Infinix HOT 50i Unboxing and First Impressions

Infinix continues its trend of offering budget-friendly devices with the HOT 50i, part of the wider HOT 50 series. With a focus on practicality and functionality, this device positions itself as a solid contender in the budget smartphone market, specifically aimed at users looking for affordability without compromising key features.

Here’s a detailed look at what the HOT 50i offers, from pricing to performance:

What You Get in the Box

• Infinix HOT 50i device
• USB Type-C cable
• 18W fast charger
• SIM ejector tool
• Protective case
• User manual

Infinix HOT 50i Key Features to Consider

1. Pricing

One of the most notable aspects of the Infinix HOT 50i is its price point. At KES 13,700, it stands out as a value-oriented option in the Kenyan market, especially for users looking to balance affordability with decent performance. This pricing makes it an accessible device for many, particularly those seeking a reliable smartphone under a tight budget.

2. Cameras

The Infinix HOT 50i is equipped with a 48MP main camera and an 8MP front-facing camera. While the rear camera module might appear to house multiple lenses, it’s important to note that it only includes the main 48MP shooter. In terms of functionality, the camera setup is designed to handle everyday photography needs, but don’t expect it to compete with higher-end devices that have additional sensors or more advanced camera systems.

For selfie enthusiasts, the 8MP front camera is sufficient for basic usage. It supports standard features such as beauty modes and filters, but nothing particularly groundbreaking in terms of camera performance.

3. RAM and Storage

One of the strengths of the HOT 50i lies in its internal storage and memory. The device comes with 128GB of storage and 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM, which is a very competitive offering at this price point. This should be more than enough to handle everyday tasks such as messaging, social media browsing, and even casual gaming – thanks to the Helio G81 Processor (also found in the new Redmi 14C). It ensures that the phone remains responsive even with multiple apps running in the background.

4. Display

In terms of display, the Infinix HOT 50i features a 6.7-inch panel that supports up to 120Hz refresh rate. This is a noteworthy inclusion, as high refresh rates are typically reserved for more expensive devices. Users have the flexibility to switch between 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz, depending on their preferences and the type of content they’re viewing. This feature can enhance the overall user experience by making scrolling and animations appear smoother, though the resolution and overall display quality are standard for its class.

Infinix HOT 50i Other Specifications and Features

Build and Design

For a budget device, the Infinix HOT 50i manages to look quite good. The design feels more refined than you might expect at this price point, offering a pleasant balance between aesthetics and practicality. Despite being made of plastic, the phone feels solid and comfortable in hand, surpassing expectations for a device in the budget segment.

One of the standout aspects of the design is the finish, which effectively resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping the phone looking clean with regular use. While plastic builds are often considered less premium, the HOT 50i doesn’t come across as boring. In fact, the design has some character that add to its appeal.

Interestingly, the back cover has a feel that suggests it could be removable – although it isn’t. This design choice gives the phone a slightly retro vibe without compromising the structural integrity. Overall, it’s a well-thought-out design that doesn’t scream “budget,” making it a strong contender in its price range.

IP54 Rating

The HOT 50i comes with an IP54 rating, which provides some protection against dust and splashes of water. However, it’s important to note that this does not make it fully water-resistant, and users should avoid submerging the phone or exposing it to heavy rain.

USB Type-C and Charging

One of the more convenient features of the HOT 50i is the inclusion of a USB Type-C port with support for 18W fast charging. While this isn’t the fastest charging speed available, it should be enough to give the phone a reasonable charge in a short amount of time, making it a good choice for users who don’t want to wait too long between charges.

DTS Dual Speakers

The phone is equipped with DTS dual speakers, which provide enhanced audio quality for a budget device. While this won’t compete with high-end audio systems, the dual speakers should be sufficient for media consumption, such as watching videos or listening to music, offering a decent stereo effect.

Touch Sampling and Peak Brightness

The Infinix HOT 50i features adaptable touch sampling rates depending on the refresh rate of the display:

• When the refresh rate is set to 60Hz, the touch sampling rate operates at 120Hz.
• When the refresh rate is increased to 120Hz, the touch sampling rate doubles to 240Hz.

This higher touch sampling rate is especially beneficial for tasks like gaming, as it enhances the device’s responsiveness to touch inputs. High refresh rates also make scrolling smoother and improve the overall interaction with the user interface, making the phone feel more fluid and responsive during everyday use.

In terms of brightness, the display offers a peak brightness of 500 nits. This level of brightness is sufficient for indoor use, ensuring that the screen remains visible and easy to read in most lighting conditions. However, under direct sunlight, especially when using screen protectors, the brightness may struggle to remain fully legible.

Despite this, there are no significant complaints about the brightness or the color reproduction of the display. The screen delivers satisfactory performance, providing decent clarity and vibrancy for media consumption, gaming, and general use.

Video Recording

The video recording capabilities of the HOT 50i are limited to 1080P at 30fps and 720P at 30fps. These settings are typical for phones in this price range, and while they don’t offer advanced features like 4K recording, they are more than adequate for casual video capture.

Final Thoughts on Infinix HOT 50i:

The Infinix HOT 50i positions itself as a well-rounded option for budget-conscious users, offering decent performance, a good amount of storage, and a high refresh rate display, all at an affordable price. While it may not have the advanced features of flagship models, it does provide a solid experience for everyday tasks, making it a practical choice for users in need of a reliable, low-cost smartphone.

Its main strengths—pricing, battery life, display, and basic camera setup—will appeal to users who prioritize functionality over flair. The inclusion of features like USB Type-C, dual speakers, and an IP54 rating adds to its overall appeal, making it a balanced device in the budget segment.