Are you ever on the lookout for a smartphone that boasts incredible battery life, solid performance, and an accessible price point, even years after its initial release? If so, you’ve likely heard of the Poco M3. This model, which launched in late 2020, quickly became a sensation, and many users still consider it a fantastic choice today. In this comprehensive review for Revuvio, we’ll dive deep into everything the Poco M3 offers, from its design and camera capabilities to its overall performance, and explore real user experiences to help you decide if this “eternal” phone remains relevant in the current market.
1. Introduction: Why Was the Poco M3 So Interesting (and Still Is)?
When the Poco M3 hit the shelves, it immediately captured the attention of not just smartphone enthusiasts but a broader audience as well. Its primary selling point was its remarkable value for money. In an era where competing devices offered similar specifications at significantly higher prices, the Poco M3 arrived with the promise that you didn’t need to break the bank to acquire a quality and dependable smartphone. Xiaomi, the “umbrella” company behind the Poco brand, is renowned for its “bang for the buck” strategy, and the M3 was a perfect embodiment of that philosophy.
So, what exactly made the Poco M3 stand out? Let’s start with its design. Frankly, very few phones in this price bracket offered such a distinct visual identity. We particularly appreciated the unique yet comfortable “leather” finish on the back, which not only prevented slipping but also contributed to an appealing aesthetic. Then there’s the striking, oversized POCO logo dominating the rear panel, making a bold statement. But it wasn’t just about looks. The internals were equally impressive for the price. A large 1080p display with a subtle notch for the front camera, a capable chipset, stereo speaker support, and, most importantly, a massive 6000 mAh battery with fast-charging capabilities – it all added up to more than one could expect. Even better, a fast charger was included in the box, a rarity these days.
Of course, to achieve such a competitive price, compromises had to be made somewhere. The camera system bore the brunt of these adjustments. While the main 48 MP sensor is notable, the Poco M3 opted for macro and depth sensors instead of an ultrawide lens. Furthermore, video recording is capped at 1080p resolution. However, considering its price point, this setup is still more than adequate for the majority of users.
In terms of software, the Poco M3 shipped with Android 10 and the MIUI 12 interface, specifically tailored for Poco devices. While there are some differences compared to the standard MIUI, the core functionality remains similar, and users could anticipate regular software updates.
Poco M3 Specifications at a Glance:
Dimensions & Weight: 162.3 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm, 198 g
Materials: Front glass (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back panel, plastic frame
Display: 6.53″ IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ.), 1080 x 2340 pixels resolution, 19.5:9 aspect ratio, 395 ppi pixel density
Chipset: Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) – Octa-core (4×2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4×1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver)
Graphics: Adreno 610
Memory: 64 GB internal storage with 4 GB RAM, 128 GB internal storage with 4 GB RAM (UFS 2.1 for 64GB, UFS 2.2 for 128GB); expandable via microSDXC card (dedicated slot)
Operating System: Android 10, MIUI 12 for Poco
Main Rear Camera: 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF; 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro); 2 MP, f/2.4, (depth)
Front Camera: 8 MP, f/2.1, (wide)
Video Recording: Rear Camera: 1080p@30fps; Front Camera: 1080p@30fps
Battery: 6000 mAh, 18W fast charging, reverse charging
Other: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, FM radio, IR blaster, stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack
The only significant omissions from this list are an ultrawide camera and some basic splash resistance. However, let’s keep the price category in mind – you’re getting an exceptionally affordable smartphone packed with features, and a compromise had to be made somewhere. The Poco M3 appears to be a device that managed to offer almost everything on that front.
Unboxing the Poco M3: What’s Included?
Despite being an budget-friendly device, the Poco M3 arrives in an attractive, distinctive yellow box that conceals a few pleasant surprises. Naturally, you’ll find the phone itself, along with a USB Type-C cable and a 22.5W charger from Xiaomi. Interestingly, the Poco M3 supports 18W fast charging, so the included charger is actually more powerful than strictly necessary, which is only a good thing.
Within the compartment containing the paperwork, you’ll discover a SIM ejector tool, a clear silicone case, and a pre-applied screen protector. But that’s not all! Tucked away at the very bottom of the box is another delightful surprise: three Poco wristbands – one braided and two silicone. It’s a small gesture, but it adds to the overall value proposition and reinforces the brand’s youthful, energetic image.
