Quick Verdict: POCO kicks off 2026 with the M8 5G, delivering a surprisingly premium experience in the budget segment. With its sleek design, vibrant curved AMOLED display, Snapdragon 632 processor, and an impressive 4 years of OS updates, this phone punches well above its weight class. While the camera could use an ultrawide lens and OIS, the M8 5G offers excellent all-round value for buyers seeking style and substance under ₹20,000.
Rating: 8/10
What’s New in POCO M8 5G?
After a successful 2025 with strong launches across the N, X, and F series, POCO enters 2026 with the M8 5G in their budget M-series lineup. This isn’t just an incremental update—POCO has made meaningful upgrades across design, performance, battery, and software support that set it apart from its predecessor, the M7 Pro.
Key Upgrades Over M7 Pro:
- New Snapdragon 632 (4nm) processor vs MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra
- Larger 5520mAh battery vs 5110mAh
- Enhanced 3200 nits peak brightness vs 2100 nits
- IP66 rating vs IP65
- 4 years OS updates + 6 years security vs 2+4 years
- 18W reverse charging support (new addition)
- Redesigned slimmer, lighter chassis
Design & Build Quality: Surprisingly Premium
First Impressions
The moment you unbox the POCO M8 5G, one thing is clear—this doesn’t look or feel like a budget phone. The design is a significant departure from the M7 Pro, with POCO opting for a more refined, premium aesthetic.
What’s in the Box:
- POCO M8 5G smartphone
- 45W fast charger (designed by Xiaomi)
- USB Type-C to Type-C cable
- High-quality silicone rubber case (soft touch, excellent quality)
- SIM ejector tool
- Documentation
Design Highlights:
The M8 5G measures just 7.35mm in thickness and weighs a mere 178 grams, making it one of the slimmest and lightest phones in the under-₹20,000 segment. The back panel features an eye-catching dual-tone finish—a matte grey upper section combined with glossy black, creating a sophisticated look that rivals phones costing significantly more.
Available Colors:
- Midnight Black (reviewed)
- Two additional color options
The phone is IP66 certified for dust and water resistance (upgraded from IP65) and comes with military-grade certification, ensuring durability for everyday drops and bumps. The in-hand feel is exceptional—the lightweight construction combined with the slim profile makes it comfortable for extended use.
Build Materials:
- Back: Polycarbonate with matte and glossy finishes
- Frame: Polycarbonate with glossy finish
- Front: Reinforced glass for scratch protection
Physical Overview
Right Side: Volume rocker, power button
Top: Noise cancellation mic, IR blaster, secondary speaker
Left Side: Clean, no buttons
Bottom: Hybrid SIM tray (dual SIM + microSD), primary mic, USB Type-C port, speaker grille
The hybrid SIM slot allows you to use either two SIM cards or one SIM plus a microSD card for storage expansion—a flexibility that’s increasingly rare in modern smartphones.
Display: Curved AMOLED Excellence
Screen Specifications
The POCO M8 5G sports a 6.77-inch Full HD+ curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. While the screen size remains similar to the M7 Pro, the curved edges give it a distinctly premium appearance that you’d typically find in flagship devices.
Display Specs:
- Size: 6.77 inches
- Type: Curved AMOLED
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Peak Brightness: 3200 nits (up from 2100 nits)
- Protection: Reinforced glass
- Widevine: L1 (not HD certified)
Real-World Experience
The display quality is genuinely impressive. The AMOLED panel delivers vibrant, punchy colors with deep blacks that make content consumption a pleasure. The curved edges not only look premium but also make the bezels appear thinner than they actually are, creating an immersive viewing experience.
Scrolling through apps and UI elements feels buttery smooth thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. Whether you’re browsing social media, reading articles, or navigating the interface, the fluidity is immediately noticeable.
The 3200 nits peak brightness is a game-changer for outdoor visibility. The display remains clearly visible even under direct sunlight, making it easy to use your phone throughout the day regardless of lighting conditions. Indoor brightness is also excellent, with the screen feeling noticeably brighter than the M7 Pro in all conditions.
