iQOO 15 Durability Test: How Tough Is the Most Affordable Flagship? (Complete Analysis)

TL;DR – iQOO 15 Durability Test Results

Overall Rating: 8/10 – Solid flagship durability with one notable weakness.

🏆 What Passed With Flying Colors:

• ✅ IP68 Water Resistance: 30 minutes submerged in 100L saltwater = No issues
• ✅ Extreme Steam Test: 60°C steam chamber test = Passed perfectly, no moisture in cameras
• ✅ Bend Test: Minimal flex, no cracks around antenna cuts or buttons (both front & back)
• ✅ Burn Test: 21 seconds before permanent burn mark (industry-leading, beat previous 18s record)
• ✅ Aluminum Frame: 7000-series aluminum, scratch-resistant but cosmetic damage visible
• ✅ Case Quality: Tough, knife-resistant, minimal aging after extended use
• ✅ Build Quality: Premium finish, solid in-hand feel, ~200g weight

⚠️ What Could Be Better:

• ❌ Display Glass: Scratches at Level 5 (industry standard is Level 6) – NOT Corning Gorilla Glass
• ❌ Back Panel Glass: Similar scratch resistance issues (Level 5 vs expected Level 6)
• ⚠️ IP Rating: IP68 instead of IP69 (minor downgrade from iQOO 13, but still excellent)
• ⚠️ Dynamic Light Panel: Plastic material (scratches easily) but intentional design choice
• ⚠️ Buttons: Can pop out with slight pressure (easily fixable, no functionality issues)

Key Insight: The iQOO 15’s biggest weakness is scratch resistance—the display and back glass scratch at Level 5 instead of the industry-standard Level 6. Use a tempered glass screen protector and case to avoid this issue. Everything else? Flagship-level durability at mid-range pricing.

Bottom Line: For ₹40,000-50,000, the iQOO 15 delivers exceptional durability in water resistance, heat tolerance, and structural integrity. The scratch resistance compromise is manageable with proper protection. Verdict: Buy with confidence, but invest in screen protection.

iQOO’s Durability Legacy: Setting the Context

Before diving into the iQOO 15’s specific test results, it’s important to understand iQOO’s track record in the flagship durability department.

Previous iQOO Flagship Performance:

iQOO 12: Passed durability tests with flying colors, delivering flagship-level build quality at competitive pricing.

iQOO 13: Featured IP69 rating (extreme water, dust, steam, and high-pressure jet resistance), setting a high bar for affordable flagships.

Industry Context: At their price points (₹40,000-55,000), iQOO flagships consistently deliver durability standards typically reserved for phones costing ₹70,000-90,000.

The Question: Can the iQOO 15 maintain this legacy? Let’s find out through comprehensive testing.

Complete Durability Test Breakdown

Test 1: Water Resistance (IP68 Extreme Testing)

Standard IP68 Rating: Protection against dust and submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

Our Extreme Test Protocol: We didn’t settle for standard testing. Here’s what we did:

Enhanced Water Submersion Test:

• Duration: 30 minutes (standard compliance)
• Water Volume: Approximately 100 liters
• Enhancement: Added salt to replicate ocean/seawater conditions
• Purpose: Test whether IP68 can handle more extreme real-world scenarios (beach, ocean, saltwater exposure)

Why This Matters: Standard IP68 tests use fresh water. Saltwater is more corrosive and challenging for seals and coatings. This simulates real-world vacation/beach scenarios where phones face harsher conditions.

Results:

✅ PASSED PERFECTLY

After 30 minutes of saltwater submersion:

• No water ingress detected
• All ports functioning normally
• No moisture under display or camera lenses
• Phone operated without any issues
• No warning messages or sensor errors

Real-World Impact: You can confidently use the iQOO 15 at the beach, in the rain, or near pools without anxiety. The saltwater test proves it can handle conditions beyond typical IP68 certification requirements.

