unique 64 MP periscope telephoto lens. This phone is heralded for bringing true optical zoom to the mid-range [123] [124].
Realme 12 Pro+ is arguably the camera champion in creativity. It doesn’t chase 200MP numbers, instead using a proven 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor with OIS as the main camera (the same sensor used in some flagships) [125], AND a 64MP periscope telephoto lens (3× optical zoom) with OIS [126] [127]. This is a groundbreaking inclusion at around $400. In practice, this means the Realme can capture genuine optical zoom shots – clear portraits at 3x, usable zoom up to 6x or more – that other phones in this class simply can’t. It even touts a silly “120x” digital zoom, which is more of a marketing gimmick (beyond 10x it’s mostly mush). But the presence of a tele lens makes it the mid-range choice for zoom or portrait lovers. Reviews confirm that the primary, telephoto, and even selfie cameras are excellent on this device, handily outperforming competitors in versatility [128] [129]. Its 8MP ultrawide is just average, which was noted as a con [130] [131]. The Realme can also record solid video (up to 4K as well). In essence, Realme decided to give a “camera flagship on a budget,” and it succeeded – with the trade-off being a slightly less powerful chipset to stay on budget.
Samsung Galaxy A56’s cameras stick to a tried formula: 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 5MP macro + 12MP front [132]. No eye-popping specs, but Samsung’s image tuning is among the best. Day or night, the A56 produces very balanced, natural-looking photos with good dynamic range. It lacks a telephoto lens, but the high-quality 50MP sensor allows decent 2x digital zoom shots. In fact, TechRadar said the A56 “rivals the Motorola Edge 50 Pro for best budget camera phone” in 2025 [133] – high praise, considering the Edge 50 Pro is pricier. It’s still no match for a flagship S25 Ultra, but at this price, the A56’s consistency is its strength. Also, Samsung’s camera app offers features like Single Take, Nightography, and Fun filters that appeal to casual users. Video tops at 4K 30fps, with stabilization available in 1080p mode. Overall, the A56 is the “jack of all trades” camera – no single wow factor, but no glaring weakness either [134] [135].
OnePlus Nord 5’s camera setup, unfortunately, was a step down from Nord 4. It packs a 64MP main sensor (no OIS), an 8MP ultrawide, and a depth sensor – a very generic setup. Reviews labeled the Nord 5’s cameras “unimpressive”, noting that OnePlus sacrificed camera quality to focus on performance and display this year [136]. It’s fine for casual snaps, but does not compete with Samsung, Xiaomi, or Realme in this category. The lack of OIS hurts its night shots, and video maxes out at 4K 30fps with average stabilization. Nord series fans might recall Nord 2/3 had better sensors (even OIS), so this was a conscious cost-cut by OnePlus. If camera is a priority, Nord 5 wouldn’t be the top pick in 2025’s mid-range.
Motorola Moto G84’s cameras are serviceable but clearly budget-tier: a 50MP main (without OIS) and an 8MP ultrawide. They produce decent daylight photos, but in low light and in versatility they lag behind all the above. Reviews called the G84’s cameras “unimpressive”, pointing out that even the previous Moto G models with similar sensors didn’t excel [137] [138]. Motorola prioritizes other features at this price (like OLED screen, performance, battery) over camera prowess. For someone who just needs a basic camera for occasional use, it’s fine, but it won’t wow anyone.