Content Consumption
For multimedia consumption, the M8 5G delivers:
- YouTube playback: Supports up to 2160p resolution (4K)
- Color reproduction: Vibrant and saturated (slightly eye-catchy but pleasing)
- Viewing angles: Excellent, thanks to curved AMOLED
- HDR support: Not HD certified, but still delivers good contrast
The display does tend to boost colors slightly—reds and yellows appear more vibrant than in real life, and skin tones are brightened. This creates an eye-catching, Instagram-ready look that most users will appreciate, though purists might prefer more accurate colors.
Security & Protection
The display features an in-display fingerprint scanner that works reliably and quickly. The reinforced glass protection should handle minor scratches and daily wear, though a screen protector is still recommended for maximum protection.
Performance & Gaming: Snapdragon 632 Delivers
Processor Upgrade
POCO has equipped the M8 5G with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 632 (4nm) chipset, replacing the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra found in the M7 Pro. This is a meaningful upgrade that brings better performance and improved stability.
Performance Specs:
- Chipset: Snapdragon 632 (4nm)
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR4X
- Storage Options: 128GB / 256GB UFS 2.2
- AnTuTu Score: 842,000+
Benchmark Results:
The AnTuTu score of 842,000+ is solid for the under-₹20,000 segment, indicating good day-to-day performance. More impressively, the CPU throttle test showed a green graph with 93% stability over 15 minutes of sustained load, meaning the phone maintains performance without significant thermal throttling.
Gaming Experience
BGMI/PUBG Mobile Testing:
The M8 5G handles BGMI/PUBG Mobile admirably at 60fps on smooth settings with extreme frame rates. The gaming experience is smooth with detailed graphics rendering well. While minor frame drops are noticeable during intense action, overall gameplay remains enjoyable.
Graphics Settings Available:
- HD, Ultra HD options available
- Smooth + Extreme (60fps gameplay)
- SDR and HDR support
The 120Hz display, while not utilized by BGMI, still contributes to smooth UI navigation when entering/exiting games. The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support enhance the gaming experience significantly, providing clear directional audio and immersive sound that goes up to 300% volume.
Daily Performance
For everyday tasks—social media browsing, web surfing, multitasking, and app switching—the Snapdragon 632 handles everything effortlessly. The 8GB LPDDR4X RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while UFS 2.2 storage provides fast app loading times.
Connectivity:
- 5G support (dual SIM)
- Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 5
- Bluetooth 5.1
- USB 2.0
- IR Blaster (yes!)
- NFC: No
The inclusion of an IR blaster is a welcome addition, allowing you to control TVs, ACs, and other appliances directly from your phone—a feature that’s increasingly rare in modern smartphones.
Camera Performance: Decent but Room for Improvement
Camera Setup
Rear Cameras:
- Primary: 50MP AI main sensor
- Depth: 2MP (dual camera setup)
Front Camera:
- 20MP selfie shooter
The camera setup is similar to the M7 Pro, focusing on a strong main sensor and selfie camera rather than multiple lenses. Notably missing is an ultrawide-angle lens, which would have rounded out the photography experience.
Daylight Photography
Main Camera Performance:
The 50MP main camera captures decent photos in good lighting. Colors are slightly vibrant and eye-catching—reds and yellows are boosted, and skin tones are brightened slightly. While not perfectly accurate, the processing creates Instagram-ready shots that most users will appreciate.
Shutter Speed & Processing:
The shutter speed is adequate, though the phone takes a few seconds to process images after capture. There’s noticeable image processing time, which might frustrate users who prefer instant results. Once processed, photos show good detail, though some softening is visible when zoomed in.
1x vs 2x Zoom:
The camera offers 1x and 2x digital zoom options. At 2x, detail retention is acceptable for social media sharing, though pixel-peepers will notice some quality degradation.
Portrait Mode
Portrait shots from the main camera show:
- Decent edge detection overall
- Some softness in facial details (could benefit from more sharpening)
- Slightly overexposed skin tones at 2x zoom
- Natural jacket colors (blacks remain accurate)
- Good subject separation
For the under-₹20,000 segment, portrait performance is acceptable but not class-leading.
Selfie Camera: Impressive
The 20MP front camera is genuinely impressive. Selfies capture excellent detail with sharp edge detection and pleasant skin tones. The high resolution ensures your selfies look crisp when shared on social media or printed.
