Philippines

HONOR X9c Smart: Steady performer, intriguing package

Budget? Lower mid-range? A mix of both

Published

March 6, 2025

Manila Connoisseur

The HONOR X9c Smart 5G was announced with relatively much less fanfare, compared to its bigger brother, the HONOR X9c 5G. It’s just meant to be the more affordable counterpart to the X9c 5G, for those who have a smaller spending capacity.

HONOR made it available exclusively on Shopee initially. At a glance, this particular handset combines features we usually see on budget phones, as well as some usually reserved for lower mid-rangers.

The smartphone has since had a rousing opening day during the 3.3 sale. HONOR offered it for as low as PhP 10,799 with discounts, a generous reduction from its PhP 13,999 original asking price.

Before we scroll down further, here’s our review of the HONOR X9c 5G: HONOR X9c 5G review: Tough and steady

It’s not required reading, however, having experienced the X9c 5G prior, it’s hard to make a take about the Smart counterpart without considering all my a posteriori knowledge.

Having put all of that out of the way, this article will focus on some of the similarities and differences between the two models, and if the HONOR X9c Smart is worthy of consideration as a BudgetMatch.

HONOR X9c Smart overview

Here’s a quick rundown of the HONOR X9c Smart’s main specs:

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra
Platform: MagicOS 8.0 (Android 14)
RAM: 12GB (plus up to 12GB virtual RAM)
Storage: 256GB
Cameras: 108MP main, 5MP ultra-wide, 16MP selfie
Display: 6.8-inch 120Hz TFT LCD, 2412 x 1080, 850nits HBM brightness
Battery: 5,800mAh Li-ion Polymer, up to 35W fast charging

It’s not specified what the X9c Smart’s actual waterproof or durability ratings are, but it can withstand accidental splashes or a couple of knee-level accidental drops.

The 5G connectivity is a great selling point, since most budget-level offerings selling for about PhP 10,000 and below usually do not have that.

Appearance, feel

The review unit we got came in Jade Cyan; Midnight Black is its only other color option. The two phones virtually have the same width, with the X9c 5G just thicker by 0.01 inches.

But since the X9c sports a curved display and the X9c Smart doesn’t, it kind of feels that the latter is significantly wider. At least, that’s how felt during actual usage. I also mentioned before that I am generally not a fan of curved displays.

Funny enough, the X9c Smart is also slightly taller than its “bigger brother”. That makes this more affordable release ideal for content consumption and gaming, as there is more real estate in front.

At the back, the X9c Smart’s donut-style camera island reminds of the HONOR X9b. It’s also a little larger than that of the X9c 5G’s.

The X9c Smart has a smooth back cover that kind of just lets your fingers glide past it. The same goes for its frame. There’s a little slipperiness to it, so just have the right amount of care. There’s a clear case for extra friction, if needed.

Display and audio: Obvious differences

One of the obvious differences between the two handsets is their displays. The X9c 5G uses AMOLED material. The X9c Smart, meanwhile, utilizes a TFT LCD panel.

Naturally, the X9c Smart’s display looks inferior when compared to other midrange devices. But LCD screens are usually cheaper, and it’s definitely a factor for the Smart’s cheaper price tag.

In my experience, having an LCD display on the HONOR X9c Smart makes it difficult for browsing at night. That’s because the light feels more intense on the eyes.

I have this usual habit of browsing until the minute I decide to sleep — with the room’s lights already turned off. It’s just something more difficult to do on an LCD screen, compared to more expensive devices. That’s even when brightness is set to its lowest setting, or eye comfort turned on.

Moreover, the X9c also has a higher pixel density at 437ppi compared to just 389ppi for the X9c Smart. That may not seem like a lot, but if you’re big into graphics or watching 1920 x 1080 videos, there will be an “eye test” difference.

Another glaring difference is the maximum brightness. It’s challenging to see what’s on your screen on the X9c Smart, especially when outdoors. It’s a sucker for reflection too.

If we are to isolate this department, the HONOR X9c Smart feels more of a “budget” device than a “mid-ranger”.

Furthermore, the X9c Smart also has just one speaker, located on the bottom of the phone. It blasts sound that kind of feels a bit more dull compared to the rich and high-quality audio you’d hear from the X9c 5G.

The X9c 5G has dual speakers, one on each edge, to give users a more immersive soundscape whether at home or outdoors. It’s also a lot louder when set at about 50% or 60%.

Same operating system

If anything, it’s good of the Smart variant to have the same MagicOS 8.0 platform. There was no bloatware whatsoever upon setup.

Although again, I had to download Google Keyboard, as the X9c Smart had Microsoft SwiftKey by default. Still not a fan having to swipe left for notifications and right for the settings drawer either.