Battery Life & Charging: We touched on Honor’s exceptional battery. To compare: Samsung A56 has a 5000 mAh battery, which Samsung claims up to “29 hours of video playback” – reviewers found it comfortably a full day (and then some) phone [139]. The A56 benefited from a jump to 45W charging (versus the 25W of A54), meaning a full charge in under an hour now [140] [141]. It doesn’t support wireless charging (none of these mid-rangers do, generally). Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ with 5000 mAh and 120W charging is a battery beast in charging terms – it can go 0–100% in ~19 minutes with the 120W charger [142]. However, 120W charging can heat the battery; Xiaomi assures it’s safe with multiple safeguards and that the battery will still last many cycles. Real-world use shows the Note 13 Pro+ easily lasts a day and a half, and topping up is almost never an issue given how fast it is. Realme 12 Pro+ (5000 mAh, 67W) and OnePlus Nord 5 (~5000 mAh, 80W likely – OnePlus didn’t shout about it, but historically Nord series use ~80W) both offer all-day life as well. Realme’s endurance is good, and 67W (SuperVOOC) gets it full in about 45 minutes [143]. OnePlus Nord 5’s battery is actually slightly smaller than Nord 4’s (OnePlus reportedly went from ~5000 down to maybe 4800 mAh) and slower to charge (perhaps ~65W vs 80W before) [144] [145], one of those “curious downgrades” noted by reviewers. Consequently, Nord 5 still lasts a day, but not much more; OnePlus prioritized the slim design and large screen over battery capacity. Motorola G84, with a 5000 mAh cell and a frugal Snapdragon 695, actually has excellent battery longevity – many users get 2 days on it. It charges at only 30W, which is slower, but acceptable at its price.
Unique perks & omissions: Each of these phones tries to carve a niche. Honor’s niche is durability and battery, Samsung’s is software support and balanced quality, Xiaomi’s is cutting-edge specs (camera, charging) for the price, Realme’s is camera innovation (periscope zoom), OnePlus’s is near-flagship performance, and Motorola’s is clean Android with solid basics. Some have headphone jacks – Motorola G84 does include a 3.5mm jack, and Xiaomi’s Note 13 Pro+ surprisingly does not (Xiaomi dropped it, focusing on slim design), Realme also skipped the jack. Expandable storage varies: Honor X9b has microSD support (hybrid SIM slot), Samsung A56 typically does (A-series often have microSD), Xiaomi does not (they provide up to 512GB internal instead), Realme 12 Pro+ lacks microSD, Nord 5 no microSD, Moto G84 does support microSD. Biometric security: all have fingerprint readers (Honor, Xiaomi, Realme, OnePlus use in-display sensors; Samsung A56 and Moto G84 use side-mounted or under-display? A56 likely under-display since it’s AMOLED). Stereo speakers are present on most (all except perhaps Moto G84 which might have a single speaker? Actually G84 has stereo speakers too). So multimedia consumption on all is enjoyable with stereo sound and big OLED screens.
Experts’ Take and Public Sentiment
Media reviews for these phones highlight their strengths and candidly point out weaknesses, helping buyers make decisions. Starting with Honor X9b, reviewers like GadgetMatch and Lowyat.net noted that it “doesn’t look like a tough phone, but is incredibly durable” [146], highlighting that Honor achieved ruggedness without a bulky rugged phone look. The consensus is that the X9b is a niche hit: perfect for those who crack screens often or need long battery life, but only average for photography. Many tech YouTubers subjected the X9b to drop tests and came away impressed – the Ultra-Bounce glass can take a beating. On forums, early adopters praised the freedom from the charger the phone affords: “It’s liberating to get 10+ hours screen-on-time and not worry about dying phone by night,” one user wrote. Indian consumers were also pleased with the aggressive pricing by HTech (Honor’s local partner), which made the X9b a value alternative to ubiquitous brands like Xiaomi and Samsung.
For the Honor X9d 5G (2025 model), the tech community has dubbed it a “durability king”. Its launch buzz in late 2025 saw tech bloggers testing its IP69K claims – videos surfaced of the phone being blasted with water jets, buried in sand, and dropped on concrete. SmashPop, a tech reviewer, called it “the toughest phone of the year” in a YouTube teardown, even questioning if the 8300 mAh battery claim was real or “fake” due to its unprecedented size [147]. It turned out genuine – though making the device slightly heavier, most people are happy to trade a few extra grams for double the usual battery capacity. Public sentiment on the X9d is that Honor listened to X9b feedback and supercharged the specs (better chip, bigger battery, flat display), making it a true successor. The only caution is availability – Honor’s distribution is not as widespread as Samsung’s, so in some markets fans have to import the device.
