Infinix Hot 50i
The smartphone market is flooded with affordable devices, but Infinix continues to stand out with its value-packed offerings. The Infinix Hot 50i, released in October 2024, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering quality at an accessible price. With a large display, decent performance, and a massive battery, the Hot 50i is designed for users who want a reliable device without breaking the bank. Let’s explore what makes this phone a strong contender in the budget segment.
Design and Build: Practical and Stylish
The Infinix Hot 50i features a sleek and practical design, measuring 165.7 x 77.1 x 8.1 mm and weighing 184g. While it’s slightly thicker than its Pro counterpart, the phone feels solid in hand, thanks to its glass front and plastic back and frame. The device is available in three elegant colors: Sleek Black, Sage Green, and Titanium Grey, catering to different tastes.
The IP54 rating ensures protection against dust and water splashes, making it a durable choice for everyday use. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor adds convenience and security, allowing for quick and easy unlocking.
Display: Smooth IPS LCD with 120Hz Refresh Rate
The Hot 50i boasts a 6.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels (~262 PPI). While the resolution is lower than some competitors, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced user experience. The display peaks at 500 nits of brightness, making it usable outdoors, and the Always-On feature is a handy addition for checking notifications at a glance.
Performance: Helio G81 and Up to 6GB RAM
Under the hood, the Hot 50i is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 chipset, paired with an octa-core CPU (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 + 6×1.7 GHz Cortex-A55) and a Mali-G52 MC2 GPU. This setup delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming.
The phone comes in multiple configurations:
- 4GB RAM + 128GB storage
- 6GB RAM + 128GB storage
- 4GB RAM + 256GB storage
- 6GB RAM + 256GB storage
The microSDXC slot allows for storage expansion, ensuring you never run out of space for photos, videos, and apps.
Running on Android 14 with Infinix’s XOS 14.5 skin, the interface is user-friendly and customizable. However, like many budget devices, the Hot 50i may not receive major OS updates, which could be a drawback for long-term users.
Camera: 48MP Main Sensor for Everyday Photography
The Hot 50i features a single 48MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, capable of capturing detailed and vibrant photos in good lighting conditions. The camera supports features like HDR and panorama, while the dual-LED flash helps in low-light scenarios. Video recording maxes out at 1080p@30fps, which is standard for this price range.
On the front, the 8MP selfie camera handles video calls and social media snaps adequately. While the camera setup is basic, it delivers decent results for casual users.
Battery Life: 5000mAh Battery with 18W Charging
The 5000mAh battery is one of the highlights of the Hot 50i, ensuring all-day usage even with moderate to heavy use. The 18W wired charging is slower compared to the Pro variant but gets the job done. Additional features like reverse wired charging and bypass charging add versatility, allowing you to power other devices or reduce heat during gaming sessions.
Audio and Connectivity: Solid Features for the Price
The Hot 50i includes stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience and retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature appreciated by many users. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth, GPS, and a USB Type-C 2.0 port. However, the absence of NFC might disappoint users looking for contactless payment options.
Software and Sensors: Functional and Reliable
The device runs on Android 14 with Infinix’s XOS 14.5 skin, offering a clean and intuitive interface. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and accurate, while other sensors like the accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass enhance usability.
Price and Availability
The Infinix Hot 50i is positioned as an affordable option in the Hot 50 series. While the exact price may vary by region, it’s expected to be even more budget-friendly than the Hot 50 Pro, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious buyers.
Specifications at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the Hot 50i’s key specs:
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Launch | Released: October 2024 |
| Dimensions | 165.7 x 77.1 x 8.1 mm, 184g |
| Display | 6.7″ IPS LCD, 120Hz, 720×1600 pixels, 500 nits peak |
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G81 |
| Memory | 4/6GB RAM + 128/256GB storage, microSDXC slot |
| OS | Android 14, XOS 14.5 |
| Main Camera | 48MP (wide), dual-LED flash, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (wide) |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 18W fast charging, reverse charging |
| Audio | Stereo speakers, 3.5mm jack |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi ac, Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Features | IP54 rating, side-mounted fingerprint, Always-On display |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- 120Hz IPS LCD display for smooth visuals.
- Reliable performance with Helio G81 and up to 6GB RAM.
- Massive 5000mAh battery with 18W charging.
- IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance.
Cons:
- Lower display resolution (720p).
- No NFC support.
- Basic camera setup compared to competitors.
Final Verdict
The Infinix Hot 50i is a solid budget smartphone that delivers essential features without compromising on quality. While it may not have the premium specs of higher-end devices, it offers excellent value for its price. If you’re looking for a reliable phone with a large battery, smooth display, and decent performance, the Hot 50i is worth considering.
