In line with vivo’s annual product roadmap lies the refresh of their grandest smartphone line.

The vivo X300 and X300 Pro were finally revealed in China as the industry’s newest smartphones leading the mobile photography and Dimensity 9500 race.

Two Flavors, One Flagship

Qualcomm already announced their first Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phones with the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. vivo then pioneers the X300 series as the first batch of Dimensity 9500-running flagships.

Unlike last year though, there are only two models in the X300 lineup instead of three.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

The vivo X300 adapts a smaller 6.31-inch flat screen, ditching the 6.67-inch of X200 last 2024. This not only is the “mini” successor of the X200, it also effectively replaces last year’s X200 Pro mini altogether.

Moreover, the Pro variant still rocks the same 6.78-inch panel as last year’s X200 Pro with “finely curved straight-edged bezels.”

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

These ZEISS Master Color displays are 8T LTPO 120Hz displays based on BOE’s Q10 AMOLED. Both support HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Netflix HDR content as well.

They also feature eye-protection features like 2160Hz PWM Dimming, TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free and SGS Low Blue Light certifications, and as low as 1 nit of screen brightness.

Finally, the base vivo X300 adopts an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor that was previously exclusive to the Pro and Ultra models.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

When it comes to battery, the X300 has a 6040mAh battery while the Pro variant packs a bigger 6510mAh capacity.

vivo boldly claims that these Silicon-Anode BlueVolt batteries are comparable to phones with 7000 and 7500mAh batteries through software and hardware energy optimizations.

Both support 90W FlashCharge plus 40W Wireless FlashCharge standards.

Pocket Pro-tography

The X300 phones wouldn’t be complete without their revolutionary flagship-grade camera system.

While both phones possess an identical ultra-wide and selfie shooters, the biggest differences can be seen between their wide and telephoto modules.

The X300 Pro headlines the all-new Sony LYT-828 1/1.28-inch image sensor together with vivo’s self-developed VCS 3.0 imaging technology. That’s then partnered by Samsung’s custom-engineered 200MP ISOCELL HPB sensor for its telephoto shooter.

Interestingly, the same sensor is also being utilized by vivo as the main camera sensor for the base X300. In return, the X300 packs a different 50MP telephoto module based on Sony’s LYT-602 with VCS technology.

Other than the power of MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500, the X300 series achieves an efficient “Dual-Chip Integration” with vivo’s in-house V3+ imaging chip (plus VS1 in the X300 Pro).

This further provides robust computational power for both advanced imaging processing and system operations.

With their long-lasting partnership with ZEISS, stylized portrait features still remain. Aside from the new Style Portrait and ZEISS Natural Portrait, the X300 Pro also has an added a newer ZEISS Mirotar Telephoto Style Bokeh that wasn’t found on previous models.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

There’s even the Adaptive Zoom Flash feature as well as other enhancements that solves night-time portraits against complex lighting setups.

Last but definitely not the least, both the X300 and X300 Pro have their own Photography Kit — including that 2.35x Telephoto Extender that was only exclusive to the vivo X200 Ultra.

Video Mastery

That pro-tography prowess doesn’t end there.

The X300 Pro alone is finally capable of shooting up to 4K/120fps footages in 10-bit Log format across all focal length options. The X200 Pro can only manage to shoot 4K / 60fps Dolby Vision in 1x wide or 3.7x zoom.

For shake-free footages, vivo also promises gimbal-grade stabilization with an upgraded ±1.5-degree stabilization angle aside from the Dual-Channel EIS feature.

ACES Workflow was also incorporated for better color management and seamless color grading in editing software when synced across multiple devices.

Portrait Video was also improved to 4K / 60fps (previously limited to 4K / 30fps). vivo’s custom styles such as Cold -White or Classic Negative can also be applied when shooting in this mode.

On the other hand, the vanilla X300 is also capable of recording 4K / 120fps clips through Pro mode.

With the special camera kit in mind, it complements the 4K Stage All-in-One Recording found on the X300 Pro together with 20x Long-Range Motion Snapshot and Dual-View Stage Video add-ons.