Switching to Samsung Galaxy A56, it received glowing reviews as one of the best all-rounders of 2025. TechRadar’s reviewer was so satisfied after 3 weeks that he mused about “ditching my iPhone for this Android” [148]. The verdict highlighted that “the Galaxy A56 is worth every penny” and is an “easy recommendation for most people” [149]. Pros included its durability, good looks, tidy One UI software, and very good photos, with the only real con being that it’s not a powerhouse for gaming [150] [151]. Six years of updates was frequently mentioned in media coverage – a huge selling point that builds trust with buyers [152]. Online forums praise Samsung for bringing premium features like 45W charging and aluminum frames to the mid-range. Some enthusiasts still criticize Samsung’s choice of Exynos chips over Snapdragon, but the A56’s performance improvements over the A54 seem to have quieted most complaints (many note the phone feels faster and smoother). Overall, the public view is that the A56 nailed the formula for a mid-range: it doesn’t have a flashy single feature (like a crazy camera or monstrous battery), but it has no major weaknesses and an experience “close to flagship” in daily use [153] [154].
Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ garnered interest for pushing boundaries. It’s often compared to the Honor X9b/X9d because both aim to offer something unique. The Note 13 Pro+’s 200MP camera and 120W charging got plenty of headlines. Reviewers like Android Central, however, delivered a mixed long-term verdict: “Xiaomi just doesn’t do enough to justify the retail price… you should consider alternatives” [155] [156]. They acknowledged the gorgeous design, “one of the best 120Hz AMOLED panels around”, and a “standout battery life” [157] [158], but criticized the “plenty of bloatware” and slow updates that left the phone on Android 13 for too long [159] [160]. Xiaomi fans on Reddit often defend the hardware value but concede MIUI’s quirks: some love the customization, others mod their phones with custom ROMs to escape the ads. The Note 13 Pro+ is lauded for its specs-to-price ratio – it feels almost unfair to get IP68 water-proofing and a 1.5K Dolby Vision display at this price. But common sentiment is that “specs aren’t everything” – user experience (software stability, camera consistency) can lag behind Samsung/Pixel. Still, for techies, the Note 13 Pro+ represents the cutting edge in mid-range and is a favorite for those who want flagship-like features without the flagship price.
Realme 12 Pro+ was widely praised in media as a bold entrant. Engadget’s headline: “The Realme 12 Pro+ is the first mid-range device with a 3x periscope zoom” – excitement around bringing periscope optics to the masses [161]. Android Central called it “possibly the best telephoto camera in its class” and loved that it offered “flagship-grade cameras, all around $400” [162] [163]. Review pros list was long: premium design, smooth performance, “very good primary, tele, and selfie cameras”, IP65 durability, strong battery life [164] [165]. The cons were relatively minor: the UI bloat and that the chipset could have been more powerful at this price [166] [167]. Many reviewers pointed out that Realme made a conscious trade-off: instead of a top-chip, they invested in cameras. And that seems to have paid off – users who bought the phone report being extremely happy with camera quality for portraits and travel shots, essentially getting a taste of premium photography on a mid-range budget. Public sentiment positions Realme as an underdog innovator here. Some typical comments: “We finally have mid-range phones that can zoom properly – thank you Realme!” and comparisons calling it a “poor man’s Galaxy S24 Ultra” (lightheartedly). Realme’s update record is average (about 2 years of major updates), which some mention as a downside compared to Samsung/OnePlus.
The OnePlus Nord 5 saw perhaps the most mixed reactions. TechRadar’s review title sums it up: “I can’t decide whether it’s an upgrade or a downgrade” [168]. OnePlus improved the Nord in some areas (bigger 6.8″ 144Hz display, more powerful chipset) but downgraded others (battery, cameras, build). The verdict notes “a few select improvements… however, curious downgrades”, and that OnePlus “dimmed out some of the classic Nord sparkle” [169] [170]. Pros were the powerful processor and attractive screen, cons were the design and camera downgrades [171] [172]. Enthusiasts on forums have been vocal: many felt that the Nord 4 (2024) was actually the peak Nord, and Nord 5, while technically faster, lost the essence of what made Nord popular (like a great camera for the price and a distinctive design). OnePlus did price Nord 5 a bit lower than Nord 4 in some markets, which is appreciated, but some say they’d rather pay a bit more for a more rounded device. OnePlus still has a loyal community, and they applaud Nord 5’s performance – if gaming and speed are key, it’s among the best mid-rangers for that. But the public sentiment is that OnePlus might be coasting on the Nord brand now, and they’ll need to do more with Nord 6 to win back those who might drift to Realme or Samsung.