Test 2: Extreme Heat & Steam Test (IP69 Simulation)

The Challenge: While the iQOO 15 has IP68 (not IP69 like iQOO 13), we wanted to test if it could handle IP69-level conditions:

• Extreme heat exposure
• High-temperature steam
• Jet pressure scenarios

Test Protocol:

• Environment: Industrial steam chamber
• Temperature: Reached 60°C+ on device surface
• Duration: Full steam cycle
• Measurement: Thermal camera monitoring throughout

Temperature Readings During Test:

• Surface Temperature: 58.6°C – 59.1°C (approaching 60°C)
• Estimated Internal Temperature: 65-70°C
• Peak Reading: Close to 60°C external

Critical Observations:

During Test:

• Phone became extremely hot (near 60°C surface temperature)
• Device automatically shut down due to thermal protection (expected behavior)
• No moisture accumulation visible in any component

Post-Test Analysis:

• Display: Zero moisture under the screen
• Camera Modules: Completely clear, no fogging or condensation
• Speakers/Microphones: No water ingress
• All Seals Intact: No compromise detected

Comparison Note: When we tested OPPO phones under similar conditions, moisture appeared in cameras. The iQOO 15 showed ZERO moisture issues.

Cooldown & Recovery:

After the extreme heat test:

• “Phone temperature too high” warning appeared (appropriate safety feature)
• System requested 90-second cooldown before apps could launch
• Phone cooled down naturally within 10 minutes
• Full functionality restored with zero permanent damage

Results: ✅ PASSED

The iQOO 15 handled extreme steam and heat conditions that exceed typical IP68 scenarios. While it lacks IP69 certification, the actual performance suggests it can handle similar conditions in real-world use.

Test 3: Case Quality & Durability

First Impressions: iQOO changed their case design this year—no more transparent cases, but quality appears improved.

Case Testing Protocol:

Long-Term Usage Test:

• Used for extended review period
• Daily wear and tear evaluation
• Minimal aging observed
• Still in “OK” condition after heavy use

Knife Scratch Test:

• Normal knife blade applied with pressure
• Result: Case did NOT cut
• Only surface marks appeared (perfectly acceptable)
• Material proved tougher than typical TPU cases

Material Quality:

• Noticeably tough construction
• Better than average bundled cases
• iQOO branding printed externally (cosmetic, no durability impact)

Long-Term Prognosis: ✅ Should last the phone’s lifetime without requiring replacement. An impressive bundled accessory that actually provides real protection.

Test 4: Aluminum Frame Durability

Material: 7000-series aluminum (expected), similar to iPhone 17 Pro Max design language.

Frame Testing:

Premium Feel:

• Clean, minimalist design aesthetic
• Excellent finishing quality
• Feels more premium than price suggests
• Flat frame design (comfortable one-handed use)

Knife Scratch Test:

• Fine scratches appear on aluminum (expected)
• Deep paint coating not present
• Cosmetic damage will be visible with use
• This is normal for aluminum frames

Button Quality (Minor Issue):

• Buttons also aluminum construction
• Issue Detected: Buttons can pop out with slight pressure
• Two port holes visible inside for input connection
• Impact: Easily fixable if dislodged, no functionality loss expected
• Severity: Minor inconvenience, not a dealbreaker

Practical Reality: Aluminum frames on any phone show wear over time. The iQOO 15’s frame is solid structurally, but like all aluminum phones, will show cosmetic scratches with extended use. Use a case if this concerns you.

Test 5: Unique Dynamic Light Feature

What Makes This Special: Among all recent flagships (2024-2025), the iQOO 15 is the ONLY phone featuring this distinctive notification light system.

Feature Overview:

• Name: Atmospheric Light / Dynamic Light
• Location: Integrated into camera module design
• Functionality: Customizable effects for notifications, calls, music
• Current Setting: Heart-beat pattern (syncs with rhythm)
• Customization: Multiple effects available

Design Implications:

Material Choice: The camera module surround is NOT solid metal like the rest of the frame.

Why?: The light must shine through, requiring:

• Glass (would break easily) ❌
• Plastic (flexible, won’t shatter) ✅

Company Decision: Plastic chosen for durability over glass.