These might make the X300 Pro the bestest compact concert companion just yet.

Refinements Within

Both of the X300 phones feature a Unibody 3D Glass Design that seamlessly blends the camera hump towards the rear cover.

There’s also the Coral Velvet Glass Technique for that fingerprint-resistant back design that’s also pleasant to the touch.

Both models are also slim just below the 8mm mark (7.95mm and 7.99mm respectively). Durability-wise, these X300 phones still rock dual IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance ratings.

Other notable improvements include USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port standard, UFS 4.1 storage protocol, as well as Bluetooth 6.0 and Wi-Fi 6G support for the X300 Pro.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Lastly, the X300 series will premiere the latest OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 with a revamped look a la Apple’s Liquid Glass as well as seamless Apple Ecosystem integration — much like any other Chinese phone brands these days.

It’s said that this version will (finally) kill the long-running Funtouch OS and will be launched in India on October 15.

Pricing and Availability

The vivo X300 is available in Black, Blue, Pink, Purple, and Red colorways.

Meanwhile, the X300 Pro is available in four shades: Black, Brown, Blue, and White.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Pricing and configuration in China are as follows:

X300

• 12+256GB = CNY 4399 (US$ 620 / EUR 535 / GBP 465 / SG$ 800 / MYR 2610 / PhP 36,000 / INR 54,790)
• 16+256GB = CNY 4699 (US$ 660 / EUR 570 / GBP 500 / SG$ 860 / MYR 2790 / PhP 38,490 / INR 58,530)
• 12+512GB = CNY 4999 (US$ 700 / EUR 610 / GBP 530 / SG$ 910 / MYR 2970 / PhP 40,900 / INR 62,260)
• 16+512GB = CNY 5299 (US$ 745 / EUR 645 / GBP 560 / SG$ 965 / MYR 3145 / PhP 43,360 / INR 65,995)
• 16+1TB = CNY 5799 (US$ 815 / EUR 705 / GBP 615 / SG$ 1060 / MYR 3440 / PhP 47,450 / INR 72,230)

X300 Pro

• 12+256GB = CNY 5299 (US$ 745 / EUR 645 / GBP 560 / SG$ 965 / MYR 3145 / PhP 43,360 / INR 65,995)
• 16+512GB = CNY 5999 (US$ 845 / EUR 730 / GBP 635 / SG$ 1095 / MYR 3560 / PhP 49,085 / INR 74,715)
• 16+1TB = CNY 6699 (US$ 940 / EUR 815 / GBP 710 / SG$ 1220 / MYR 3975 / PhP 54,815 / INR 83,435)
• 16+1TB Photographer Kit Edition = CNY 8299 (US$ 1165 / EUR 1010 / GBP 880 / SG$ 1520 / MYR 4930 / PhP 67,910 / INR 103,360)

* These are only rough, rounded-off price estimates

There’s no word on global availability just yet but it’s expected to rollout months after the Mainland China launch.

Press materials also suggest that global versions will only come with a maxed out config of 16+512GB as opposed to China’s 1TB variants.

SEE ALSO: vivo X200 Pro+ review: 200+ Days After

For years, Samsung’s Fan Edition (FE) line has been the go-to choice for users who want flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag. This year, that promise is stronger than ever. The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE brings premium design, top-tier performance, and smart AI features from the Galaxy S25 series — all at a lower price point. It’s shaping up to be Samsung’s most well-rounded FE device yet.

Before we delve deeper into the details, here’s a quick rundown of what you’re getting this year.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Key Specifications:

• Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, peak brightness up to 1,900 nits
• Chipset: Exynos 2400 (4nm)
• RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM with 128GB / 256GB / 512GB storage options
• Rear Cameras: 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 8MP (telephoto, 3x optical zoom)
• Front Camera: 12MP wide
• Battery: 4,900mAh with 45W fast charging, reverse wireless charging
• Build: Enhanced Armor Aluminum frame, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Plus
• OS: Android 16 with One UI 8 and Galaxy AI features
• Other: IP68 water and dust resistance, under-display fingerprint sensor (optical)

Familiar yet refined

Samsung has made subtle but meaningful design tweaks to the Galaxy S25 FE. It now features an enhanced Armor Aluminum frame, offering a sturdier, more premium feel while remaining lightweight at just 190g—down from 213g last year. Despite being an FE model, it feels every bit as polished as a flagship, especially with its refined matte finish and smooth edges.

