Published on March 11, 2025 | By Technology Gyan, Mobile Tech Expert

The smartphone market under ₹25,000 is a battleground, and iQOO just dropped a bombshell—the iQOO Neo 10R 5G. Priced at an unbeatable ₹24,999* (with offers), this device promises flagship-level performance with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, a massive 6400mAh battery, and a buttery-smooth 144Hz AMOLED display. As a seasoned mobile reviewer with years of hands-on experience, I’ve tested countless phones, and the Neo 10R stands out as a game-changer. Is it the best gaming phone in its segment? Does it deliver beyond the spec sheet? Let’s unpack everything—design, performance, camera, battery, and more—in this detailed review.

Unboxing Experience: What’s in the Box?

Opening the iQOO Neo 10R 5G box feels like unwrapping a performance gift. The packaging is bold yet minimal, with “Neo 10” emblazoned on the back, hinting at the power inside. Here’s what you’ll find:

• iQOO Neo 10R 5G smartphone
• 80W fast charger (a rarity in 2025 as brands ditch chargers)
• USB-C charging cable
• Transparent TPU case (instant protection—no extra purchase needed)
• Quick start guide and warranty card

No fancy extras, just the essentials to get you started. The inclusion of a fast charger is a big win, especially when competitors like Realme and Xiaomi often skip it in this price range. The TPU case feels sturdy, offering decent drop protection right out of the gate—a thoughtful touch for clumsy users like me!

Design & Build: Slim, Light, and Ready to Race

The iQOO Neo 10R defies expectations for a phone with a 6400mAh battery. Typically, phones with such massive batteries (think Poco X6 Pro or Redmi Note 13 Pro) feel chunky, but iQOO has worked magic here. At 196 grams, it’s surprisingly light and slim, with excellent weight distribution that makes it a joy to hold.

• Color Variants:
  • Raging Blue: A dual-tone blue-and-white finish inspired by racing tracks—perfect for the performance vibe.
  • Moon Night Titanium: A sleek, understated option for minimalists.
• Materials: Polycarbonate back and frame with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges.
• Dimensions: Slim profile despite the big battery—exact numbers TBD, but it feels thinner than most 6000mAh+ rivals.

I tested the Raging Blue variant, and its racing-inspired texture instantly caught my eye. The back has a subtle gradient that shifts under light, blending sporty aesthetics with practicality. Unlike glass-backed phones (e.g., Realme 12 Pro), it won’t shatter on a drop, though it lacks that premium glassy feel. The matte finish is a lifesaver—after hours of gaming, there were barely any fingerprints. The polycarbonate frame feels solid, and the phone’s IP65 rating adds dust and splash resistance, a bonus for outdoor use.

In hand, it’s deceptive—I guessed 190 grams during my initial weigh-in, and I was only 6 grams off! Compared to bulkier options like the Poco F6 (205g), the Neo 10R feels nimble, making it ideal for extended gaming or one-handed use.

Display: 144Hz AMOLED That Wows

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is a visual stunner, built for gamers and binge-watchers alike. With a 144Hz refresh rate, 4500 nits peak brightness, and HDR certification, it’s a step above most sub-₹25,000 phones.

• Resolution: Full HD+ with crisp, vibrant visuals.
• Refresh Rate Options: Smart Switch (adapts to content), Standard (60Hz), or 144Hz for max smoothness.
• Brightness: I tested it in direct sunlight—full brightness cuts through glare effortlessly.
• Protection: Schott Xensation Up glass paired with a pre-applied screen protector (a nice touch!).
• Extras: 3840Hz PWM dimming reduces eye strain during late-night sessions.

Scrolling at 144Hz feels like gliding on butter, and games like Clash of Clans, Brawl Stars, and Clash Royale (all 144Hz-supported) were a treat. Watching HDR content on YouTube at 1080p showcased deep blacks and punchy colors, with symmetrical bezels (except a slightly thicker chin) keeping distractions minimal. Compared to the Poco X6 Pro’s 120Hz OLED, the Neo 10R’s higher refresh rate and brightness give it an edge for immersive viewing.

Dropping it accidentally during testing? No scratches, thanks to the pre-applied protector and durable glass—a relief for someone as accident-prone as me!

Performance: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Unleashed

The heart of the iQOO Neo 10R is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, a chipset that delivers Antutu scores of over 1.5 million. That’s flagship-tier power in a budget package—rivaling phones twice its price.

