Vivo X300 FE Review 2025: Too Much Power in a Compact Phone?

TLDR: The Vivo X300 FE (launched as Vivo S50 Pro Mini in China) brings Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 power to a compact 6.31-inch body with a 6,500mAh battery and 90W charging. While it upgrades the processor from MediaTek to Snapdragon, the design change is controversial, the camera setup remains identical to X200 FE, and the expected ₹60,000-65,000 Indian pricing raises value concerns. Verdict: Solid upgrade for performance seekers, but not a revolutionary leap from X200 FE.

What is Vivo X300 FE? Understanding the Rebranding

Before we dive into the review, let’s clear up the confusion: The phone reviewed here is actually the Vivo S50 Pro Mini launched in China. This exact device will be rebranded as Vivo X300 FE when it launches globally and in India.

This is similar to what happened with the X200 FE—the Vivo S30 Pro Mini in China became the X200 FE internationally. So everything you see in this review applies to the upcoming X300 FE.

Why Does This Matter?

The Chinese variant lacks Zeiss lens collaboration and tuning, which will be added to the global/Indian version. This means camera performance and image processing will be noticeably different (and likely better) in the retail version you’ll buy.

Unboxing & What’s in the Box

The Chinese variant comes in a white box (the Indian version will likely feature the black box design similar to X200 FE).

Box Contents:

• Vivo X300 FE / S50 Pro Mini
• Silicone rubber protective case
• Quick start guide
• Type-A to Type-C cable
• SIM ejector tool
• 90W FlashCharge adapter

First Impressions: The 90W charger inclusion is excellent—many competitors have stopped bundling chargers, making this a welcome addition.

Design & Build Quality: Controversial Changes

The Design Debate

The X300 FE features a completely redesigned aesthetic compared to the X200 FE, and it’s polarizing:

What Changed:

• Camera module shifted from vertical pill-shape to horizontal orientation
• New patterned back panel texture (catches light beautifully)
• Clean, minimalistic design approach
• Simplified overall look

The Controversy: Many users (including our reviewer) preferred the X200 FE’s design. The new horizontal camera layout and simpler aesthetic feel less distinctive. What do you think? Drop your opinion in the comments.

Build Quality: Premium Where It Counts

Materials:

• Glass back panel with textured pattern
• Metal frame (premium feel)
• Metal camera module (adds to the premium tactile experience)

Dimensions & Weight:

• Thickness: 8mm (unchanged from X200 FE)
• Weight: 195 grams (lighter than expected)
• Compact form factor maintained

In-Hand Feel: Despite the design changes, the X300 FE retains the excellent compact feel that made the X200 FE so popular. The rounded edges provide comfortable grip, and the 195-gram weight is manageable for one-handed use.

Color Options

The review unit features a textured back with a subtle pattern. Additional color options will be announced closer to the Indian launch.

Display: Stunning and Compact

Screen Specifications

Core Specs:

• 6.31-inch AMOLED display
• 1.5K resolution (2800 x 1260 pixels)
• LTPO technology (adaptive refresh rate)
• 120Hz refresh rate
• 10-bit color depth
• HDR10+ certified
• 5,000 nits peak brightness
• 90.2% screen-to-body ratio

Display Quality: “Chumbeshwari” (Magnetic)

The reviewer’s first reaction says it all—the display is genuinely impressive:

What Works:

• Symmetrical bezels on all sides (clean, premium look)
• Excellent brightness: 5,000 nits peak tested outdoors—super bright even in direct sunlight
• Vibrant colors: 10-bit panel delivers rich, colorful content
• Smooth performance: 120Hz LTPO feels buttery smooth in daily use
• HDR support: Certified for premium streaming content

Screen Size Philosophy: Vivo maintained the exact 6.31-inch size from X200 FE. While competitors push 6.7+ inch displays, Vivo’s commitment to compact screens resonates with users who prefer smaller phones. “These days, people prefer smaller phones” is spot-on.

Multimedia Experience: The combination of excellent brightness, vivid colors, and HDR certification makes this a top-notch display for content consumption. It delivers a flagship viewing experience in a compact package.

Physical Overview & Button Layout

Right Side:

• Power button
• Volume rocker

Top Side:

• Noise cancellation microphone
• IR blaster (rare feature in this segment)
• Speaker grille

Left Side:

• Completely clean (no buttons)

Bottom Side:

• Dual SIM slot (nano + nano, no microSD card support)
• Microphone
• USB Type-C port
• Speaker grille

Haptics & Feedback

The phone offers customizable haptic feedback:

• Crisp style (sharp, defined vibrations)
• Soft style (gentler feedback)

Haptic quality is good for this price segment, though not quite flagship-tier.

