Two weeks ago, we reviewed the HONOR X6b and explored its overall value in the entry-level market, covering its cameras, charging capabilities, and battery performance.
Today, we are shifting our focus to its gaming performance. How well does this budget smartphone handle popular mobile games? Let’s find out.
Testing Four Popular Games using HONOR X6b
Given the storage limitations, we tested only four games due to their larger file sizes. Here’s how the HONOR X6b performed with these titles:
Mobile Legends
Starting with Mobile Legends, the game’s default settings are set to high graphics with high frame rates. While it’s possible to increase the graphics to ultra, we decided to stick with the default configuration.
Navigating the game’s menu resulted in slight frame drops, but this was primarily due to ongoing asset downloads. As for the actual gameplay, the experience was smooth, with no performance drops during the match. There was no stuttering, and the phone remained cool, which is impressive for a device at this price point. Even with maxed-out settings, the performance remained consistent and smooth.
Call of Duty Mobile
For Call of Duty Mobile, the default settings were low graphics paired with medium frame rates. We decided to increase the quality to medium and push the frame rates to high to test its limits.
Upon booting up the game, there was a slight delay, taking about a minute to load. Once inside, the gameplay was decent. While it didn’t achieve a consistent 60fps, the game still delivered a playable experience. Even with the increased settings, the performance was satisfactory, though there were occasional frame rate inconsistencies.
Honkai Star Rail
Next, we tested the HONOR X6b with a more demanding game, Honkai Star Rail. From the opening screen, it was clear that the device struggled. The loading screens took longer than expected, and while exploring the overworld, frame drops were frequent.
With default settings at low and 30fps, the combat performance was less than ideal, with frequent frame dips making it difficult to enjoy the game. For those who primarily play on PC and only use the mobile version for daily tasks, this could be a workable solution. However, for anyone hoping to fully immerse themselves in the game’s story and exploration, this device is not recommended.
Zenless Zone Zero
Lastly, we tested Zenless Zone Zero. Upon launching, we encountered a loading screen labeled “compiling shaders,” though this passed faster than the loading screens in Honkai Star Rail. Default settings were at their lowest, with 30fps.
Similar to HSR, frame drops were frequent, making the game barely playable. While you can manage lighter tasks like accessing the in-game shop or handling dailies without much trouble, combat comes with significant fps drops, which impacts the overall experience.
HONOR X6b Specs
- OS: Android 14, MagicOS 8.0
- Network: Dual SIM | 4G LTE
- Refresh Rate: 90Hz
- Resolution: HD+ 720 x 1612 pixel
- Dimensions: 163.59 x 75.33 x 8.39 mm
- Weight: 193g
- Screen Size & Display: 6.56 inches LCD
- Chipset: MediaTek Helio G85
- RAM: 4GB | 6GB
- Storage: 128GB | 256GB
- Dual Main Camera: 50MP f/1.8 (main) | 2MP f/2.4 (depth)
- Front Camera: 5MP f/2.2
- Battery & Charging: 5200mAh | 35W wired | Type-C
- Colors: Forest Green, Starry Purple, Ocean Cyan, Midnight Black
Conclusion
Priced at PHP6,999, the HONOR X6b offers decent gaming performance for casual and competitive titles like Mobile Legends and Call of Duty Mobile.
However, when it comes to heavier, more graphically demanding games like Honkai Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero, the device struggles to provide an acceptable experience.
Despite its limitations, the HONOR X6b’s price and durability make it a solid choice for budget-conscious users. While it may not excel at gaming in the budget category, it holds its own for lighter tasks and games.
What are your thoughts on the HONOR X6b’s gaming performance? Let us know in the comments below!
If you want to have a better look on HONOR X6b, you might want to check out our gaming review video on our YouTube Channel!