Vivo has just unveiled its newest flagship smartphones in the Chinese market: the X300 and X300 Pro. Vivo’s X-series has, in my view, provided the best photography experience over the last few years, so my expectations were certainly high.
This year brings a slight twist to the lineup. There’s no X300 Pro Mini; instead, the standard X300 is compact and pocket-friendly, embodying many of the features found in the X300 Pro. In this review, I’ll concentrate on the Pro variant, as I’ve spent the majority of my time with it, and it is the one loaded with features.
What’s different this time?
Beginning with the design, the Vivo X300 Pro has traded in its curves for a flat, boxy aesthetic. It bears a resemblance to the iPhone and also features an Action Button on the left side.
Luke Baker
In contrast to the iPhone-like aspects, the camera module retains Vivo’s signature large, centrally located circular array. It’s quite noticeable but not as extreme as the X200 Ultra, which is exclusive to China.
This model is one of the first to utilize MediaTek’s newly launched Dimensity 9500 chip, developed with Vivo’s substantial input. Rather than a separate imaging chip, Vivo has integrated its V3+ chip directly into the Dimensity SoC.
This innovative setup facilitates millisecond-level autofocus and tracking of subjects
This innovative setup enables lightning-fast autofocus and precise subject tracking, as well as advanced video features like 4K recording at 120fps and portrait video effects in 4K at 60fps.
Luke Baker
The cameras have also received significant enhancements. The Pro model boasts a brand-new Sony main sensor measuring 1/1.3 inches, which Vivo has dubbed as having gimbal-grade stabilization. Additionally, the renowned 200Mp telephoto sensor of 1/1.4 inches has been improved.
Vivo collaborated closely with Samsung to produce a new version of this sensor that offers enhanced clarity, better light-gathering capabilities, and improved stabilization. It was already at the forefront of smartphone cameras, and with these upgrades and refined autofocus, it’s likely to remain unmatched.
Battery life is a bit complex. In China, the X300 Pro is equipped with a 6510 mAh silicon carbon battery, and Vivo is quite confident in its performance. Internal tests suggest it can outperform many devices with 7000 mAh batteries despite having a smaller capacity.
Luke Baker
However, internationally, users in certain regions might receive a 5440 mAh battery. The model I’ve been testing is of the smaller variant, and while it’s early to assess its performance conclusively, it has been adequate so far.
Some regions will receive a 5440 mAh battery internationally
The software has undergone a substantial revamp, particularly for the global audience. Vivo has been using Origin OS domestically and FunTouch OS overseas. After experiencing both, I can confidently say that Origin OS trumps the latter. It offers more features, superior aesthetics, and enhanced performance overall.
Luke Baker
The introduction of the X300 series marks the global launch of Origin OS, and I couldn’t be more excited. Origin OS 6 features a visual redesign that draws inspiration from Apple with its Liquid Glass-style elements and even a clone of Dynamic Island. While it may not be the most original approach, if it performs well, I have no complaints.
The photography kit
The X200 Ultra was notable for its optional photography kit and Zeiss teleconverter — an impressive set of accessories that I became quite fond of, but its limited release in China left many Vivo enthusiasts disappointed.
Now, both the X300 Pro and X300 will offer the photography kit option, and this version boasts significant improvements. While the hardware resembles the previous iteration, the case is now more robust, premium materials have been incorporated, and the lens attachment is far more secure.
This kit transforms the X300 Pro into a compact camera with a super-zoom lens
<pIf you haven’t encountered this kit previously, it effectively turns the X300 Pro into a compact camera with a super-zoom lens. It includes an ergonomic grip with a two-stage shutter button and tactile controls, support for photo filters, and an easy-to-use neck strap.
The highlight is the Zeiss teleconverter that attaches to the 85mm equivalent telephoto lens, providing a magnification of 2.35x. The lens featured in the kit is the same as the one offered with the X200 Ultra, but that’s hardly a drawback, given the exceptional results it yields.
Luke Baker
As expected, it enhances clarity for long-range shots, but I found it especially effective for closer subjects. For medium-distance portraits, the compression from the longer lens beautifully blurs the background, giving photos the professional polish typically seen with mirrorless cameras.
The most significant enhancement is the camera app. Previously, the teleconverter could only be utilized in a dedicated Telephoto Extender mode, but this time, it is accessible throughout the entire camera app.
Luke Baker
This upgrade enables capturing high-resolution 200Mp images, applying portrait mode effects, and recording in 4K at 120fps and Log — all previously unavailable features on the earlier model.
Camera performance
I’ve enjoyed using Vivo’s cameras for several years, so it’s no surprise that I’m impressed by the image quality from the X300 Pro. The most noticeable improvement is the speed of the autofocus, which I immediately noticed.
This improved autofocus is immensely helpful when utilizing the telephoto extender. The X200 Ultra often struggled to lock onto subjects quickly, making it challenging for activities like sports photography or birdwatching. Now, however, those tasks are much more manageable.
The enhanced stabilization on the primary lens results in outstanding video footage and remarkable low-light performance
As usual, I gravitated towards the 85mm lens, making it ideal for capturing candid street portraits. The boosted stabilization on the primary lens produces superb video footage and some of the finest low-light shots available.
Luke Baker
The front camera has also received a significant upgrade this year. It is now equipped with autofocus for the first time on the Pro series and has earned the Zeiss endorsement, allowing the use of features like the Zeiss natural color profile and bokeh simulations.
It’s worth noting that I’ve only had the phone for a couple of days, which means further testing is needed, but first impressions indicate that this phone is a powerhouse.
When will it be available?
The global launch remains pending, with no official release date announced yet. However, I currently have the global version in hand, so I suspect we won’t have to wait long.
A critical question is where the Vivo X300 models will be available. Typically, they make their way to several European markets, but the UK tends to be overlooked.
I’m optimistic that this could be a turning point, but at this moment, it’s uncertain. If you reside in the United States, it seems Vivo won’t be establishing a presence anytime soon.
If there’s ever a phone worth considering importing, this could be the one. And if it is available in your area, you should certainly put these cameras to the test.