On the positive end, there’s still Magic Portal for quick noting down or saving bits of information and other media. HONOR Share allows you to send files in just a matter of seconds.

I also happen to own an HONOR Magicbook Pro 16, so it took me just a breeze to transfer files for this very article.

Also, AI Eraser performs decently. It’s something you can use to just take off unwanted elements on your photos.

Here are a few instances:

Performance: Just about right

When it comes to performance, the X9c operates on the 4nm process, while the X9c Smart operates “only” on the 6nm process. Although, the latter has two 2.5GHz cores compared to the X9c’s four 2.2GHz cores, which allows for more multitasking.

Understanding how all of this works is key to utilizing your daily driver. Users can still harness capable performance from the X9c Smart given the maximum clock speed on those two main cores to power tasks like gaming or browsing. The key here is to limit the apps opened at a time.

It helps that the X9c Smart also has 12GB of base RAM, which sets it apart from budget phones. Keeping a few social media, music streaming, and navigation apps open doesn’t slow it down too much.

Naturally, notifications or messages may still show up a bit delayed when you reconnect it to the internet after hours offline. But swiping on the display, switching from one app to the other, and more executing more tasks feel smoother compared to cheaper offerings.

Steady for gaming

Onto gaming, the X9c Smart likewise has a dedicated Gaming Manager when you open mobile gaming titles. You can switch from Balanced and Game modes.

But again, you was still able to swipe and trigger the currently opened apps view on Do Not Disturb mode, which shouldn’t be happening.

In any case, the phone holds up well for usual titles like Honor of Kings or Need For Speed: No Limits. You can set the graphics settings to high, and it won’t bulge. I don’t recall the phone heating up too much, either.

Cameras: A deal-breaker?

When it comes to the X9c Smart’s cameras, it actually has the same hardware as those of the X9c’s. There’s a 108MP main camera and a 16MP selfie counterpart. But obviously, hardware is just one half of the equation.

The imaging engine on the X9c Smart leads to captures that lean on the more high-contrast side. It’s not dull, but I am not a fan of how it’s processed. The color science is a bit off, too.

Quality wise, as the camera allows for a large pixel count and has a decently-sized lens opening, you can still get some sharpness, clarity, and detail on some snaps.

It’s just how they look overall that isn’t 100% appealing to the eye. Still, you can pull off above par captures with the appropriate framing, lighting, and other factors. It doesn’t hurt to edit them too afterwards.

Here are a few samples:

With the proper tinkering, you can retain some detail against the light:

You can retain detail at up to about 3X zoom, before subjects get smudgy-looking.

Portraits are tough to execute. The camera cannot tell the main subject apart from what you intend to blur. But that’s asking too much. Nevertheless, if you manage to pull off some portraits, they look decent too.

The selfie camera produces generally good results. There’s plenty of detail. Although sometimes, the tone looks warmer than it is in real life.

Where it gets tough is during nighttime or under low-light conditions. You have to be incredibly still to retain detail or clarity.

The X9c Smart also lacks stabilization for filming, unlike its X9c 5G counterpart. You have to either use a gimbal or do your best to be still while shooting videos. If it’s a factor, the Smart also supports up to a 30fps frame rate.

As expected, photography and videography are both just better on the HONOR X9c 5G.

Your BudgetMatch?

There’s no doubt the HONOR X9c Smart has a good mix of features from both lower and upper segments. I don’t see why it isn’t a Swipe Right, especially if you’re coming from 4G-capable-only devices, or previous generation handsets with lower memory and storage and more inferior displays.

It’s a decent upgrade, especially for students or entry-level workers. It can provide steady performance and long-lasting battery life for everyday use.

With 5G connectivity, this can serve as a hotspot for others who have a lot on their plate. It’s great to have useful functions like AI Eraser, Magic Portal, and Magic Capsule, too.

However, if you’re asking PhP 13,999 from me, I’d say it’s a Swipe Left. But if it’s for the introductory price of PhP 10,799, or even about PhP 12,000, I’d consider the X9c Smart.

Likewise, if you’re big on camera performance, Swipe Left. There are other devices that can give you better captures, for just about the same asking price.

Related Topics:HONOR X9c Smart HONOR X9c Smart 5G

Lifestyle

Festive foodpanda riders bring holiday cheer to Metro Manila traffic

Sometimes, holiday comfort shows up through a glowing pink reindeer~

Published

December 18, 2025

Her

If you have spent the past few days trapped in Metro Manila traffic, staring at brake lights and questioning your life choices, you may have noticed something unexpectedly charming slipping through the carmaggedon.

It’s not your imagination. That really is a foodpanda partner rider with reindeer antlers peeking out of a glowing pink delivery box, wrapped in fairy lights like it wandered out of Santa’s workshop and into EDSA.