Motorola’s Moto G84 flew a bit under the radar compared to these, but those who bought it or reviewed it found it to be “a budget Android I finally like” (as one Medium blogger put it). Its highlights: great battery life, surprisingly good gaming performance, and a near-stock Android experience that some prefer over any skinned UI [173] [174]. TechRadar called it “above-average” and noted it “excels above its weight class for gaming power” while lasting ages on battery [175] [176]. The obvious weak point was cameras – “good enough in daylight, nothing special overall.” Many casual users, however, love Motorola’s little conveniences and lack of bloat. On social media, you’ll find comments like “My mom/dad loves the Moto G series – it just works and no spammy stuff.” The Moto G84, in Pantone’s trendy color, also got some style points. Motorola’s challenge is that, outside of brand loyalists, it doesn’t have a single standout spec to tout. It’s more about the holistic user experience – and in that regard, it quietly satisfies users who prioritize simplicity and battery over bells and whistles.
Rumors and What’s Next in Late 2025 and Beyond
As 2025 wraps up, each brand is preparing its next move in the perpetual mid-range arms race:
- Honor: After the buzz around the X9d 5G’s launch (it went on sale in select regions like Malaysia in Q4 2025 [177]), rumors hint that Honor might launch an X9e or jump to X10 series in 2026 with possibly a new design language. Given the X9d already pushed battery size to the max, the next step might be improving camera system or adopting even faster charging (Honor could implement 90W or higher). Software-wise, MagicOS 9 (Android 15) on X9d is quite advanced; we expect MagicOS 10 with Android 16 on the next iteration, and hopefully even longer update promises as Honor rebuilds trust globally. For now, the Honor X9b/d will continue to be a niche yet compelling choice for those prioritizing durability.
- Samsung: The Galaxy A57 will likely debut in spring 2026. Leaks suggest Samsung might move to a Snapdragon chipset for some regions (if their partnership with Qualcomm extends to mid-range) or a next-gen Exynos 1680 with further efficiency gains. Camera upgrades could include improved sensors or maybe finally a telephoto lens in A-series (though nothing concrete yet). Samsung’s commitment to software updates isn’t going anywhere – in fact, 6 OS upgrades on A56 might extend to the A57 if Android release cadences allow. We anticipate incremental upgrades: perhaps a brighter screen, slight design tweaks, and maintaining that ~$499 price. There’s also talk of Samsung bringing some AI features like on-device voice processing or enhanced image AI to mid-range via their new chips. If you’re not in a rush, the A57 could be worth waiting for – but the A56 is already so well-balanced that it’s hard to go wrong with it even into 2026.
- Xiaomi: Xiaomi typically refreshes the Redmi Note line twice a year in some fashion. The Redmi Note 14 series is expected, possibly first in China. Speculation points to a Snapdragon 7 Gen3 or Dimensity 8300 chip, and perhaps 120W charging becoming standard on lower models while the Pro+ might experiment with even faster charging (150W?) or larger battery. Camera-wise, after 200MP, the focus might shift to sensor size or better ultrawides (one can hope for at least a better secondary camera). Xiaomi also has sub-brands (e.g., Poco) which might rebrand these devices; for instance, a Poco F5 or F6 could bring flagship chips into mid-range pricing, challenging phones like Nord directly on performance. A notable trend: Xiaomi might put more effort into software experience – MIUI 15 is expected to reduce bloat and improve update speed, responding to criticism. We’ll see if that materializes.
