Xiaomi's Poco series consistently delivers impressive specs at disruptive prices. The Poco M6 and X6 Neo represent the latest iterations, both targeting the budget-conscious consumer. However, subtle yet significant differences in their chipsets and charging capabilities create distinct user experiences. This comparison dissects these nuances to determine which device offers the best overall value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Poco X6 Neo emerges as the superior choice. Its 33W charging significantly reduces downtime, and the slightly faster CPU core speeds provide a noticeable performance edge in demanding tasks. While the M6 remains a capable device, the X6 Neo’s faster charging and marginal performance gains justify the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 78 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, December 22 | 2024, March 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, December 26 | Available. Released 2024, March 13 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 168 x 78 x 8.1 mm (6.61 x 3.07 x 0.32 in) | 161.1 x 75 x 7.7 mm (6.34 x 2.95 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 175 g (6.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.74 inches, 109.7 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~88.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 450 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) | AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 1000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13, MIUI 14 | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 108 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 16 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired, PD | 33W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Galactic Black, Orion Blue | Astral Black, Horizon Blue, Martian Orange |
| Models | 23128PC33I | MZB0GGWIN, 2312FRAFDI |
| Price | ₹ 9,388 | ₹ 18,990 |
| SAR | - | 0.85 W/kg (head) 0.71 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Poco M6
- Lower upfront cost makes it accessible to a wider audience.
- Capable processor handles everyday tasks with ease.
- PD support offers some charging flexibility.
- Significantly slower charging speed compared to the X6 Neo.
- Slightly less powerful CPU may struggle with demanding games.
Xiaomi Poco X6 Neo
- Faster 33W charging dramatically reduces downtime.
- Slightly faster CPU provides a smoother user experience.
- Potentially better image processing due to more powerful chipset.
- Higher price point compared to the Poco M6.
- May not offer a substantial performance leap for basic users.
Display Comparison
Both the Poco M6 and X6 Neo likely feature IPS LCD panels, typical for this price segment. Specific details like resolution and refresh rate are not provided, but we can assume FHD+ resolution is standard. The key difference lies elsewhere. The absence of information regarding PWM dimming rates on either device means users sensitive to screen flicker will need to investigate further. Bezels are likely comparable, and color accuracy will depend on Xiaomi’s software calibration, which historically has been decent but not exceptional.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature a primary camera, an ultrawide, and a depth/macro sensor. The quality of the primary sensor will be the most significant factor. Given the price point, expect 50MP or 64MP sensors. The X6 Neo’s slightly higher processing power may allow for marginally better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. The inclusion of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device is unlikely, meaning image stabilization will rely on software algorithms. The 2MP macro cameras found on many phones in this segment are generally of limited utility.
Performance
The Poco X6 Neo’s Mediatek Dimensity 6080, with its 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 cores, offers a slight clock speed advantage over the Poco M6’s Dimensity 6100+ (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76). While both chipsets utilize the same Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 2.0 GHz and are built on a 6nm process, the higher clock speed translates to marginally faster single-core performance on the X6 Neo. This difference will be most noticeable in app launch times and smoother animations. Both devices will likely perform similarly in sustained workloads, as thermal throttling will become the limiting factor. The absence of LPDDR5X RAM specifications suggests both likely use LPDDR4X, which is adequate for the target market but limits potential performance gains.
Battery Life
The Poco M6 features 18W wired charging with PD support, while the X6 Neo boasts a faster 33W wired charging capability. This is the most significant difference between the two. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging on the X6 Neo will dramatically reduce charging times. Expect the X6 Neo to reach 100% in approximately 60-75 minutes, compared to 90-120 minutes for the M6. The faster charging is a substantial convenience factor for users who frequently top up their phones throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Poco M6 if you prioritize a lower upfront cost and are comfortable with slower charging speeds. It’s ideal for users who primarily browse, use social media, and make occasional calls. Buy the Xiaomi Poco X6 Neo if you value faster charging, slightly improved performance for gaming or multitasking, and are willing to spend a bit more for a more responsive experience. This phone is better suited for users who frequently game or rely on their phone for productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Dimensity 6080 in the Poco X6 Neo handle demanding games like Genshin Impact?
The Dimensity 6080 is capable of running Genshin Impact, but you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to maintain a stable frame rate. The chipset's performance is adequate for casual gaming, but it's not a dedicated gaming processor.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Poco M6 from 0%?
With its 18W charging and PD support, the Poco M6 will likely take between 90 and 120 minutes to fully charge from 0% to 100%. This is considerably slower than the Poco X6 Neo.
❓ Is the difference in CPU clock speed between the M6 and X6 Neo noticeable in everyday use?
The 0.2 GHz clock speed difference is subtle and won't be dramatically noticeable in basic tasks like browsing or social media. However, it will contribute to slightly faster app launch times and smoother multitasking on the X6 Neo.
❓ Do either of these phones have a headphone jack?
While not explicitly stated in the provided specs, Xiaomi typically includes a 3.5mm headphone jack in their budget Poco devices. It's highly probable both the M6 and X6 Neo retain this feature, but it's best to confirm with official product listings.