Scratch Test Results:

Top Metal Portion: Solid aluminum, scratch-resistant ✅

Dynamic Light Section:

• Made of plastic (confirmed)
• Fine scratches visible after knife test
• Less scratch-resistant than glass
• Practical Impact: Not visible during normal use due to location
• With Case: Completely protected

Our Take: This is smart engineering. Glass would look premium but could shatter, exposing the entire camera module. Plastic is the pragmatic choice—it scratches more easily but won’t catastrophically fail. Plus, it’s positioned where scratches aren’t visible during normal handling.

Verdict: ✅ Acceptable compromise for a unique feature.

Test 6: Display Scratch Resistance (The Weakness)

CRITICAL FINDING: This is where the iQOO 15 loses points.

Glass Type:

• NOT Corning Gorilla Glass (any generation)
• Unspecified protective glass
• Industry-standard protection missing

Mohs Hardness Scratch Test:

Standard Industry Benchmark:

• Level 5: Fine scratches start appearing
• Level 6: Deeper scratches (typical smartphone limit)
• Level 7: Significant damage (beyond normal glass)

iQOO 15 Display Results:

❌ Level 5: Fine scratches clearly visible
❌ Level 6: Deeper scratches appear
❌ Level 7: Significant scratching

Note: Initial test accidentally used Level 9 instead of Level 6 due to pick similarity. Corrected testing confirmed Level 5-6 scratching.

What This Means:

Industry Standard: Most flagship phones (with Gorilla Glass Victus, Victus 2) start showing scratches at Level 6, with deeper marks at Level 7.

iQOO 15 Reality: Scratches begin appearing at Level 5—one level softer than expected.

Real-World Impact:

• Keys in pocket = potential scratches
• Sand/dust particles = visible marks over time
• Coins, other metals = surface damage risk
• Daily use without protection = noticeable wear

Mitigation Strategy: ✅ MANDATORY: Use tempered glass screen protector
✅ RECOMMENDED: Keep phone in separate pocket from keys/coins
✅ OPTIONAL: Use full-coverage case

Our Honest Assessment: This is a disappointing compromise. Better quality glass (Gorilla Glass Victus or similar) would significantly improve the ownership experience. At this price point, it’s reasonable to expect Level 6 scratch resistance.

Rating Impact: -1 point for below-standard display glass protection.

Test 7: Back Panel Scratch Resistance

Material: Glass back with unique matte finish (fingerprint-resistant).

Design Advantage:

Anti-Fingerprint Coating:

• No visible smudges or fingerprints
• Maintains clean look throughout the day
• Significant quality-of-life improvement over glossy glass
• Makes the phone always look fresh

Scratch Test Results:

Mohs Hardness Scale:

• Level 2-3: Plastic-level hardness (markers wipe away) ✅
• Level 4: No scratches ✅
• Level 5: Very fine scratches (barely visible) ⚠️
• Level 6: Slight scratches (similar to display) ❌
• Level 7: Scratches present (similar to display) ❌

Pattern: Back glass has identical scratch resistance to front display—both start showing marks at Level 5.

Camera Lens Glass:

Same testing revealed:

• Level 5: Fine scratches
• Level 6: Scratches visible
• Level 7: Deeper marks

Consistency: All glass surfaces on the iQOO 15 show similar scratch resistance profiles—softer than Corning Gorilla Glass standards.

Practical Impact:

Without Case:

• Table surfaces = potential micro-scratches
• Placing phone down = risk of surface damage
• Long-term use = visible wear on back panel

With Case:

• Back panel completely protected ✅
• No scratch concerns ✅
• Maintains pristine condition ✅

Our Recommendation: Use the included case or aftermarket protection. The matte finish is beautiful and fingerprint-resistant, but the glass scratches easier than premium alternatives.

Rating Impact: -1 point for below-standard back glass protection (combined with display glass issue).

Test 8: Burn Test (Display Heat Resistance)

Context: Gaming-centric smartphone = extreme heat potential. We need to know how the display handles prolonged direct heat exposure.