- Realme: Realme’s next numeric series, presumably Realme 13 or Realme 15 (depending on whether they skip 13), will aim to build on the 12 Pro+’s success. Realme might continue the camera innovation – perhaps adding OIS to the ultrawide or improving the periscope lens aperture. The company could also upgrade the chipset since that was a con in reviews: maybe adopting a Snapdragon 7+ Gen3 or even a Dimensity 8200 which would make it more competitive in performance. Realme usually launches two flagships a year (GT series) and one mid-range series; given the competitive landscape, they might accelerate launches or introduce feature-specific editions (like a Realme 12 Pro+ “Charging Edition” with 100W, etc.). Realme’s strategy tends to be “specs with spice,” so whatever comes next will likely have at least one eye-catching spec to keep them in the conversation.
- OnePlus: The Nord series will likely continue, but OnePlus could rethink its approach after the lukewarm Nord 5 reception. Perhaps a Nord 5T or Nord 6 will correct course – possibly bringing back a stronger camera or bigger battery while maintaining strong performance. OnePlus is also focusing on its main numbered flagships and expanding into foldables in 2025, so Nord’s spotlight might dim unless they do something drastic. On the horizon too is Nothing (OnePlus co-founder’s new company) which released the Phone 2 in 2023 and possibly Phone 3 in 2025; those devices sit in a similar price bracket and have generated hype (e.g., for unique design, clean software). OnePlus might feel pressure from that and respond by making Nord devices more distinctive (maybe the Nord 6 could adopt the OnePlus Open’s design language or bring back the iconic alert slider to Nord).
- Motorola: The Moto G series will keep chugging along with iterative updates (G94, G104? They’ve lost numerical cohesion). More interestingly, Motorola could leverage its Edge mid-tier line (like Edge 40 Neo or a potential Edge 50 Lite) to compete in the ~$400 segment with very slim designs, OLED screens, and perhaps partnership with MediaTek’s latest chips. Motorola’s promise is a clean Android with a few years of security updates – if they can just boost their camera tuning and commit to faster updates, they could win more enthusiasts over. They’ve already shown a commitment to design (Pantone collab) and unique features (Ready For PC mode is a plus for some users).
Finally, the mid-range space might see new entrants or re-entrants: HMD Global (Nokia) is trying a new repairable smartphone concept; Google’s Pixel “a” series (e.g., Pixel 9a expected mid-2025) will offer Google’s camera software magic at around $500, which is another competitor especially in Western markets. Competition is fiercer than ever, and that only benefits consumers – phones like the Honor X9b show that companies are willing to push boundaries (be it battery capacity or durability) to stand out. By late 2025, it’s clear that mid-range 5G phones have matured: you can get almost flagship-level features in a phone that costs a fraction of an iPhone Pro. Whether you prioritize a shatter-proof build, a high-refresh display, a marathon battery, or pro-grade cameras, there’s a mid-range phone tailored for you.
Bottom line: Honor’s X9b (X9d) is a testament to this era – it masters endurance and durability and holds its own against the best mid-range all-rounders like the Galaxy A56 [178]. Your choice in this segment will hinge on what you value most. If you’re tired of cracked screens and carrying powerbanks, the Honor X9b/X9d should be high on your list. If you want a dependable do-it-all phone with years of updates, Samsung’s A-series remains top dog. For cutting-edge camera and charging tech, Xiaomi and Realme offer enticing propositions, and for pure performance, OnePlus Nord 5 brings the heat (literally). It’s an exciting time in the mid-range – these “value” phones are no longer compromises, they’re smartphones that truly compete with the high-end in user experience, each championing a different strength. The Honor X9b’s arrival and evolution is a prime example, sparking a durability and battery race that we’ll likely see others follow in upcoming models [179] [180]. In the end, consumers win, with better choices and lower prices across the board.
Sources: Primary specifications and features have been referenced from official announcements and reputable reviews for accuracy – including Honor’s launch info [181] [182], Samsung’s official Galaxy A56 details [183] [184], Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 13 Pro+ spec sheet [185] [186], Realme 12 Pro+ expert reviews [187] [188], OnePlus Nord 5 reviews [189] [190], and others. These provide a connected, up-to-date comparison of how the Honor X9b 5G stacks up against its mid-range peers as of late 2025.
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