HONOR recently introduced the resilient HONOR X9b as we entered the new year, proudly earning the title of the most durable smartphone. Surprisingly, within just a month, the HONOR X8b has made its entrance into the scene.
Now, let’s delve into what set these two devices apart. What distinguishes the HONOR X8b from its predecessor, the HONOR X9b? Which of these smartphones excels, and more importantly, which one aligns better with your preferences and needs? Let’s embark on a detailed exploration to discern the superior choice between the HONOR X8b and HONOR X9b!
Design
The HONOR X9b and HONOR X8b differ in their dimensions and weight, with the X9b measuring 6.44 x 2.97 x 0.31 inches and weighing 185g, while the X8b is slightly smaller at 6.34 x 2.94 x 0.27 inches and lighter at 166g.
Both phones, however, share the convenience of dual SIM support, allowing users to use two SIM cards simultaneously for flexibility. Additionally, the HONOR X9b boasts an IP53 rating for water and dust resistance, SGS drop resistance certified, Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display, the HONOR X8b’s resistance is not specified.
If a lighter and slightly smaller phone is important to you, the HONOR X8b may be preferable due to its 166g weight and smaller dimensions. On the other hand, if you value a larger and more durable device, the HONOR X9b, might be the better choice.
DisplayÂ
The X9b features a larger 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with 1 billion colors, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, while the X8b comes with a slightly smaller 6.7-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and an impressive peak brightness of 2000 nits.
Furthermore, the X8b brings forth a distinctive feature known as the “Magic Capsule,” drawing inspiration from Apple’s Dynamic Island.
The X8b also boasts a higher screen-to-body ratio at 93.7%, compared to the X9b’s 91.2%.
Specs and Performance
The HONOR X9b and HONOR X8b share similarities in their software, both running Android 13 with Magic OS 7.2. However, they differ in their processing power. The X9b is equipped with the Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU and Adreno 710 GPU.
Now, the X8b is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chipset, boasting an octa-core CPU and an Adreno 610 GPU.
Both phones lack expandable storage options, but the X8b provides various configurations with 8GB of RAM, ranging from Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display.
Meanwhile the X9b offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM paired with 256GB of storage.
It’s worth noting that the X9b offers a broader 12GB RAM choice, catering to different performance needs, while the X8b stands out for offering a more extensive storage option, reaching up to 512GB.
Camera
The HONOR X9b and HONOR X8b share remarkable similarities in their camera setups. Both phones feature a triple camera configuration, including a high-resolution 108 MP wide main camera, a 5 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens.
Additionally, both rear cameras are capable of recording video at 1080p@30fps. However, the main difference lies in their front cameras. The X9b boasts a 16 MP selfie shooter, whereas the X8b takes it a step further with a higher 50 MP resolution for its front camera. Both front cameras can shoot video at 1080p@30fps. Considering the superior selfie camera, the HONOR X8b stands out as the better choice.
Battery
When it comes to battery performance, the HONOR X9b boasts a substantial 5800 mAh non-removable battery, surpassing the smaller 4500mAh battery of the X8b. Despite this difference, both phones share commonalities in supporting 35W wired charging through USB Type-C 2.0 ports, enhancing their connectivity with OTG capabilities.
A notable distinction is the X9b’s unique feature of reverse wired capabilities, enabling it to function as a power source for other devices—a feature absent in the X8b.
Price and Availability
The HONOR X9b and HONOR X8b differ in both pricing and storage configurations. The X9b is priced at PHP16,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant, whereas the X8b is more budget-friendly at PHP12,999 for the 16GB + 512GB configuration, offering a larger storage capacity at a lower price.
Both phones offer a variety of color options, including the classic Midnight Black. The X9b introduces distinct choices like Emerald Green and Sunrise Orange, while the X8b offers Titanium Silver and Glamorous Green.
If you prioritize a larger storage capacity at a more affordable price, the HONOR X8b might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you find the 12GB + 256GB configuration of the HONOR X9b sufficient for your needs, it could be the better option.