2. Design and Build Quality: Standing Out from the Crowd
The Poco M3 immediately catches the eye with its distinctive design, a refreshing departure from the often-uniform look of budget smartphones. The most striking element is undoubtedly the large, glossy black module housing the cameras and the prominent POCO logo on the rear. This module, while large, gives the phone a unique identity. Coupled with the textured, matte plastic back that mimics the look and feel of faux leather, the Poco M3 feels surprisingly premium and, crucially, offers excellent grip. This textured finish effectively resists fingerprints and smudges, a common nuisance on many glossy-backed phones.
While the phone is primarily plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap. The construction is solid, with no creaking or flexing when held. The rounded edges make it comfortable to hold for extended periods, despite its substantial 6.53-inch display and significant weight (198g). This weight is largely attributable to the massive battery, which we’ll discuss later.
The button placement is ergonomic, with the power button and volume rocker easily accessible on the right side. The power button conveniently doubles as the fingerprint sensor, which is fast and accurate. On the left, you’ll find the SIM card tray, which cleverly supports two nano-SIM cards and a microSD card simultaneously, a welcome feature for those needing expandable storage without sacrificing dual-SIM functionality. The top edge houses a 3.5mm headphone jack – a feature increasingly rare on flagship devices but much appreciated in the budget segment – along with an IR blaster for controlling home appliances. The bottom edge features the USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, flanked by the primary speaker.
Speaking of speakers, the Poco M3 boasts stereo sound, utilizing both the bottom-firing speaker and the earpiece. This is another premium feature that significantly enhances the audio experience for media consumption and gaming, setting it apart from many competitors that only offer a single mono speaker.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the compromises. The front display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which is decent but not as robust as newer versions found on more expensive phones. There’s no official IP rating for water or dust resistance, so caution is advised around liquids and dusty environments. Despite these minor drawbacks, for its price, the Poco M3 offers a build quality and design that punches well above its weight class, providing a unique aesthetic and comfortable user experience.
Ergonomics and Comfort: A Big Phone That Feels Good
The Poco M3’s dimensions place it firmly in the “large phone” category. At 162.3mm tall and 77.3mm wide, it’s not a device for one-handed operation for everyone. However, Xiaomi has done a commendable job with the ergonomics. The curved back panel and the textured finish contribute to a secure grip, mitigating the risk of accidental drops. The weight, while noticeable at 198 grams, feels balanced and contributes to a sense of solidity rather than making the phone feel unwieldy. The precise placement of the power button, which integrates the fingerprint sensor, is a stroke of ergonomic genius, making unlocking the phone quick and intuitive, even for a large device.
The Visual Flair: That Iconic POCO Logo
The design of the Poco M3 is undeniably its most polarizing aspect, primarily due to the prominent camera housing and the large POCO branding. While some might find it a bit ostentatious, it’s also what makes the phone instantly recognizable and gives it a distinct personality. This bold design choice challenges the typically understated aesthetics of budget smartphones, and for many, that’s a significant part of its appeal. The faux-leather texture further enhances this visual statement, adding a touch of perceived luxury.
3. Display: Immersive Viewing at an Affordable Price
The Poco M3 features a 6.53-inch IPS LCD panel with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels). This translates to a sharp and detailed viewing experience, with a pixel density of approximately 395 ppi. Text appears crisp, images are well-defined, and videos look good, especially considering the price point. The 19.5:9 aspect ratio offers an immersive viewing experience for watching videos and playing games, with minimal black bars on most content.
Color reproduction on the IPS panel is generally good, with decent contrast and vibrant colors. While it won’t rival the deep blacks and infinite contrast of an AMOLED display, the colors are pleasing and accurate enough for everyday use. Brightness is rated at 400 nits typically, which is adequate for indoor use and most outdoor scenarios. However, in direct, harsh sunlight, you might find yourself squinting a bit, as the display can struggle with reflections and achieving sufficient brightness to overcome ambient light.
The display’s notch is a small, teardrop-shaped cutout housing the front-facing camera. It’s unobtrusive and doesn’t significantly detract from the overall viewing experience. The bezels around the screen are present, particularly the chin, which is thicker than the other bezels, but this is typical for phones in this price segment.
One of the key advantages of an IPS LCD panel, especially in budget devices, is its consistent color accuracy and viewing angles. Even when viewed from an angle, the colors don’t shift dramatically, and brightness remains relatively stable. This makes the Poco M3 a good choice for sharing content with others or for watching videos from various positions.
While the display doesn’t offer advanced features like a high refresh rate (it’s a standard 60Hz panel) or HDR support, it delivers a solid and reliable viewing experience for its intended audience. For browsing, social media, casual gaming, and video streaming, the Poco M3’s display is more than capable.