The phone comes in four colors:  White, Navy, Icy Blue, and Jet Black. All options look sleek and minimal but as a white phone enthusiast, the white variant I have I think looks the best. The overall aesthetic feels more refined and flagship-like than ever before. The IP68 rating ensures protection against dust and water, while Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Plus keeps both front and back safe from scratches.

In the hand, the Galaxy S25 FE feels solid yet slim, giving off that high-end feel you’d expect from Samsung’s flagship series. However, because of its thin profile, it can be a bit slippery. I’ve had it slip a few times when I wasn’t gripping it tightly. Thankfully, I’m still not beyond my quick reflex years. Simply put, it’s one of those devices that feels so smooth and premium, you’ll want to handle it with just a bit more care.

Display: Bright, immersive, and fluid

The Galaxy S25 FE’s 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is one of its strongest features. Colors are rich and accurate, blacks are deep, and overall contrast is excellent. With a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, outdoor visibility is more than decent, even under harsh sunlight.

Samsung has also made the bezels slimmer this time. From last year’s 88% screen-to-body ratio, the S25 FE now reaches 89.2%, thanks to a noticeably thinner bottom bezel. It’s still slightly thicker than the rest, but the improvement is clear and adds to the phone’s more immersive look.

The display supports up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which automatically adjusts depending on what you’re doing. You can also switch to the standard 60Hz mode if you prefer to extend battery life. Overall, the Galaxy S25 FE delivers a true flagship experience when it comes to display performance. It’s bright, fluid, and immersive, easily one of the best you’ll find at this price range.

Powerful but runs warm

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE runs on the Exynos 2400 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM, delivering consistently smooth performance across day-to-day tasks. Multitasking feels fluid, with apps launching quickly and transitions appearing seamless whether you’re browsing, watching videos, or switching between social media apps.

Gaming is also a strong point for this phone. Titles like Asphalt Legends and Roblox run smoothly with stable frame rates and no visible lag or stuttering. The graphics look sharp, and animations remain fluid even during fast-paced moments.

However, one noticeable issue is heat buildup. The phone tends to get quite warm during extended gaming sessions or when used heavily, sometimes to the point of being uncomfortable to hold. Using a case helps reduce the heat transfer to your palms, but if you prefer using the phone without one, it might be something to watch out for.

Overall, the S25 FE offers reliable performance that feels fast and responsive in everyday use — just be mindful of the heat during intensive tasks.

Reliable shooters, great versatility

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE carries over the same camera hardware as last year’s model — a 50MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, and 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. While this setup still delivers reliable performance, it’s a bit of a letdown that Samsung didn’t introduce any hardware upgrades. The company also didn’t confirm whether there were any major software or image processing improvements, so the overall shooting experience feels quite familiar if you’ve used the previous model.

That said, the cameras remain solid performers. The 50MP wide camera produces sharp, detailed photos that are processed down to 12MP by default for better dynamic range and noise control.

You can switch to full 50MP mode for higher resolution, but the results often look a bit softer — possibly due to aggressive noise reduction. 

The 12MP ultra-wide lens performs well, capturing expansive shots with consistent color reproduction and minimal distortion.

The 8MP telephoto lens handles 3x optical zoom decently, particularly in well-lit environments.

However, image quality noticeably dips in lower light or indoor settings, where details appear less defined. It’s still very usable for social media and casual photography, but the limitations of an 8MP sensor are clear.

On the bright side, the 2x digital zoom delivers surprisingly clean, almost lossless results, adding flexibility to your shooting options.

Portrait mode works as expected — subject separation is good, and the background blur feels natural.

