iQOO Z10R is one of the most talked-about budget 5G smartphones launched in 2025. Promising a powerful processor, ultra-fast charging, and a 120Hz display—all under ₹15,000—it aims to dominate a segment filled with tough competition. But is the hype justified? Or is it just another mid-range smartphone with minor tweaks?
In this review, we break down the iQOO Z10R to find out if it’s truly the best value-for-money 5G phone of 2025. Whether you’re a budget-conscious buyer or a first-time smartphone owner, here’s everything you need to know before hitting that buy button.
Table of Contents
Design and Build Quality
The iQOO Z10R doesn’t feel like a budget phone in hand. Despite its plastic back, the matte finish and curved edges give it a premium feel.
- Weight: 188 grams
- Thickness: 8.3 mm
- Build Material: Polycarbonate back with a glossy matte coating
- Color Options: Thunder Blue, Midnight Grey
It includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and a dual-SIM tray with a dedicated microSD slot—features often missing in budget 5G phones.
Display: A Smooth 120Hz Experience
The iQOO Z10R sports a 6.67-inch Full HD+ LCD panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. While it’s not an AMOLED display, it is sharp and responsive, offering great visibility in outdoor conditions.
- Display Size: 6.67 inches
- Resolution: 2400 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Panel Type: IPS LCD
- Touch Sampling Rate: 240Hz
With a peak brightness of around 1000 nits, content consumption on this device is pleasant, even under bright sunlight.
Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ Holds Strong
At the heart of the iQOO Z10R lies the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, which is built on a 6nm architecture. This gives the phone solid efficiency and stable 5G performance without thermal throttling.
- Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 6100+
- RAM: 6GB / 8GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2 (expandable via microSD)
- OS: Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14
In everyday use, the device performs admirably. Apps open quickly, multitasking is fluid, and casual gaming is smooth. Games like BGMI and Call of Duty Mobile run at medium settings without noticeable frame drops.
Camera Performance: Daylight Hero, Night Struggler
On paper, the iQOO Z10R has a dual rear camera setup:
- Primary Sensor: 50MP f/1.8
- Depth Sensor: 2MP
- Selfie Camera: 8MP f/2.0
Photos in daylight are sharp and color-accurate. Edge detection in portrait mode is good for this segment, but low-light performance remains its weak spot. The front camera is just about average, handling video calls and selfies decently but nothing extraordinary.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
Battery performance is one of the iQOO Z10R’s strongest features. It comes with a large 5000mAh battery and supports 44W fast charging.
- Battery Capacity: 5000 mAh
- Charging Speed: 44W FlashCharge
- Battery Backup: Easily lasts 1.5 days with moderate use
- Charging Time: 0 to 50% in about 25 minutes
For heavy users and streamers, this is a significant benefit. You can charge it in the morning and forget about it till the evening.
Connectivity and 5G Bands
The iQOO Z10R supports multiple 5G bands, ensuring compatibility with all major networks across India.
- 5G Bands: n1, n3, n5, n8, n28, n78
- Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi 5
- Bluetooth: v5.3
- USB: Type-C 2.0
- Audio Jack: Yes (3.5mm jack present)
Even in congested urban areas, the 5G reception holds up well, offering stable download speeds and consistent connectivity.
Software Experience
Funtouch OS 14 feels refined and offers minimal bloatware compared to previous versions.
- UI Features: RAM expansion, Game mode, Ultra volume mode
- Ads: Limited; can be disabled
- Bloatware: A few pre-installed apps, most of which can be removed
- Software Support: 2 years of OS updates promised
With improved animations, gesture navigation, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, the overall software experience is better than expected at this price.
Audio & Haptics
- Speaker: Single bottom-firing speaker
- Haptics: Decent for the price, not flagship-level
- Call Quality: Clear voice on VoLTE and 5G calls
- Dolby Atmos: Not available, but audio is loud and crisp
The lack of stereo speakers is a downside for media lovers, but the audio output is acceptable for the price range.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent 120Hz LCD for smooth visuals
- Strong performance with Dimensity 6100+
- Solid battery backup with 44W fast charging
- Clean software with Android 14
- Reliable 5G connectivity
Cons:
- No AMOLED display
- Average low-light camera performance
- Mono speaker only
- No official IP rating
Final Verdict: Is iQOO Z10R the Best Budget 5G Phone?
The iQOO Z10R offers a strong combination of performance, display quality, battery life, and 5G support at an entry-level price point. For buyers under a ₹15,000 budget, this phone punches above its weight in most areas.
It may not have a flashy AMOLED display or stereo speakers, but what it does offer is consistency and reliability. If your priorities include multitasking, battery life, and future-ready 5G, the iQOO Z10R should be on your shortlist.
FAQs about iQOO Z10R
Is the iQOO Z10R good for gaming?
Yes, the iQOO Z10R runs games like BGMI and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with smooth frame rates and stable thermals. Its Dimensity 6100+ chipset and 120Hz screen help deliver a solid gaming experience, especially for casual and mid-level gamers.
How is the camera performance of the iQOO Z10R in low light?
The iQOO Z10R performs well in daylight but struggles in low-light situations. The 50MP camera lacks OIS, so night photos tend to be noisy with reduced detail. If camera quality is your top priority in all lighting conditions, you may need to consider alternatives.
Can I use two 5G SIMs on the iQOO Z10R?
Yes, the iQOO Z10R supports dual 5G SIM cards with VoNR and VoLTE capabilities. This ensures both SIM slots are 5G-ready and compatible with Indian telecom networks without issues.
How long does the iQOO Z10R battery last during heavy use?
Even under heavy usage with 5G, video streaming, and social media, the iQOO Z10R delivers a full day’s worth of battery life. With moderate usage, users can expect over 36 hours of backup thanks to the 5000mAh cell and efficient 6nm processor.
Will the iQOO Z10R receive future Android updates?
iQOO has confirmed that the Z10R will receive at least two major Android OS updates and three years of security patches. This gives buyers confidence that the device will remain relevant through 2027 in terms of software.
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