Full HD+ Resolution: Clarity Without Compromise
The decision to equip the Poco M3 with a Full HD+ display was a significant one. Many competitors in this price range often settle for HD+ resolutions, which can result in a noticeable difference in sharpness. The higher resolution on the Poco M3 means that individual pixels are harder to discern, leading to a crisper image and more detailed text. This makes reading articles, browsing websites, and viewing photos a much more pleasant experience. For users upgrading from older or lower-resolution devices, the jump to the Poco M3’s display will be immediately apparent and appreciated.
Color Accuracy and Brightness: What to Expect
The color science behind the Poco M3’s display is tuned for a balanced output. Colors are generally natural, without being oversaturated or washed out. While professional users might seek more advanced calibration options, for the average consumer, the colors will appear pleasing and true to life. The 400 nits of typical brightness are sufficient for most indoor conditions. However, prolonged use under direct sunlight might pose a challenge, requiring the user to shield the screen to see it clearly. This is a common trade-off in the budget segment, where maximizing brightness often impacts battery life.
4. Performance: Capable for Everyday Tasks and Light Gaming
Under the hood, the Poco M3 is powered by the Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 chipset. This is an 11nm octa-core processor featuring four Kryo 260 Gold cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and four Kryo 260 Silver cores at 1.8 GHz. For graphics, it relies on the Adreno 610 GPU. This combination is a well-established player in the budget and mid-range segments, offering a good balance of performance and power efficiency.
In everyday use, the Poco M3 performs admirably. Navigating the user interface, switching between apps, browsing the web, and using social media are all smooth experiences. The 4GB of RAM, coupled with the UFS 2.1 (for 64GB models) or UFS 2.2 (for 128GB models) storage, ensures that apps load relatively quickly and multitasking is handled without significant lag. While it might not be the absolute fastest chipset available, it’s more than capable of handling typical smartphone tasks without frustration.
When it comes to gaming, the Adreno 610 GPU can handle most popular titles, but with some caveats. Casual games and less demanding titles will run smoothly at respectable frame rates. However, for graphically intensive games like Call of Duty: Mobile or Genshin Impact, you’ll need to adjust the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a playable frame rate and avoid excessive stuttering. This is a common limitation for chipsets in this class. The phone can get warm during extended gaming sessions, but it doesn’t typically reach uncomfortable levels.
The inclusion of stereo speakers further enhances the multimedia experience, making games and videos more immersive. The haptic feedback from the vibration motor is also decent, providing satisfying tactile responses for typing and notifications.
One of the key strengths of the Snapdragon 662 platform is its power efficiency. This, combined with the massive battery, leads to outstanding battery life, which we’ll cover in the next section. Overall, the performance of the Poco M3 is well-suited for its target audience: users who need a reliable device for daily tasks, social media, and light entertainment without breaking the bank.
Snapdragon 662: A Proven Performer
The choice of the Snapdragon 662 was a strategic one. It’s a chipset that balances processing power with energy efficiency, ensuring a smooth user experience without draining the battery too quickly. While not a flagship-tier processor, it offers more than enough horsepower for the vast majority of users. Its reliability and widespread adoption mean that app developers have optimized their software for this platform, leading to fewer compatibility issues.
RAM and Storage: Options for Different Needs
The Poco M3 is typically available in configurations with 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for smooth multitasking. Storage options include 64GB and 128GB. Crucially, both variants utilize UFS (Universal Flash Storage) technology, which is significantly faster than older eMMC storage, leading to quicker app loading times and faster file transfers. The dedicated microSD card slot ensures that storage capacity can be expanded further, a welcome feature for users who store a lot of photos, videos, and music locally.
5. Battery Life: The True “Eternal” Feature
This is where the Poco M3 truly shines and lives up to its “eternal” reputation. It packs a colossal 6000 mAh battery, one of the largest capacities found in a smartphone. This massive battery, combined with the power-efficient Snapdragon 662 chipset and the 60Hz IPS display, results in truly exceptional endurance.
For the average user, the Poco M3 can easily last two full days on a single charge. Power users who engage in heavy gaming, constant video streaming, or extensive social media use will still find themselves comfortably getting through a full day and often into the second. Even with moderate to heavy usage, reaching 1.5 days is not uncommon. This is a game-changer for many, eliminating battery anxiety and reducing the need to constantly search for a power outlet.
When it is time to recharge, the Poco M3 supports 18W fast charging. While not the fastest charging speed on the market, it’s more than adequate for topping up such a large battery. A full charge from empty will take a couple of hours, but a 30-minute charge can provide a substantial boost, easily getting you through the rest of the day. As mentioned earlier, the included 22.5W charger is a nice bonus, ensuring you have a compatible and capable charger right out of the box.