The 12MP front camera is a welcome upgrade from last year’s 10MP sensor, offering sharper selfies with improved detail and color accuracy. It can occasionally oversaturate skin tones, depending on lighting, but overall, it’s a dependable shooter for daily use.

In short, while the S25 FE’s cameras aren’t a big leap forward, they still offer a versatile, reliable setup that gets the job done across a variety of scenarios.

Battery life and charging: Reliable all-day power

The Galaxy S25 FE has a 4,900mAh battery, a small but welcome upgrade over the previous 4,700mAh cell. Real-world performance is solid: it easily lasts a full day of moderate use, including streaming, browsing, and social media.

Heavy users might find themselves needing a top-up by evening, but with 45W fast charging, getting back to 100% takes just a bit over an hour. Samsung claims similar charging speeds to the Galaxy S25+, and while it’s not the fastest on the market, it’s definitely efficient. Reverse wireless charging is another handy addition for powering accessories on the go.

Galaxy AI Features: Smarter than ever

One of the biggest upgrades this year is the inclusion of Samsung Galaxy AI features, previously limited to flagship models. You now get tools like Circle to Search, AI Photo Editing, Live Translate, and Note Assist—all designed to make everyday tasks faster and smarter.

These features genuinely elevate the experience, especially if you’re into productivity or creativity. Having AI-powered tools on a Fan Edition model makes the S25 FE feel much more premium and future-proof.

Price and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is available in three variants:

• 8GB + 128GB – PhP 39,990
• 8GB + 256GB – PhP 44,990
• 8GB + 512GB – PhP 53,990

Is the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE your GadgetMatch?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a thoughtfully refined Fan Edition device that brings flagship-grade features within reach. Its bright display, sturdy build, versatile camera system, and Galaxy AI enhancements make it a strong all-rounder for daily use.

It’s a no-brainer Swipe Right, recommended for anyone who wants the essence of the Galaxy S25 experience in a more affordable package.

Still, for its PhP 39,990 starting price, it faces tough competition. While it does most things right, I can’t help but feel that Samsung could have pushed a bit further — especially in battery longevity and heat management.

That said, the Galaxy S25 FE delivers a flagship-like experience without going all-in on flagship prices. It’s the kind of phone that gets the essentials right and looks good doing it.

realme has officially expanded the realme 15 Series 5G lineup with the respective launches of the realme 15T 5G and realme 15 Pro 5G Game of Thrones Limited Edition.

As announced earlier, the realme 15 Pro GoT Edition is a collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products.

Inspired by the HBO legendary fantasy series, the special edition phone was officially unveiled at the GoT Studio Tour in Northern Ireland.

Of course, it still retains the realme 15 Pro’s specs, including its Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, 7000mAh battery, and triple 50MP AI camera with 40K@60fps video support.

The phone comes with Game of Thrones-themed filters and UI designs. Only 5,000 units of the model will be available worldwide.

In the Philippines, the phone is priced at PhP 39,999 with the following inclusions:

• Complimentary realme Watch S2
• 1-Year Screen Damage Protection Plan
• Exclusive Collector’s Box with Iron Throne stand and King’s Hand pin
• Custom postcards and stickers

realme 15T 5G debuts

Meanwhile, the realme 15T 5G has likewise made its global debut. It features the same 7000mAh battery with 60W fast charging.

It uses a MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Max 5G processor, and has a 4,000-nit 120Hz AMOLED display.

For its cameras, the variant has dual 50MP shooters, but minus the 4K video capabilities.

Moreover, the phone also has triple IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings to make it a tough and water-resistant daily driver.

There are two color options: Flowing Silver and Suit Titanium. There are two storage configurations:

• 8GB+256GB: PhP 16,999
• 12GB+512GB: PhP 19,999

As part of early launch offers, the 15T 5G can be availed for as low as PhP 12,869 on Shopee from October 8 to 18. It will also be paired with a free realme Buds T200 Lite.

Offline customers, meanwhile, can get a TechLife Bluetooth Speaker and 1-year Screen Damage Protection Plan while supplies for the freebie bundle last.