Poco launched the X5 Pro in India in February 2023 as a performance-focused mid-ranger at Rs 22,999. It is closely related to the Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed edition sold in China, and its biggest selling point was the Snapdragon 778G, a proven chip that was faster than the Dimensity 1080 in the pricier Redmi Note 12 Pro+.
The 6.67-inch flat AMOLED display runs at 120 Hz, with good brightness and Dolby Vision support. At 181 g and under 8 mm thick, the phone is notably light. The 778G handles gaming well, sustaining stable frame rates in popular titles. The 108 MP main camera takes sharp daylight shots but lacks OIS, so low-light results suffer. A 5,000 mAh battery with 67 W charging delivers solid endurance and quick top-ups.
Rivals included the iQOO Z7, the Realme 10 Pro+, the Samsung Galaxy M54 and the Redmi Note 12 Pro. The iQOO Z7 offered OIS for less, while the Poco X5 Pro won on performance and display. It remains a strong value pick for gamers on a budget. Buyers who care more about photos than games should look elsewhere.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 22,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | February 2023 |
| Segment | Mid-range |
| Display | 6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 778G |
| RAM | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 108 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro |
| Front camera | 16 MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 67W wired |
| Software at launch | Android 12, MIUI 14 for Poco |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP53 |
| Headphone jack | Yes |
| Weight | 181 g |
| Colours | Astral Black, Horizon Blue, Poco Yellow |
What we like
- Snapdragon 778G is strong for gaming
- Slim and light at 181 g
- 120 Hz AMOLED with Dolby Vision
- 67 W charging
What could be better
- No OIS on the main camera
- Shipped with Android 12
- Bloatware in MIUI
Who should buy it
Budget-conscious gamers who want a light phone with a proven Snapdragon chip and a good screen.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (February 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.