The iQOO 13 launched in India in December 2024 with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite, keeping iQOO's tradition of being among the first to ship the newest chip. It also addressed past criticisms by adding IP68 and IP69 protection and a larger battery. Rivals included the OnePlus 13, Realme GT 7 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24.
The 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display offers 2K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, with excellent brightness. Snapdragon 8 Elite delivers top-tier performance, and iQOO's Q2 gaming chip adds frame interpolation and upscaling. An RGB light ring around the camera module adds flair. Funtouch OS 15 on Android 15 came with a promise of four Android updates and five years of security patches.
The camera setup has three 50 MP sensors: a main with OIS, an ultrawide and a 2x telephoto, offering consistent results. Zoom is weaker than the iQOO 12's periscope, though portrait shots are pleasant. The 6,000 mAh battery with 120W charging provides outstanding endurance and quick top-ups. Against the OnePlus 13, it was cheaper and more gaming-focused, while OnePlus offered wireless charging and better cameras.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 54,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | December 2024 |
| Segment | Flagship |
| Display | 6.82-inch, AMOLED, LTPO, 144Hz, 1440 x 3168 |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| RAM | 12 GB / 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB / 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 50 MP main with OIS + 50 MP ultrawide + 50 MP 2x telephoto |
| Front camera | 32 MP |
| Battery | 6000 mAh |
| Charging | 120W wired |
| Software at launch | Android 15, Funtouch OS 15 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68, IP69 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Colours | Legend, Nardo Grey |
What we like
- Snapdragon 8 Elite performance
- 2K 144Hz LTPO display
- 6,000 mAh battery with 120W charging
- IP68 and IP69 ratings
What could be better
- No wireless charging
- 2x telephoto is a step back from the iQOO 12
- Some bloatware
Who should buy it
Gamers and power users who want the fastest chip and great battery life at a lower flagship price.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (December 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.