Test Protocol:

• Direct flame applied to display
• Time measured until permanent damage
• Oleophobic coating integrity assessed
• Screen functionality checked post-test

Results:

🏆 RECORD-BREAKING: 21 SECONDS

Previous Record: 18 seconds (best we’d seen before permanent burn mark)

iQOO 15 Achievement: 21 seconds before permanent burn mark appeared and oleophobic coating degraded.

What This Means:

Industry Context: Most flagship displays show permanent damage between 12-18 seconds of direct flame exposure.

iQOO 15 Performance: Beat the previous record by 3 seconds—a 16% improvement.

Practical Implications:

For users who:

• Play intensive games for extended periods
• Use phone in extreme heat environments
• Max out performance settings regularly
• Worry about screen damage from heat

Verdict: ✅✅✅ The display can handle extreme heat without issues. Even with intensive gaming sessions, you won’t approach conditions that would damage the screen.

This is EXCEPTIONAL: At this price point, having display heat resistance that exceeds flagship standards is impressive.

Test 9: Bend Test (Structural Integrity)

Historical Context: iQOO flagships have NEVER failed bend tests. Let’s see if the iQOO 15 maintains this streak.

Front Screen Bend Test:

Methodology: Eight-finger pressure applied, attempting to bend phone with screen facing up.

Results:

✅ Negligible flex detected
✅ No major cracks around typical weak points:

• Antenna cutouts
• Button openings
• SIM tray area
• Speaker grills

Slight flex observed (expected with aluminum frame under extreme pressure), but:

• No structural compromise
• No permanent deformation
• Phone returned to original shape

Phone rotation test post-bend: Minimal rotation = structural integrity maintained ✅

Back Panel Bend Test:

Methodology: Same eight-finger pressure, phone face-down.

Results:

✅ Slight bending detected (less than front test)
✅ No cracks or structural damage
✅ Even under extreme pressure: No issues

Camera module area: No separation or cracking despite concentrated stress point.

Real-World Context:

Casual Bending (sitting on phone, tight pocket pressure): Zero risk
Extreme Bending (intentional stress testing): Passed without damage

Verdict: ✅✅ The iQOO 15’s structural integrity is flagship-level. Aluminum frame provides excellent rigidity while allowing minimal flex to dissipate stress instead of cracking.

Complete Durability Scorecard

What Passed With Excellence (8 Points):

1. ✅ IP68 Water Resistance (even in saltwater) – 1 point
2. ✅ Extreme Steam/Heat Test (60°C+, no moisture) – 1 point
3. ✅ Bend Test (both directions, no damage) – 1 point
4. ✅ Burn Test (21-second record) – 1 point
5. ✅ Aluminum Frame Quality (premium feel, solid) – 1 point
6. ✅ Case Quality (knife-resistant, long-lasting) – 0.5 points
7. ✅ Build Quality (premium finish, solid assembly) – 1 point
8. ✅ Dynamic Light Feature (unique, functional) – 0.5 points

What Lost Points (-2 Points):

1. ❌ Display Glass Scratch Resistance (Level 5 vs expected Level 6) – -1 point
2. ❌ IP Rating Downgrade (IP68 vs IP69 from iQOO 13) – -0.5 points
3. ⚠️ Back Glass Scratch Resistance (Level 5, combined with display issue) – -0.5 points

Final Score: 8/10

The Scratch Resistance Issue: Deep Dive

Why This Matters: Scratch resistance is the ONE area where iQOO 15 falls below flagship standards.

Industry Standards:

Flagship Glass Options:

• Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2: Scratches at Level 6, deeper at Level 7
• Corning Gorilla Glass Victus: Scratches at Level 6
• Dragon Trail Glass: Similar to Gorilla Glass performance

iQOO 15’s Glass: Unspecified, scratches at Level 5

Cost-Cutting Explanation:

Glass protection is expensive:

• Gorilla Glass Victus 2 licensing: $3-5 per unit
• Alternative premium glass: $2-4 per unit
• Generic protective glass: $0.50-1 per unit

Manufacturer Strategy: Save $4-6 per device across display and back panel = significant cost reduction on a “value flagship.”

