realme, in particular, has been pumping out devices for what feels like every few weeks, and I have yet to encounter a device that disappoints, especially on the price-to-value front.
realme’s most recent entrant in the affordable segment, the realme 14x, is no different. It sports an elegant design, decent hardware and great software, so much so that it more than justifies the asking price of ₹14,999.
But what is it about this smartphone that works? Let’s dive in.
Design
The realme 14x 5G is built to last, boasting an IP69 certification for water and dust resistance and MIL-STD 810H military-grade protection. Its SonicWave Water Ejection technology ensures the phone can expel water effectively, making it ideal for users in challenging environments. The ArmorShell-protected plastic back, available in three striking colours—Crystal Black, Golden Glow, and Jewel Red (my personal favourite)—adds a premium aesthetic.
It is light, sleek, and undeniably attractive. But looks can only take a device so far. What about its smarts? The innards tha make it run?
Display
Equipped with a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the realme 14x 5G offers smooth scrolling and gaming experiences. However, its HD+ resolution (720 x 1604 pixels) falls short compared to competitors offering Full HD+ displays. The 625-nit peak brightness is adequate but struggles under direct sunlight, and the absence of stereo speakers is noticeable, despite the inclusion of a 200% Ultra Volume Mode.
Performance
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, the phone handles day-to-day tasks, casual gaming, and multitasking with ease. With up to 8GB of RAM, 10GB of virtual RAM, and 128GB of storage (expandable up to 2TB), it offers ample space and smooth performance. The read/write speeds could be faster but hey, have you seen the price tag?
Cameras
The 50MP AI primary camera delivers vibrant and detailed images in daylight, while the 8MP front camera produces decent selfies. However, the lack of ultra-wide or macro lenses limits creative photography options. Video recording is capped at 1080p at 30fps, which feels limited compared to competitors offering 4K recording.
Battery Life
This is where the 14x 5G shines. The 6,000 mAh battery absolutely stands out, delivering 15–18 hours of screen-on time under moderate to heavy usage. The 45W fast charging ensures the phone charges from 0 to 50% in under 30 minutes, making it a reliable companion for users on the go.
Software
Running on the Android 14-based realme UI 5.0, the phone offers smooth animations and extensive customisation options, including features like Air Gestures and AI Flash Matting. However, the presence of bloatware detracts from the experience, although most pre-installed apps can be uninstalled.
The Verdict
The realme 14x 5G is a game-changer in the mid-range smartphone market, offering unmatched durability, long battery life, and reliable performance at an affordable price. While it lacks premium features like stereo speakers, ultra-wide cameras, and faster storage, its IP69 certification, military-grade protection, and SonicWave Water Ejection technology make it an excellent choice for users prioritising toughness and endurance.
