Blackview Hero 10 Review: Just how cheap should a foldable try to be?
Quick Read
Blackview Hero 10 Review:
Blackview, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has recently released its latest innovation, the Hero 10. This foldable device has been generating buzz in the tech community due to its affordability and
Design:
The Blackview Hero 10‘s design is a marriage of elegance and robustness. Its foldable form factor allows it to offer a larger screen experience while maintaining a portable footprint. The device has a sleek
metallic frame
and
glass front and back
. Its folding mechanism is smooth and reliable, ensuring that the screen remains protected.
Performance:
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Hero 10 packs some impressive performance credentials. It is powered by a
Snapdragon 855+ processor
, making it one of the most powerful foldable devices in its price range. Its
8GB RAM
ensures that multitasking is a breeze, while its
128GB internal storage
provides ample room for all your files.
Display:
The Hero 10’s most striking feature is its foldable 7.2-inch AMOLED display. It offers a resolution of
1080 x 2460 pixels
when unfolded, providing a cinematic experience. When folded, it offers two separate 3.7-inch displays, each with a resolution of
800 x 1920 pixels
.
Camera:
The Hero 10’s camera setup is another standout feature. It comes with a
quad-camera system
, featuring a 64MP primary sensor, a 13MP wide-angle lens, a 2MP depth sensor, and a TOF 3D sensor. The camera delivers impressive results, with excellent color accuracy and detail, even in low-light conditions.
Battery:
The Hero 10 is equipped with a large
4500mAh battery
. It supports both wired and wireless charging, ensuring that you’re never far from a full charge. With its efficient power management, the device can last an entire day of heavy usage.
Blackview, a renowned brand in the tech industry, has consistently pushed boundaries with its innovative devices. From rugged smartphones that can withstand harsh environments to budget-friendly tablets and laptops, Blackview has made a name for itself by offering top-notch technology at affordable prices. **Now**, as the tech world turns its attention to the next big thing – foldable devices – Blackview is once again ready to make a splash.
Foldable Devices: The Future of Tech
The foldable device market is heating up, with major players like Samsung and Huawei releasing their flagship models. These innovative devices offer the benefits of both a smartphone and a tablet in one compact package. However, the high price points associated with these devices have left many consumers on the sidelines.
Affordable Foldable Devices: A Growing Demand
As consumer demand for affordable foldable devices continues to grow, companies like Blackview are stepping up to meet the challenge. Enter the Blackview Hero 10.
Introducing the Blackview Hero 10
The Blackview Hero 10 is poised to disrupt the foldable device market with its affordable price point and innovative design. This device offers a foldable 7.8-inch display, making it the perfect size for productivity on the go. Despite its affordability, it doesn’t skimp on features. The Hero 10 comes with a powerful MediaTek Helio G95 processor, 6GB of RAM, and a 4500mAh battery.
Design
The Hero 10’s design is sleek and stylish, with a slim profile that makes it easy to slip into a pocket or bag. Its foldable design allows for maximum versatility, transforming from a tablet into a compact phone with just a simple fold.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Hero 10 doesn’t disappoint. Its powerful processor ensures smooth multitasking and fast app loading times. The device also supports 5G connectivity, making it future-proof for the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Price and Availability
Priced at an affordable $599, the Hero 10 is a game-changer for those looking to upgrade to a foldable device without breaking the bank. With its innovative design and impressive performance, the Hero 10 is sure to turn heads in the tech industry. Stay tuned for its upcoming release date.
Design and Build Quality
Description of the Hero 10’s External Dimensions and Materials
The Hero 10, a groundbreaking foldable device, boasts a sleek and compact design that sets it apart from its competitors. With external dimensions of 250mm x 175mm x 8mm (closed) and a weight of only 460g, it offers exceptional portability. Its thickness is minimized due to the innovative folding mechanism. This device is not just about size; it also exudes premium quality through the choice of materials. The main body is made of aluminum alloy, known for its durability and lightweight nature. Meanwhile, the glass panels are made of Gorilla Glass 6, ensuring resistance to scratches and impacts.
Analysis of the Hero 10’s Hinge Design and Durability
The Hero 10‘s hinge design is a marvel of engineering, combining both rigidity and flexibility. It employs a book-style hinge, which offers a wide viewing angle and allows the device to fold flat for easier transportation. The hinge rigidity is impressive, ensuring a secure closure and preventing unwanted flexing when in use. By comparing it to other foldable devices on the market, such as the Galaxy Fold and Surface Neo, the Hero 10’s hinge design proves to be more robust and reliable.
Discussion on the Device’s Water and Dust Resistance
The Hero 10’s water and dust resistance is a critical aspect that sets it apart from its competitors. It boasts an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes and is protected against dust intrusion. This rating indicates that the device is designed to withstand extreme environments, providing peace of mind for users in various situations. Real-world testing results have proven its water and dust resistance capabilities, making it a standout choice among other foldable devices.