Real-World Scenarios:

Without Protection:

• 3 months: Visible micro-scratches
• 6 months: Noticeable scratch patterns
• 12 months: Significant surface wear

With Tempered Glass Protector:

• 12+ months: Screen remains pristine
• Protector takes damage, easily replaceable
• Minimal cost ($5-10 for quality protector)

Our Recommendation:

Day 1 Purchase Essentials:

1. ✅ Tempered glass screen protector (₹300-500)
2. ✅ Quality phone case (included or aftermarket)
3. ✅ Optional: Camera lens protector (₹200-300)

Total Protection Investment: ₹500-800

Benefit: Maintains pristine condition, protects resale value, eliminates scratch anxiety.

Comparison: iQOO 15 vs iQOO 13 Durability

Overall: The iQOO 13 had slightly better durability (IP69 + better glass). The iQOO 15 improved burn resistance and maintained excellent overall durability, but the glass downgrade is noticeable.

Who Should Buy the iQOO 15 Despite Scratch Concerns?

Perfect For:

✅ Gamers: Exceptional heat resistance (21-second burn test record), solid cooling, no thermal damage concerns
✅ Case Users: If you use a case + screen protector (most people), scratch resistance is irrelevant
✅ Budget Flagship Seekers: Want flagship durability where it counts (water, structure, heat) at ₹40K-50K
✅ Practical Users: Value real-world durability (drops, water, heat) over scratch resistance
✅ iQOO Loyalists: Trust the brand’s durability track record

Consider Alternatives If:

❌ You Never Use Cases: Naked phone users will see scratches within months
❌ Scratch Anxiety High: Can’t handle even minor surface marks
❌ Need IP69 Rating: Work in extreme environments (construction, outdoor jobs)
❌ Want Absolute Best: Willing to pay ₹20K-30K more for marginally better protection

Durability Maintenance Tips for iQOO 15 Owners

Essential Protection (Must Do):

1. Install Tempered Glass Screen Protector (Day 1)
   • Compensates for Level 5 glass
   • Takes scratches instead of display
   • Cheap and easily replaceable
2. Use the Included Case (or buy better)
   • Protects back glass and frame
   • Prevents drop damage
   • Hides aluminum frame scratches
3. Camera Lens Protector (Optional but recommended)
   • Camera glass also scratches at Level 5
   • Cheap insurance for expensive camera module

Usage Habits:

• ✅ Keep phone in dedicated pocket (separate from keys/coins)
• ✅ Place phone screen-up on clean surfaces
• ✅ Clean screen regularly with microfiber cloth
• ✅ Avoid beach/dusty environments without case
• ❌ Don’t place phone face-down on rough surfaces
• ❌ Don’t pocket with keys, coins, or sharp objects

Long-Term Value Protection:

The iQOO 15 will maintain its functionality for years, but cosmetic condition matters for:

• Resale value (₹5K-10K difference for pristine vs scratched)
• Personal satisfaction (nobody likes a scratched screen)
• Professional appearance (matters in business contexts)

Investment: ₹500-800 in protection saves ₹5K-10K in resale value depreciation.

Other Notable Durability Observations

Speaker/Earpiece Protection:

Earpiece Grill: Extremely fine mesh design

• Positive: Most everyday objects can’t penetrate and damage internal mesh
• Testing: Even sharp knife couldn’t access internal components
• Design Evolution: Improved from previous years with tighter grills
• Verdict: Excellent protection ✅

SIM Tray Design:

• Dual 5G SIM support
• No microSD card slot (not uncommon in flagships)
• Well-sealed for water resistance
• Easy to access, properly fitted

Button Longevity:

Minor Concern: Buttons can pop out with pressure

• Impact: Low—easily reinserted
• Functionality: No loss if dislodged
• Likelihood: Rare unless applying unusual pressure
• Verdict: Minor issue, not a dealbreaker ⚠️

Dynamic Light Durability:

• Plastic material scratches easier than glass
• Located in non-contact area (less scratch exposure)
• Case provides complete protection
• Design prioritizes functionality over premium feel
• Verdict: Smart compromise ✅

Final Verdict: Is the iQOO 15 Durable Enough?

The Honest Answer: YES, with one asterisk.