An often-overlooked feature is the reverse charging capability. Using a USB OTG (On-The-Go) cable, the Poco M3 can act as a power bank, allowing you to charge other devices like wireless earbuds or even another phone in an emergency. This adds another layer of practicality to the already impressive battery prowess.
In an era where battery life is a constant concern for smartphone users, the Poco M3’s 6000 mAh cell is a definitive selling point and a primary reason why many continue to consider it a viable option, even today.
6000 mAh: A Powerhouse in Your Pocket
The sheer capacity of the Poco M3’s battery is staggering. This 6000 mAh unit is significantly larger than the typical 4000-5000 mAh batteries found in many modern smartphones. This generous capacity, combined with software optimizations, allows the phone to sip power rather than guzzle it, leading to impressive longevity. For travelers, students, or anyone who relies heavily on their phone throughout the day without frequent access to charging points, this battery size is a significant advantage.
18W Fast Charging: Getting Back in the Game
While the battery life is phenomenal, the 18W fast charging ensures that you don’t have to wait excessively long for a recharge. This charging speed is a good compromise between speed and battery health, preventing excessive heat buildup during charging. A quick top-up before heading out can make all the difference, ensuring you have enough power to last. The inclusion of a capable charger in the box further enhances the user experience, avoiding the need for an additional purchase.
6. Cameras: Decent for the Price, But Not a Priority
As expected in this price segment, the camera system on the Poco M3 is a mixed bag. The main rear camera is a 48 MP sensor with an f/1.8 aperture. In good lighting conditions, this camera can produce respectable photos with good detail and vibrant colors. The large megapixel count allows for decent cropping without losing too much quality. Pixel binning technology, where four pixels are combined into one larger pixel, helps improve low-light performance and dynamic range.
However, the other two rear cameras are less impressive. The 2 MP macro lens is functional for close-up shots, but the limited resolution and aperture mean that the resulting images often lack detail and can be quite noisy, especially in less-than-ideal lighting. Similarly, the 2 MP depth sensor assists in portrait mode, helping to create a bokeh effect by blurring the background. While it aids in separating the subject, the edge detection can sometimes be imprecise, leading to unnatural-looking portraits.
The front-facing camera is an 8 MP sensor with an f/2.1 aperture. It’s capable of taking decent selfies in good lighting, suitable for social media sharing. Video recording on both the front and rear cameras is limited to 1080p at 30fps. While this is acceptable for casual video clips, it lacks the stability and quality of higher-end devices.
The biggest omission in the camera department is an ultrawide lens. This is a feature that has become increasingly common even in budget phones, and its absence on the Poco M3 means you’re limited to the field of view offered by the main sensor. This can be a drawback when trying to capture wide landscapes or group photos in confined spaces.
In summary, the Poco M3’s cameras are serviceable for everyday snapshots and social media. The 48 MP main sensor performs adequately in good light. However, if photography is a primary concern, you might find the Poco M3’s camera system to be somewhat limiting. It’s a classic example of where compromises were made to achieve the aggressive price point.
48MP Main Sensor: Capturing Detail in Good Light
The 48-megapixel main sensor is the star of the Poco M3’s camera show. By default, it captures images at 12MP using pixel binning for better light sensitivity. However, users can switch to the full 48MP mode in the camera settings, which can yield more detailed shots, especially when viewed on a larger screen or when significant cropping is intended. This flexibility is a welcome addition in the budget segment.
Macro and Depth Sensors: Enhancing Versatility (with Limitations)
While not groundbreaking, the inclusion of dedicated macro and depth sensors adds a touch of versatility. The macro lens allows for unique close-up perspectives, capturing intricate details of small objects. The depth sensor aids in creating more professional-looking portrait shots with a blurred background. However, it’s important to manage expectations; these are budget-grade sensors and will not compete with the quality offered by more advanced camera setups.
7. Software: MIUI for Poco – A Feature-Rich Experience
The Poco M3 runs on Android 10 with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12 interface, specifically customized for Poco devices. MIUI is known for its extensive customization options and feature set, and MIUI for Poco carries over many of these benefits while offering a slightly different look and feel compared to standard MIUI.
The interface is generally fluid and responsive, thanks to the optimizations made by Poco. You’ll find a suite of useful features, including a dedicated app drawer (which can be enabled), dual apps functionality, second space for creating a separate user profile, and a robust theme engine for personalizing the look of your device. The control center and notification shade have been redesigned in MIUI 12 to offer a more modern and organized experience, similar to iOS.
