Poco closes 2025 with an affordable yet quality smartphone, the C71, priced around IDR 1 million (approximately $67 USD). This budget device runs on Android 15 Go Edition, offering a simplified user experience free of ads. Such a combination is rare at this price point and instantly attracts users seeking a smooth and uncluttered interface.
The Poco C71 features a clean design and an integrated fingerprint sensor on the side, contributing to a more premium feel. It sports a large 6.8-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ideal for daily entertainment like browsing or watching videos. The screen resolution of 1640 x 720 pixels is supported by TÜV Rheinland certification for low blue light, making it comfortable for extended evening use.
Key Features and Advantages
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Competitive Pricing and Design
The Poco C71 offers excellent value for money by keeping specifications on par with the Redmi A5 while being more affordable. Its dual-tone back cover adds a fashionable touch, featuring a patterned right side and a smooth flat left side. A golden edge surrounding the camera module further enhances the device’s visual appeal. -
Smooth Display Experience
Thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate, scrolling through apps and content feels fluid. Users can lock the refresh rate at 120Hz via settings to maintain this smoothness consistently. The expansive 6.8-inch screen also boosts immersion for casual gaming and video consumption. -
Clean OS Without Ads
Running Android 15 Go Edition results in a lightweight and responsive system, well-suited for entry-level hardware. Unlike other custom interfaces such as HyperOS, Poco’s implementation excludes ads within default system apps. This advertising-free environment allows users to interact with their device uninterrupted by commercial distractions. - Competent Performance
Powered by the Unisoc T7200 chipset, the Poco C71 achieves respectable performance measured by an AnTuTu benchmark score of about 269,000. This makes daily tasks like chatting, social media use, and playing light games smooth and enjoyable. Its 5200mAh battery supports extended usage, with only an estimated 6% drain after 30 minutes of popular games like Mobile Legends or PUBG.
Considerations and Limitations
Despite its appeal, the Poco C71 does have some drawbacks that potential buyers should weigh. Its speaker setup is a solitary mono unit located on the top edge, producing flat sound with thin bass. The speaker position may also be inconvenient during gaming, as it can be partially covered by hands.
Another compromise is the use of eMMC internal storage, which offers slower file transfer speeds compared to UFS found in higher-tier devices. Additionally, the phone lacks an infrared blaster and NFC, removing convenient options like remote control functionality and contactless payments.
The Android Go Edition limits available customization since it does not support native theme changes beyond what can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. Users who prefer frequent interface updates or heavy personalization might find this restrictive.
Summary of Poco C71’s Highlights and Challenges
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Around IDR 1 million (~$67 USD) |
| Display | 6.8-inch HD+ (1640 x 720), 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Unisoc T7200 with AnTuTu score ~269,000 |
| Battery | 5200mAh, efficient for daily light gaming and social media |
| Operating System | Android 15 Go Edition, ad-free |
| Design | Dual tone back, side fingerprint with quick response |
| Speaker | Mono speaker on top, modest sound quality |
| Storage | eMMC type, slower than UFS |
| Missing Features | No NFC, no infrared blaster |
| Customization | Limited due to Go Edition OS |
Overall, Poco C71 emerges as a strong contender in the sub-$70 smartphone segment by delivering an uncluttered user experience with reliable performance and a premium design aesthetic. The absence of ads on Android 15 Go Edition enhances daily usage, especially for those seeking distraction-free interaction. Still, buyers should consider its hardware limitations and simpler feature set before purchasing.
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