What Makes It Great:

🏆 IP68 water resistance that exceeds certification (saltwater tested)
🏆 Record-breaking 21-second burn test (best heat resistance tested)
🏆 Excellent bend test results (no structural weaknesses)
🏆 Premium build quality (feels more expensive than it is)
🏆 Solid case included (actually protects, unlike many bundled cases)
🏆 Unique features (Dynamic Light) without compromising core durability

The One Asterisk:

⚠️ Display and back glass scratch at Level 5 instead of Level 6

Impact Depends On Your Usage:

• With Protection (case + screen protector): Non-issue, phone will stay pristine ✅
• Without Protection: You’ll see scratches within 3-6 months ❌

Our Rating: 8/10

Breakdown:

• Deducted 1 point: Display glass scratch resistance (Level 5 vs Level 6)
• Deducted 1 point: Combined factors (IP68 vs IP69, back glass, minor button issue)

Would we give it 10/10? Only if iQOO used Gorilla Glass Victus and maintained IP69 rating.

Is 8/10 good? ABSOLUTELY. This is flagship durability at ₹40K-50K when competitors charge ₹70K-90K.

Value Calculation:

Durability Features You’re Getting:

• ₹70K-level water resistance
• ₹80K-level heat tolerance
• ₹75K-level structural integrity
• ₹60K-level build quality

What You’re Paying: ₹40K-50K

What You’re Compromising: ₹5K worth of better glass protection

Net Value: Outstanding. Just spend ₹500 on a screen protector.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the scratch resistance really that bad?

A: It’s below flagship standard but manageable. With a screen protector (₹300-500), it’s a non-issue. Without protection, you’ll see scratches faster than phones with Gorilla Glass Victus.

Q: Can I use the iQOO 15 at the beach?

A: YES. Our saltwater test confirmed excellent water resistance. Just rinse with fresh water afterward and ensure ports are dry before charging.

Q: Will gaming damage the display from heat?

A: NO. The 21-second burn test record proves the display can handle extreme heat. Gaming won’t come close to conditions that would cause damage.

Q: Should I use the included case?

A: ABSOLUTELY. Our testing showed it’s knife-resistant, tough, and protects against the glass scratch weakness. It’s actually a quality case, unlike many bundled ones.

Q: How does it compare to Samsung/iPhone durability?

A: Structural integrity and water resistance are comparable. Scratch resistance is weaker (they use better glass). Heat resistance is BETTER than most flagships.

Q: What’s the difference between IP68 and IP69?

A: IP68 = dust-tight and water submersion up to 1.5m for 30 mins. IP69 adds high-pressure steam jet resistance. For 99% of users, IP68 is more than sufficient.

Q: Will the buttons really pop out?

A: Unlikely during normal use. We had to apply deliberate pressure. If they do dislodge (rare), they easily snap back in with no functionality loss.

Q: Is the Dynamic Light worth the plastic material compromise?

A: YES. It’s a unique feature no other flagship has. The plastic is a smart choice (won’t shatter like glass), and it’s protected when using a case.

Conclusion: Buy Smart, Protect Well

The iQOO 15 delivers 8/10 durability at a price point where competitors struggle to reach 6/10. The glass scratch resistance is the only significant weakness, and it’s easily mitigated with ₹500 worth of protection accessories.

Smart Buying Strategy:

1. ✅ Buy the iQOO 15 if flagship performance + durability at ₹40K-50K appeals
2. ✅ Invest ₹500-800 in screen protector + quality case immediately
3. ✅ Enjoy flagship durability without flagship pricing
4. ✅ Maintain pristine condition for better long-term value

Don’t Buy If:

❌ You refuse to use cases/protectors (you’ll see scratches)
❌ You need IP69 certification (construction/outdoor work)
❌ Scratch resistance is your #1 priority (pay more for better glass)

Final Recommendation:

For 95% of buyers: The iQOO 15’s durability is MORE than sufficient. The ₹500 you’ll spend on protection is vastly outweighed by the ₹20K-30K you’re saving versus true flagships.

Verdict: BUY with confidence. Just protect it properly