Poco has its own launcher, which provides additional customization options and helps keep the Poco experience distinct. While the software is generally stable, some users might encounter occasional minor bugs, which is not uncommon with heavily customized Android skins. However, Xiaomi has a good track record of providing software updates, and the Poco M3 has received updates to newer Android versions and MIUI iterations since its launch, including security patches.
One aspect that some users might find less appealing is the presence of pre-installed bloatware and occasional ads within some system apps. However, most of these can be uninstalled or disabled, and the ads can be turned off in the settings. Despite these minor annoyances, MIUI for Poco offers a feature-rich and customizable software experience that caters to users who like to personalize their devices.
MIUI 12 for Poco: Customization and Features
MIUI for Poco brings a wealth of customization options to the table. From changing icons and fonts to applying full system themes, users have a lot of control over the look and feel of their device. The added functionality, such as the ability to clone apps or create a separate user profile, enhances the device’s utility for many. The inclusion of a system-wide dark mode is also a welcome addition for both aesthetic preference and battery saving on the IPS display.
Software Updates: Staying Current
Xiaomi’s commitment to software updates is generally commendable, especially for its Poco devices. While the Poco M3 launched with Android 10, it has since received updates to Android 11 and later versions of MIUI, bringing new features and security enhancements. This longevity in software support is a significant plus for users looking for a device that will remain relevant and secure for an extended period.
8. Verdict: Is the Poco M3 Still a Viable Purchase Today?
Years after its release, the Poco M3 remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers, primarily due to its exceptional battery life, solid performance for everyday tasks, and distinctive design. Its most significant strengths lie in the colossal 6000 mAh battery, which offers unparalleled endurance, and the surprisingly capable performance delivered by the Snapdragon 662 for its price point. The inclusion of stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack further enhances its multimedia appeal, features often omitted in its segment.
However, it’s crucial to consider the compromises. The camera system, while adequate for casual shots, is not its strongest suit, and the lack of an ultrawide lens is a notable omission. The display, while Full HD+, is a standard 60Hz panel and lacks the brightness for consistently good outdoor visibility. Furthermore, as newer models emerge, the Poco M3 might start showing its age in terms of raw processing power and camera technology compared to more recent budget contenders.
Despite these limitations, the Poco M3’s enduring appeal lies in its fundamental value proposition: delivering core smartphone functionality reliably and affordably, with an emphasis on battery life. If your priorities are long-lasting power, smooth everyday performance, and a unique design without spending a lot of money, the Poco M3, especially if found at a discounted price, is still very much worth considering. It’s a testament to Poco’s strategy of packing essential features into an accessible package. For users who prioritize battery above all else, it remains a strong contender.
Pros:
- Exceptional 6000 mAh battery life
- Good performance for everyday tasks
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Full HD+ IPS display
- Stereo speakers and 3.5mm headphone jack
- Dedicated microSD card slot
- Fast charging support with charger included
Cons:
- Camera system is basic, lacks ultrawide lens
- Display brightness could be better for outdoor use
- No official water or dust resistance rating
- Design might be too polarizing for some
- Performance limitations for demanding games
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Poco M3 still receiving software updates?
While the Poco M3 launched with Android 10, it has received significant updates, including to Android 11 and later versions of MIUI. Xiaomi generally provides updates for a reasonable period for its Poco devices, so it’s likely to continue receiving security patches and potentially further minor updates.
Q2: How good is the camera on the Poco M3 for photography?
The 48MP main camera can take decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, the other sensors are basic, and there’s no ultrawide lens. It’s suitable for casual snapshots and social media, but not for photography enthusiasts who demand high-quality imaging.
Q3: Can I play demanding games on the Poco M3?
The Poco M3 can run most popular games, but you’ll likely need to lower the graphics settings for graphically intensive titles to achieve smooth gameplay. It’s better suited for casual gaming and less demanding titles.
Q4: Does the Poco M3 have NFC?
No, the Poco M3 does not have an NFC chip. This means it cannot be used for contactless payments via Google Pay or similar services.
Q5: Is the Poco M3 water-resistant?
The Poco M3 does not have an official IP rating for water or dust resistance. It’s advisable to keep it away from liquids and humid environments to prevent damage.
Q6: How long does the battery of the Poco M3 last?
Thanks to its 6000 mAh battery, the Poco M3 offers exceptional battery life. Most users can expect to get two full days of moderate usage on a single charge, and even heavy users should comfortably get through a full day.
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