You will be seeing more of these festive riders around Metro Manila until the end of the year, and honestly, the timing feels ideal.

The holidays have a way of piling everything on at once, especially when work deadlines stretch longer. Commutes also feel heavier, and the city moves at a pace that tests even the most patient among us. In moments like that, a small spark of cheer lands differently.

There is something soothing about that soft pink glow cutting through traffic. It interrupts the noise, even for a second, and reminds you that joy does not always arrive loudly. Sometimes it shows up quietly, on two wheels, while you are stuck at a red light.

For those ordering from foodpanda, the delivery does not feel purely transactional during this season. It arrives carrying comfort and a little emotional exhale after a long day.

When everything feels rushed and overwhelming, having food or groceries show up with a touch of holiday cheer feels strangely reassuring.

What makes it hit closer to home is the people behind it. These partner riders already do so much, navigating traffic, weather, and time pressures so others can slow down, even briefly.

Seeing them bring extra effort and warmth into their work feels deeply Filipino. It reflects that instinct to look out for one another and to find lightness even when the surroundings are messy.

In its own understated way, it is a reminder that someone out there understands how exhausting the season can be. So when a glowing foodpanda delivery bike pulls up beside you in traffic, take it as a small holiday signal. You are not alone in the rush.

News

TNT network recognized for having Best Mobile Latency

According to Ookla analysis

Published

December 10, 2025

GadgetMatch

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

TNT has been recognized for having the Best Mobile Latency, according to network intelligence and connectivity insights company Ookla, which is known for its internet speed tests.

Based on Ookla analysis for Q1 to Q2 2025, TNT’s network, powered by Smart, led with a median latency of 45.89 milliseconds (ms) for all network technologies.

(NOTE: Mobile latency measures how quickly data travels over a network; the lower the latency, the faster the response)

This enables users to tap, click, and swipe on their favorite apps in real-time. For streaming and mobile gaming, it also means a smoother experience.

Be it MOBA titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang or FPS games like Call of Duty Mobile, which both need real-time responsiveness, TNT allows gamers to make their best moves without worrying about lag.

Binge-watchers, meanwhile, can enjoy their favorite series, vlogs, and micro-dramas without buffering. On the other hand, students and professionals can attend online meetings or quick calls using just mobile data.

Furthermore, online live sellers and shoppers can also enjoy real-time transactions, ensuring their favorite items make it to the cart without delay.

Such low latency is also crucial for those who love scoring flash deals or vouchers where those who are among the first to click win discounts.

Users who want to level up their experience can switch to TNT by getting a TNT SIM or eSIM at accredited retailers and convenience stores. They may also do so via the Smart Online Store.

Subscribers from other networks can also easily switch to TNT without changing their number through Mobile Number Portability (MNP).

Deals

12.12 PH top picks: OPPO, Infinix, Xiaomi, Dyson, Laifen, more

12.12 PH sale

Published

December 9, 2025

GadgetMatch

Image generated by Copilot

Every month, your favorite shopping app holds their monthly sale. Each with their unique discount and bundle offers.

To save you time, GadgetMatch has compiled some top picks and steals for your convenience.

The final double-double monthly sale of the year on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop is once again upon us. And 12.12 stretches up to payday, giving online shoppers the perfect window to browse gifts if they haven’t had their last-minute Christmas shopping yet.

Here are a few picks.

(This list is being updated regularly throughout the sale period)

OPPO 12.12 Sale

Until December 14, OPPO is offering all-day vouchers on their best-selling smartphones and devices.

Score discounts of up to PhP 2,000 off on select devices, like the OPPO Find X9, OPPO A5 Pro, and OPPO Reno14 Series 5G, among others.

On top of these discounts, customers can get up to a PhP 3,000 off exclusive discount, depending on the platform they will use to shop.

There are also freebies for purchases until December 14 across all three ecommerce apps, including the OPPO Enco Buds3 Pro, OPPO Pad SE Case, and DJI Osmo Mobile SE.

Xiaomi 12.12: Smarter tech, bigger savings

Next, Xiaomi’s 12.12 Christmas Sale starts from December 11 and lasts until December 14 on Lazada and Shopee. Customers can get up to 65% off on select products and up to 40% off on POCO offerings.

The list includes the newly-released POCO F8 series, as well as the Xiaomi 15T, among other phones and accessories.