Audio: Stereo Speakers That Deliver

Speaker Configuration:

• Dual stereo speakers (top earpiece + bottom firing)
• Loud, clear sound output
• Good separation and detail

Audio Quality Verdict: The stereo setup delivers impressive volume and clarity. Watching videos, gaming, or listening to music provides a satisfying audio experience. No dedicated headphone jack, but Type-C audio and Bluetooth 5.4 are supported.

Camera System: Familiar Hardware, Different Tuning

Camera Setup Breakdown

Rear Cameras:

1. 50MP Main Camera
   • Sony IMX 921 sensor
   • Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
   • f/1.6 aperture
2. 50MP Periscope Telephoto
   • Sony IMX 882 sensor
   • 3x optical zoom
   • Periscope design for better light gathering
3. 8MP Ultra-Wide
   • 120° field of view
   • Macro capabilities

Front Camera:

• 50MP selfie camera
• High resolution for detailed self-portraits

Camera Performance: The Chinese Variant Reality

Important Context: This review is based on the Chinese S50 Pro Mini, which lacks Zeiss collaboration. The Indian X300 FE will feature Zeiss tuning, likely improving image processing significantly.

Photo Quality (Chinese Version):

Shutter Speed & Processing:

• Fast shutter response
• Image processing takes a few seconds but completes quickly
• Overall snappy performance

Color Accuracy:

• Natural tones, but slightly dull compared to Vivo’s typical vibrant output
• The Zeiss tuning is clearly missed—colors lack the pop Vivo is known for
• Still good quality with excellent detail retention

Zoom Capabilities: Photo mode offers multiple focal lengths:

• 0.6x (ultra-wide)
• 1x (main camera)
• 2x (digital)
• 3x (optical telephoto)
• 10x (hybrid zoom)

Portrait Mode: Multiple focal length options:

• 23mm
• 35mm
• 50mm
• 85mm
• 100mm

Portrait Quality:

• Excellent edge detection (sharp subject separation)
• Slight over-smoothing (tuned for Chinese skin tones)
• White balance and skin tone accuracy are good
• May improve with Indian/global software optimization

Selfie Performance:

• 50MP front camera captures excellent detail
• 0.8x and 1x modes available
• Slight beautification applied (can be adjusted)
• Some contrast boost in selfies
• Detail preservation is impressive (even facial hair visible)

Photo Samples: Real-World Testing

Samples captured in various conditions show:

• Good color reproduction in outdoor daylight
• Excellent detail retention across all lenses
• Strong performance in well-lit scenarios
• Missing Zeiss signature look—the characteristic Zeiss color science and tuning that made X200 FE special

The Zeiss Factor: The reviewer emphasizes that once this launches globally with Zeiss collaboration, image quality and tuning will noticeably improve. Zeiss brings specialized lens coatings, color profiles, and image processing algorithms.

Camera Features & Modes

Available Modes:

• Night Mode (low-light photography)
• Live Mode (real-time effects)
• Portrait Mode (multiple focal lengths)
• Photo Mode (standard shooting)
• Micro/Super Macro Mode (close-up shots)
• Film Camera Mode (cinematic effects)
• Micro Movie Mode (creative short videos)

When accessing “More” options:

• Multiple creative filters
• Zeiss lens effects (will be added in global version)
• Long exposure modes
• Light painting

Video Recording Capabilities

Rear Camera Video:

• 4K at 60fps supported
• Excellent stabilization (likely OIS + EIS combo)
• HDR video recording
• Good color reproduction

Front Camera Video:

• 4K recording supported
• 60fps option available
• Solid stabilization for vlogs/selfie videos

Video Quality: Sample footage shot with both front and rear cameras shows impressive quality—good detail, proper exposure, and effective stabilization.

Camera Verdict

Hardware: Identical to X200 FE (no upgrades). Software: Chinese tuning needs improvement; Zeiss collaboration will elevate i.t Potential: With Zeiss tuning in the global version, camera performance should match or exceed X200 FE

Performance: The Snapdragon Upgrade

Processor Change: The Biggest Upgrade

Vivo X300 FE / S50 Pro Mini:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (3nm process)

For Context (X200 FE had):

• MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (in global version)
• MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (in Chinese S30 Pro Mini)

Why This Matters:

The shift from MediaTek to Snapdragon is significant:

• Better optimization with more games and apps
• More consistent thermal management
• Improved efficiency
• Stronger GPU performance for gaming
• Better developer support globally

Benchmark Scores

AnTuTu Score: 3+ million (3,000,000+) Assessment: This is definitely a very good AnTuTu score, placing it firmly in flagship performance territory.

RAM & Storage Configuration

Base Variant:

• 12GB LPDDR5X RAM (Ultra RAM support)
• 256GB UFS 4.1 storage

Storage Type Upgrade: Vivo upgraded from UFS 3.1 (in X200 FE) to UFS 4.1—a major improvement that significantly boosts app loading, file transfers, and multitasking performance. Thumbs up for this upgrade.

Multitasking Performance

Real-world testing shows:

• Apps open instantly with no lag
• Chrome loads websites smoothly
• Switching between multiple apps feels fluid
• 12GB RAM + virtual RAM ensures smooth operation
• No noticeable stutters or frame drops in daily use

Verdict: “Runs like butter”—smooth, fast, responsive performance for everyday tasks.

Gaming Performance: Powerful But Limited

Game Testing: BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India)

Graphics Settings Available:

• HDR ✓
• Ultra HD ✓
• Smooth + Extreme: 60fps only

The 60fps Limitation:

This is a Chinese variant limitation. The phone should theoretically support 90fps or even 120fps gaming, but optimization isn’t complete yet.

Expected for Indian Version: Once the X300 FE launches in India, proper optimization should unlock 90fps or 120fps support in supported games.

Gaming Experience at 60fps:

• Smooth gameplay with no major frame drops
• Graphics look crisp and detailed
• Touch response (zero latency) tested—fast and responsive
• Game Mode available with various optimizations

Heating During Gaming:

• Slight warmth felt after extended 60fps gaming
• Not excessive, but noticeable
• Within acceptable limits for a compact phone

Throttling Test Results

Throttle test conducted shows the phone does throttle under sustained load, but performance remains stable enough for extended gaming sessions.

Game Mode Features

Dedicated Game Mode offers:

• Performance monitoring
• Network optimization
• Do Not Disturb settings
• Game acceleration tools

Battery Life & Charging

Battery Specifications

Battery Capacity: 6,500mAh Wired Charging: 90W FlashCharge Wireless Charging: 40W wireless charging support

No Change: Battery capacity remains identical to X200 FE (6,500mAh).

Real-World Battery Performance

While specific battery life numbers weren’t provided in the unboxing, the 6,500mAh capacity combined with the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (3nm) should deliver:

• Full day of heavy use
• 1.5-2 days of moderate use
• Excellent standby time

Charging Speed

90W Wired: Should fully charge the 6,500mAh battery in approximately 35-45 minutes (typical for 90W charging)

40W Wireless: A rare feature in this price segment—adds convenience for cable-free charging

Software & Features

Operating System

Chinese Version (S50 Pro Mini):

• OriginOS 6
• Based on Android 16

Expected for Global/Indian Version:

• OriginOS 6 (Vivo’s custom skin)
• Android 16 base
• Cleaner UI compared to Chinese variant
• Less bloatware

Connectivity

USB: USB 2.0 (Type-C) Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7 (latest standard) Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.4 NFC: Supported 5G: Full 5G support (bands TBD for Indian variant)

Special Features

IR Blaster: Remote control functionality for TVs, ACs, and other appliances—a feature rarely found in modern smartphones.

Pricing: The Big Question

Chinese Pricing (Vivo S50 Pro Mini)

Starting Price: ¥3,699 (~₹48,000 converted)

Expected Indian Pricing (Vivo X300 FE)

Predicted Range: ₹60,000 – ₹65,000

Why the Price Increase?

Multiple factors contribute to higher expected Indian pricing:

• Chipset costs have increased (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3)
• RAM prices rising globally
• Storage costs up (especially UFS 4.1)
• Import duties and taxes
• Zeiss collaboration licensing

Context: The X200 FE launched at around ₹45,000-50,000, so a ₹10,000-15,000 increase is substantial but justified by component upgrades.

Comparison: X300 FE vs X200 FE

Major Upgrades

1. Processor ✅

• X200 FE: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+
• X300 FE: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Impact: Better gaming optimization, thermal management, and app compatibility

2. Storage Type ✅

• X200 FE: UFS 3.1
• X300 FE: UFS 4.1
• Impact: Faster app loading, file transfers, and multitasking

3. Design (Subjective)

• Completely redesigned camera module and back panel
• More minimalistic approach
• Opinion divided—many prefer X200 FE’s design

What Stayed the Same

Display:

• Same 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED
• Same 120Hz refresh rate
• Same resolution and brightness

Camera Hardware:

• Identical sensor setup (50MP main + 50MP tele + 8MP ultrawide)
• Same Sony IMX sensors
• Software tuning will differ with Zeiss collaboration

Battery:

• Same 6,500mAh capacity
• Same 90W + 40W charging

Form Factor:

• Maintained compact dimensions
• Similar weight and thickness

The Verdict: Evolution, Not Revolution

The X300 FE is an incremental upgrade rather than a revolutionary leap:

Worth Upgrading From X200 FE?

• If you prioritize performance: Yes (Snapdragon > MediaTek for gaming)
• If you prioritize camera/design: Probably not (minimal camera changes, controversial design)
• If you’re buying new: X300 FE is the better long-term choice

Pros & Cons Summary

What Works ✅

✅ Compact 6.31-inch form factor (rare in 2025)
✅ Excellent display (5,000 nits, 120Hz LTPO, HDR10+)
✅ Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor (flagship performance)
✅ UFS 4.1 storage (fast and future-proof)
✅ 6,500mAh battery (excellent capacity for size)
✅ 90W + 40W charging (fast wired + wireless)
✅ Premium build quality (glass + metal construction)
✅ IR blaster (useful smart home control)
✅ Stereo speakers (good audio experience)
✅ 50MP selfie camera (high resolution front camera)

What Doesn’t ❌

❌ Design downgrade (subjective, but many prefer X200 FE)
❌ No camera hardware upgrades (same sensors as predecessor)
❌ Missing Zeiss tuning (Chinese variant only—will be fixed globally)
❌ No microSD card slot (256GB base storage only)
❌ Expected price increase (₹60k-65k vs X200 FE’s ₹45k-50k)
❌ Gaming optimization incomplete (60fps cap in Chinese version)
❌ USB 2.0 (not USB 3.x for faster transfers)
❌ Slight thermal throttling under sustained load

Who Should Buy Vivo X300 FE?

Buy If:

✅ You want a compact flagship phone (6.31″ is rare)
✅ You prioritize processor performance (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3)
✅ You value long battery life in a small package
✅ You prefer Vivo’s camera experience with Zeiss tuning
✅ You need fast charging (90W wired + 40W wireless)
✅ You appreciate premium build quality
✅ You’re a mobile gamer who wants stable performance

Avoid If:

❌ You love the X200 FE design (new design is polarizing)
❌ You want major camera upgrades (hardware unchanged)
❌ You’re on a tight budget (price increased significantly)
❌ You need expandable storage (no microSD slot)
❌ You want the absolute latest features (incremental upgrade)
❌ You expect revolutionary changes from X200 FE

Alternatives to Consider

Similar Price Range (₹60,000-65,000):

1. OnePlus 13R (~₹42,999)
   • Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
   • 6,000mAh battery
   • Better value proposition
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 (~₹65,000)
   • Premium brand value
   • Better software support (4 years)
   • Compact flagship option
3. iQOO 13 (~₹54,999)
   • Snapdragon 8 Elite (newer chip)
   • Gaming-focused features
   • Better performance per rupee
4. Nothing Phone (2a) Plus (~₹29,999)
   • Budget alternative
   • Unique design
   • Good value if camera isn’t priority
5. Google Pixel 8a (~₹52,999)
   • Best camera software
   • 7 years updates
   • Clean Android experience

Final Verdict: Solid Upgrade, But Not Essential

The Bottom Line

The Vivo X300 FE (S50 Pro Mini) is a competent compact flagship that delivers flagship performance in a rare small form factor. However, it’s an evolutionary upgrade rather than revolutionary.

What Makes It Special:

• One of the few compact flagships in 2025
• Excellent display and battery combination
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 brings stable, optimized performance
• Premium build quality with IR blaster

What Holds It Back:

• Controversial design change (many prefer X200 FE)
• No camera hardware upgrades (software tuning is the only change)
• Significant price increase over predecessor
• Incomplete optimization in initial Chinese release

Ratings Breakdown

Design & Build: 7.5/10 (Premium feel, but divisive aesthetics)
Display: 9/10 (Excellent brightness, color, smoothness)
Performance: 9/10 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers)
Camera: 7.5/10* (Identical hardware; Zeiss tuning pending)
Battery: 8.5/10 (6,500mAh is impressive for size)
Value: 7/10 (Price increase hurts value proposition)

Overall Rating: 8/10

*Camera rating will likely improve to 8.5/10 with global Zeiss tuning

Final Recommendation

For X200 FE Owners: Skip this unless you desperately need Snapdragon performance for specific apps/games.

For New Buyers: If you want a compact flagship with excellent battery life and don’t mind the design changes, this is a solid choice—but wait for the Indian launch to see final pricing and Zeiss camera tuning.

The Reviewer’s Take: “This phone is a good overall package, but there’s no major upgrade except in two areas: design (completely changed) and performance (MediaTek to Snapdragon). Display, camera hardware, battery—all remain largely similar. It feels like an 80% complete upgrade rather than a full generational leap.”

Your Opinion Matters

What do you think about the Vivo X300 FE’s design change? Do you prefer the X200 FE’s look or the new minimalistic approach? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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This review is based on the Chinese Vivo S50 Pro Mini unit. The global/Indian X300 FE will feature Zeiss camera collaboration and optimized software. Final specifications, features, and pricing may vary.

Stay tuned for the full Indian review once Vivo X300 FE officially launches!