When it comes to budget smartphones, Itel has steadily carved out a niche for itself by delivering value-packed devices at pocket-friendly prices. With the release of the Itel S25 and its sibling, the Itel S25 Ultra, the brand has drawn comparisons to premium giants like Samsung, particularly in design and naming conventions. However, the S25 stands out as the more practical choice for budget-conscious users who still want premium-like features. This review will break down the Itel S25, analyze its strengths and weaknesses, and explore why it might just be the better pick over the Ultra.

Design and Build

The Itel S25 sets itself apart with a simple yet appealing flat design. Unlike its Ultra sibling, which borrows heavily from Samsung’s curved aesthetics, the S25 adopts a more conventional look.

Key Design Features:

• Matte Back Finish: Offers a reflective pattern that avoids the “copied” appearance of the Ultra.
• Colors: Available in Bromo Black, Mambo Mint, and Sahara Gleam, catering to varied preferences.
• Headphone Jack: A rare inclusion in modern smartphones, making it a winner for audiophiles.
• IR Blaster: An unusual feature for a phone at this price point, providing additional functionality.

Build Quality:

While the design is robust, the absence of specific glass protection might concern some users. However, the flat screen ensures durability by minimizing risks associated with curved glass designs.

Display: A Budget Masterpiece

The Itel S25’s 6.6-inch 1080p AMOLED display is one of its standout features, boasting vibrant visuals and smooth performance.

Display Highlights:

• 120Hz Refresh Rate: Fully functional and adaptive, switching seamlessly between 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz for an optimized experience.
• Peak Brightness: At 1,800 nits, it’s brighter than many competitors, ensuring excellent visibility even under direct sunlight.
• Always-On Display: Adds a touch of premium functionality, rare in this price segment.

Comparison with the Ultra:

While the Ultra’s display suffers from software limitations, restricting the refresh rate outside the settings app, the S25 delivers a smoother and more consistent user experience.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Itel S25 is powered by the Unisoc T620 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage.

Performance Metrics:

• Processor: While not a powerhouse, the Unisoc T620 outperforms competitors like MediaTek’s Helio G91 at this price point.
• RAM Management: Excellent memory optimization ensures smooth multitasking.
• Storage: Expandable via microSD, catering to users with extensive media libraries.

Software Experience:

• Itel OS 14.5: Brings a polished UI with features like Smart Panel and Smart Hub for enhanced multitasking.
• AI Integration:
  • Ivana Voice Assistant: Summarizes documents and web pages for added convenience.
  • Ask AI Tool: Facilitates research and internet browsing, showcasing impressive AI capabilities for an entry-level device.
• OS Updates: Itel promises two major upgrades, marking a significant commitment to software longevity.

Camera: Decent for the Price

The Itel S25’s camera setup focuses on practicality, with a 50MP main sensor delivering acceptable results in well-lit conditions.

Key Features:

• Rear Camera: The single functional lens avoids the gimmickry of multiple low-resolution cameras.
• Video Recording: Supports up to 2K resolution at 30fps.
• Front Camera: Improved image processing enhances selfies compared to its predecessor.

Drawbacks:

• Autofocus: Slower and less responsive than the Ultra.
• Camera Lag: Occasional delays in the camera app may frustrate power users.

Real-World Usage:

For casual photographers, the camera performs well in ideal lighting. Night shots, however, can lack sharpness, and the absence of advanced stabilization affects video quality.

Gaming and Battery Life

The S25 is not designed for heavy gaming but manages light to moderate gaming reasonably well.

Gaming Performance:

• Titles like Call of Duty Mobile and PUBG run smoothly, though resource-intensive games may experience frame drops.
• While not a gamer’s dream, it handles casual gaming better than most competitors in the same price bracket.

Battery:

• 5,000mAh Capacity: Ensures all-day usage for most users.
• 18W Fast Charging: A decent addition, though not groundbreaking.
• Power Efficiency: Combined with the adaptive refresh rate, the battery optimization is notable.

Unique Features: The Itel Advantage

The Itel S25 boasts several standout features that are uncommon in its price range:

• Infrared Blaster: Adds versatility by enabling remote control functionality for TVs and other appliances.
• Optical Fingerprint Scanner: Thanks to the AMOLED display, the S25 includes an in-display scanner, a rarity at this price.
• AI Features: Enhanced by Ivana Assistant and Ask AI, offering tools usually seen in higher-end models.
• Vibrant Color Options: Aimed at younger audiences seeking personalized aesthetics.

Value Proposition

At $120, the Itel S25 redefines value in its category. With features like a 120Hz AMOLED display, AI integration, and a functional camera setup, it outshines many competitors.

Comparison Table: Itel S25 vs. Itel S25 Ultra

Final Verdict

The Itel S25 is an excellent choice for users seeking affordability without compromising on essential features. While it’s not without flaws—notably in camera software—its strengths, such as the 120Hz AMOLED display, robust design, and AI integration, make it a standout in its category.

For those debating between the S25 and the Ultra, the S25’s practical advantages, including its lower price and headphone jack, often outweigh the Ultra’s design-oriented perks. With its balanced feature set and remarkable affordability, the Itel S25 emerges as one of the best budget smartphones of the year.

The Itel S25 proves that a budget phone can punch well above its weight, making it an easy recommendation for anyone seeking maximum value without stretching their wallet.