Selfie Strengths:
- Sharp edge detection around hair and face
- Natural skin tones (not overly processed)
- Good detail retention
- 1080p 30fps video recording
Video Recording
Video Specs:
- Rear: 4K 30fps maximum
- Front: 1080p 30fps
- No OIS (optical image stabilization)
Video quality is decent for both rear and front cameras, though the lack of OIS means footage can appear shaky when walking. For static shots or vlogging, quality is acceptable.
Camera Features
- Ultra HD mode
- Pro mode with manual controls (shutter speed, ISO, etc.)
- HDR mode
- Portrait mode
- Night mode (performance not detailed in testing)
Missing Features
- No ultrawide-angle lens (significant omission)
- No OIS (affects video stability and low-light performance)
Verdict: The camera is balanced for the price but could have been better. Adding an ultrawide lens and OIS would have significantly elevated the photography experience.
Battery Life & Charging: All-Day Performer
Battery Specifications
Capacity: 5520mAh
POCO has increased battery capacity from the M7 Pro’s 5110mAh to 5520mAh in the M8 5G—a welcome 410mAh boost that translates to better endurance throughout the day.
Charging:
- 45W fast charging (charger included)
- 18W reverse wireless charging (new feature!)
The addition of 18W reverse charging is particularly useful, allowing you to charge accessories like TWS earbuds or even another phone in emergencies directly from your M8 5G.
Real-World Battery Performance
While specific battery life numbers weren’t provided in testing, the 5520mAh capacity combined with the efficient 4nm Snapdragon 632 processor should deliver:
- Full day of heavy use (gaming, video streaming, social media)
- 1.5-2 days of moderate use
- Screen-on time: Estimated 7-9 hours
The 45W fast charging ensures you’re back to full battery quickly when needed, minimizing downtime.
Software & Updates: Industry-Leading Support
Operating System
HyperOS 2.0 based on Android 15
The M8 5G runs POCO’s latest HyperOS 2.0 interface built on Android 15, offering a clean, customizable experience with useful features and minimal bloatware (though some pre-installed apps are present).
Software Update Promise: Game-Changing
Here’s where POCO truly surprises: the M8 5G comes with:
- 4 years of Android OS updates
- 6 years of security updates
This is upgraded from the M7 Pro’s 2 years OS + 4 years security updates and is extremely rare in the under-₹20,000 segment. Only a handful of brands offer such long-term support, making the M8 5G an excellent choice for users who want their phone to remain secure and feature-rich for years to come.
Software Features
Customization:
- Theme store with extensive options
- Icon packs and wallpapers
- Gesture navigation
- Always-on display customization
- Status bar customization
Performance Features:
- Memory extension (use storage as virtual RAM)
- Game turbo mode
- Battery optimization
- App lock and privacy features
The software experience is generally smooth, though some users might find certain pre-installed apps unnecessary. Most can be uninstalled or disabled.
Audio: Stereo Speakers with Dolby
Speaker Setup
Dual stereo speakers:
- Top speaker (earpiece doubles as speaker)
- Bottom speaker (primary)
- Dolby Atmos support
- Maximum volume: 300%
Audio Quality
The stereo speaker setup delivers impressive sound for the price segment. The surround effect creates an immersive experience for gaming and video content, with clear vocals and decent bass response considering the phone’s slim profile.
Volume levels are excellent, reaching up to 300% in certain modes. Outdoor calls and media playback won’t be an issue even in noisy environments.
Audio Output:
- 3.5mm headphone jack: No
- USB-C audio: Yes
- Bluetooth 5.1: Yes (for wireless headphones/earbuds)
POCO M8 5G: Specifications Summary
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.77″ Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 3200 nits peak brightness, Reinforced glass |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 632 (4nm) |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB UFS 2.2, expandable via microSD |
| Rear Camera | 50MP main + 2MP depth |
| Front Camera | 20MP |
| Video | 4K 30fps (rear), 1080p 30fps (front) |
| Battery | 5520mAh, 45W fast charging, 18W reverse charging |
| OS | HyperOS 2.0 (Android 15), 4 years OS + 6 years security updates |
| 5G | Yes, dual SIM |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, IR Blaster, USB-C 2.0 |
| Durability | IP66 + Military-grade certification |
| Dimensions | 7.35mm thickness, 178g weight |
| Colors | Midnight Black + 2 more options |
| Price | Under ₹20,000 (check description for exact pricing) |
Who Should Buy POCO M8 5G?