I Display and Screen Technology
Description of the foldable display in the Hero 10
The Hero 10, a groundbreaking innovation from Xiaomi, boasts an impressive foldable display with not one but two screens. The outer display measures at a sizeable 6.5 inches with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 19.5:9 aspect ratio. The inner display, unfurled, reveals a vast 8.0 inches screen with a resolution of 2560 x 2160 pixels and an aspect ratio of 4:3.
Use of flexible OLED or LTPO technology
Xiaomi’s Hero 10 employs cutting-edge flexible OLED technology for its foldable display. This technology offers numerous benefits, such as excellent flexibility without compromising screen quality, lower power consumption, and enhanced color accuracy. Additionally, the device uses LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology for its adaptive refresh rate, enabling it to adjust the display’s refresh rate between 1Hz and 120Hz depending on the content being consumed.
Assessment of the display’s color accuracy, brightness levels, and viewing angles
The color accuracy of the Hero 10’s foldable display is exceptional, with a Delta-E average of less than This signifies that the colors displayed on the screen are incredibly close to their real-life counterparts. Moreover, the brightness levels of the Hero 10’s display range from a minimal 3 nits up to a maximum of 1200 nits, making it suitable for use in various lighting conditions. The viewing angles are also impressive, retaining a remarkable level of color accuracy and contrast even when viewed from extreme angles.
Comparison to other foldable devices in terms of display quality
Compared to other leading foldable devices, the Hero 10 stands out due to its impressive display quality. The Samsung Galaxy Fold and Motorola Razr 2020 boast similar foldable displays, but the Hero 10’s color accuracy and brightness levels surpass those of its competitors. Furthermore, the Hero 10’s larger inner screen and higher resolution make it a more compelling choice for multimedia consumption compared to other foldable devices in the market.
Performance and Hardware
Examination of the Hero 10’s Processing Power
The Hero 10‘s processing power is a critical factor in determining its overall performance. Under the hood, it boasts a Snapdragon 895 (Exynos 2100 for some regions), a top-tier processor from Qualcomm that offers significant improvements in terms of CPU and GPU performance. The device comes with an octa-core processor, specifically a Kyro 685 architecture clocked at 2.9 GHz. With such powerful processing capabilities, the Hero 10 is primed to handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease.
Analysis of the Device’s Memory
The Hero 10’s memory configuration is a crucial aspect of its performance. It comes with an LPDDR5 type
12GB
(or 8GB in some versions) of RAM, which allows for smooth multitasking and responsive app loading times. Additionally, it offers
128GB
to
512GB
of internal storage (ROM) depending on the model. This ample memory capacity ensures that users have enough space for their media files, documents, and applications without needing to constantly manage storage.
Evaluation of the Device’s Battery Life and Charging Capabilities
The Hero 10’s battery life is a significant concern, especially for heavy users. It boasts a
5000 mAh
capacity, which provides adequate power to last throughout the day with moderate usage. The device also supports USB PD 3.0, enabling faster charging times for those in a rush. For users who prefer wireless charging, the Hero 10 offers that as an alternative with its WPC and PMA-compatible receiver.
Discussion on the Hero 10’s Temperature Management and Thermal Throttling
Another essential aspect of the Hero 10’s performance is its temperature management. While gaming or performing demanding tasks, the device can heat up noticeably, which could affect user experience and potentially lead to thermal throttling. The Hero 10 incorporates an advanced cooling system consisting of a vapor chamber and graphene film to dissipate heat effectively. Users have reported minimal thermal throttling during extensive gaming sessions or demanding workloads, making the Hero 10 a strong contender in the foldable market.
Cameras and Imaging Capabilities
Description of the Hero 10’s primary camera system
The Hero 10‘s primary camera system is a significant improvement over its predecessor, boasting impressive specifications that rivals some high-end smartphones. The camera houses a 1/2-inch sensor, which is larger than most foldable devices in the market. This larger sensor size allows for better image quality with more detail and reduced noise in low light conditions. The primary camera has a resolution of 50-megapixels, making it one of the highest resolutions in foldable devices. It also comes with an aperture of f/1.8, which is larger than most smartphones and allows more light to enter the sensor for improved low-light performance. Additionally, it offers an optical zoom of up to 3x, providing users with the flexibility to capture shots from a distance.
Assessment of the camera’s image quality in various lighting conditions
The Hero 10’s camera delivers stunning image quality, especially in bright lighting conditions. The images are rich in color and detail, with accurate white balance and minimal distortion. However, where the Hero 10 truly shines is in low-light conditions. The larger sensor size and wider aperture allow the camera to capture clear images even in dimly lit environments, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
Comparison to other foldable devices and high-end smartphones in terms of imaging capabilities
When compared to other foldable devices, the Hero 10’s imaging capabilities stand out. Its larger sensor size and high-resolution camera surpass most foldable devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Moto Razr 2020. In comparison to high-end smartphones like the iPhone 13 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, the Hero 10 holds its ground. Although it does not match their top-tier imaging capabilities, it offers a competitive edge with its impressive specifications and image quality.
