The Meizu X8 and 16X represent interesting points in the company's history, both leveraging the Qualcomm Snapdragon 710 chipset. While seemingly similar on paper, subtle differences in design and potential software optimization could make one a better fit for specific users. This comparison aims to dissect those nuances and determine which device offers the best overall experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a slightly more refined design and potentially better software support, the Meizu 16X emerges as the winner. Both phones share the same Snapdragon 710, but the 16X's build quality and potentially longer software lifecycle give it a slight edge, despite a likely higher price point.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - China | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - China |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China | 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat15 800/150 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat15 800/150 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA - China | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2018, September. Released 2018, October | 2018, September. Released 2018, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 151.2 x 74.6 x 7.8 mm (5.95 x 2.94 x 0.31 in) | 151 x 73.5 x 7.5 mm (5.94 x 2.89 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 160 g (5.64 oz) | 154 g (5.43 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2220 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~398 ppi density) | 1080 x 2160 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~402 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 97.6 cm2 (~86.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Super AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz 360 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 360 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz 360 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 360 Silver) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM710 Snapdragon 710 (10 nm) | Qualcomm SDM710 Snapdragon 710 (10 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 616 | Adreno 616 |
| OS | Android 8.0 (Oreo), Flyme UI | Android 8.0 (Oreo), Flyme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 12 MP, f/1.9, 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF
5 MP | 12 MP, f/1.8, 1/2.3", 1.55µm, dual pixel PDAF, 4-axis OIS
20 MP, f/2.6, 1/2.6", 1.0µm, AF |
| Features | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, panorama | Laser AF, Six-LED dual-tone flash, Auto-HDR, panorama |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps (gyro-EIS) |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 20 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.0µm | 20 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.0µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3210 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3100 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, White | Black, White, Gold |
| Models | X8 | - |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 300 EUR |
Meizu X8
- More affordable price point
- Decent performance for everyday tasks
- Snapdragon 710 offers good efficiency
- Likely lower build quality
- Potentially limited software updates
- Inferior camera performance
Meizu 16X
- Potentially better build quality and design
- Likely longer software support
- Superior camera performance
- Higher price point
- Performance is identical to the X8
- May not offer significant improvements over the X8 for basic tasks
Display Comparison
Both the Meizu X8 and 16X utilize LCD panels, but specific details like resolution and brightness are missing. Given the X8's positioning as a budget device, it likely features a lower resolution and peak brightness compared to the 16X. The 16X, aiming for a more premium feel, likely benefits from a more accurate color calibration and potentially narrower bezels, enhancing the viewing experience. The absence of high refresh rate panels is expected in this price bracket.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is challenging. However, the 16X, positioned as a more premium offering, likely features a more capable main camera sensor and potentially better image processing algorithms. While both phones may share similar camera features, the 16X's image quality is expected to be superior in low-light conditions and offer more dynamic range. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens on either device is likely a marketing gimmick and shouldn't be a primary factor in the purchasing decision.
Performance
Both devices are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 710 (10 nm), featuring an octa-core CPU configuration with 2x2.2 GHz Kryo 360 Gold and 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 360 Silver cores. This means CPU performance will be virtually identical between the two. The real-world difference will likely come down to RAM management and software optimization. The 16X, being a slightly higher-tier device, *may* benefit from more efficient RAM allocation, leading to slightly smoother multitasking. Thermal throttling, given the 10nm process, shouldn't be a major concern for sustained workloads, but the 16X's potentially better cooling solution (though unconfirmed) could offer a slight advantage.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, considering the Snapdragon 710's efficiency, both phones should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. Charging wattage is also unknown, but the 16X, potentially supporting faster charging, could offer a quicker top-up time. The 10nm process node of the Snapdragon 710 contributes to improved power efficiency, benefiting both devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the Meizu X8 if you need a highly affordable smartphone with decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, and are comfortable with potentially limited software updates. Buy the Meizu 16X if you prefer a more premium build quality, a potentially more polished software experience, and are willing to spend a bit more for a device that may receive longer-term support.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 710 in either phone struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Snapdragon 710 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to maintain a stable frame rate. Both phones share the same chipset, so gaming performance will be very similar. Expect around 30-40 FPS on medium settings.
❓ How long will Meizu likely support these phones with software updates?
Meizu's software support track record is inconsistent. The X8, being an older and more budget-focused device, is likely to receive fewer updates than the 16X. The 16X *may* receive one or two major Android version updates, but don't expect long-term support comparable to brands like Samsung or Google.
❓ Is the difference in build quality between the X8 and 16X noticeable?
Yes, the Meizu 16X utilizes more premium materials like glass and metal, resulting in a more refined and solid feel in hand. The X8 likely uses more plastic in its construction, which can feel less durable and less premium.
