The iQOO Neo 9 Pro launched in India in February 2024 with the previous year's flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, offering near-flagship performance well below flagship prices. Its dual-tone vegan leather design in Fiery Red caught attention. It competed directly with the OnePlus 12R, which used the same chip, as well as the Poco X6 Pro and Realme GT 6T.
The 6.78-inch AMOLED display has a 1260 x 2800 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, delivering sharp visuals and smooth gaming. Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance was excellent, and iQOO's Q1 chip improved gaming frame rates. An IP54 rating offered basic protection. Funtouch OS 14 on Android 14 included gaming features, along with preinstalled apps that some users disliked.
The 50 MP Sony IMX920 main camera with OIS produces good photos, while an 8 MP ultrawide is merely acceptable. The 16 MP selfie camera is average. The 5,160 mAh battery with 120W charging refills very quickly. Against the OnePlus 12R, it was cheaper with similar performance, while the OnePlus offered cleaner software, a larger battery and a slightly better display.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 36,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | February 2024 |
| Segment | Upper mid-range |
| Display | 6.78-inch, AMOLED, 144Hz, 1260 x 2800 |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| RAM | 8 GB / 12 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 50 MP Sony IMX920 main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 16 MP |
| Battery | 5160 mAh |
| Charging | 120W wired |
| Software at launch | Android 14, Funtouch OS 14 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP54 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Colours | Fiery Red, Conqueror Black |
What we like
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 at a mid-range price
- 144Hz AMOLED display
- 120W fast charging
- Distinctive vegan leather design
What could be better
- Average ultrawide and selfie cameras
- Only IP54 rating
- Funtouch OS bloatware
Who should buy it
Gamers who want flagship-class performance without paying flagship prices.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (February 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.