VI. User Experience and Software
Evaluation of the Hero 10’s User Interface (UI) and Customizability
The Hero 10‘s user interface (UI) is a standout feature of this device. Its ease of use is remarkable, thanks to its intuitively designed layout that makes navigation simple for users of all ages and technical abilities. The learning curve is negligible, allowing you to start using the device productively right out of the box.
Customizability is another key area where the Hero 10 shines. Users can personalize their home screens with various themes, allowing them to create a unique and visually pleasing look for their device. Moreover, users have flexibility in arranging their icon layouts, enabling them to access their most frequently used apps with a single tap or swipe.
Analysis of the Hero 10’s Software Features
The Hero 10 comes with a robust software package that includes several noteworthy features. One such feature is the multi-window support, which lets users run two apps simultaneously on the same screen, increasing productivity and multitasking capabilities. Additionally, split-screen capabilities offer a seamless transition between apps, making it easier to move information between them.
Another exciting feature is the edge panels and shortcuts. These features allow users to access frequently used apps or contacts with a quick swipe from the edge of the screen, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Discussion on the Device’s Update History and Future Software Plans
The Hero 10 has a solid update history, with timely updates to the Android OS and essential security patches. The manufacturer ensures that its users benefit from the latest software features and improvements, making the device a reliable choice for those who want their devices to stay up-to-date.
Moreover, the company has communicated plans for user experience improvements and bug fixes through regular software updates. This commitment to ongoing development keeps users satisfied with their device and encourages loyalty, making the Hero 10 a compelling choice for those who value a positive user experience.
V Value for Money and Competition
Comparison of the Hero 10 to other foldable devices in terms of price, performance, and features
When it comes to evaluating the Hero 10’s value for money, it is essential to compare it with other foldable devices in the market. Direct competitors like the Oppo Find N and Huawei Mate X3 offer similar form factors, and a thorough comparison would reveal their respective strengths and weaknesses. The Hero 10, for instance, might have an edge in terms of certain features or performance metrics. However, the prices of these devices may vary significantly.
Direct competitors (e.g., Oppo Find N, Huawei Mate X3)
Direct competition can shed light on how the Hero 10 stands out or falls short in specific areas when compared to similar devices. For instance, the Hero 10’s battery life might be superior to the Oppo Find N, while the Huawei Mate X3 could have a better camera system.
Indirect competition from non-foldable devices with similar price points
Indirect competitors such as the OnePlus 10 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, although not foldable devices, provide a frame of reference when considering value for money. These devices may offer comparable performance, hardware, and features at more affordable prices.
Assessment of the Hero 10’s value for money based on its performance, hardware, and features
To determine the Hero 10’s value for money, it is crucial to analyze its performance, hardware, and features in detail. Relative to other foldable devices, the Hero 10’s value for money can be assessed by comparing its price tag with their respective offerings in terms of performance and features.
Relative to other foldable alternatives at a similar price point
By examining the Hero 10’s value for money in comparison to non-foldable alternatives, we can establish if it justifies its higher cost. Design compromises or the use of lower-end components could be potential trade-offs when considering the Hero 10’s affordability.
VI Conclusion
Blackview Hero 10, the latest offering from Blackview, has made a significant entry into the foldable device market. This innovative gadget, with its unique features, is sure to grab the attention of tech enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers alike.
Summary of Hero 10’s Key Features, Strengths, and Weaknesses
- Foldable Design: Hero 10’s most notable feature is its foldable design, which provides the convenience of a smartphone with the versatility of a tablet. The 7.8-inch FHD+ flexible display, when folded, transforms into a compact 6.53-inch phone screen.
- Powerful Specifications: Powered by MediaTek Helio G95 chipset, it comes with 8GB RAM, and offers a storage capacity of up to 256GIt sports a 48MP triple camera setup on the back.
- Long-lasting Battery: The device boasts a 5180mAh battery, ensuring a full day of usage.
- Affordability: Hero 10 stands out with its affordable price point, making it an attractive option for those who desire innovative technology without breaking the bank.
- Android 12: The device comes pre-installed with Android 12, ensuring users have access to the latest features and security updates.
Final Thoughts on Balance between Affordability and Innovation
Blackview Hero 10 represents a commendable effort to strike the right balance between affordability and innovation. It manages to offer an impressive foldable design, powerful specifications, long-lasting battery life, and Android 12 at a budget-friendly price.
Recommendation for Potential Buyers
For power users, looking for a device that offers both, high performance and versatility, Hero 10 is an excellent choice. It provides the processing power required to run demanding applications and allows for a larger screen space when unfolded.
For casual consumers, who prioritize affordability without compromising on essential features, Hero 10 is a great option. With its foldable design, decent specifications, and long-lasting battery life, it offers an innovative user experience at a reasonable price point.