Perfect For:
✅ Budget-conscious buyers seeking premium design and feel
✅ Students and young professionals needing reliable all-day performance
✅ Content consumers who prioritize display quality and battery life
✅ Casual gamers playing BGMI, COD Mobile, and similar titles
✅ Long-term users valuing extensive software support (4+6 years)
✅ First-time smartphone buyers wanting balanced features
Not Ideal For:
❌ Photography enthusiasts who need ultrawide and telephoto options
❌ Pro mobile gamers requiring consistent 90fps+ performance
❌ Content creators needing OIS for stable video recording
❌ Audiophiles seeking 3.5mm jack for wired audio
❌ NFC users requiring contactless payments
Alternatives to Consider
Similar Price Segment (Under ₹20,000):
1. Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G
- Better camera with OIS
- Similar display and performance
- Slightly heavier design
2. Samsung Galaxy M34 5G
- Longer software support from Samsung
- Better brand service network
- Less premium design
3. Motorola Edge 50 Neo
- Stock Android experience
- Different design language
- Comparable performance
4. iQOO Z9 5G
- Gaming-focused features
- Faster charging
- Similar specs
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Premium design that rivals phones costing much more
- Slim (7.35mm) and lightweight (178g) for comfortable handling
- Vibrant curved AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Excellent 3200 nits peak brightness for outdoor visibility
- Solid Snapdragon 632 performance for daily tasks and gaming
- Large 5520mAh battery for all-day use
- Industry-leading 4+6 years software support
- 45W fast charging with 18W reverse charging
- High-quality silicone case included in the box
- IP66 + Military-grade durability
- IR Blaster for smart home control
- Impressive 20MP selfie camera
❌ Cons
- No ultrawide camera—limits photography versatility
- No OIS—affects video stabilization and low-light shots
- No NFC—contactless payments not possible
- Not HD certified for streaming platforms
- Image processing takes a few seconds after capture
- Slightly vibrant color processing might not appeal to purists
- USB 2.0 (not USB 3.0 for faster data transfer)
- No 3.5mm headphone jack
- Price increase compared to M7 Pro (though justified by upgrades)
Final Verdict: Should You Buy POCO M8 5G?
Rating: 8/10
The POCO M8 5G is a well-balanced all-rounder that delivers a surprisingly premium experience in the under-₹20,000 segment. It’s clear that POCO has listened to user feedback and made meaningful upgrades across design, display brightness, processor, battery capacity, and—most impressively—software support.
What Sets It Apart:
The combination of premium design, curved AMOLED display, solid performance, and 4 years of OS updates is genuinely rare in this price segment. While the camera could be better with an ultrawide lens and OIS, POCO has made smart choices about where to invest—prioritizing the areas that matter most for daily user experience.
The Price Consideration:
Yes, the price has increased compared to the M7 Pro due to global chipset and component shortages. However, POCO has justified this increase with tangible upgrades across multiple areas rather than simply raising prices without adding value.
The Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a stylish, reliable smartphone under ₹20,000 that will serve you well for the next 3-4 years with guaranteed software updates, the POCO M8 5G deserves serious consideration. Just understand that the camera is decent but not exceptional, and you’re giving up ultrawide photography and NFC in exchange for premium design, excellent display, and long-term software support.
For users prioritising aesthetics, display quality, battery life, and future-proofing through software updates, the POCO M8 5G is an easy recommendation.
The POCO M8 5G is priced under ₹20,000. Exact pricing details are available in the video description and on POCO’s official website. Launch offers may be available.
POCO has delivered a strong opening for 2026 with the M8 5G. By focusing on design refinement, display improvements, processor upgrades, and industry-leading software support, they’ve created a phone that offers genuine value beyond just specifications.
The M8 5G proves that budget phones don’t have to feel cheap—and that’s a win for consumers in the competitive under-₹20,000 segment.
Have you used the POCO M8 5G? Share your experience in the comments below!
If you found this review helpful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with the latest tech reviews and honest opinions.
Disclaimer: This review is based on a unit provided by POCO for testing purposes. All opinions expressed are independent and based on extensive hands-on testing.
