The recently launched Honor X60 Pro has sparked interest with its upgraded battery capacity and satellite communication feature. However, a closer look at its specifications compared to the Honor X50 Pro reveals that it is actually a downgrade in several key areas. While the X50 Pro was marketed as a flagship-killer device, the X60 Pro aligns more with lower mid-range offerings. Here’s an in-depth analysis of why the X60 Pro falls short compared to the X50 Pro.
1. Performance
The major downgrade with the X60 Pro is its performance. It is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, which, while capable of daily tasks, falls short of the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 found in the X50 Pro. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 provides better gaming performance, faster processing speeds, and improved thermal efficiency, making the X50 Pro a more attractive option for power users. Additionally, the X50 Pro’s 5100 mm² vapor cooling system ensures better thermal management, which is crucial for sustained performance during demanding tasks like gaming.
The X60 Pro also has 8GB or 12GB RAM options, similar to the X50 Pro, but the storage configuration is identical across both devices. However, users of the X50 Pro can expect faster data processing and multitasking, courtesy of the superior chipset.
2. Build Quality and Durability
Both the Honor X60 Pro and the X50 Pro feature durability-focused designs, but they do so differently. The X50 Pro has a reinforced design with an ultra-deep tempered glass front for improved drop resistance, while the X60 Pro adds a new Honor Tai Chi cushioning architecture 2.0, marketed for better shock absorption.
The X50 Pro has already undergone SGS certification for comprehensive reliability, and the X60 Pro similarly passes these durability tests. However, the X60 Pro adds little to enhance durability over the X50 Pro, leaving both devices on nearly equal footing.
3. Display
Coming to the display, the X60 Pro features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, just like the X50 Pro. However, the X60 Pro outshines the X50 Pro in terms of brightness and additional features. It boasts a peak brightness of 3000 nits, making it much brighter than the X50 Pro, which has a peak brightness of 1200 nits. This allows for better visibility in direct sunlight.
Additionally, the X60 Pro incorporates Honor’s Oasis Eye Protection, which supports 3840Hz PWM dimming, hardware-level low blue light, natural light eye protection, and an AI sleep-aiding display. This makes the X60 Pro’s screen easier on the eyes, especially for users who spend extended hours on their phones. The X50 Pro, while still offering a 10-bit display, 1920Hz PWM dimming, and similar 1.5K resolution, lacks the enhanced eye protection features of the X60 Pro.
4. Camera
Talking about the cameras, both models boast a 108MP primary rear camera and an 8MP front camera. While the camera hardware is similar, the X50 Pro adds an additional 2MP macro lens, giving it slightly more versatility in photography.
Honor has also been able to leverage the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1’s improved image processing capabilities, giving the X50 Pro a noticeable edge in image quality, especially in lower lighting conditions. In contrast, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 in the X60 Pro does not deliver the same level of processing, which may impact photo and video performance.
5. Satellite Communication
Coming to a special feature that the X50 Pro completely lacks, the X60 Pro offers support for two-way Beidou satellite SMS communication, typically found in higher-end devices. This makes the X60 Pro one of the most affordable phones with satellite connectivity, providing a clear advantage for users needing off-grid communication.
6. Battery Life & Charging
Battery life on the X60 Pro is also a standout feature, with its 6600mAh capacity paired with 66W fast charging, allowing for longer use between charges and faster top-ups. The X50 Pro, on the other hand, comes with a 5800mAh battery and supports 35W charging. Both models are equipped for long-lasting power, but the X60 Pro certainly takes the lead here for heavy users.
7. Pricing and Positioning
The pricing difference between the two models is substantial. The Honor X60 Pro starts at 1,499 yuan ($211) for the 8GB+128GB variant, while the top-end 12GB+512GB variant with Beidou satellite SMS support is priced at 2,299 yuan ($324). In comparison, the Honor X50 Pro, priced at 2,799 yuan ($425), is positioned as an upper mid-range or flagship-killer device.
8. Final Thoughts
While Honor X60 Pro introduces some intriguing updates but lacks the robustness of the X50 Pro, particularly in processor power. For users prioritizing performance, gaming, or multitasking capabilities, the X50 Pro is a superior choice. Although the X60 Pro might appeal to users seeking better battery life and slightly newer software, it doesn’t quite measure up to the X50 Pro’s balanced performance and added features.