• Gaming Test: I pushed it with titles like BGMI and Call of Duty Mobile at 90 FPS (options include HDR, Ultra HDR, and Smooth Extreme+). The gameplay was flawless—smooth as silk, with no stutters even after 30-minute sessions.
• Cooling: A 643mm² vapor chamber cooling system keeps heat at bay. It gets mildly warm at 90 FPS, but never crosses into “overheating” territory—unlike some MediaTek Dimensity 8200 phones I’ve tested.
• Touch Response: The 2000Hz touch sampling rate makes every swipe and tap lightning-fast, a boon for competitive gamers.
• Features:
  • Ultra Game Mode: Boosts performance and visuals.
  • 4D Game Vibration: Adds tactile feedback.
  • eSports Mode: Optimized for pro-level play.
  • Voice Changer: A fun gimmick for squad chats.

I also tested the gyroscope—its response is snappy, making aiming in shooters a breeze. Compared to the Realme GT Neo 5 (Dimensity 6020), the Neo 10R’s consistent 90 FPS and better thermal management make it a gamer’s dream. Off-camera, I played for hours, and the frame rate stayed stable—something many rivals can’t claim.

Camera: A Pleasant Surprise

Gaming phones often compromise on cameras, but the Neo 10R’s 50MP Sony dual-camera setup (with ultrawide) punches above its weight.

• Main Camera (50MP): Sharp details, good color balance, and excellent low-light shots with Super Night Mode. Slight over-sharpening at 2x zoom, but it’s nothing deal-breaking.
• Ultrawide: It’s Decent for landscapes, though it loses some detail in dim conditions.
• Selfie Camera: Natural skin tones, no excessive beautification—my mustache (or lack thereof) looked true-to-life!
• Video: Rear supports 4K 60 FPS with EIS; front does 4K 30 FPS. Both deliver stable, vibrant footage.

In testing in artificial lighting, the main sensor captured crisp photos with accurate edge detection in portraits. The night mode impressed me—details in shadows popped without noise overload. Compared to the Poco F6’s camera, the Neo 10R holds its own, especially for casual users. What’s your take on iQOO cameras? Share in the comments—I’m curious!

Battery & Charging: Built to Last

The 6400mAh battery is a standout—possibly the largest in its class. Paired with 80W fast charging, it’s a gamer’s lifeline:

• Charging: 0-50% in ~26 minutes; full charge in under an hour.
• Battery Life: 1.5-2 days with mixed use (gaming, streaming, calls). Heavy gaming? Still a full day.

For context, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ (5000mAh) lasts less under similar loads. The Neo 10R’s slim design with this capacity is a technical marvel—perfect for marathon BGMI sessions.

Software: FunTouch OS 15 on Android 15

Running FunTouch OS 15 (Android 15-based), the Neo 10R offers a polished experience:

• Updates: 3 years of OS upgrades, 4 years of security patches—future-proofing done right.
• AI Features: Circle to Search, AI Eraser, Photo Enhancer, Instant Cutout—handy for creators.
• Bloatware: Some pre-installed apps (games, etc.), but removable.

With 8GB RAM (expandable) and UFS 3.1 storage (128GB or 256GB—opt for 256GB for speed), multitasking is seamless. Animations are fluid, and apps launch in a snap.

Extra Features

• Stereo Speakers: Loud, clear, and balanced—great for movies and games.
• IP65 Rating: Dust and splash protection.
• IR Blaster: Control your AC or TV—rare and useful.
• 5G: Ready for next-gen networks.

Pricing & Variants

• 8GB + 128GB: ₹24,999* (with offers)
• 8GB + 256GB: Slightly higher (TBD)
• Pre-booking: Starts March 11, 2025, 5 PM.

Verdict: Who Should Buy the iQOO Neo 10R 5G?

The iQOO Neo 10R 5G is a performance juggernaut that redefines value. Its Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, 144Hz display, and 6400mAh battery make it a top pick for gamers, while the camera and design sweeten the deal for all-around use.

Pros:

• Segment-leading performance
• Exceptional battery life
• Stunning display
• Solid cameras for the price

Cons:

• Polycarbonate build (not premium)
• No microSD slot

If gaming, battery life, or raw power is your priority, this phone is a steal at ₹25,000. Tell me—what excites you most about the Neo 10R? Drop your thoughts below!