The Honor X series consistently delivers impressive features at affordable prices. But with multiple models available, choosing the right one can be tricky. This article pits the Honor X20 against the Honor X8a, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Honor X20 takes the lead thanks to its significantly faster Dimensity 900 chipset and 66W fast charging. While the X8a offers a stylish design and decent camera, the X20's performance advantage makes it the better overall choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA 800 | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, August 13 | 2023, February 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 13 | Available. Released 2023, February 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 161.8 x 74.7 x 8.5 mm (6.37 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) | 162.9 x 74.5 x 7.5 mm (6.41 x 2.93 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 179 g (6.31 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2376 pixels (~391 ppi density) | 1080 x 2388 pixels (~391 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 108.1 cm2 (~89.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.7 cm2 (~89.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MC4 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Magic UI 4.2 | Android 12, Magic UI 6.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 128GB 12GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 16 MP, f/2.5 |
| Triple | 64 MP, f/1.9 (wide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 100 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
5 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 4K@30fps, gyro-EIS | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.5 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (CRT-LX1 only) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 66W wired | 22.5W wired, 50% in 30 min |
| Type | Li-Po 4300 mAh | Li-Po 4500 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Silver, Black | Cyan Lake, Titanium Silver, Midnight Black |
| Models | NTN-AN20 | CRT-LX1, CRT-LX2, CRT-LX3 |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 170 EUR |
Honor X20
- Significantly faster performance
- 66W fast charging
- Likely higher refresh rate display
- Good value for money
- Camera may not be as versatile as X8a
- Design might be less premium than X8a
Honor X8a
- Stylish design
- Potentially better camera versatility
- More budget-friendly price
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Slower performance compared to X20
- 22.5W charging is slower
- Lower refresh rate display
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.7-inch display, likely with a resolution around 1080 x 2400 pixels. However, the X20 might have a slightly higher refresh rate (potentially 120Hz) compared to the X8a (likely 60Hz), resulting in smoother scrolling and animations. Panel technology is likely IPS for both, offering good color accuracy but not the deep blacks of OLED.
Camera Comparison
The X8a likely boasts a more versatile camera system, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor (e.g., 64MP vs. 48MP on the X20) and additional macro or depth sensors. While the X20's camera is capable, the X8a's software processing and additional lenses could provide slightly better image quality in certain scenarios. Both likely offer decent video recording capabilities.
Performance
This is where the X20 shines. The Dimensity 900 chipset is considerably more powerful than the Helio G88. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the X20. The X8a will handle everyday tasks adequately, but will struggle with demanding games or heavy applications.
Battery Life
The X20 has a clear advantage with its 66W fast charging, allowing it to charge significantly faster than the X8a's 22.5W charging. Battery capacity is likely similar (around 4000-5000mAh) for both devices, so the X20's charging speed will be the deciding factor for many users.
Buying Guide
The Honor X20 is ideal for users prioritizing performance and fast charging for gaming and multitasking. The Honor X8a is a good option for those who value aesthetics, a reliable camera, and a slightly more budget-friendly price point, but are less concerned about raw power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Honor X20 is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful chipset. It will handle demanding games with smoother frame rates and less lag.
❓ Does the Honor X8a have a better camera?
The Honor X8a potentially has a more versatile camera system with additional lenses, but the X20's camera is still capable. Image quality will depend on the specific scenario.
