The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Honor X5b and itel RS4 are two contenders vying for attention. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality, they diverge significantly in their approach to performance and charging speed. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and rapid charging, the itel RS4 is the clear winner. Its Helio G99 Ultimate chipset provides a substantial performance uplift over the Honor X5b’s Helio G36, and the 45W charging dramatically reduces downtime. However, the Honor X5b remains a viable option for those on a tighter budget who prioritize basic functionality.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, October 22 | 2024, April 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, October | Available. Released 2024, April |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.9 x 75.8 x 8.7 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) | 8.2 mm thickness |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 198 g (6.98 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 |
| Type | TFT LCD, 90Hz, 530 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G36 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 Ultimate |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 14, Magic OS 8 | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | Unspecified |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 45W wired, bypass charging, 80% in 30 min |
| Type | Li-Po 5200 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ocean Blue, Starry Purple, Midnight Black | Silvery White, Elegant Beige, Lurex Black |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 100 EUR |
Honor X5b
- Likely more affordable price point
- Acceptable for basic smartphone tasks
- Potentially longer battery life (depending on capacity)
- Significantly weaker performance
- Extremely slow 10W charging
- Less responsive user experience
itel RS4
- Much faster Helio G99 Ultimate processor
- Ultra-fast 45W charging (80% in 30 mins)
- Smoother multitasking and gaming
- Potentially better image processing
- Higher price compared to the Honor X5b
- May have slightly shorter battery life (depending on capacity)
- Potentially larger physical size
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, a common cost-saving measure in this segment. While specific brightness data is unavailable, the focus here isn't on visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be noticeable on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for the price point. The display is a functional component, not a key differentiator.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. However, it's safe to assume both phones feature a primary camera and potentially a depth or macro sensor. Given the price bracket, image quality will likely be acceptable in good lighting conditions but suffer in low light. The itel RS4’s more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Helio G99 Ultimate may offer slightly better image processing capabilities, potentially resulting in more detailed and less noisy photos. Focusing on the chipset, the RS4 has a processing advantage.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant difference. The itel RS4’s Mediatek Helio G99 Ultimate, built on a more advanced process, features two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz alongside six Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0 GHz. This contrasts sharply with the Honor X5b’s Helio G36, which uses four older Cortex-A53 cores at 2.2 GHz and another four at 1.6 GHz. The G99 Ultimate’s architecture provides a substantial advantage in both single-core and multi-core performance, translating to snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience. The G36 is adequate for basic tasks, but will struggle with demanding applications. The RS4’s CPU configuration will benefit users who frequently switch between apps or engage in light to moderate gaming.
Battery Life
While battery capacity isn't specified, the itel RS4’s 45W wired charging is a game-changer. This allows for an 80% charge in just 30 minutes, significantly reducing downtime. The Honor X5b’s 10W charging is comparatively slow, requiring considerably longer to reach a full charge. Even if the X5b has a slightly larger battery capacity, the RS4’s faster charging effectively mitigates any potential advantage, offering a more convenient user experience. Users who frequently find themselves needing to top up their phone will greatly appreciate the RS4’s charging speed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Honor X5b if you need a reliably basic smartphone for everyday tasks like calls, messaging, and light social media use, and are unwilling to spend more than absolutely necessary. Buy the itel RS4 if you prioritize smoother multitasking, occasional gaming, and the convenience of incredibly fast charging, even if it means a slightly higher upfront cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel RS4 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G99 Ultimate in the itel RS4 is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. While it won't deliver a flagship gaming experience, it provides a significantly better gaming performance than the Honor X5b’s Helio G36.
❓ How much faster is the 45W charging on the itel RS4 compared to the 10W charging on the Honor X5b?
The 45W charging on the itel RS4 is dramatically faster. It can charge the phone to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, whereas the Honor X5b’s 10W charging will take several hours to achieve a full charge. This difference is particularly noticeable for users who frequently need to quickly top up their battery.
❓ Is the performance difference between the Helio G99 Ultimate and Helio G36 noticeable in everyday tasks?
Yes, the performance difference is quite noticeable. The itel RS4 with the Helio G99 Ultimate will feel snappier when launching apps, switching between tasks, and browsing the web. The Honor X5b’s Helio G36 may exhibit lag or slowdowns during these activities, especially with multiple apps open.
❓ Does the itel RS4 support bypass charging, and what does that mean?
Yes, the itel RS4 supports bypass charging. This feature allows the phone to power directly from the charger when plugged in, reducing heat generation and battery wear during extended use while charging – ideal for gaming or video streaming.