Here’s a quick breakdown of discounted prices:

POCO F8 Ultra (16+512): PhP 42,999 (2,000 off)
POCO F8 Pro (12+512): PhP 29,999 (2,000 off)
Xiaomi 15T (12+256): PhP 24,999 (2,000 off)
POCO Pad X1 (8+512): PhP 21,999 (3,000 off)
POCO X7 Pro (12+512): PhP 16,599 (3,400 off)
Redmi Pad Pro 5G (8+256): PhP 15,999 (3,000 off)
Xiaomi Pad 7 (8+128): PhP 14,599 (5,400 off)
POCO Pad M1 (8+256): PhP 13,999 (2,000 off)
Redmi Note 14 (6+128): PhP 7,499 (500 off)
Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro: PhP 3,599 (200 off)
Redmi Watch 5 Lite: PhP 2,299 (400 off)

Home AIoT products also get discounts:

TV A Pro 2026 43″: PhP 16,490 (1,500 off)
Curved Gaming Monitor G34WQi: PhP 15,199 (800 off)
Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite: PhP 5,299 (2,700 off)
Robot Vacuum S40C: PhP 7,699 (1,100 off)
Outdoor Camera CW300: PhP 1,799 (400 off)

Infinix: NOTE 50, GT 30, HOT 60, more get deals

Infinix fans, meanwhile, can take advantage of several deals on some of Infinix’s best releases this year.

There’s the NOTE 50 Pro, GT 30, and HOT 60 Pro+, to name a few already budget-friendly devices.

For their 12.12 Bigger Pamasko Sale, Infinix is offering deals at up to 40% off until December 12. Plus, there is a chance to join the XPAD 20 Pro giveaway so head over to Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop as soon as you can.

SKG: Wellness and massage devices for less

Meanwhile, those looking to elevate their Christmas gifts this season can turn to SKG Philippines for their wellness and massage devices.

There’s the SKG G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat (PhP 10,999). A major upgrade from traditional neck pillows, this product is engineered for a smarter, deeper, and truly customizable relaxation experience.

It utilizes dual-mode technology, combining TENS and Vibration-Powered Massage to soothe tension and promote active strengthening of neck muscles.

Then, there’s the SKG F1 Pro Massage Gun (PhP 2,999) with six adjustable intensity levels. It has a 3200 RPM motor and a 7mm amplitude to help loosen tight muscles and ease soreness. This product also comes with interchangeable heads.

Last is the SKG ES300 Eye Massager (PhP 6,499) that is lightweight and foldable up to 180 degrees. It is perfect for commuters, students, and frequent travelers as it helps sooth tired eyes, reduce puffiness, and melt away stress.

SKG’s products are available via Shopee and TikTok. In addition, a five-star review on Shopee until December 30 lets users take home a free TechLife Smart Watch Neo.

Laifen: Salon-quality styling made possible at home

Furthermore, there’s also Laifen for salon-quality styling made possible right at home, helping users save both time and money especially at a time where squeezing a salon appointment can be difficult.

For its 12.12 holiday deals, Laifen has offers for a handful of hair dryers. There are several color options to choose from, and a free TechLife Handheld Fan Turbo for purchases on December 12.

First, the Laifen Mini (PhP 5,799) offers impressive performance in a compact and lightweight frame.

Its next-gen motor spins at 110,000 RPM for fast and efficient drying while Noise Reduction Technology ensures a peaceful operation. Parents will also appreciate its Child Mode for a gentler airflow and heat.

There’s also the Laifen SE 2 (PhP 7,499) for improved power and precision. It produces a swift 21.5 m/s airflow and supports 10 styling combinations, two airspeed settings, and five temperature options.

Last is the Laifen SE Lite for a budget-friendly option. It has powerful high-speed drying at releases 150 million negative ions to leave hair soft, smooth, and party-ready. It likewise has a six-layer noise reduction system.

TechLife: Exclusive holiday promos

TechLife, an already budget-friendly everyday tech essentials brand, is offering its products for less this 12.12 sale. Headlining the lineup are the TechLife Pad Pro 12″ and TechLife Smart Watch L2.

The tablet features a 12.2-inch 2.4K FHD+ display, 90Hz refresh rate, and 480 nits of brightness. It also supports PC Mode and split-screen functionality.

This 12.12, it is priced at PhP 13,999 and comes with a free Smart Watch Neo. This offer is available both on Shopee and TikTok.

On the other hand, the wearable features a 2.02-inch display, IP68 dust and water protection. It retails for PhP 2,022 while the magnetic strap is an add-on for PhP 499.

Other options for shoppers are:

TechLife Pad Lite 8″: PhP 4,999
Smart Watch L1 Lite: PhP 2,699
Power Bank R212 10000mAh: PhP 1,199
Power Bank S202 10000mAh: PhP 799

Dyson Holiday Sale

Lastly, Dyson has an exclusive 12.12 Holiday Sale happening via their website and Dyson stores nationwide.

Customers can get up to PhP 14,770 off on select Dyson machines. Plus, as an extra offer, they can also get an extra PhP 5,000 off with a minimum spend of PhP 55,000.

Among the participating products are: